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.
Thanks to our Sponsors
Scholars For Life! Speaker Series
“The New Britain Symphony Orchestra: Steel Drum/Pan Trio Mini Concert”
The New Britian Symphony Orchestra
10/06/2025
5:00 pm
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Maestro Toshi Shimada will introduce the New Britain Symphony Orchestra Steel Drum Trio and highlight our exciting upcoming Halloween concert, taking place on Sunday, October 26th at 3:00 PM in Welte Hall. The NBSO Steel Drum Trio will feature the steel pan—a musical instrument that originated in Trinidad and Tobago—along with musicians on drums, percussion, and bass guitar. The trio will perform a variety of musical styles, including calypso, soca, jazz, Latin, and popular music. They will also share a historical overview of the origins and development of steel pan bands. Steel Drum Ensemble
“Justice Meets Myth & Magic: The Witchcraft Trials in CT”
Mrs. Christine Jewell, Professor of History
10/22/2025
5:00 pm
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Join Christine Jewell, Director of the Ancient Burying Ground in Hartford, for a presentation on how the witchcraft trials emerged in Connecticut in the 1600s through case studies that occurred in Hartford, Wethersfield, and Fairfield. Colonists brought a belief in witchcraft from England and Europe, where it was rooted in folk traditions, the Bible, and reinforced by the Church. Anyone that was not Christian was called a heretic and the powerful European rulers supported “witch hunts” which killed thousands. What proof was used to accuse people (mostly women) of harming others? How did the legal process work? Enjoy a lively discussion on colonial history and its influence on our culture today.
“Beyond the Godfather and the Sopranos: The Italian American Cultural Experience”
Dr. Carl Antonucci, Director of Library Services
11/05/2025
5:00 pm
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“Matt Monro: The Best Singer You Don’t Know You Know”
Dr. Gil Gigliotti, Interim Dean of the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences and Professor of English
12/05/2025
5:00 pm
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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
