On Top of the World Communities, fosters education and learning as the future of
retirement amenities and Master the Possibilities Education Center
exemplifies that. With Master the Possibilities and its lifelong
learning opportunities, active adult living takes on a whole new meaning.
Master the Possibilities represents a new emphasis
to adult education. Many communities operate on an “activity center
model,” using the same space for classes as for recreation or
other group activities. “While several communities have multi-use
activity centers, Master the Possibilities is a free standing facility
whose sole purpose is education,” explains Daniel Dowd, Education
Director. “We promote opportunities to grow, be creative, contribute
and continue the learning process we call life. To this end, our Master
the Possibilities Center is a valuable component of our vibrant
community.”
On Top of the World is very likely the first adult
residential community in the nation to have a dedicated education
building. “We’re at the forefront of a genuine revolution in how people
perceive and experience the next phase of their lives,” explains
Dowd. “Today’s 55+ adults are the most educated to date and rather
than simply retiring to a quiet, uneventful life, they are striving for
new levels of personal fulfillment, having choices and opportunities.
They are also comfortable with the continuing education model throughout
their lives.”
According to Dowd, senior lifestyles have become
more active. Communities must anticipate and respond to this change.
“Ongoing education is increasingly important to today’s 55+ adults.
Learning is still incredibly fulfilling to them." Master the Possibilities’ student numbers do indeed
suggest a growing trend in lifelong learning. Once the center opened
in 2006 and curriculum developed, the enrollments soared from about
3,000 to a current estimate of almost 19,000 in this its 6th year of operation.
Dowd attributes this to the “idyllic combination” of challenging classes
and outstanding faculty and of course, the consummate curiosity of
current retirees. For example, past and current offerings include presentations
by a host of emeritus professors and noted experts. With over 60 faculty and 600 opportunities to learn and
grow, this center is a focal point of activity and inquiry.
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