Learning in Retirement

Learning in Retirement is one of more than 260 "institutes for learning in retirement" established at colleges and universities throughout the USA and Canada and affiliated with Elderhostel, Inc. Begun in 1994, LIR in Athens currently has a membership of over 200, with an affiliated chapter in Washington, Georgia. While LIRs may differ in style, two basic premises define all institutes for learning in retirement:

• The members develop and direct the intellectual life of their organization;
• There is a well-defined organizational structure that distinguishes each LIR as a self-governed educational community of older learners.

LIR is governed and organized by its members, who are encouraged to take part in all aspects of the organization. Modest membership and course fees allow it to be self-sustaining while not-for-profit. The Athens LIR Board of Directors consists of four officers and ten directors elected by fellow members at the Annual Meeting in April. Both LIR members and non-members may teach LIR courses; only members serve on the board or on committees. Standing committees are Curriculum, Finance, Membership, Social, Travel/Study, and Public Relations. Other committees are formed as needed for specific projects. The LIR year is July 1 - June 30 and annual dues are currently $35.00 per person.