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Senior Scholars

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Registration FOR SPRING 2024 COURSes is Open Now

Senior Scholars is a continuing education program for senior adults hosted by Oak Hill & the Martha Berry Museum. The program offers a wide variety of classes and social programs  designed for adults 55 and older. Instructors include both Berry College faculty members and members of the Rome community. Join our program to build friendships and community, all while participating in lifelong learning and growth!

See our current course offerings below.

Click Here to Register

Frequently Asked Questions

Senior Scholars offers a wide variety of classes every year to fit all interests, including courses in: history, studio arts & handicrafts, recreation & leisure, health & wellness, languages & writing, and much more! While we will have some reoccurring classes, others are only offered one time.

For a detailed list of our current offerings, please scroll to the bottom of this page.

Like Berry College, Senior Scholars offers two full semesters of courses every year. For the 2023-2024 year, the Fall Semester courses will begin the week of September 11th and the Spring Semester courses will begin the week of February 12th. Most courses are between four and eight weeks in length. We also offer single-day courses and travel opportunities throughout the entire year!

Registration for each semester will open one month before the start of classes. 

For a detailed list of our current class times and offerings, please scroll to the bottom of this page.

Senior Scholars courses take place at Oak Hill & the Martha Berry Museum, the Spires at Berry College, or on the Berry College Campus. See below for maps of each location.

If your class is in the Oak Hill Garden Room or Martha Berry Museum Auditorium, click here.

If your class is at the Spires at Berry College, click here.

If your class is at the Berry College Pickleball Courts or Richards Gymnasium, click here.

If your class is at the Cage Center or Krannert Center, click here.

Do you have a special skill or expertise that you would like to share as part of a Senior Scholars course? We are always looking for new instructors! Please email us at seniorscholars@berry.edu for more information.

Do you have a question that wasn't answered here? Call Oak Hill & the Martha Berry Museum at 706.368.6789 or email us at seniorscholars@berry.edu for more information.

Spring 2024 Course Information

History & Religion

Instructor: Dan Roper

Georgia Backroads editor and publisher Dan Roper will share some of his favorite stories from Georgia history and natural history. He’ll select from articles he’s written about the Civil War, the Cherokee and Creek Nations, and major events and personalities from around the state, while also mixing in thoughts, poems and photographs devoted to the lovely northwest Georgia countryside.

Dates and Times: Tuesdays, February 13 – April 2 (8 weeks) from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Location: Martha Berry Museum Auditorium (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $80

Instructor: Stephen Kaufman, Ph.D.

This course combines archaeology, anthropology, and cultural studies to explore the myths, legends, and archaeological evidence associated with iconic mysteries of the ancient world, starting with: the elusive Bigfoot, the lost city of Atlantis, the inexplicable circle at Stonehenge, and the mysterious statues of Easter Island. Dr. Stephen Kaufman, Professor Emeritus of anthropology, will use a variety of illustrations, texts, and other visual aids to consider both scientific and cultural perspectives of various theories. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a skeptic, or someone drawn to the unknown, this course offers a unique opportunity to explore the boundary between fact and fiction in some of the most intriguing enigmas of our ancient past.

Dates and Times: Tuesdays, February 20 – March 12 (4 weeks) from 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Location: Martha Berry Museum Auditorium (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $50

Instructor: Dr. Eric Sands

In this course, participants will study the politics and philosophies of Abraham Lincoln by exploring primary source documents that offer insight into his thoughts and actions. Particular attention will be given to Lincoln's thinking on slavery, social equality between the races, executive power, the Constitution in war time, and other major issues. Through examination of his writings and speeches, the course aims to unravel Lincoln's political philosophy and provide an exploration of his legacy and the impact of his ideas on American politics today. Students are not required to have any knowledge of the Civil War Era to take the class.

Dates and Times: Thursdays, February 15 – April 11 (8 weeks) from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. There will be no class on March 7th.
Location: Martha Berry Museum Auditorium (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $80

Creative Arts & Leisure

Instructor: Rhonda McDaniel

Printed photos from the pre-digital era are precious treasures that are often irreplaceable, and this four-session course will cover the basics of organizing your collection of printed photos. Participants will learn essential techniques for sorting, purging, and labeling photos, in addition to the best practices for safe physical storage. The course will also explore digital organization options and discuss the process of scanning printed photos into digital files. Bring a box of photos to kickstart your personal organization project!

