What is ElderCollege?
ElderCollege is designed for students who are looking for a unique community of
adult learners. There are no exams, no grades, and no pressure; it's all about learning
for fun!
Apr 06 Good Friday, College Closed
Apr 09 Easter Monday, College Closed
Comox Valley
ElderCollege History
When Elizabeth Smith and Betty Emory heard about Lifelong Learning organizations
for mature adults in September 1999, they were intrigued.
They found such organizations associated with colleges or universities in the United
States, the UK, Australia and Canada.
They dreamed of an organization here to provide daytime educational opportunities
(with no exams or papers) and volunteering opportunities to serve other seniors
either teaching or using their talents on committees.
They believed that if they could build on strengths and characteristics of older
adults, and put them in charge, they would succeed. Where, they asked? Why not at
North Island College, in the Comox Valley?
Since then, membership has grown from 431 in March 2000 to 951 in April 2010; quite
an accomplishment.
In 2005, ElderCollege was officially made a North Island College program. It operates
as a self-funding program within NIC's division of Industry Training and Continuing
Education, Comox Valley Campus. It continues to be run completely by volunteers.
Membership
The annual fee entitles members to register for courses and other learning opportunities.
The fee is set and there will be no refunds. Membership runs from September 1 to
August 31 and is renewable annually.
ElderCollege is about volunteers – course leaders, guest presenters, class
assistants, and committee members donate their time.
Course fees for Winter 2012
Comox Valley ElderCollege membership and short course fees are $10 + 1.20 tax ($11.20) and
full course fees, including the Lecture Series are $33 + 3.96 tax ($36.96).
Get Involved
If you are interested in presenting a course or guest lecture, being a class assistant
or serving on a committee please email us
or phone 250-334-5000, ext. 4602.
Members can also serve on several committees, including
- Executive Committee: Responsible for the ongoing governance of
ElderCollege within the context of its Mission Statement.
- Administration & Finance: Ensure that the activities of CVEC
are financially responsible, fiscally prudent, and in accordance with NIC policies.
Be responsible to the CVEC Executive Committee for ensuring that the activities
of the CVEC are in accordance with the CVEC Articles of Governance, Bylaws, and
Policies and Procedures. Responsible for the ongoing governance of ElderCollege
within the context of its Mission Statement.
- Communications Committee: Promote ElderCollege programs and courses
- Curriculum Committee: Provide courses consistent with the ElderCollege
Mission Statement and Philosophy
- Social Committee: Ensure a welcoming ambiance to ElderCollege functions