Sussex County Community College’s Center for Lifelong Learning, in partnership with Senior Services of Sussex County, is hosting a series of special events for seniors.
Participants can enjoy a variety of engaging lectures from tips on financial wellness to protecting themselves from scams—all designed for seniors looking to expand their knowledge and stay connected to their community.
Featured Courses/Lectures
Mixed Media Art Workshops: These 3.5-hour, beginner workshops guide participants through layering, collage, masking, sponge painting, and impasto techniques to create vibrant works of art. All materials are provided, and no experience is necessary. Participants may choose to create a Whimsical Tree of Life (March 18, snow date March 25) or a Whimsical Forest/Landscape (April 22, snow date April 29). 1:30–4 p.m. | Art Gallery, Room C202 | Free | Register: 579-0555 ext. 1277
Lunch & Learn: Alternative Ways to Treat Pain – Massage and More: Massage therapist Bonnie Gessling explores how massage therapy and other holistic techniques can help reduce pain, ease tension, and support overall wellness. Participants will learn how massage works alongside traditional medical treatments and discover practical strategies for improving comfort and relaxation. March 20 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Performing Arts Center Atrium | Free (lunch included) | Register: (908) 747-1179
Introduction to Drawing with Professor Michael Hughes: This six-part Saturday series emphasizes observational drawing skills and hand-eye coordination. Participants will explore line, proportion, perspective, composition, texture, and the study of light and shade through guided exercises. Open to beginners and those looking to refresh their skills. Students are required to bring their own drawing supplies March 21, March 28, April 11, April 18, April 25 and May 2| 10 a.m. | Art Gallery, Room C105 | $30 Register: 579-0555 ext. 1277
Tracing Haiku: Classical Origins to Modern Innovation: This workshop examines the foundations of haiku poetry, exploring traditional masters such as Basho and Buson before moving into modern interpretations by writers including E.E. Cummings and Jack Kerouac. Participants will also engage in discussion and collaborative renga practice. April 3 | 3 p.m. | PAC Atrium | Free (light refreshments served) | Register: 579-0555 ext. 1277
History Lecture: The Siege of Vicksburg: This lecture explores the pivotal Civil War campaign that fulfilled the Union’s Anaconda Plan by securing control of the Mississippi River. Attendees will examine the military strategies, leadership decisions, civilian impact, and lasting consequences of the siege that divided the Confederacy. April 10 | 3 p.m. | PAC Atrium | Free (light refreshments served) | Register: 579-0555 ext. 1277
WISE (Wellness Initiative for Senior Education): This free six-week program promotes healthy aging through education and discussion on topics including medication management, stress, depression, and substance misuse. Each weekly two-hour session includes a meal, social time, and structured lessons led by prevention specialists. Participants who attend at least five sessions receive a $25 gift card incentive. Fridays, April 17–May 22 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m. | Student Center Theater | Register: (908) 747-1179
Lunch & Matinee: “Clue: The Musical”: Enjoy a special luncheon followed by an interactive performance of Clue: The Musical, based on the classic board game. Audience members help determine “who did it” as the mystery unfolds with 216 possible solutions. The April 25 luncheon and 2 p.m. matinee package is $50 and includes dining at the SCCC Culinary Institute & Arbor Restaurant before the show at the Performing Arts Center. Additional performances run April 23–25. Tickets for the Luncheon & Matinee package can be purchased online. If you need assistance in making reservations, reach out to the Arbor Restaurant at 973-300-3171. If you are only interested in attending the show, tickets for all shows can be purchased at https://sussex.edu/pac
Birdwatching at the NJ School of Conservation: Join Master Educator Mike Anderson for a guided bird walk during peak spring migration along the Atlantic Flyway. Participants will identify migrating and resident birds, learn songs and field marks, and explore diverse habitats at the School of Conservation. May 4 | 8–11 a.m. | Sandyston | Free (space limited) | | Register: 579-0555 ext. 1277
Community-Focused Photojournalism Course: This multi-week, hands-on course challenges participants to document untold local stories through photography. Students will develop photo essays by identifying community themes, conducting interviews, and capturing images for a final exhibit or digital presentation. Participants use their own cameras or mobile devices. Tuesdays, April 7–May 26 | 2–4 p.m. | Room B105 | Free | mail to Tiffany Spear at tspear@sussex.edu
The College has a full list of programs offered throughout the semester. For more details, visit sussex.edu/lifelonglearning.
To register for classes, call The Sussex County Division of Senior Services at 973-579-0555 Ext. 1277.
Location: Sussex County Community College, One College Hill Rd., Newton, NJ
