Senior Scholars

Senior Scholars offers a wide variety of classes every year to fit all interests, including courses in: history, studio arts & handicrafts, recreation & leisure, health & wellness, languages & writing, and much more! While we will have some reoccurring classes, others are only offered one time.

For a detailed list of our current offerings, please scroll to the bottom of this page.

Like Berry College, Senior Scholars offers two full semesters of courses every year. For the 2024-2025 year, the Fall Semester courses will begin the week of September 16th and the Spring Semester courses will begin the week of February 10th. Most courses are between four and eight weeks in length. We also offer single-day courses and travel opportunities throughout the entire year!

Registration for each semester will open one month before the start of classes. 

For a detailed list of our current class times and offerings, please scroll to the bottom of this page.

Senior Scholars courses take place at Oak Hill & the Martha Berry Museum, the Spires at Berry College, or on the Berry College Campus. See below for maps of each location.

If your class is in the Oak Hill Garden Room or Martha Berry Museum Auditorium, click here.

If your class is at the Spires at Berry College, click here.

If your class is at the Berry College Pickleball Courts or Richards Gymnasium, click here.

If your class is at the Cage Center or Krannert Center, click here.

Do you have a special skill or expertise that you would like to share as part of a Senior Scholars course? We are always looking for new instructors! Please email us at seniorscholars@berry.edu for more information.

Do you have a question that wasn't answered here? Call Oak Hill & the Martha Berry Museum at 706.368.6789 or email us at seniorscholars@berry.edu for more information.

Tuesdays, February 11 – April 1 (8 weeks) from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.  

Join Georgia Backroads magazine editor and publisher Dan Roper in an exploration of Georgia's rich history and natural heritage. The course will touch on a wide range of local events such as the Trail of Tears, the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the Great Depression, along with stories and lore about Berry College and its surrounding areas. Additionally, the course will explore the natural beauty of Northwest Georgia through discussions on its trails, trees, and wildlife.

About the instructor: Dan Roper is the editor and publisher of Georgia Backroads magazine, a print publication devoted to Georgia history, nature, travel, and lifestyles. He practiced law in Rome from 1986 to 2005, and also has backgrounds in forestry, history, and writing. Since coming to Rome, he has taught in several capacities at Berry College – including serving as a regular instructor for Senior Scholars!

Location: Martha Berry Museum Auditorium (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $95

Registration for this course closes on February 3rd at midnight.

Tuesdays, February 11 – March 18 (6 weeks) from 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Embark on a journey through the cosmos and explore how perceptions of extraterrestrial life have evolved throughout history. This course will delve into the impact of scientific discoveries on humanity’s beliefs about aliens and reflect on how changing ideas about life beyond Earth mirror society’s deepening understanding of humanity. From ancient myths and medieval speculations to the scientific revolutions of the Renaissance and beyond, this course will question whether we are truly alone and what that means for our future.

About the instructor: Dr. Todd Timberlake is the Reid Professor of Physics & Astronomy at Berry College where he has taught for 23 years. He has taught courses on the history of astronomy, extraterrestrial life, and a variety of physics courses.

Location: Martha Berry Museum Auditorium (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $75

Registration for this course closes on February 3rd at midnight.

Thursdays, February 20 – April 10 (8 weeks) from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Hollywood played a critical role in American life during World War II. Prior to the U.S. entry into the war, the movie industry, centered in California, produced films that condemned Axis aggression and supported the Allied powers. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the U.S. government depended on Hollywood directors and stars to influence the tens of millions of American moviegoers. Hollywood produced propaganda films that championed stories of patriotism, duty, and sacrifice for audiences in America and abroad. This course will focus on the ways that the American film industry supported the war effort, and the success and continued popularity of many wartime movies that continue to influence the American cultural landscape.

About the instructor: Camden Anich is a Museum Educator at the Museum of History and Holocaust Education at Kennesaw State University. He received his undergraduate degree in History with an additional certificate in Public History from Kennesaw State University. World War II and military history are his primary areas of interest.

Location: Martha Berry Museum Auditorium (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $95

Registration for this course closes on February 5th at midnight.

Wednesdays, February 19 – February 26 (2 weeks) from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

This two-session lecture series will explore the pivotal events and key figures of the Civil War in Georgia. Topics of discussion will include strategic battles, Georgia’s impact on the war's outcome, and social and economic effects of war on Georgia's civilian population. The course will provide an overview of Georgia's crucial role in the Civil War.

About the instructor: Donald Casey has been a lifelong history nut. He has taught 8th grade Georgia History for 30 years.  While working on his bachelor’s degree in history and education, he worked at New Echota State Historic Site in Calhoun, Georgia.  He has a master’s degree in Secondary Education with a focus on History and has an Educational Specialist in Teaching and Learning.

Location: Martha Berry Museum Auditorium (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $45

Registration for this course closes on February 12th at midnight.

