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WESSON – The Copiah-Lincoln Community College Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR) has announced an exciting lineup of classes, workshops, travel opportunities, and social events for the Fall 2026 semester, offering senior adults a variety of opportunities to learn, connect, and explore.
The semester begins with a Welcome Back Social on Thursday, Aug. 20, at 10:30 a.m. at the Thames Center, followed by the first off-campus event of the semester on Aug. 28 at a Mud Monsters baseball game in Pearl. Participants interested in attending the baseball game are encouraged to register in advance.
“Our goal is to provide meaningful opportunities for lifelong learning while creating a welcoming community where friendships can grow,” said ILR Program Coordinators Erin Johnson and Jennifer Case. “Whether members enjoy traveling, learning a new skill, or simply spending time with others, there is something for everyone this fall.”
The fall workshop schedule includes:
- Aug. 24 – Gardening 101 with Leanna Gennaro
- Sept. 8 – Cooking with Co-Lin Chef Chris McSweyn
- Sept. 15 & 22 – Book Angel Workshop with Sam Upton
- Oct. 20 – Artificial Intelligence Technology Class with JP McInnis
- Oct. 27 – Paint and Praise with Dawn Marks
- Nov. 9 & 17 – Pottery Making with Janet Smith
- Dec. 1 – Christmas Craft with Kacey Hutcherson
Members can also participate in several group trips including:
- Sept. 29 – St. Francisville, Louisiana
- Oct. 14 – Senior Day at the Mississippi State Fair
- Dec. 10–12 – Small Town Christmas Tour featuring Gulfport, Mississippi, and Mobile, Alabama
Monthly fellowship luncheons are scheduled for:
- Aug. 20 – Welcome Back Social, Thames Center
- Sept. 10 – Culinary Arts Building
- Oct. 1 – Culinary Arts Building
- Nov. 5 – Culinary Arts Building
- Dec. 8 – Christmas Luncheon, Thames Center
The Institute for Learning in Retirement is designed for adults who enjoy lifelong learning, fellowship, and new experiences. Through educational classes, hands-on workshops, day trips, and social events, ILR provides an engaging environment where participants can continue learning while building lasting friendships. Costs for workshops, trips, and events vary.
For more information about the Institute for Learning in Retirement or to become a member, contact Erin Johnson at (601) 643-8702 or erin.johnson@colin.edu, or Jennifer Case at (601) 643-8714 or jennifer.case@colin.edu.
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