Lifelong Learning Class Offerings
We look forward to seeing you this semester!
The Lifelong Learning classes for Fall 2026 run from Aug. 31 through Nov. 19 across two sessions. In the fall classes section below, click the + icon in the purple title bars below to expand each session to see details of our class offerings.
Fall 2026 Class Offerings
Session 1: Aug. 31 - Oct. 5
MONDAYS
Your Guide to AI: From Confusion to Confidence
August 31, September 14, 21, 28; October 5
- 10-11:30 AM CT
- IN PERSON & ZOOM
- Longview Mansion
- Cost: $80
Instructor: Joy Osipchuk (’24, ’26), B.S., Biochemistry, M.S. Applied Artificial Intelligence, CLAS Teaching Assistant
Discover the world of artificial intelligence in this friendly, jargon-free introduction designed especially for a non-technical audience. This course will explain what AI is and how to use it in everyday life — from budgeting and meal planning, to translating, writing and navigating daily tasks with ease. Participants will explore practical examples, common myths, benefits and risks, leaving with greater confidence, curiosity and the knowledge to engage thoughtfully with this rapidly changing technology.
TUESDAYS
An Introduction to Bluegrass Music in Nashville
September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
- 2-3:30 PM CT
- IN PERSON ONLY
- Longview Mansion
- Cost: $80
Nancy Posey (’76), Ed.D., Adjunct Professor, English and Modern Languages Department, Lipscomb University
When people think of music in Music City, they often think only of Top-40 country music. However, the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Grand Ole Opry and the historic Ryman Auditorium bear witness to the long-running popularity of the bluegrass genre. Nancy Posey, bluegrass enthusiast and freelance music writer, is eager to expand the view of the bluegrass genre. As a music community, bluegrass pickers, singers and fans honor the traditions of Bill Monroe, Flatt and Scruggs and the Osborne Brothers, while continuing to encourage and celebrate new generations of bluegrass musicians.
Posey will share some history of bluegrass music and provide a background on what makes music bluegrass. The class will examine some cultural moments from "The Beverly Hillbillies" and "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" to "O Brother! Where Art Thou?" that heightened interest in bluegrass music. Participants will also enjoy guest appearances by members of Nashville’s thriving bluegrass community.
Adult Piano Class 1 (Part 1)
September 8, 15, 22, 29; October 6, 13
- 5:30 - 6:30 PM CT
- IN PERSON ONLY
- Capacity: 10
- Piano Lab at McMeen Music Building
- Cost: $265
- This class continues in Session 2.
Instructor: Jonathan Edde, Senior Piano Intern, Lipscomb University
Adult piano classes will be offered through a collaborative effort of Lifelong Learning and the School of Music at Lipscomb. Adult Beginning Piano Class I is for students ages 25-75+ with little to no prior musical or piano experience. This hour-long class will meet once per week for 10 weeks. Only 10 spaces are available and will be filled on a first-come, first-reserved basis. You will receive an instruction book with the class fee.
WEDNESDAYS
Theology and Architecture: A Survey of Christian Places of Worship
September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
- 10-11:30 AM CT
- IN PERSON & ZOOM
- Longview Mansion
- Cost: $80
Instructor: LaJuana Gill, M.S., MFA, Adjunct Faculty, Middle Tennessee State University and Belmont University O’More College of Architecture and Design
Come travel the Western world through the eyes of Christians from the first to the 21st centuries in this engaging exploration of sacred space. Together, we will examine how Christian beliefs about God, worship, community and the divine presence have shaped the design and use of churches, cathedrals, chapels and contemporary worship spaces. We will also reflect on how theology continues to inform contemporary architecture, including questions of accessibility, hospitality, mission, technology and the use of flexible worship spaces today.
America’s Civics Lesson: Mid-Term Elections 2026 (Part 1)
September 16, 23, 30; October 7, 14
- 1-2:30 PM CT
- ZOOM ONLY
- Cost: $110
- This class continues in Session 2.