Tuesdays, March 27 – April 17 (4 weeks) from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

This illustrated 4-part course will examine the origins of Native Americans and their first contacts with Europeans. It will explore their arrival in the Americas, highlighting new evidence from recent investigations. The course will discuss how Native Americans adapted to their environments and transitioned to agriculture. It will also survey the development of complex cultures in various regions, including the Northwest, Southwest, and Southeast. Finally, the course will examine the dramatic encounters between Europeans and Native Americans, which resulted in significant changes for each and for the rest of the world. Reading lists will be sent prior to each presentation.

About the instructor: Dr. Stephen Kaufman, a native New Yorker, earned his BA from City College of New York, MA from UCLA, and Ph.D. from the Graduate Center, CUNY. He taught Anthropology for over 50 years, including 40 years at Raritan Valley Community College, where he served as Department Chair for nearly 20 years. His notable contributions include archeological research in Serbia, and at Native American sites and revolutionary war encampments. He co-edited the book Racism: A Global Reader and has been a national speaker for the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Location: Martha Berry Museum Auditorium (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $65

Registration for this course closes on March 19th at midnight.

Mondays, February 10 – March 3 (4 weeks) from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Printed photos from the pre-digital era are precious treasures that are often irreplaceable, this four-session course will cover the basics of organizing your collection of printed photos. Participants will learn essential techniques for sorting, purging, and labeling of photos, in addition to the best practices for safe physical storage. The course will also explore digital organization options and discuss the process of scanning printed photos into digital files. Bring a box of photos to kickstart your personal organization project!

About the instructor: Rhonda McDaniel is a Berry College graduate who taught in Georgia Public Schools for thirty years. After retiring from teaching, she became interested in organizing her mother's huge photo collection. Rhonda worked with an estate sale professional who helped her organize, purge and distribute the family photos. Rhonda then went on to work with a North Georgia estate sale business helping other families organize family photos. She greatly enjoyed the opportunity of guiding Senior Scholars with photo collections last Spring and is honored to be invited back for Spring 2025.

Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $75

Thursdays, February 13 – March 20 (6 weeks) from 2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.

This beginner-friendly class will focus on the fundamentals of ballroom dancing such as musicality, body movement, foot placement, posture, and balance. Each week will focus on a variety of Smooth (standard) and Rhythm (Latin) ballroom dance styles. Some classes may build on the skills learned in the previous class. Join the instructor to learn basic ballroom styles, steps, and movements to your favorite songs! You'll be ready to show off your new moves at your next big event in no time! No previous experience or partner is necessary. Come dressed in comfortable clothes and shoes that you can move in.

About the instructor: Cris Devere grew up dancing in Rome, GA at two local dance studios. She studied ballet, tap, jazz, and hip-hop. She was also on a youth competitive dance team. After graduation, she moved to UGA and began teaching hip-hop and ballet at UGA and joined the UGA Ballroom Performance Group. She served as the PR Coordinator for UGA BPG for one year before taking over the presidency. She was also a member of the UGA Tango Club and Athens Latin Salsa Club. Today, she still dances socially.

Location: The Cage Center at Berry College (Maple Drive, Mount Berry, GA)
Cost: $65

Registration for this course closes on February 5th at midnight.

Wednesday, March 5 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

In this hands-on session, guests will learn to make a quick pickling solution and customize pickled items from fresh crudité and seasonings, all while discussing the science and health benefits of pickling. You'll master essential techniques for creating delicious, tangy pickles at home, from selecting the freshest produce to preparing brines and spices. Perfect for beginners and food enthusiasts, this course will leave you with the skills and confidence to start pickling on your own. All materials are included in the cost of the course.

About the instructor: Marissa Castano is a registered dietitian on staff with Berry College Dining Services. She has experience with providing medical nutrition therapy while focusing on improving quality of life. Marissa’s enjoys trying new foods and working out. Her favorite food is popcorn!

Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $30

Registration for this course closes on February 24th at midnight.

Wednesday, April 9 from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Dive into the vibrant flavors of homemade salsa and guacamole in this hands-on session! You'll learn to select the freshest ingredients and master the techniques for creating these classic Mexican dips. From chopping tomatoes and onions to perfecting the balance of spices and lime, you'll craft delicious salsa and creamy guacamole from scratch. Ideal for beginners and food lovers, this course will leave you with the skills to impress at your next gathering. Take home your creations and enjoy! All materials are included in the cost of the course.

About the instructor: Chef Shawn Lawrence is the executive chef at Berry College where he develops and executes culinary solutions to meet students’ needs and tastes. He has worked at Berry for 2 years, and in higher education since 2013. He enjoys cooking and eating Indian Cuisine, especially curry. Shawn is also a proud husband, father, and Carolina Panthers fan.

Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $35

Registration for this course closes on March 31st at midnight.

Mondays, February 10 – March 31 (8 weeks) from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.  

Stephen King's 11/22/63 follows high school teacher Jake Epping as he travels back in time to try and prevent the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. This thrilling journey explores the consequences of altering history and the unexpected ripple effects on the future. This discussion group will meet weekly for one hour to explore time travel, moral dilemmas, and the intricate plot twists that make this book a must-read. Participants will read 100 to 150 pages prior to each meeting. Participants are responsible for providing their own copy of the book.

About the instructor: Cheryl Huffman has led the Book Club for several years with Senior Scholars. She is an avid reader and belongs to two book clubs that meet monthly. She is the treasurer of the Sara Hightower Library, treasurer of the Rome Symphony, and works part time in catering and special events. Prior to retirement, she worked in Financial Aid at Berry College and prior to that time was President of Northwest Georgia Credit Union. As an elected official, she served for 20 years on the Rome Board of Education.

Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $80

Registration for this course closes on February 3rd at midnight.

Tuesdays, February 11 – April 8 (8 weeks) from 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
(No class on March 11)

Memories are some of the most important things we collect in this life. What we have done, what we have seen and experienced, and the epiphanies we have gathered shape who we are and, in turn, shape others we encounter. This course will help you identify these moments and shape them into cohesive narratives that you can share with others or simply keep for yourself. Using guided writing prompts that call on the five senses to stimulate memory, we will begin weaving your life story.

About the instructor: Melissa King directs the Berry College Writing Center and lectures in the English, Rhetoric and Writing department at Berry. She has greatly enjoyed the opportunity of guiding Senior Scholars courses for the past several years.

Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $150

Registration for this course closes on February 4th at midnight.

Thursdays, February 13 – March 20 from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Join veteran Spanish teacher Cheryl Fitzner for an engaging and informative course on Spanish language essentials. This class will cover pronunciation, key phrases, listening strategies, and essential cultural knowledge. By the end of the course, you will be able to communicate at a basic level in various situations and have the foundation to further your Spanish language skills. Ideal for both novice learners and those looking to refresh their knowledge, this course promises a comprehensive and enjoyable learning experience.

About the instructor: Cheryl M. Fitzner holds a B.A. from St. Andrews Presbyterian College, an M.A.T. from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, and an Ed.S. from the University of Alabama. Initially reluctant to teach, she discovered a passion for the teaching/learning process and has since taught Spanish, English, Special Ed., reading, Latin, World Geography, ESL, and adult education. Cheryl has taught with Senior Scholars for several years and continues to find joy in both educating and learning from her students.

Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $100

Registration for this course closes on February 5th at midnight.

Wednesdays, February 19 – April 2 (6 weeks) from 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
(No class on March 12)

Dive into the rich and diverse tapestry of Southern literature through the lens of short stories by renowned Southern writers. This course will explore the themes, cultural nuances, and unique storytelling techniques that characterize Southern narratives. From the haunting reflections of Flannery O'Connor to the lyrical prose of Zora Neale Hurston, we will analyze and discuss a selection of short stories that highlight the complexities of identity, race, family, and the social landscape of the American South. Through discussions, readings, and low stakes writing assignments, we will deepen our appreciation for the voices that shape Southern literature and its legacy in American culture. Join us for a journey through the heart of the South and discover the power of storytelling in shaping our understanding of place and identity.

About the instructor: Dr. Whitney Jordan Adams is a scholar-practitioner with expertise in business, rhetoric, communication, and philosophy. She holds an MBA from Berry College and a PhD from Clemson University. Whitney has published several scholarly articles and book chapters, including a recent contribution to Rhetorics of Southern Place. With teaching experience in over 40 countries, she now calls Berry College home. Whitney also has a rescue dog named Abi, who brings joy to her life.

Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $75

Registration for this course closes on February 11th at midnight.

Thursdays, March 20 – April 10 (4 weeks) from 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Willa Cather's novel, Death Comes for the Archbishop, is a vibrant and masterful love letter to the land and history of the Southwest. Whether you have or haven't read the novel, this course will work both as a place for discussion but also as a site for further exploration of the landscape, history, botany, art, and true biographical information that Cather presents to us in this book. Participants are responsible for providing their own copy of the book.

About the instructor: Melissa King directs the Berry College Writing Center and lectures in the English, Rhetoric and Writing department at Berry. She has greatly enjoyed the opportunity of guiding Senior Scholars courses for the past 4 years.

Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $70

Registration for this course closes on March 12th at midnight.

Mondays, February 10 – March 31 (8 weeks) from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Experience yoga at a slower and less intense pace while learning how to use props (blocks, straps, chairs) to build your personal practice. Each class will begin with grounding breath work before practicing gentle yoga poses. Poses are held between 5-10 seconds each and have a variety of options to accommodate all skill levels. This course invites students of all levels to join her for a meditative hour of peaceful and restorative practice. Students will need to come dressed in clothing that allows for free range of motion. Providing your own yoga mat is encouraged but not required.

