History

One might say that Senior College at Bridgton started in a small conference room and very quickly spread into a regional program attracting members from over a dozen towns in the Lake Region of western Maine. Our Senior College is an outgrowth of a discussion among a group that provides services for seniors, called the "Elder Network." The group agreed that intellectual stimulation was as important as some of the social and recreational programs that were being provided for seniors.

Mickey Friedman, an avid Senior College (Portland) enthusiast, and the convener of the Elder Network, asked Terry Foster, USM Extended Programs, to join us to discuss bringing Senior College to Bridgton. The idea caught on fast. Instructors were recruited, courses described and, with Terry's cooperation, an Open House was held in Bridgton in May of 2000. More than 40 people attended to find out about the program and to hear glowing reports from Portland "senior collegers" notably Harry Sky, who may be considered the lightening rod of the Portland program.

The local school district offered space in the Memorial School, a building devoted to adult learning. USM offered administrative support, from Barbara Scola, and later, the OLLI staff. With all of this positive energy the Senior College at Bridgton presented its first program in September of 2000 with eight courses, and now offers a fall and spring semester of six weeks and a winter program of one day programs.

Senior College is directed by a steering committee of volunteers from many of the towns in our region. Strong support continues from both USM/OLLI and from the local school district, especially Tami Hathaway, building administrator. Having a motto, "Meet Together, Learn Together," Senior College at Bridgton represents the efforts and energy of a widening circle of enthusiast members and teachers.

Membership

Members who are 50 or older pay an annual membership fee of a membership fee of $20.00 per person (good for an academic year) and $15.00 for each course taken. The winter program of one day presentations is free to members and $5.00 per class to nonmembers. This entitles you to receive all newsletters and course listings. Fall semester runs September-October. Spring semester is April-May.

Volunteer Opportunities

A curriculum committee of volunteers seeks instructors with expertise in a wide variety of subjects. While teaching experience is helpful, a knowledge of and enthusiasm for the subject matter are the most important criteria. Course proposal forms for new teachers and/or courses may be obtained from the Bridgton Community Center, or by calling (207) 647-9599 and (207) 647-2270

Location

All classes are held at Bridgton Community Center, Depot Street, just off Main Street in Bridgton. Please phone (207) 647-9599 and (207) 647-2270 for registration information.

Fees

Annual membership fee: $20.00 for academic year. Course fees are $15.00 for each 6 week class; $10.00 for 3 week classes. Fee waiver applications, (simple and confidential) are available by request.

For More Information

Senior College at Bridgton
Bridgton Community Center
Depot Street
PO Box 308
Bridgton ME 04009

Email: seniorcollegebridgton@gmail.com

By phone: (207) 647-9599 and (207) 647-2270