Dates and Times: Mondays, February 12 – March 4 (4 weeks) from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $80

This offering is currently sold out. Please email seniorscholars@berry.edu to be added to the waiting list

Instructor: Cheryl Hodge

Enjoy a peaceful day of watercolor painting with an experienced local artist! Perfect for beginners or those looking to expand their skills, this workshop will explore floral and botanical painting through step-by-step guidance, hands-on exercises, and a supportive community. No prior experience needed—just a passion for art! All supplies are included. You will bring home a completed painting at the end of the course.

Date: Friday, February 23rd from 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. The class will break from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. for lunch. You are welcome to pack a lunch to eat here, or to leave and come back! 
Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $65

Instructor: Nedra Manners

In partnership with Yellow Door Antiques, this course will introduce you to the world of antiques, collecting, and estate sales. Learn how to identify and value items, build your own curated collection, and navigate estate sales with confidence! Whether you're a passionate collector or aspiring seller, this course will help you to find, preserve, and sell your antique treasures.

Dates & Times: Wednesdays, March 6 – March 27 (4 weeks) from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $40

Instructor: Bussey's Florist

Join Todd and Kim Bussey from Bussey's Florist for an afternoon of spring fun! Learn tips and tricks of floral arranging with them while creating you own beautiful arrangement to take home and enjoy. Supplies are included in the cost of registration. You will take home your completed arrangement at the end of the course.

Date: Tuesday, March 19th from 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $90

Languages & Writing

Instructor: Cheryl Huffman

Jodi Picoult’s 2016 novel Small Great Things is based on the true story of a labor and delivery nurse who was prohibited from caring for a newborn because the father requested that no African-American nurses tend to his baby. In the fictional version, Ruth, the African-American nurse in question, finds herself on trial for events related to the same request made by a white supremacist father. Using the narratives of Ruth, the baby’s father, and the female public defender who takes Ruth’s case, Picoult examines multiple facets of racism. Join a group of avid readers for guided weekly discussions on the story and themes of Small Great Things. Participants are responsible for providing their own copy of the book.

Dates and Times: Mondays, February 12 – April 1 (8 weeks) from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $80

This offering is currently sold out. Please email seniorscholars@berry.edu to be added to the waiting list

Instructor: Melissa King

Memories are some of the most important things we collect in this life. What we have done, what we have seen and experienced, and the epiphanies we have gathered shape who we are and, in turn, shape others we encounter. This course will help you identify these moments and shape them into cohesive narratives that you can share with others or simply keep for yourself. Using guided writing prompts that call on the five senses to stimulate memory, we will begin weaving your life story.

Dates and Times: Tuesdays, February 13 – April 9 (8 weeks) from 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. There will be no class on March 5th.
Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $80

Instructor: Cheryl Fitzner

Join veteran Spanish Teacher Cheryl Fitzner for a fun class of learning pronunciation, key phrases, listening strategies, and general knowledge everyone needs to know about Spanish, one of the major languages of the world. Walk away from the month with the ability to communicate on a basic level in many situations and the skills to build more knowledge. Great for the novice learner; great for the reviewing learner!

Dates and Times: Tuesdays, February 27 – April 2 (6 weeks) from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $80

Science & Technology

Instructor: Dr. Jay Daniel

Have you ever wondered where your food comes from? From the historical significance of agriculture to modern-day biotechnology, this course will explore various crops and livestock and their noteworthy impact on the world today! Participants will also learn about sustainability, biodiversity, and the crucial role agriculture plays in the modern world.

Dates and Times: Mondays, February 12 – April 8 (8 weeks) from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. There will be no class on March 4th.
Location: Martha Berry Museum Auditorium (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $80

Health & Wellness

Instructor: Shannon Bond

In this course, certified American Heart Association instructor and Berry College faculty member Shannon Bond will prepare you to perform high-quality CPR & AED skills in everyday environments. You will learn: what to do before giving care, how to perform CPR, how to use and AED, and how to care for both conscious and unconscious choking victims. Each participant will be given a Heartsaver Student Workbook along with a face mask and valve. Other items required will be supplied in class. First Aid for Everyone is not a required prerequisite for this course.

Date: Monday, February 5th from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. The class will break from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. for lunch. You are welcome to pack a lunch to eat here, or to leave and come back!
Location: Oak Hill Garden Room
Cost: $35

After the course, you will be given the option to complete a skills test to receive American Heart Association certification for this course. The test requires an additional $15 fee and takes about 20 minutes. More information about how to sign up will be sent after course registration.

