CCSU Scholars For Life! Speaker Series
CCSU faculty and guest speakers bring their passions and knowledge to you in our Scholars For Life! Speaker Series.
If you are interested in learning more about lifelong learning, our events and future events, please join the mailing list or contact Christa Sterling @ csterling@ccsu.edu or 860-832-2277.
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Scholars For Life! Speaker Series
“The Baby Boomers: Past, Present and Future with Professor Stephen Armstrong”
Professor Stephen Armstrong
07/22/2026
5:00 pm
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The baby boom generation has had a tremendous impact on American society from the 1950s all the way to the present day. This presentation will provide a history of the baby boom generation and their experiences in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. We will analyze the impact that this generation has had on American history and culture. Baby boomers are still changing American society today: these changes will be discussed. Also, we will analyze criticisms that some in generations after the boomers have made about the actions and attitudes of the baby boom generation. During this presentation members of the baby boom generation will be asked to reflect on their own memories of experiences they have had. You do not have to be a baby boomer to attend!
“2000 Years of Verbs: What We Do with the English Language with Dr. Matthew Ciscel”
Dr. Matthew Ciscel
08/04/2026
5:00 pm
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In this lecture and workshop, we will explore the role, form, and grammar of verbs across the recorded history of the English language. After a brief overview of the key stages and markers of change in English, we will look at some texts in Contemporary, Early Modern, Middle, and Old English to compare the forms and functions of verbs. Participants will get in on the action by completing some fun (and challenging) worksheets in groups at their tables.
Born in Houston, raised in Memphis, nomadic until lured into academic service at Central in 2002, Professor Ciscel (which rhymes with whistle) reveals as a linguist. But what is his true character? More professionally: PhD in Linguistics from the University of South Carolina, Columbia. MA and BA in German, plus substantial experience teaching English abroad. His research focuses on language policy, multilingualism, and instructed second language acquisition. Publications include several articles and book chapters, plus a book entitled, "The Language of the Moldovans."
“Geographies of Coffee: From Jumping Beans to Devil’s Brew to Addiction with Dr. Cynthia Pope-Portelinha”
Dr. Cynthia Pope-Portelinha
09/16/2026
5:00 pm
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Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages around the world. While it is a luxury good in the United States (although some of us think of it as a necessity!), cultivating coffee is a livelihood for millions of people around the world. This presentation will highlight how geographers view the coffee industry globally, with a focus on the lands and people who grow this commodity. This presentation features coffee tasting and food pairings, but you do not have to drink coffee to enjoy the talk.
Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.
Mahatma Ghandi
CCSU’s Office of Continuing Education offers life-long learning opportunities that are friendly, stimulating and informal.
There are no tests and no grades! You will join a learning community that is full of diversity, conversation, stimulation and friendship.
Expand Your Horizons. Meet New Friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be over 50 to attend any Life, Leisure & Community Programs?
Most of the programs are scheduled to cater to our retired audience, however, anyone can attend. Just be sure you can keep up with them!
Are there any discounts?
Check back for our 2019 listing coming soon!
Are there any free events?
Yes. AARP hosts many events on CCSU’s campus, and these events are free.
Where do I park?
Each individual event will have specific driving and parking instructions. The events are at various locations, and we will provide the closest parking option.
Is there assistance to the event location?
Yes. We have handicap parking at every location. However, because we are a campus and you cannot drive to the front door of most buildings, we use a golf cart to transport those that need assistance. Please let us know when you register if you require assistance. Only authorized personnel can drive the carts, so we need to plan ahead.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
Christa Sterling 860-832-2277; csterling@ccsu.edu
Judy Ratcliffe 860-832-2276; jratcliffe@ccsu.edu
