Lifelong Learning

Distinguished Lecture Series

The Distinguished Lecture Series on Current Issues brings experts and seasoned educators to the podium on current events including subjects in criminal justice, national security, space exploration, the environment, and veteran's affairs. This year, we are excited to host the series at the McAlpin Fine Arts Center on the Indian River State College - Massey Campus in Fort Pierce. 

Click Here to See Available Courses and to Register

Peer Leader Program

The Peer-to Peer- Difference
What makes this program different from the myriad of activities available for the older adult is the amazing and diverse wealth of talent and experience Peer Leaders bring to the classroom. Peer Leaders are the heartbeat of the Institute. More than 80 members have served as volunteer Peer Leaders offering nearly 100 different programs each year. A passion for the subject and a collaborative and encouraging personality are great ingredients for enjoyable peer leadership.  

The Fielden Institute for Lifelong Learning at Indian River State College, is designed for men and women age 50 and better who are interested in exploring shared topics of interest in a college atmosphere. No pre-requisites, no long semesters, no grades, no tests---learning simply for the joy of learning. Programs are peer-led and peer-directed by the membership. Peer leaders volunteer to lead discussion and study groups, hands-on activities, field trips, lectures, book and film groups, all in a welcoming and appropriate environment for the adult learner. These programs do not apply to any IRSC degree program and are non-credit.  

The Fielden Institute for Lifelong Learning was endowed by Dr. Jean Dickinson Fielden in memory of her late husband, Dr. John "Jack” Seward Fielden. Jack received degrees from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Harvard University and Boston University. Except for serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, he spent his life in academia, as a member of the faculty at the University of Illinois, Purdue, and Harvard, and Dean of the Business Schools at Boston University and the University of Alabama, where he met Jean. Active in the Institute since its establishment in 2006, Jack served on the External Advisory Committee and facilitated classes until his death in 2010. Jean continues to serve as a devoted advisor and peer leader of the popular multi-campus offering, Great Adaptations: Books into Films: Never Judge a Book by its Film.
 
Loyal supporters of Indian River State College, Jack and Jean Fielden have pledged leadership gifts to support the growth of the college’s student scholarships in health sciences and mathematics. Published authors, the Fieldens also helped to develop the Pioneer River Press. With more than 25 years of experience training employees at some of the world’s largest corporations, Dr. Jack Fielden and his co-authors published, “Throw me the Bottom Line…I’m Drowning in Email!” The Press provides an opportunity to pursue publication with a portion of sales directed to support IRSC scholarships. Jack’s leadership will forever be remembered as an integral part of the success of the lifelong learning initiative at Indian River State College.