Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

Senior Studies Institute: A hub for lifelong learning and connections for older adults

Photos and story by James Hill

There is a little known organization that is proving that learning and education knows no age limit.

Portland Community College’s Senior Studies Institute (SSI) offers a program tailored to older adults who are eager to continue learning, connect with others and share their passions. SSI, which has nearly 250 members, is built on a model that fosters lifelong learning without the traditional pressures of grades, exams or mandatory attendance. Instead, the program emphasizes community-driven learning, with members playing a central role in designing, leading and participating in classes and activities. In addition, PCC gives residents 62 and older free or discounted tuition toward general classes as they pursue lifelong learning.

“SSI is a conduit for mature adults to feed their curiosity, experience new things, explore areas of interest, and connect and establish new friendships in a non-pressured, no risk environment,” said Senior Studies participant Betty Woods. “However, members choose to do so either from the comfort of their home, via Zoom, or in-person gatherings or both.”  

Programs for older adults have sprouted up all across the country at community colleges and universities. For example, the Harvard Institute for Learning in Retirement offers more than 120 courses annually, all developed and led by its senior members in a liberal arts setting. In addition, Temple University has the Senior Scholars initiative, Rutgers provides continuing education to those 50 and older, and the California State University system provides senior citizens with free tuition, applications, health services and instructional-related activities.

PCC’s SSI stands apart from many educational programs with its member-led structure. There is no formal faculty, and class proposals are entirely generated by the membership. Members are encouraged to share their knowledge through two-hour presentations on a variety of subjects. They can moderate discussions, facilitate streaming educational courses, or form friendship circles that extend beyond the classroom. This member-driven approach allows for a more personal and passionate learning environment where everyone benefits.

One of Senior Studies’ most active advocates is Woods, a member since 2015. A lifelong learner, she holds an associate degree in Business Management from Chemeketa Community College and has had a varied professional career across multiple industries. Upon joining SSI, she quickly took on leadership roles, currently serving as the membership administrator and regularly presenting classes. Woods views SSI as a perfect platform for older adults to explore new areas of interest and connect with others in a supportive, no-risk environment.

Barry Bennett is a retired lawyer and educator with an extensive background in law, both in the U.S. and internationally. Since joining in 2015, Bennett has been an active participant, serving as a past chair and currently co-managing the “Nonfiction Book” group. According to Bennett, SSI fosters both lifelong learning and relationships.

“We’re all learning now just for the fun of it, so be sure to bring your sense of humor,” said Bennett, who had a varied career in law (private practice, assistant attorney general with the Oregon Department of Justice, administrative law judge and United States attorney). “We have a lot of interesting members with all kinds of backgrounds and experiences. And our dual mission includes education and the expansion of social relationships.”

Bennett said the value of SSI extends beyond the educational offerings. SSI has initiated “Friendship Circles,” where members with shared interests can form independent groups to socialize and engage in activities like board games, photography, or luncheons. This new initiative is part of SSI’s broader aim to strengthen its community and attract more members.

Poet Trina Gaynon is another member who has found a fulfilling outlet in SSI. Leading the group “Poetry Reading Fun,” Gaynon has been instrumental in keeping Senior Studies’ poetry community vibrant, even transitioning the group to remote platforms like Zoom during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her efforts allowed poetry lovers to continue sharing and discussing their favorite works, a testament to the adaptability and resilience of members. Gaynon has started leading writing salons (places for mutual encouragement and dialogue) for the SSI group.

“At each salon, a visual prompt and related samples of writing will be provided and group members will spend time writing,” she said. “Each writer will be given the opportunity to share work in progress or the process of writing. Members of SSI have many stories to tell. This is one way to start to do that.”

SSI’s adaptability was further proven during the pandemic. The all-volunteer organization made a successful leap to online meetings, ensuring that learning and connection continued, even when in-person gatherings were not possible. Despite the challenges, Senior Studies remains a thriving, member-led organization that continues to provide dynamic learning opportunities and build meaningful relationships, Gaynon said.

To join or learn more about SSI, visit pcc.edu/senior-studies.