The amazing story of how the Philippines became one of only two countries in the world that was willing to take in thousands of German refugees (mostly Jewish) out of Germany during the Holocaust. Led by Colonel Dwight Eisenhower, the (then) new president of the Philippines and 5 brothers from Cincinnati who hatched a plan to bring people from Germany to Manila before the outbreak of World War II.

In addition, a close look at the Book of the Homeless, a compendium of fund-raising contributions by artists and authors published by Edith Wharton to aid refugees and victims of WWI. A commentary on her life, the ravages of war, insensitivity to refugees and its relevance to our world today.

Instructor: Steve Pollack lectures on culture, history, music and art in area schools, libraries, and community & continuing education groups.

From the development of the Interstate Highway System and the nation’s Electric Grid to the iconic architecture of Classic Railroad Stations and Major League Baseball Stadiums, both old and new, you'll uncover the stories behind the structures that shape our lives.

Instructor: Michael Martorelli has written more than a dozen articles for Financial History magazine and contributed three essays to the Essential Civil  War Curriculum (ECWC). He has also written for several websites and given presentations at DelVal University's CLR and several local libraries. He earned an MA in History from American Military University.

This thought-provoking course will explore four powerful philosophical books that shed light on today’s chaotic world. From the struggle to uphold moral ideals to the complexities of truth, meaning, and happiness, these discussions will challenge your perspective and inspire deeper reflection.

Instructor: Michael Heinsdorf, BA (Muhlenberg College, University of Goettingen) MDiv, STM, MA, is an ordained clergyman, former German instructor at Northeast High School and adjunct at LaSalle University. His focus is on a contemporary religious paradigm for our time.

Discover how women have shaped American history through preservation, using it as a powerful tool for patriotism and civic identity since the early 1800s. This course explores how their efforts not only safeguarded historic sites but also highlighted women’s contributions to nation-building. Uncover the stories behind these preservation pioneers and their lasting impact on American culture.

Instructor: Cynthia Little, Ph.D. is a historian who has been involved with women's history and feminist causes since the 1970's. She co-founded Feminist Tours of Philadelphia in 1973, the first women's history tours in US and was one of the founders of National Women's History Month. She has a doctorate in history from Temple University. 

Discover the enduring melodies that are integral to the jazz songbook. This immersive learning experience will include the history, concepts, and live performances.

Instructor: Professional musician Walt Beier, a Pitt Music School graduate, studied with renowned saxophonist Nathan Davis and performed with Sonny Rollins, Clark Terry, and at the Montreux Jazz Festival.

Improvisation is more than just games—it’s a fun way to boost creativity, adaptability, and connection. Through engaging games, you'll sharpen your thinking, enhance collaboration, and rediscover the joy of play in everyday life.

Instructor: Jess Carpenter is passionate about improv, which he explored for fun and comedy. He created the award-winning “Comedian Deconstruction” format. As an instructor, he fosters a fun safe environment. Jess helps people embrace unpredictability, better communication, enhances personal relationships and learn to have fun again!

This course will examine the legacy of the Irish people in America, from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Each week will focus on the lasting contributions of the Irish to the American landscape, including sports, politics, military, music, language, urbanization and more. Sláinte!

Instructor: Lindsay Voter is an educator and urban planner of Irish descent. You can usually find her in the children’s section of the library with her three little ones! 

Classical music is so much more than beautiful symphonies. Classical music has continuously supported movies, television programs and the cartoons that we watched as kids. We'll travel through time exploring how, and why classical music has not only been enjoyable to listen to, but how it has influenced our society and culture. 

Instructor: Jeff Thomas has enjoyed and performed music since he was three years old. He has previously lectured on entertainment topics, and looks forward to these insightful and musical Classical Music sessions.