About the instructor: Jennifer Bressette is a 200-hour certified yoga teacher. She has practiced yoga for over a decade and teaches at the YMCA, as well as doing fundraising yoga classes for PAWS.

Location: The Spires at Berry College Fitness Center (600 Eagle Lake Trail NW, Rome, GA)
Cost: $85

Registration for this course closes on February 2nd at midnight.

Tuesdays, February 11 – April 8 (8 weeks) from 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
(No class on March 11)

This course will delve into the foundational principles of Taoist philosophy, exploring its core concepts and teachings, and will then bring these insights to life by learning and practicing the opening postures of the Yang school of Taiji Quan martial arts. Throughout the course, students will not only grow to understand Taoist thought, but also embody its principles through the graceful and meditative movements of Taiji Quan, promoting both mental clarity and physical well-being.

About the instructor: Dr. Jeff Lidke has been professor of religious studies at Berry College for 21 years and has taught Senior Scholars courses on multiple occasions. His area of specialization is South Asian religions, particularly Hinduism and Buddhism, but also Taoism.

Location: Christopher Browning Pavilion at Oak Hill (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $95

Registration for this course closes on February 3rd at midnight.

Thursdays, February 13 – March 6 (4 weeks) from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

The food we eat fuels every system and organ in our bodies. Our diet affects how we think and feel and how healthy we are. In this course, participants will discuss how to build healthy eating habits and how diet changes as we age. The class will include an introduction to healthy eating and practical skills around grocery shopping, cooking at home, and eating at restaurants.

About the instructor: Marcy Pugliese is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. She has over 20 years of experience in nutrition education and nutrition medical care. She currently practices at AdventHealth Redmond specializing in cardiovascular care. As a former Berry College student, she enjoys sharing her love for nutrition with Berry Senior Scholars. She continues her love for food and nutrition by gardening and preserving food with her husband and son on the family farm.

Location: Oak Hill Garden Room (24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA)
Cost: $40

Registration for this course closes on February 5th at midnight.

Thursdays, February 13 – April 3 (8 weeks) from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Zumba Gold is perfect for active older adults who are looking for a modified Zumba class that recreates the original moves participants love at a lower intensity. The design of the class introduces easy-to-follow Zumba choreography that focuses on balance, range of motion, and coordination. Come ready to sweat and prepare to leave empowered and feeling strong! This class will focus on the following elements of fitness: cardiovascular, muscular conditioning, flexibility, and balance. Students will need to come dressed in clothing that allows for free range of motion. Sneakers with a light tread (not running shoes) are recommended for Zumba.

About the instructor: Haley Richards is a licensed Zumba instructor and has been teaching Zumba since 2023. A life-long dancer trained in ballet, modern, and jazz, Haley enjoys building community with others through dance in a non-competitive environment. Haley is also a licensed Zumba Gold instructor to dance with active adults in a modified, lower-intensity Zumba class.

Location: The Cage Center at Berry College (Maple Drive, Mount Berry, GA)
Cost: $90

Registration for this course closes on February 5th at midnight.

Session 1: Friday, March 3 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Session 2: Friday, March 28 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Sitting atop Lavender Mountain at the back of the Berry College campus, the House o’ Dreams was built in 1922 as a gift to Martha Berry on the 20^th anniversary of the Berry Schools. Join an Oak Hill docent for a tour of the house to learn more about its history and to enjoy the superb view of the campus. Wear comfortable shoes to navigate uneven paths and sweeping hills.

Location: Meet at Oak Hill for bus shuttle service
Cost: $18

Registration for this course closes on March 23rd at midnight.

Friday, April 4 from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

Come take an educational walk with Tennessee Valley Authority botanist John Shelton-Sarabia as you look at common and uncommon plants alike on Berry College’s Victory Lake Trail. Bring appropriate footwear, water, and sun/bug spray for an exciting talk about native plants in the southeast and historically rare or interesting plants seen at Berry College and throughout Northern Georgia. Victory Lake Trail is approximately 2 miles in length. It has a mostly even, gravel path.

About the instructor: John Shelton-Sarabia is a botanist with the Tennessee Valley Authority and has done botany for over 10 years. He has an undergraduate degree in Biology from Austin Peay State University and a master’s in environmental science from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Previously, he has helped teach Plant Taxonomy, Advanced Plant Taxonomy, a wetlands course for the Tennessee Valley Authority, and lead hikes for 7 years at the Great Smokey Mountains National Park with the Wildflower Pilgrimage.

Location: Meet at the base of Victory Lake Trail. A map will be sent out prior to the start of the course.
Cost: $35

Registration for this course closes on March 27th at midnight.