Instructor: Linda Peek Schacht (’72), B.A., Retired Lipscomb University Faculty
2026 is the 10th anniversary of America's Civics Lesson!
Linda Peek Schacht brings her political, governmental and corporate experience to a weekly conversation designed to help us be more engaged and informed citizens. We consider current events through the lens of history, government policy, political strategy, leadership communication and survey research.
We will wrestle with tough questions: How will wars abroad and economic and social issues at home impact the midterm elections? What story of America is being told in campaigns in our 250th year? Which candidates and story will prevail? What impact will AI have on campaigning and governing? How do we make sense of an information ecosystem characterized by the decline of legacy media, social media influencers, and the proliferation of news sites, newsletters and podcasts? Is ethical, effective leadership possible in the US and across the globe in today’s fractured world and how can we support it?
With civil conversation, guest speakers and analysis, we will navigate tumultuous times while celebrating the ideas and institutions that unify us. Suggested but not required readings and viewings each week.
Adult Piano Class 1 (Part 1)
September 9, 16, 23, 30; October 7, 14 November 4, 11
- 5:30-6:30 PM CT
- IN PERSON ONLY
- Capacity: 10
- Piano Lab at McMeen Music Building
- Cost: $265
- This class continues in Session 2.
Instructors: Jackie Edwards-Henry, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Piano, Mississippi State University and Adjunct Instructor and Collaborative Pianist, Lipscomb University; and Elena Perigo, Junior Piano Intern, Lipscomb University
Adult piano classes will be offered through a collaborative effort of Lifelong Learning and the School of Music at Lipscomb. Adult Beginning Piano Class I is for students ages 25-75+ with little to no prior musical or piano experience. This hour-long class will meet once per week for 10 weeks. Only 10 spaces are available and will be filled on a first-come, first-reserved basis. You will receive an instruction book with the class fee.
Adult Piano Class R & C (Resuming and Continuing) (Part 1)
September 9, 16, 23, 30; October 7, 14, 21, 28; November 4, 11
- 6:30-7:30 PM CT
- IN PERSON ONLY
- Capacity: 10
- Piano Lab at McMeen Music Building
- Cost: $250
- This class continues in Session 2.
Instructor: Jackie Edwards-Henry, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Piano, Mississippi State University and Adjunct Instructor and Collaborative Pianist, Lipscomb University.
Again, this semester, adult piano classes will be offered through a collaborative effort of Lifelong Learning and the School of Music at Lipscomb. Adult Piano Class R & C is for students who have had a year or more of piano study and can read treble and bass clef. The class will begin with a review of basic pitch and rhythm notation and will feature a variety of repertoire styles, chord construction, lead sheets, improvisation and ensemble playing. This hour-long class will meet once per week for 10 weeks. Only 10 spaces are available and will be filled on a first-come, first-reserved basis.
THURSDAYS
Five Surprising Supreme Court Cases that Changed Your Life
September 3, 10, 17, 24; October 1
- 10-11:30 AM CT
- IN PERSON & ZOOM
- Cofer’s Chapel Free Will Baptist Church, 3915 Franklin Pike
- Cost: $80
Instructor: David French, (’91) J.D., Distinguished Visiting Professor of Public Policy, College of Leadership & Public Service, Lipscomb University
The goal of this class is ambitious — to make you the most interesting person in the room. If you take this class, you'll learn the secret sauce behind American democracy. The Supreme Court shapes American society in the big, famous cases (think about Brown v. Board of Education, Roe v. Wade or Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health), but it also shapes our culture and our politics through big cases that aren't famous at all.
Each week, we'll review a new case, tell the story behind the opinion, and then talk about why it matters so much today. Think of the joy you'll feel when you share your newfound knowledge with friends and family. You'll know so much about American law and politics that people will be beating down your door to hear your thoughts. Please join us!
