Institute for Lifelong Learning

The Institute for Lifelong Learning invites community members to participate in a series of lectures and luncheons, promoting fellowship and encouraging continued lifelong learning.

Become a Member

Two levels of membership are available.

• Basic: This includes five lectures and pre-session gatherings. Cost: $45 per person.
• Premium: This includes five lectures, pre-session gatherings and lunches. Cost: $95 per person.

For further details, please contact: Joe Herb at herb@edgepointedges.com or phone 570-374-9911 or Jayme Long at longj@edgepointedges.com or phone 570-372-4354.

Event Information

The institute hosts a series of eleven presentations throughout the year at Susquehanna University’s Charles B. Degenstein Campus Center.

Events are held on Wednesdays and include:

• Social hour: 10:30 a.m.–11 a.m.
• Lecture: 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
• Served lunch: 12 p.m. (Premium membership only.)

2024 Event Schedule

Explore a diverse lineup of captivating speakers, ranging from philosophers and scientists to photographers and Holocaust survivors. Join us for thought-provoking discussions and unique perspectives.

• Feb. 7: Join us for an engaging presentation by John Mullen, a seasoned nurse with a forty-year career at Geisinger Medical Center, including two decades with Life Flight. He will unravel the remarkable story of a confounding medical mystery, culminating in a stunning conclusion.

• Feb. 21: Don’t miss the captivating talk by Mary Ann and Joe McDonald, acclaimed professional wildlife photographers. They will take you on a visual journey titled “From the Arctic to the Antarctic, and Everything In Between.”

• March 6: Dr. Ben Marsh, recently retired geography professor from Bucknell University, will delve into “Mapping the Hidden Landscapes of Discrimination.” This program will focus on political geography and social justice.

• March 20: Join Li Lian Schultz, student support specialist at Susquehanna University, for her program “Spice Up the World.” Explore diverse flavorings and savor foods prepared with spices beyond the ordinary - black pepper, thyme, and cinnamon.

• April 3: Historian, teacher, and lecturer Joe Staggers will continue his series on the history of the Soviet Union and Russia. This virtual presentation will examine Vladimir Putin’s place in the troubled land’s history, showcased on the large screen in the Degenstein Theater.

• April 17: Jay Muller, director of Re-Creation, will share insights into Re-Creation’s mission. Learn about the singing group’s inspirational programs in veterans’ homes and hospitals.

About the Institute for Lifelong Learning 

Established during the 1990-91 academic year, the Institute for Lifelong Learning (IFLL) embarked on its inaugural series with distinguished speakers including Jane Constance Shields Freeman, Ph.D., former president of the Girl Scouts of America, and Fredrick Krause, Ph.D., head of the White House Staff for Health Issues.

Founded by the beloved Rev. Raymond Shaheen, affectionately known as Padre, IFLL serves as a hub for those seeking intellectually and socially engaging ideas. Over the years, notable speakers like Garcia Gensel, Ph.D., preacher to the New York City jazz community; Joseph Wiebush, Ph.D.; Robert Weis, president of Weis Markets Corp.; Charles Hostler, Ph.D., meteorologist from Penn State; Ed Pope, who faced espionage charges in Moscow; Rick Benjamin, musician responsible for the first complete recording of Scott Joplin’s opera Treemonisha; Brian Balthazar, NBC’s Today Show producer; Bud Knoebel of Knoebel’s Grove; Dick Yuengling of the renowned brewery; and Dick Boak of Martin Guitars have presented to the Institute.

Even following Padre’s passing, director Joe Herb has expanded memberships, fostering a continued sense of community and intellectual fulfillment.