*NO CLASS MONDAY 9/21*

Learn, discuss, and ask questions about the history and structure of the U.S. Constitution, the Constitutional Convention, and common debates, misconceptions, and key provisions found in its Articles and Amendments. By the end of the course, you'll have a deeper understanding of the Constitution and be better equipped to apply its principles to today's current events.

Presenter: Jules Mermelstein is a retired UDT Commissioner, criminal defense attorney, teacher of history, gov't and constitutional law, and ACLU volunteer attorney. He is currently serving as a Vice-Chair of the Montgomery Bar Association's Government Relations Committee and a member of the PA Bar Association's Law-Related Education Committee. He loves class discussions and any questions you have.

*NO CLASS MONDAY 9/21*

Explore the political, social, and cultural forces that gave rise to the radical 19th-century art movement Impressionism. From revolution and nationalism to the changing role of artists and writers, discover the history behind one of the world's most enduring artistic movements. 

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

*NO CLASS MONDAY 9/21*

More than 3 million women have served in or with the U.S. Armed Forces since the American Revolution. This course traces their evolving roles across wartime and peacetime, highlighting personal stories, key milestones, and the legacy of America’s servicewomen.

Presenter: Kathleen Rice is a retired Chief Warrant Officer who served 20 years in the U.S. Army Reserve. She is an Ambassador for the Military Women’s Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, and speaks to veterans, genealogical societies, adult learners and youth groups about the history and contributions of women who served our nation since the American Revolution.

This course explores the enduring tension between philosophical ideals and the practical realities that shape society. Through lively discussion, this class invites you to question why philosophy dares to propose—and why reality so often disposes of those ideals. Previous attendance at philosophy classes is a benefit, but newcomers are welcome.

Presenter: 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. 

Many of our First Ladies have led fascinating lives filled with remarkable stories and interesting details. This lecture introduces some of our nation's most significant First Ladies and explores the noteworthy events, accomplishments, and experiences that shaped their lives.

Presenter: David Hudiak is a retired attorney who teaches courses on American History and Government at numerous locations in the Philadelphia area. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from Haverford College and a Juris Doctorate from the Carey Law School of the University of Pennsylvania.

*STARTS 9/22, ENDS 10/20; 5 weeks only.*

Step back into the unforgettable 1960s—a decade of hope, conflict, innovation, and change. Together, we’ll explore why the 1960s continue to stand as one of the most influential periods in American history. 

Presenter: Joseph Eble is a career Naval officer followed by over 20 years teaching at the college level. He has master's degrees from Temple University and the Naval War College. 

The Philadelphia Eagles NFL team were born in 1933 out of the bankruptcy of the Frankford Yellow Jackets, a former Philadelphia NFL team. From those ashes, a syndicate led by Bert Bell and James R. “Lud” Wray bought the remaining assets for $2,500 and the Philadelphia Eagles took flight. This lecture dives into the evolving story of one of the NFL’s most iconic franchises. Go Birds!

Presenter: Jeff Thomas, a frequent lecturer on Philadelphia sports, has been an Eagles fan since the early 1960's. Jeff looks forward to sharing both the highlights and the low points of the Eagles' proud history. 

Philadelphia A to Z explores a fascinating collection of lost Philadelphia stories, one for each letter of the alphabet. From the soaring voice of contralto Marian Anderson and the grandeur of the long-gone Convention Halls to the heat of the Midvale Steel Plant and a memorable visit to the Philadelphia Zoo’s legendary great ape “Massa,” this series brings the city’s past vividly to life.

Presenter: Rick Spector founded Moviehouse Productions in 1983 and specializes in live performances and video presentations on local and national nostalgia and history. He previously hosted the “Milestones” radio program for the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging.