Institute for Lifelong Learning
Join us for thought-provoking discussions and unique perspectives.
Institute for Lifelong Learning
The Institute for Lifelong Learning invites community members to participate in a series of lectures and luncheons, promoting fellowship and encouraging continued lifelong learning.
Established during the 1990-91 academic year, the Institute for Lifelong Learning (IFLL) embarked on its inaugural series with distinguished speakers including Jane Constance Shields Freeman, Ph.D., former president of the Girl Scouts of America, and Fredrick Krause, Ph.D., head of the White House Staff for Health Issues.
Founded by the Rev. Raymond “Padre” Shaheen, IFLL quickly became a hub for lifelong learning and community connection. Over the years, speakers have included Garcia Gensel, Ph.D., preacher to New York City’s jazz community; Robert Weis, president of Weis Markets; Ed Pope, who faced espionage charges in Moscow; Brian Balthazar, producer for NBC’s Today show; Bud Knoebel of Knoebel’s Grove; Dick Yuengling of Yuengling Brewery; and Dick Boak of Martin Guitars.
Now led by director Joe Herb, IFLL continues to grow, offering a diverse lineup of speakers from philosophers and scientists to photographers and Holocaust survivors.
Feb. 4: Susquehanna University faculty members Linda Burkley and Dawn Marie Benfer will discuss “The Courage to Be Kind in a Changing World,” advocating for leading with kindness and how strong leaders make decisions with the heart
Feb. 18: Scott Fear, vice president of security for the National Geographic Society, will share his experiences as the organization prepares to open a new multimillion-dollar, ultramodern center outside Washington, D.C.
March 4: Joe Staggers will conclude his series on recent Russian and Soviet history, focusing on Vladimir Putin and Russia in the first quarter of the 21st century.
March 18: Rene Lecuona, professor of piano at the University of Iowa, will present a program featuring works by Chopin and Beethoven, including Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata.” The March 18 program will be held in Weber Auditorium.
April 1: Jennifer Elick, associate professor of earth and environmental sciences at Susquehanna University, will present “Formation of Legacy Islands in the Susquehanna River,” exploring how sediment from farming, mining, deforestation, construction and industrialization shaped the river’s islands.
April 15: Jon Meyer, anchor for WNEP Newswatch 16 This Morning and host of “On the Pennsylvania Road,” will share his experience as the early morning voice of northeastern Pennsylvania, including his reflections on being the first television reporter on the scene in Shanksville in September 2001.
Become a Member
Two levels of membership are available.
- Basic: This includes five lectures and pre-session gatherings. Cost: $50 per person.
- Premium: This includes five lectures, pre-session gatherings and lunches. Cost: $100 per person.
For further details, please contact:
Email Joe Herb at or call 570-374-9911.
Email Jonathan Moser at .

Event Information
The institute hosts a series of eleven presentations throughout the year at Susquehanna University’s Charles B. Degenstein Campus Center.
Events are held on Wednesdays and include:
- Social hour: 10:30 a.m.–11 a.m.
- Lecture: 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
- Served lunch: 12 p.m. (Premium membership only.)

Have Questions?
Contact Us
Institute for Lifelong Learning
514 University Ave.
Selinsgrove, Pa. 17870
Location
Degenstein Campus Center
Phone & Email
570-372-4354
