Nonprofit has more solo tours and free lectures online
A pelagic ivory gull scans the horizon off Utqiagvik. The Road Scholar program offers free online lectures, including one called "Into the Icy Deep - Marine Life, Sea Ice & Conservation," on April 22 at 9 a.m. Alaska time.
The nonprofit Road Scholar celebrates 50 years with new tours, as well as free armchair travel.
Offering a wide selection of destinations for avid travelers, it also keeps in mind those who can no longer travel or cannot afford to.
"For 50 years, Road Scholar has empowered older adults to explore, learn and connect with the world around them," said James Moses, CEO of Road Scholar. "Beginning with our first program at the University of New Hampshire in 1975, we have partnered with thousands of colleges, universities, museums, and cultural centers around the world, and with exceptional teachers, professors and expert instructors to provide educational experiences to more than six million older adults across generations.
"We are proud of the work we've done changing perceptions of aging, and of the educational community we've built united by curiosity, adventure and a passion for discovery."
From the comfort of home
Upcoming online free lectures take you to the world, wellness and history.
April 3 at 10 a.m., Alaska Time
2025 Keynote Event: "Leadership in Turbulent Times" – a free virtual by presidential historian and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Doris Kearns Goodwin. The Q&A session will explore leadership during challenging periods in U.S. history.
Goodwin has written biographies of numerous U.S. presidents including "No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt: The Home Front in World War II," which won the Pulitzer Prize for History in 1995.
April 22 at at 9 a.m. Alaska Time
"Into the Icy Deep - Marine Life, Sea Ice & Conservation," a one-hour lecture and Q&A to learn about the vibrant marine ecosystems of the Arctic and Antarctic.
Join Amanda Hunter, marine biologist and polar expedition guide, on a journey across the polar oceans in celebration of Earth Day.
Dive into the vibrant marine ecosystems of the Arctic and Antarctic, from tiny phytoplankton to majestic seals and whales, while uncovering the vital role of sea ice in Earth's climate. Hunter will also discuss the fascinating physical and chemical properties of polar waters and how they shape marine life. Examine the effects of human activities - from early exploration to the pressing challenges of climate change, pollution and overfishing - to better understand why conserving these remote regions is vital to the health of our planet.
May 1 at 10 a.m. Alaska Time
"Age Well: Aging in Place - Key Considerations for a Fulfilling Future." Gerontologist and caregiver advocate Lakelyn Hogan Eichenberger will help you explore considerations for aging in place. Learn how to make informed choices, discover useful tools and resources, and gain insights to help aging adults and family caregivers start the conversation and plan for a safe, comfortable future at home.
May 5 at 9 a.m. Alaska Time
"Exploring Easter Island - Moai Mysteries & More," a one-hour lecture and Q&A to learn about the history and mysteries of Rapa Nui (Easter Island).
Experienced guide Nicole Flores will unravel the island's ancient riddles, reveal the moai legacy and explore Tangata Mana, the captivating birdman ceremony. With firsthand experience, she answers the most popular questions from travelers to the region, illustrated by photos from her journeys. Experience the mysteries and traditions of the Rapa Nui people and the wonders of Easter Island - for free!
May 8 at 10 a.m. Alaska Time
"Age Well: Move for Life - Strength, Balance & Curiosity at Any Age." Find out about movement for well-being and flexibility.
David Wilson is a movement coach and educator specializing in lifelong physical confidence. The founder of oldscoolmoves and anti-ageism advocate, he has a unique approach integrating rhythm, spatial awareness and adaptability to help individuals move with greater ease, power and control.
May 9 at 7 a.m. Alaska Time
"Age Well: Coping with Challenging Situations in Dementia Care."
Important information about brain changes that typically occur during dementia, and how those changes may contribute to these challenges, along with practical strategies and methods of providing support to individuals living with dementia.
May 21 at 9 a.m. Alaska Time
"Age Well: The AgeTech Revolution - Shaping the Future of Aging."
Gerontologist Keren Etkin, Age Tech expert will explore why Age Tech matters, how it's shaping the future of aging and why older adults' voices are essential in tech development.
May 22 at 10 a.m. Alaska Time
Age Well: Psychology of Kindness - Strategies for Prosocial Behavior"
How can small acts of kindness and positive thinking shape a happier, more fulfilling life? Author Catherine Sanderson, a leading expert in positive psychology, will explore research-backed strategies for fostering positivity and gain practical tools to strengthen happiness in everyday life.
June 10 at 9 a.m. Alaska Time
"Honoring D-Day - Echoes of Valor & Victory"
On June 6, 1944, the Allies undertook one of the most bold and significant operations of World War II - a massive amphibious and airborne assault in Normandy, marking the beginning of the end for Nazi oppression in Europe.
The first 24 hours of Operation Overlord, codenamed "D-Day," saw a united effort of American, British and Canadian forces overcome Hitler's formidable "Atlantic Wall" and secure critical beachheads.
Honor this monumental day with a lecture by Spencer Jones, a senior lecturer in Armed Forces and War Studies at the University of Wolverhampton in England, who also serves as the regimental historian for the Royal Regiment of Artillery. Jones will unveil the strategic brilliance and steadfast bravery that clinched the Allied victory.
It's easy to sign up for these lectures, just go to https://www.roadscholar.org/collections/online-lectures/free/
