Literature ignites our imagination, transporting us to worlds filled with magic, unfamiliar voices, and real-life adventures. Our diverse courses offer a captivating exploration of these literary experiences. Embark on your next great adventure and discover the power of the written word with some of our Evergreen Forum courses outlined below.

 

Two Men at Sea

• Why this course? There is beauty in the solitude of the sea and together we will read two real life accounts of men who faced the relentless challenges of life on the open water. From the rugged coastlines of Ireland to the remote island of Skellig Michael, these stories offer a glimpse into the beauty and power of nature.
• What you’ll read:
  • In the Summer Isles by Philip Marsden
  • Returning Light by by Robert L. Harris

 

Magic and Witches in Fiction for Grownups

• Why this course? Magic, mystery, and the mundane collide with supernatural force in this collection of novels examining themes of power, control, temptation, and the enduring allure of the unknown.
• What you’ll read:
  • Lolly Willowes by Slyvia Townsend Warner
  • Beyond Black by Hilary Mantel
  • Wise Children by Alicia Carter
  • Gate of Angels by Penelope Fitzgerald
  • The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov
  • A variety of short stories by Helen Simpson, John Wyndham, and others

 

Reading Lolita in 2024

• Why this course? Love, obsession, and the complexities of morality. Join this course for a thought-provoking exploration of Vladimir Nabokov’s controversial masterpiece, Lolita, and examine its relevance in contemporary society.
• What you’ll read:
  • Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov
  • Excerpts from Speak, Memory, Nabokov’s autobiography
  • A series of short stories by Nabokov

 

To Be Continued…Four Contemporary Novels

• Why this course? Discover the power of storytelling as we examine the challenges faced by marginalized groups and the ways in which these issues are addressed. Explore themes of visibility, invisibility, satire, and identity through the lens of contemporary literature.
• What you’ll read:
  • Erasure by Percival Everett
  • Nocturnes by Kazuo Ishigura
  • Bel Canto by Anne Patchett
  • Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout

 

Jane Austen, Novels and Films

• Why this course? Join us for a captivating exploration of Jane Austen’s world through her novels and their film adaptations. This course delves into the complexities of female agency, marriage, and the paternal estate in the 19th century.
• What you’ll read/watch:
  • Northanger Abbey
  • Pride and Prejudice
  • Mansfield Park

 

Join Us for a Literary Adventure

Whether you’re a seasoned reader or new to exploring the world of literature, these courses offer a unique opportunity to expand your horizons and discover something truly extraordinary. Don’t miss out on this chance to delve into captivating stories and engage in stimulating discussions.

 

Learn more about these courses and register today at: https://cmaprinceton.org/all-programs-events/?search=&category=evergreen-forum&sortby=ASC&programsfilter=true

 

Evergreen Forum is known for its in-depth, six or eight-week courses. But we understand that life can get busy, and it can be hard to fit it all in. This fall, we’re excited to offer more than ever before a selection of shorter, three-to-four-week courses starting at different times throughout fall. Dive into a new topic without long-term commitment. Perfect for those seeking a quick intellectual fix or wanting to explore multiple subjects this fall. 

 

Here are this semester’s short form courses: 

American Impressionism: The Bucks County Painters with Christina Kales — Four Weeks 

Journey through nineteenth century American Impressionism, focusing on Bucks County School painters reshaping French influence with a distinct American touch. 

Fridays from 1:30–3:30 p.m. for four weeks beginning October 11 through November 1. 

 

Demystifying New Jersey: Geography, Demographics, and Heritage with Dave Saltzman — — Four Weeks 

Discover the formation of New Jersey from its colonial roots through exploring the history of geography, labor, canals, railroads, and so much more. 

Thursdays from 10:00 a.m.–noon for four weeks beginning October 10 through October 31. 

 

Geology of the BC Coast Mountains with Lincoln Hollister — Four Weeks 

Explore the geology of the British Columbia Coast Mountains in the 1960s, highlighting remarkable adventures from more than fifty years of study in this  remote region. 

Thursdays from 1:30–3:30 p.m. for four weeks beginning October 10 through October 31. 

 

Understanding Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Naomi Browar — Three Weeks 

Deep dive into the effective features of mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and depression. 

Mondays from 1:30–3:30 p.m. for three weeks beginning September 30 through October 14. 

 

Learn more about Evergreen Forum and the Fall 2024 course brochure here: https://cmaprinceton.org/evergreen-forum/

Hybrid classrooms were born out of the pandemic as the world began to “open” back up but the comfort level of returning to said world varied. At CMAP, our rooms and buildings were specifically designed to allow for the hybrid classroom experience, allowing participants to attend in-person or virtually on Zoom depending on their comfort, ability, or just ease of travel. Since then, the staff has worked to optimize audio, visual, and classroom set up to make it the best possible experience for those in the classroom and at home.  

So, what does it mean to sign up for a hybrid class? 

Hybrid courses are held and taught in-person. While the course leader will typically be in-person teaching to a live class, there will also be participants who attend virtually on Zoom. This means there will be additional audio and visual equipment in the room to allow those on Zoom to clearly see and hear those attending or teaching in-person. There will also be screens for those attending in-person to see the participants attending virtually on Zoom. 

If you register for a hybrid class this fall, you’ll be required to select either in-person or virtual attendance. We are unable to allow switching back and forth between attending in-person or virtually on Zoom from week to week as we must plan appropriately for seats in the room and, often time, in-person seats will sell out. If participants are unable to attend a session, they will be recorded!  

By carefully planning and utilizing technology, we strive to create an inclusive and engaging learning environment for all participants in hybrid classes! 

How does my role as a participant work in a hybrid class? 

For those attending in-person, it’s good to remember there are virtual participants also joining. Questions and discussions may come from inside the classroom and virtually online. Make sure to speak loudly and clearly so the microphones in the room can pick you up. 

For those attending virtually on Zoom, you can still play an active role in the classroom. We recommend keeping your video on so the course leader and classmates can see you. Depending on the set up, you can use the chat function or unmuting to pose questions and contribute to class. 

So, which courses are hybrid for the fall 2024 semester? 

 

2024 Elections: Democracy At Stake? with Elaine Jacoby 

Dive into the tumultuous 2024 elections,  dissecting democracy’s fate through  Congressional races and ideological  lenses. 

Wednesdays from 1:30–3:30 p.m. for eight weeks beginning October 2 through November 20. 

 

America During the Obama Years with Stan Katz 

Delve into the transformative Obama era and post-2008 decade, exploring key events from elections to policy shifts through engaging video analysis and interactive discussions. 

Fridays from 10:00 a.m.–noon for six weeks beginning October 11 through November 15. 

 

American Impressionism: The Bucks County Painters with Christina Kales

Journey through nineteenth century American Impressionism, focusing on Bucks County School painters reshaping French influence with a distinct American touch. 

Fridays from 1:30–3:30 p.m. for four weeks beginning October 11 through November 1. 

 

Antebellum America: It Still Matters with Walter Frank 

Uncover the complexities of 1789–1861 Antebellum America, focusing on slavery, constitutional debates, wars, social movements, and technological shifts with a focus on pivotal presidential elections. 

Thursdays from 10:00 a.m.–noon for six weeks beginning October 24 through December 5 (no class 11/29). 

 

Demystifying New Jersey: Geography, Demographics, and Heritage with Dave Saltzman 

Discover the formation of New Jersey from its colonial roots through exploring the history of geography, labor, canals, railroads, and so much more. 

Thursdays from 10:00 a.m.–noon for four weeks beginning October 10 through October 31. 

 

Explore, Engage, and Empower with the Princeton University Art Museum Docents 

Discover “What was it like to be…” a conceptual artist, an Outsider artist, a Renaissance artist, a Woman artist, an Indigenous artist…all in this engaging art course. 

Wednesdays from 1:30–3:00 p.m. for six weeks beginning October 16 through November 20. 

 

Histories of Indigenous Peoples in America with Robert Nolan 

Invigorate one’s knowledge of America by engaging with key dimensions of the histories and cultures of Indigenous Peoples. 

Thursdays from 1:30–3:30 p.m. for eight weeks beginning October 3 through November 21. 

 

Science in the News with Harold Heft and additional panelists 

Join “Science in the News” for weekly insights into the latest research and issues in science and medicine, with engaging lectures and discussions. 

Fridays from 10:00 a.m.–noon for eight weeks beginning September 27 through November 22 (no Class 10/4). 

 

Supreme Court -Greatest Hits of 2024 with Phil Carchman 

Uncover key Supreme Court decisions from 2023–2024 on pressing issues impacting lives across the U.S. in this lecture course. 

Mondays from 10:00 a.m.–noon for six weeks beginning September 30 through November 4. 

 

Understanding Human Evolution with Peter Smith

Explore the branches of the human family tree spanning millions of years to uncover why Earth now hosts over eight billion humans. 

Tuesdays from 1:30–3:30 p.m. for eight weeks beginning October 1 through November 19. 

 

Learn more about Evergreen Forum and the Fall 2024 course brochure here: https://cmaprinceton.org/evergreen-forum/

Did you know that around 500 participants enjoy Evergreen Forum courses each semester? From the arts to STEM, hundreds take part in courses in-person and online to explore a wide range of topics. Whether you’re diving deep into a specific field or simply seeking intellectual stimulation, Evergreen Forum offers something for everyone. But don’t take it from us, hear from two dedicated participants on why they continue to choose Evergreen Forum: 

Behnaz Ahmadi has been a dedicated participant in Evergreen Forum courses at the Center for Modern Aging for more than seven years. Drawn to the program’s diverse offerings, including Science in the News, Introduction to Mindfulness Practices, and Elaine Jacoby’s annual election-based class, Behnaz consistently chooses Evergreen Forum for its unique courses, dedicated participants, and experienced instructors, typically attending in-person classes. “I truly enjoy the variety of subjects, the knowledgeable classmates, and the supportive staff,” she shares. 

Velma Williams-Gates joined Evergreen Forum virtually after her museum volunteer position ended because of the pandemic. Having wanted to join an Evergreen Forum course in the past, Velma saw the switch to virtual courses as a safe opportunity to finally get involved with Evergreen Forum. She hasn’t gone back since. Velma especially appreciates the work and dedication of the course leaders saying, “The instructors with whom I have taken classes do a lot of in-depth research, usually on topics I know little or nothing about. I feel my instructors really want to pass on their knowledge of the topic(s) they teach. And the topics are about something they are passionate about.” 

We hope you’ll consider joining Behnaz, Velma, and the hundreds of other participants who take part in Evergreen Forum each semester and discover your very own lifelong learning journey this fall. 

Learn more about Evergreen Forum and the Fall 2024 course brochure here: https://cmaprinceton.org/evergreen-forum/

The Evergreen Forum is excited to welcome a handful of new Evergreen Forum course leaders this Fall, two of which are teaching short form courses in art and science.

Dr. Christina Kales, who gave us a sneak peak of her Impressionism course this summer during our Master Class series, holds a Doctor of Literature in Humanities from Drew University. Her expertise in Impressionist art, honed through doctoral research debunking common myths, informs her four-week course, American Impressionism: The Bucks County Painters. This class explores the socio-economic conditions that fostered American Impressionism in the early nineteenth century, focusing on the Bucks County School. Through the works of Edward Redfield, John Folinsbee, and Daniel Garber, students will examine how these artists reinterpreted French Impressionism with a distinctly American perspective. An optional field trip to the James A. Mitchener Museum may be offered.

Naomi Bower comes from her private practice where she is a psychotherapist and a former senior therapist at Princeton House, Jewish Family Services, and a teacher. Naomi’s cultural sensitivity is influenced by her years of living abroad, both in England and the Middle East. Her specialized three-week course, Understanding Cognitive Behavioral Theory explores how an effective method for managing and eliminating severe anxiety and depression was formally developed into a therapeutic intervention by psychiatrist Aaron Beck. The formulating principles of CBT will be discussed in class and consist of: awareness of the difference between thoughts and feelings, defining negative vs. neutral and positive thoughts, becoming aware of one’s own negative thoughts and feelings and their prevalence on a daily basis, how these patterns influence behavior (action and inaction), and practicing how to change unhealthy negative patterns of thoughts and feelings through specific strategies resulting in healthier productive outcomes.

We hope you will consider checking out some of our new course leaders and new courses for the fall 2024 semester!

As always, learn more about Evergreen Forum and the fall 2024 course brochure here: https://cmaprinceton.org/evergreen-forum/

After a distinguished legal career, Mr. Frank has discovered a new passion for writing in his retirement. His previous works, exploring the Constitution, the Gay Rights movement, and the 2016 election, reflect his deep interests and have all been well-received. 

Now, drawing inspiration from his latest book, Mr. Frank brings his keen eye to the past with an exciting new course at the Evergreen Forum: Antebellum America: It Still Matters. This course delves into the critical period of 1789 to 1861, exploring how issues of slavery, the evolving interpretation of the Constitution, war, and more continue to shape our present day. 

Lovers of history and those who wish to reflect on the reflections of our past as they impact our present will enjoy Antebellum America: It Still Matters. We hope you’ll join Mr. Frank on Thursday mornings at 10:00 a.m. for this insightful exploration of history’s enduring impact for this fall’s semester of Evergreen Forum. 

Learn more about Evergreen Forum and the fall 2024 course brochure here: https://cmaprinceton.org/evergreen-forum/

Check Out One of Evergreen Forum’s New Courses: Histories of Indigenous Peoples in America with Robert Nolan

Get ready for a intricate journey through the Histories of Indigenous Peoples in America with course leader Robert Nolan this fall! Robert, with a history degree from the University of Scranton and a law degree from Harvard, brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for sharing the diverse cultures and histories of Indigenous Peoples across the continent.

Having retired from a dynamic career that spanned from federal prosecutor in Pennsylvania to CEO of a multi-hospital health system in Texas, Robert now enjoys a quieter life—except for his occasional adventures like whitewater rafting in the Grand Canyon and trekking the Sahara Desert. And, of course, spending countless hours preparing for his next course for Evergreen Forum.

Reflecting on his teaching experience, Robert shared, “I teach to learn. And I teach because many who take my courses seem to like them. So we spend pleasant hours together, enjoying each other’s company while learning about very interesting peoples, places, ideas, and ages. It’s a cool thing to do.”

We hope you consider joining Robert this fall, diving into the fascinating cultures and histories of Indigenous Peoples and their enduring legacies.

Learn more about Evergreen Forum and the fall 2024 course brochure here: https://cmaprinceton.org/evergreen-forum/

Join Evergreen Forum this fall and discover the mysteries of historic shipwrecks with new course leader, Dr. Rich Hendrickson

Dive into the fascinating world of historic shipwrecks from across the globe alongside Dr. Rich Hendrickson! A retired elder in the United Methodist Church from Moorestown, New Jersey, Rich has an unwavering passion for all things shipwrecked. When asked about his upcoming course with the Evergreen Forum, Rich said, “I’m excited to teach for the first time in the Evergreen Forum. I am continually impressed by the course offerings and feel very privileged to be part of Evergreen Forum.”

In his downtime, Rich enjoys life with his wife, the Rev. Dr. Gina Hendrickson, and spending time with his two adult children, Krista and Rebecca, plus his lively grandchildren, Abby and Peter. Rich fills his days with reading, hiking, cooking, and adventuring with his spirited Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Ruhe.

Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of maritime history, join Rich this fall for deep sea explorations you won’t want to miss!

Learn more about Evergreen Forum and the Fall 2024 course brochure here: https://cmaprinceton.org/evergreen-forum/