Comox Valley ElderCollege (CVEC) has been presenting lively, diverse and affordable courses to older adults in the Comox Valley for over 25 years. One glance at the new Winter 2025 course guide demonstrates that longevity has not made the lifelong learning organization the least bit complacent.

When the semester kicks off in early February, members will have a choice of 67 engaging courses with which to stimulate their minds and quench their thirst for learning. Students aged 55 and better can enroll in subjects spanning a diverse curriculum that ranges from arts and music to health and wellness, science and technology to language and literature, history and social sciences to the always intriguing eclectic category. Over one-third of the courses offered are brand new this semester, a testament to the breadth of skills and knowledge possessed by CVEC course leaders, all of whom are volunteers.

The majority of classes are held on-campus at North Island College (NIC), while a small percentage is delivered online or held at a variety of off-site locations. CVEC鈥檚 Winter 2025 semester runs from Feb. 3 to April 8, with courses varying in duration from a single session to eight weeks.

In addition to the dozens of courses on the roster, CVEC offers a perpetually popular Lecture Series, a favourite fixture of Saturday mornings in the Stan Hagen Theatre at NIC. During the six lectures held each semester, a diverse roster of presenters tackles a central theme from the perspective of their individual fields of expertise. Attendees can enjoy coffee, cookies and the opportunity to further satisfy their curiosity during the ensuing question and answer period.

The theme of the Fall 2024 Lecture Series, Island Life, proved so popular that organizers have for the first time in CVEC history continued with the same topic. Island Life II will again explore some of the unique aspects of living on an island. Attendees will hear from a biologist (and meet an animal ambassador) with the MARS Wildlife Rescue Centre, learn about the importance of protecting bear habitat, delve into the European settlement of Vancouver Island, be immersed in the beauty of our natural surroundings, examine the efforts being made to restore salmon to the Puntledge River, and explore the challenges and rewards of exchanging city life for island living.

The lecture series begins Feb. 8. Prices are $8 per lecture if pre registering, with a $10 cash drop-in fee for CVEC members and $15 for guests.

CVEC will host an Information Forum on Saturday Jan. 18 from 9:30 a.m. to11:30 a.m. in the Stan Hagen Theatre. Course instructors will present succinct but enticing glances into their course content. With so many courses being offered this semester, attending the forum, either in-person or online, is the easiest way to get the lowdown on all upcoming courses. Admission is free and open to the public, but please note that course participation is limited to those 55+. Information Forum details and registration can be found at .

To learn more about Comox Valley ElderCollege and to explore the current course guide, please visit .