A new school is opening up in town - a school with no homework, no tests, and no grades. A school for those age 50 and older who are eager to learn, just for the enjoyment of learning something new. That new school is the Lifelong Learning Center at Midwestern State University.

MSU Texas' Lifelong Learning Center (LLC) is dedicated to inspiring and enriching the minds and spirits of area residents age 50 and older by providing noncredit classes exploring topics in the fields of health, history, culture, science, religion, law, and the arts. Teachers include individuals from the community as well as current and retired MSU faculty.

The LLC will host a grand opening from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12, at its home at 2527 Hampstead Lane, on the northwest corner of the MSU Texas campus. Classes begin Sept. 13. MSU President Suzanne Shipley will make opening remarks at 11:30.

The LLC's motto, "I am still learning," was inspired by Michelangelo, who stated "Ancora Imparo" at age 87, said LLC coordinator Dave Hartman. "That translates to æI am still learning,'" Hartman said. "There are still important things we can achieve. We are still learning."

Dr. Kathy Zuckweiler, Dean of the Billie Doris McAda Graduate School, said that the vision for the LLC began with Shipley. "It's about developing a community of older adults who want to socialize and discuss intellectual topics with peers outside of the classroom," Zuckweiler said.

Classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Each session lasts 90 minutes, which includes time for questions and responses. Wednesdays will be "Gathering Days," which will include special events.

Classes include:

       "The Love of Music" with Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra conductor Fouad Fakhouri.

       "A First Freedom: the Freedom of the Press" with Wichita Falls Times Record News editor Deanna Watson.

       "Fit for Life" with Angie Reay, Director of the Redwine Student Wellness Center.

       "Poetry for the Human Condition" with Dr. Lynn Hoggard, author and former MSU Texas professor.

       "Classical & Modern Physics for the Non-Scientist: Newton to Heisenberg to Einstein" with former MSU President Jesse Rogers.

Other topics include bees, family law, the Second Amendment, and much more.

In addition to learning, Hartman sees the LLC as a way for the community to get to know MSU Texas better. "By becoming an actual part of the university, people will realize what a treasure MSU Texas is to the area," he said.

Individual memberships are $100 per semester ($200 per year), or $150 ($300 per year) for household. For an additional fee, LLC members may purchase a membership at the MSU Texas Redwine Student Wellness Center. Members will also be able to access the Moffett Library and receive discounts at the MSU Texas Bookstore. Art and music trips are being explored for the spring.

The Lifelong Learning Center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays for members to stop by for coffee and conversation. Classes are offered from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and at 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Visit the Lifelong Learning Center website (msutexas.edu/lifelong-learning-center/) or call 940-397-4814 for more information.