Sunrise Senior College

Sunrise Senior College (SSC) at the University of Maine-Machias provides a curriculum of intellectually stimulating programs, practical knowledge, social interaction, and special activities for Washington County residents fifty years of age or older and their spouses or partners. There are no tests or grades, no homework and no prior college education is required. However, some classes recommend reading certain books or plays to enrich the course experience, and other suggest writing assignments to hone creative skills.

History

SSC had its beginnings at a June 2002 dinner presentation to a group of interested Washington County residents. By the end of the evening a steering committee had been formed with the full support of John Joseph, the president of UMM. In a flurry of activity and excitement, a set of by-laws were drafted, a curriculum of five courses was developed, brochures were designed, and a fully relational database for membership and registration was created. By the early fall a whirlwind of information about Maine's newest Senior College and the first set of course offerings was disseminated through newspaper articles, radio announcements, and a TV interview. The response from the community was very impressive and encouraging: Nearly 80 residents signed up for membership, resulting in 100 course registrations for the very first term!

Membership

Membership in SSC costs $25 per year, (Sep 1 - Aug 31) and allows members to enroll in all courses offered during the full academic year, not just at SSC but also at other Senior Colleges in Maine. Course fees are $25 for the first course, and $15 for each additional course, which includes any course material. An important benefit to membership and course enrollment are the UMM privileges such as access to library services, campus parking, cafeteria dining, special summer events, and a newsletter.

Volunteer Opportunities

SSC welcomes volunteers to join the various committees. We are also looking for more instructors and guest lecturers. There is also a need for someone with expertise in the Microsoft Access database.

All courses will be taught by volunteer instructors who are experts in their fields, some of whom are retired college or university professors, or accomplished professionals. Courses are offered every Fall and Spring. Classes are held once weekly during daytime hours. Each session usually runs 90 minutes.

Location

Currently all classroom courses are held on the UMM campus on Route 1 in Machias.

For More Information

SSC Program at UMM
9 O'Brien Avenue
Machias, ME 04654

By phone for membership and enrollment information, call: (207) 255-1384

For course information, call: (207) 255-3768

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