This offering is currently sold out. Please email seniorscholars@berry.edu to be added to the waiting list

Instructor: Jennifer Bressette

Experience hatha yoga at a slower and less intense pace while learning how to use props (blocks, straps, chairs) to build your personal practice. Veteran yoga instructor Jennifer Bressette invites students of all levels to join her for a meditative hour of peaceful and restorative practice. Students will need to come dressed in clothing that allows for free range of motion. Providing your own yoga mat is encouraged but not required.

Dates and Times: Mondays, February 12 – April 1 (8 weeks) from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Location: The Spires at Berry College (600 Eagle Lk Trl NW, Rome, GA)
Cost: $85

This offering is currently sold out. Please email seniorscholars@berry.edu to be added to the waiting list

Instructor: Mark Lusted

As one of the fastest growing sports in the country, pickleball is a sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. This class is intended for beginners interested in learning the basic rules and skills needed to play pickleball. The course will cover the history of the sport, basic rules and equipment, serving and returning, forehand and backhand swings, and overhead smashing and spins – all concluding with a tournament on the last day of class! Students will need to come dressed in athletic shoes and clothing that allows for free range of motion. Pickleball paddles will be available to borrow during class, but you may also bring your own or purchase one for $20 during the first class.

While pickleball is low-impact sport excellent for seniors, it still comes with a risk of injury. If you have questions about the physical limitations of the sport, talk to your doctor before registering.

Dates and Times: Wednesdays, February 14 – April 3 (8 weeks)
Session 1: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Session 2: 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Location: Berry College Pickleball Courts (Victory Drive, Mount Berry, GA)
Cost: $85

Instructor: Marcy Pugliese

The food we eat fuels every system and organ in our bodies. Our diet affects how we think and feel and how healthy we are. In this course, Marcy Pugilese, a clinical dietitian at AdventHealth Redmond, will discuss how to build healthy eating habits and how diet changes as we age. The class will include an introduction to healthy eating and practical skills around grocery shopping, cooking at home, and eating at restaurants.

Dates and Times: Thursdays, February 15 – March 7 (4 weeks) from 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $55

Instructor: Victor Morales

Join Berry College’s Director of Recreation, Victor Morales, for some hiking tips and tricks and for an introduction to some of his favorite trails around Rome! The first class will be a classroom session focused on hiking preparedness, safety, and resources, followed by a short hike around the Oak Hill & The Martha Berry Museum grounds! For each subsequent week, the group will travel to a different location for a hike, including: the Victory Lake Loop at Berry College, the Mount Berry Trail in Rome, and the Mountain Goat Trail up to the Berry College Reservoir.

Shuttle service to and from each trailhead will be provided. Students will need to come dressed in athletic shoes and clothing that allows for free range of motion. Please be prepared to hike up to two miles during each class session.

Dates and Times: Wednesdays, March 13 – April 3 (4 weeks) from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $60

Events & Travel

The Possum Trot Church, located at the back of the Berry College campus, was built originally around 1830 and used by Martha Berry for her Sunday School starting in 1900. During this tour, you will be invited inside the original chapel and the three 1930s classroom buildings, and will learn about how the Possum Trot Church and adjacent Shelton Family Cemetery fit into the overall history of Floyd County and Berry College. Wear comfortable shoes to navigate uneven paths and historic stairways.

Date: Wednesday, March 6th from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Location: Meet at The Martha Berry Museum to join caravan to Possum Trot. Traveling to Possum Trot requires driving down a gravel road that may not be accessible to all vehicles. Limited shuttle space will be available in The Martha Berry Museum's van.
Cost: $15

This offering is currently sold out. Please email seniorscholars@berry.edu to be added to the waiting list

Sitting atop Lavender Mountain at the back of the Berry College campus, the House o’ Dreams was built in 1922 as a gift to Martha Berry on the 20th anniversary of the Berry Schools. Join an Oak Hill docent for a tour of the house to learn more about its history and to enjoy the superb view of the campus. Wear comfortable shoes to navigate uneven paths and sweeping hills.

Date: Friday, April 5th from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Location: Meet at The Martha Berry Museum to join caravan to the House O' Dreams. Traveling to the House O' Dreams requires driving up a steep gravel road that may not be accessible to all vehicles. Limited shuttle space will be available in The Martha Berry Museum's van.
Cost: $15

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