Life-Long Learning: ElderCollege a community cornerstone

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Walk into an ElderCollege class and you might find people sketching in charcoal, digging into local history or swapping gardening tips. The common thread? A love of learning and the belief that age is just a number. 

For more than 25 years, ElderCollege has been part of life in the Comox Valley and Campbell River, giving people 50 and up the chance to keep exploring ideas, meeting new people and discovering fresh passions. 

The program began in 1999, when community members Betty Emery and Elizabeth Smith wondered what a lifelong learning hub might look like on the North Island. With support from then-NIC president Lou Dryden and strong community interest, their idea became reality. That first September, Comox Valley ElderCollege opened its doors. Campbell River followed in 2004, starting with just five courses. 

Since then, ElderCollege has grown into one of the largest programs of its kind in Canada. Today, both communities offer dozens of courses each year, from art and writing to computers, health and world history. Some are offered online, off campus or as Saturday lectures. 

Beyond the subjects themselves, ElderCollege is about connection. Participants build friendships, share experiences and find joy in learning without the pressure of exams or grades. 

As NIC  marks its 50 year anniversary, both the college and ElderCollege share the belief in the power of education at every stage of life.