The Verandah Community University (VCU) has just finished its third season of programming and is working hard on next year’s line-up.
From the first presentation by Hall of Fame pitcher Bert Blyleven to the most recent speaker on how new medicines are discovered, there have been a wide array of speakers on subjects including bees, wine, books, the Secret Service, forensics, travel, adventure, the Holocaust, restaurant ownership, football, journalism, acting, the FBI, and many more.
While some of the speakers have been from outside the community, the majority have been Verandah residents. “I am truly inspired by the number of fascinating, talented people we have within Verandah,” said VCU Dean Susan Shamey. “It is very humbling to meet neighbors who have had such amazing careers and hobbies.”
Verandah Community University is a member-run organization that presents an educational/entertaining program one Monday per month from October to April. The programs are held in the River House from 4 to 5:30 p.m. with a cash bar available. Along with Susan Shamey, the VCU Deans are Cathy Brummer, Alice Borowsky and Stephanie Levin. The group met working on the VCA Communications Committee. Brainstorming ideas to bring new programming events to Verandah, they came up with a speaker’s program and the rest is history.
“While this is a member-run group, we couldn’t do it without the support of the Club providing a comfortable space and equipment for our programs,” said Dean Stephanie Levin. “We’ve come a long way from meeting in the Fitness Center to filling up the River House Dining Room.” Attendance has continued to grow and the Deans are very appreciative of all the support in the community. They hear all the time that the VCU is a nice addition to all of the sports/game events.
“We are pleased that the VCU continues to be so successful,” said Dean Cathy Brummer. “We get such wonderful feedback and suggestions for future speakers. It is also fun to welcome our returning residents speaker after speaker.”
The University is working hard to up its game for next year, looking for interesting speakers and topics to offer members. “We are considering a number of speakers for next year and may try something new like a field trip to one of our local theaters to learn about the behind-the-scenes operations,” said Dean Alice Borowsky. “We are very open to hearing your thoughts and suggestions on speakers and subjects.”
The Verandah Community University Deans wish all of you a wonderful summer vacation and look forward to starting the next semester in October.
