
Whether you’re passionate about culinary arts, literature, or arts & crafts, fascinated by history and current events, or eager to explore the environment and science, there’s something here for you. Ready to discover new hobbies, deepen your knowledge, or connect with a vibrant community of fellow learners? The Institute for Adult Learning (IAL) invites you to attend its Fall Showcase of Classes on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. (doors open at 1:30 p.m.) at the Kennard African American Cultural Heritage Center (410 Kidwell Avenue, Centreville, MD). This free event will highlight over 40 engaging classes tailored for lifelong learners aged 50 and over.
Fall 2026 Classes
IAL classes are designed to spark curiosity, foster personal growth, and promote active, engaged living. Course highlights include:
History & Current Events: Explore today’s most pressing social issues, uncover the rich history of Kent Island, or examine Art in Europe (1900-1930). Discover the fascinating “What-if” scenario behind “Alternative History: The Civil War”. Learn about Trees, Shrubs, and Perennials in the Mid-Atlantic. History comes alive with our trip to explore Chestertown’s historical district.
Environment & Science: Gain insights into the hidden dangers of microplastics, discuss emerging topics in nutrition and AI, or pursue Technology and Digital Literacy. Learn about the Corsica River Watershed. A trip to Poplar Island offers a firsthand look at one of the Chesapeake Bay’s most impressive environmental restoration projects.
Brain, Body & Soul: Feed your mind, strengthen your body, and enrich your spirit. Explore Carl Jung and personality thoughts, join an Investor Behavior and Retirement Income workshop, or stay fit, strong, and balanced with pickleball, yoga, and Tai Chi Chuan. Plus, join our popular “Go Take a Hike!” group, which combines exercise, nature, and good company.
Arts & Creativity: Discover new talents and creative outlets through hands-on culinary and craft classes. Create a festive holiday wreath, explore the art and science of clock-making, learn to appreciate Classical music, or be inspired by the craftsmanship of guitar-making on a Paul Reed Smith (PRS) factory tour.
To learn more about IAL and the full lineup of classes, visit our website at www.instituteforadultlearning.org. Class details will be available on the website starting July 15, 2026. This is your opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, take part in intellectually stimulating discussions, and stay active—all in a welcoming, social environment.
Fall 2026 Semester Detail
- Dates: September 9 – December 18, 2026
- Schedule: Daytime classes, Monday through Friday – most classes range from one to eight 90-minute sessions
- Format: Classes range from single-day sessions to multi-week series.
- Membership: $90 per semester includes unlimited classes throughout the semester and access to field trips and special events. IAL also hosts monthly happy hours open to the public.
Registration: Online registration for classes begins at 9:00 a.m. on the day after the Showcase.
Leas photo: “Herbs and Foods of Italy”: Instructor: Katie Barney
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“Artificial Intelligence” Instructor: Tony Loscalzo





