Things Every Christian Should Know
September 3, 10, 17, 24; October 1
- 2-3:30 PM CT
- IN PERSON & ZOOM
- Longview Mansion
- Cost: $80
Instructor: Rubel Shelly, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor of Philosophy and Religion (Retired), Lipscomb University
This five-week study explores these fundamental Christian doctrines in sequence: God: What Is the Importance of the Trinity? Scripture: How Reliable Is the Bible You Read? Church: How Is “Church” Defined in Scripture and Lived in the 21st Century? Discipleship: What Does God Expect of His People? Resurrection: Why Does Our Faith Depend on This One Truth?
Session 2 : Oct. 19 - Nov. 19
MONDAYS
Archaeology of Christmas — Matthew's Nativity
October 19, 26; November 2, 9, 16
- 10-11:30 AM CT
- IN PERSON & ZOOM
- Longview Mansion
- Cost: $80
Instructor: Chris McKinny, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Lanier Center for Archaeology
In this five-week course, we will examine Matthew's account of the Nativity (Matt 1–2) from an archaeological perspective. We will see how biblical archaeology, contemporary literature and ancient Judean culture contribute enormously to our understanding of the world's most celebrated story.
While often overlooked in traditional celebrations and interpretations, a close examination of the "Archaeology of Christmas" provides important context for some of the most frequently asked questions about first-century Christmas, such as why Jesus' genealogy does not include all of his ancestors. Why do many Christians consider Mary to be a perpetual virgin? Was Jesus really born in Bethlehem of Judea? Who are the Magi? What is the star of Bethlehem? Was Herod the Great really such a terrible murderer? Was it realistic for Mary and Joseph to go to Egypt? What is a Nazorean? This study will answer these questions and much more!
First Word: How the Book of Genesis Makes Sense of the World and of Your Life
October 19, 26; November 2, 9, 16
- 2-3:30 PM CT
- Longview Mansion
- IN PERSON & ZOOM
- Cost: $80
Instructor: Russell Moore, Ph.D., Editor-at-Large, Christianity Today; Bill & Crissy Haslam Endowed Distinguished Professor of Faith and Reason, Lipscomb University
Genesis is not just about how everything started. It is the first word about who God is, who we are, why the world is both awesome and broken and where the whole story is headed. In this five-week course, we will discuss creation, the fall, the Bible, Abraham, Sarah and an entire cast of characters, ending in a mummy’s box in Egypt. Along the way, we will explore the book’s big questions: identity and vocation, family divisions and societal violence, exile and belonging, hope and despair. The first word will be explained through the last word: Jesus of Nazareth.
TUESDAYS
Establishing your Native Gardens in Time for Spring
October 20, 27; November 3, 10, 17
- 2-3:30 pm CT
- IN PERSON ONLY
- Longview Mansion
- Cost $80
Instructor: Paul Prill, Ph.D., Certified Master Gardener of Davidson County; Certified Tennessee Naturalist; Retired Lipscomb University Professor
Prepare your Middle Tennessee landscape for a vibrant spring with this practical native gardening course. Learn how to choose regionally appropriate plants, evaluate sun, soil, and moisture conditions, design garden beds, and time fall and winter preparation for spring success. We’ll cover site preparation, planting strategies, maintenance basics, and ways native gardens support pollinators, birds and local ecosystems. Perfect for beginners and experienced gardeners ready to create beautiful, resilient, low-maintenance outdoor spaces.
Adult Piano Class 1 (Part 2)
October 20, 27; November 3, 10
- 5:30 - 6:30 PM CT
- IN PERSON ONLY
- Piano Lab at McMeen Music Building
- This class continues from Session 1.
Instructor: Jonathan Edde, Senior Piano Intern, Lipscomb University
WEDNESDAYS
You’re Never Too Old for Yoga! Next Level
October 21, 28; November 4, 11, 18
- 10-11:30 AM
- IN PERSON ONLY
- Longview Mansion
- Cost: $80
Instructor: Ruth Henry (’74), Ph.D., Adjunct Professor, College of Health Sciences
This class takes us to the next Yoga level—getting out of the chair and using the mat! It’s gentler than a typical adult class but allows more movement while emphasizing alignment, breathing, strength and balance. Don't worry, we will show you how to get up from the mat safely on the first day! Ruth will offer some modifications that use the chair as a prop to build balance and confidence. Besides numerous known physical benefits of yoga, helping with mood, mental health and providing a social outlet is perhaps where yoga shines the most. Let’s get moving!
