Learning Curve

Question: What do queens of England, bluebonnets, and facial reconstruction on skull models have in common?

Answer: They were among the spring 2009 class offerings for the Baylor Institute for Learning in Retirement (BILR). In the spring, BILR members had the chance to delve into topics as diverse as messages in the movies, global climate trends, and Rabbinic legendary commentary of the Bible.

An organization sponsored by the Baylor Alumni Association’s Lifelong Learning Program, BILR offers a wide array of learning opportunities and experiences in a stimulating environment of wide-ranging interests. Most of the class subjects are selected by the members and taught by experienced teachers in a down-to-earth and colorful style.

One recent class culminated with a springtime drive through Central Texas. Dr. Tom Charlton ’59, Baylor professor of history and director of Baylor’s Texas Collection, taught a three-week class on “Washington County in Texas History” and led a trip that was open to all BILR members. On March 20, almost fifty lifelong learners traveled to Independence, the original site of Baylor University, enjoying a full day of wildflowers, history, and fellowship. (Pictured are, left to right, Jay and Peg Fagner and Ray ’62 and Ellen Bostick Deaver ’62.)

The trip included a stop at the Independence Coffee Company—with a tour of the roasting room and samples of their special Baylor blend coffees—and a visit to the town of Independence, home of the university from its founding in 1845 until the move to Waco in 1886.

Independence Baptist Church, the oldest Baptist church in Texas, hosted a lunch for the group and a church tour. Then it was back on the bus for a short drive to Washington-on-the-Brazos, the birthplace of Texas, and the Star of the Republic Museum. After a final quick stop at the Antique Rose Emporium in Independence, the BILRers arrived back in Waco tired but happy.

Bob Anne McMullan Senter ’63, programs assistant and travel coordinator for the alumni association, works with committed BILR volunteers to keep learning alive and interesting. Dr. Mary Gehring Baker ’43, retired associate dean of Baylor’s College of Arts and Sciences, was president for 2008-09.

BILR membership covers the period from September 1 to August 31 and includes regular coffees, luncheons, and speakers, along with a new slate of classes offered twice each year.  The annual membership fee each fall is $60 for individuals and $100 for couples, with an additional fee of $20 per course. All persons of retirement age are welcome to join.

So, last question: What do Broadway songs, influenza, zoos and aquariums, and the Protestant Reformation have in common?

Answer: They’re among the twelve BILR course offerings for the fall. For more information, go to the association’s website—bayloralumniassociation.com—or contact Bob Anne Senter at (254) 710-6440.