ASPEC Opens Its Doors for a Summer of Growth, Collegiality and Fun… at a significantly reduced cost. Area retirees and semi-retirees looking for a lively mix of intellectual stimulation, conversation and community with like-minded individuals have a unique opportunity to experience an organization which counted James A. Michener and Ellie Wiesel as members. Widely known by its acronym ASPEC, the Academy of Senior Professionals at Eckerd College, taps into the talent and vast experience of former senior executives, scientists, entrepreneurs, military officers, etc. living in the area.
Founded in 1982, ASPEC offers a year-round menu of lectures, workshops, discussion groups, activities and community engagement. This one-of-a-kind, highly interactive, intergenerational lifelong learning organization was recently featured in The Chronicle of Higher Education’s Special Report on “Educating in Your Community,” with a focus on the integration of lifelong learners into campus life: “ASPEC members are curious about the way the world works, they want to stay engaged, and they want to keep the neurons firing.”
For ASPEC members, the close and collaborative relationship with Eckerd College students and faculty through guest lecturing, course auditing, mentoring and a wide range of other interactions, is a huge value add. Members also have the chance to enjoy the broader Eckerd College setting, including campus amenities such as the library and waterfront programs, with activities such as kayaking and sailing on Boca Ciega Bay.
At the heart of ASPEC are its member-led interest groups, where participants gather for discussion, study and shared exploration. Summer offerings typically span a wide range of topics, from foreign affairs, current events, economics and world classics literature to science, AI and medical topics for the layperson. Creative participants can also find opportunities in areas such as visual arts and readers theater.
ASPEC is once again offering a seasonal opportunity to sample the organization and its stimulating activities for a full summer (Summer Sampler!). Designed to introduce nonmembers (individuals and couples) to the organization’s peer-led presentations, programs and activities – on and off the Eckerd College campus – for only $50 for the entire summer (June-August).
For many, the Summer Sampler program is both an introduction to lifelong learning and an invitation to build new friendships in a college atmosphere. So, try out the ASPEC experience for a nominal cost before applying to join as a member. Registration information and additional information about ASPEC is available through the Academy of Senior Professionals at Eckerd College website at www.aspec.eckerd.edu or Nelson Lees at nlees1771@gmail.com.