America’s Civics Lesson: Mid-Term Elections 2026 (Part 2)
October 21, 28, November 4, 11, 18
- 1-2:30 PM CT
- ZOOM ONLY
- Cost: $110
- This class continues from Session 1.
Instructor: Linda Peek Schacht (’72), B.A., Retired Lipscomb University Faculty
Losing Faith in Science: Causes and Consequences
October 21, 28; November 4, 11, 18
- 2-3:30 PM
- IN PERSON & ZOOM
- Longview Mansion
- Cost: $80
Instructor: James Arnett (’67), Ph.D., Professor of Biology (retired), College of Health Sciences; Lipscomb University
In response to reports of declining trust in modern science, this course will: 1) briefly revisit a history of science along with its assumptions and methods; 2) seek to explain recent growing public doubt and reluctance to follow well-established scientific recommendations (for example public health measures or actions to reverse current trends in Earth’s climate); and, 3) consider how to find trustworthy information in the midst of overload and conflicting ideas.
Adult Piano Class 1 (Part 2)
October 21, 28; November 4, 11
- 5:30-6:30 PM CT
- IN PERSON ONLY
- Piano Lab at McMeen Music Building
- This class continues from Session 1.
Instructors: Jackie Edwards-Henry, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Piano, Mississippi State University and Adjunct Instructor and Collaborative Pianist, Lipscomb University; and Elena Perigo, Junior Piano Intern, Lipscomb University
Adult Piano Class R & C (Resuming and Continuing) (Part 2)
October 21, 28; November 4, 11
- 6:30-7:30 PM CT
- IN PERSON ONLY
- Piano Lab at McMeen Music Building
- This class continues from Session 1.
Instructor: Jackie Edwards-Henry, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Piano, Mississippi State University and Adjunct Instructor and Collaborative Pianist, Lipscomb University.
THURSDAYS
The Stories of Mark Twain
October 22, 29; November 5, 12, 19
- 10-11:30 AM CT
- IN PERSON & ZOOM
- Longview Mansion
- Cost: $80
Instructor: Willie Steele (’95), Ph.D., University Research Professor, Professor of English, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, Lipscomb University
Ernest Hemingway once said, "All modern American literature comes from one book by Mark Twain called Huckleberry Finn. American writing comes from that. There was nothing before. There has been nothing as good since.” Join Willie Steele this fall as we explore the complicated life and enduring writings of the man behind Tom Sawyer, Huck Finn, A Connecticut Yankee and so many other classic stories and characters.
Death & Dying, Life & Living
October 22, 29; November 5, 12, 19
- 2-3:30 PM CT
- IN PERSON & ZOOM
- Longview Mansion
- Cost: $80
Instructor: Roy Hamley, Ed.D., LPC, FT, Professor of Psychology and Counseling (Retired)
In this class, we will journey together to build our knowledge and skills for navigating grief and loss. We will start by addressing our own personal losses before learning how to better support others who are hurting. Beyond navigating sorrow, our ultimate goal is to increase our joy and happiness in life—a beautiful process we will accomplish by sharing our hopes, goals and dreams with one another in a supportive environment.
Register for Fall 2026 Classes
*Note: Current and retired Lipscomb faculty and staff are eligible for a 50% discount off one in-person/Zoom classes. Discount does not apply to Special Gatherings or the three Adult Piano classes. Please contact lifelonglearning [at] lipscomb.edu (Lifelong Learning) for the discount code to register online. If you prefer to pay via check, please download this registration form, complete and send it with your payment to the address listed on the form.
