About Us
WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO
Elderwise is a nonprofit, independent, lifelong learning organization dedicated to offering continuing education to older adults in Southeast Michigan. Our mission is to provide a broad spectrum of classes and a significant range of topics to meet the needs and interests of a wide variety of individuals. While we emphasize continuing education for seniors, we welcome learners of all ages. Learning, educational enjoyment, and personal growth are the fundamental goals of every Elderwise program. We strive to provide an experience that equally values both inellectual and social interaction.
OUR HISTORY
Elderwise was established in 1992 through the efforts of Eastern Michigan University [EMU] representatives and a group of non-academic enthusiasts committed to developing continuing education programs. Today, Elderwise continues an informal and mutually beneficial association with EMU, yet remains member-driven in organization, leadership, participation, financial support, and program development.
LOCATION AND FACILITIES
With the exception of specially arranged field trips and off-site theater productions, all Elderwise classes are held at Cleary University, 3601 Plymouth Road [near the US23 interchange], in Ann Arbor, Michigan. there is ample free parking adjacent to the Cleary building. At Cleary, our classrooms accommodate a flexible range of class size [from seminars to lectures] and are fully outfitted with up-to-date audio visual equipment.
MEMBERSHIP
The annual Elderwise membership fee is $25.00. You do not have to be a member of Elderwise to attend classes. However, paid membership entitles you to a 50% discount on class registration fees, gratis attendance in selected classes, voting privileges for the organization, library privileges at EMU, and receipt of the Elderwise fall, winter and spring newsletters. As a member, you are also invited to attend annual social events, and you can bring a friend, whose attendance will be free-of-charge, to an event or a class. The class registration form included in this brochure provides a line for paying the membership fee, as well as a line for making a tax-deductible contribution. Elderwise is a nonprofit 501[3][c] organization. Simply include your membership fee in your class registration payment and mail both the form and your check [made payable to Elderwise] to: Elderwise at Cleary University, 3601 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. Or call the Elderwise office if you have questions: 734.929.9097.
WEATHER ADVISORY
If the Ann Arbor Public Schools are closed because of inclement weather, all Elderwise classes and activities will be cancelled on those days.
PROTOCOL
Cell Phones: We ask everyone attending Elderwise classes to abstain from cell phone use when class is in session, and to set cell phones to "off" or "vibrate" mode.
Late Arrival: We make every effort to start our classes on time. We also ask those attending to minimize the disruption of their late arrival.
HOW DOES ELDERWISE WORK?
Elderwise is administered by an elected Council which is supported by several committees. Officers are elected annually and the current members of the Elderwise Council are:
- Chair:Annette Peel
- Vice-Chair: Eric Hammar
- Secretary: Mary Lou Murray
- Treasurer: Ralph Powell
Committee Chairs:
- Administration & Finance: Charles Olson
- Curriculum: Jeanette Coviak
- Membership & Publicity: Pat Suttinger