History & Culture

Morning Presentation

From Colonies to Country: The Fight for American Independence
John Rossi, New York University lecturer

Step into the turbulent era that transformed thirteen British colonies into an independence nation. “From Colonies to Country: The Fight for American Independence” explores the causes, key figures, pivotal battles, and political ideas that fueled the American Revolution. Through compelling stories and historical insights, this lecture traces how ordinary colonists became revolutionaries and how their fight for liberty reshaped the course of world history. Discover how resistance, war, and vision gave birth to the United States of America.

Religion & Revolution in Monmouth County
Rick Geffken, MA, historian

Explore the significant role local preachers played during the Revolutionary War. How did these religious leaders shape the beliefs and actions of their congregations? Delve into the perspectives of notable figures, including DuBois; the Church of England’s Rev. Samuel Cooke; Presbyterian Tennent Church’s Rev. John Tennent Woodhull; and Quaker Elders in Shrewsbury and Freehold.

Friday, October 3, 10:30am – 3pm, $89

Includes Lunch

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMN-000-OCP01

Out of the 1.6 million Jewish children who lived in Europe before the war, only 100,000 survived the Holocaust most of whom were “hidden children.” Maud Dahme was one of them. In 1942 at six years old Maud along with her younger sister were sent into hiding by their parents when the Germans ordered all Jews in their town to report for transport to concentration camps. Come hear her story – one that embodies, courage, hope, and resilience. Although painful to revisit, she remains dedicated to speaking openly about her experiences, ensuring they remain a vital part of history for future generations. Maud will also reflect on her recent travels back to the place she stood 80 years ago, celebrating both the liberation of the Netherlands and her newfound freedom from hiding.

Tuesday, October 7, 10:30am – 12pm, $25

*Reduced fee made possible by Friends of Lifelong Learning

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMN-000-OCP02

About the speaker: NJ resident, Maude Dahme has dedicated much of her adult life to education and specifically Holocaust education for both teachers and students in New Jersey. She served for 24 years as a member of the state Board of Education, including five years as president. Her autobiography “Chocolate, The Taste of Freedom” chronicles her wartime adventures as well as her post-war experiences – reunion with parents, immigration, U.S. schools, marriage and time as a Holocaust education advocate. For all she has seen and survived, Dahme has faith in kindness. She now urges Americans of all ages notjust to rememberthe unimaginable horrors of the Nazis, but the unimaginable kindness that kept so many alive. She and her sister are among those featured in “The Hidden Child,” a 2006 documentary shown on PBS and at the Holocaust Museum in Washington.

Lyndell O’Hara, PhD, historian

The Seymour family of Wolf Hall were county gentry, members of the lower aristocracy. yet, under Tudor rule, four of the ten children rose to hold powerful positions in the lad: Jane became Queen of England, Edward was Lord Protector of England for his nephew Edward VI, Thomas married Queen Catherine Parr after the death of Henry VIII and Elizabeth was Thomas Cromwell’s daughter-in-law. Throughout their rise – and fall – power, ambition, treason, incest, and bloody executions all became a part of Seymour saga. 3 SESSIONS

Friday, October 10-24, 10am – 12pm, $99

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMN-000-OCP03

Mary Noé, JD, author, professor of legal studies, St. John’s University

Join author, Mary Noé as she unravels a riveting tale of murder, false identities, covert political operations, and ambitious criminal schemes set during the turn of the century and the eve of the U.S. entry into World War I. On the morning of July 3, 1915, J.P. Morgan Jr., the financial titan was shot. The evening before a bomb exploded at the U.S. Capitol. Was the man who set the nation on edge the Harvard professor who poisoned his wife with arsenic? Books will be available for sale at the program.

Tuesday, October 14, 10:30am – 12pm, $49

Reduced fee made possible by Friends of Lifelong Learning

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMN-000-OCP04

Brooks Susman, scholar, rabbi emeritus

No one man can terrorize a whole nation unless we are all his accomplices. – Edward R. Murrow

In the 1950s, HUAC and Joe McCarthy enforced a closed-minded view of American allegiance. Examine the Blacklist Era, focusing on the lives that were impacted, the individuals who “named names,” and parallels to today’s society. Join Brooks for discussions and lectures revealing of courage, betrayal, and resilience, offering insights into the socio-political climate of the time and its lasting effects. Suitable for both history buffs and those curious about this significant chapter, highlighting lessons relevant to today’s world. 3 SESSIONS

Tuesday, October 21 – November 4, 1:30pm – 3:30pm, $99

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMN-000-OCP05

Edith Rogovin Frankel, PhD, historian

Begin with the history of the Jews of England, starting with the Norman Invasion, through the Expulsion and on to Thomas Crowell, the return of Jews to England and a review of Jewish life in England in modern times. Move on to the Jews of Argentina, from early immigration, through settlement of Jews on the land (Jewish gauchos), the larger influx, problems with Jewish pimps and prostitutes, and up to current history. 4 SESSIONS

Monday, November 3-24, 10:30am – 12pm, $99

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMN-000-NOP01

Robin Barlett, Vietnam Veteran, author of Vietnam Combat: Firefights & Writing History

Travel back 50 years for a ‘boots on the ground’ account of Robin Barlett’s extraordinary combat experience as a 22-year old 1st Lieutenant with the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). As a combat infantry platoon leader, he developed a 32-man platoon on search and destroy missions and helicopter assaults into hot landing zones at the height of the Vietnam War. Vivid combat events will be brought to light in a fast-moving presentation expressing the horror, fear, anguish, and sometimes illogical humor of that war. His story brings to light the long-term impact, both positive and negative on his home life and business career…with insights about leadership, courage, PTSD, and life lessons learned. Gain a deeper understanding of why the words “Welcome Home” are such an important greeting for Vietnam veterans.

Friday, November 7, 10:30am – 1:15pm, $59

Includes Lunch

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMN-000-NOP02
Discounted Fee for Veterans, $19, Search Course Code:XHUMN-000-NOP04

Daniel Radel, journalist, historian

Revisit the Early American Republic through the eyes of the first presidents. Begin with George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson during the Age of Federalism. Continuing with James Madison and the War of 1812, followed by James Monroe and the Compromise the 1820. Delve into John Quincy Adams’ controversial “Corrupt Bargain,” and conclude with “Old Hickory,” Andrew Jackson. 2 SESSIONS

Friday, November 7 & 14, 10am – 12pm, $69

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMN-000-NOP03

Hance M. Sitkus, Executive Director, The Historic Village at Allaire

Uncover the fascinating history of Allaire – from its rise as an iron-producing powerhouse and its later rebirth as a treasured public landmark.

Explore the influence of the Manasquan River, the impact of industrialization, and the visionary figures who helped shape its legacy. Through stories of innovation, resilience, and transformation, discover how one small village came to reflect the larger story of New Jersey and the American experience. 3 SESSIONS

Friday, November 14 – December 5, 10am – 12pm (No class Nov 28th), $75

Reduced fee made possible by Friends of Lifelong Learning

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMG-000-NOP01

Angus Gillespie, PhD, author, American studies professor, Rutgers University

A twelve-lane behemoth cutting through the least scenic parts of the Garden State, the New Jersey Turnpike may lack the romantic allure of other highways, but it might be a more accurate symbol of American life, representing the nation at both its best and its worst.

When first written in 1989, the authors aimed to share their fascination with the road. To their surprise it became a classic and was recognized as one of the ten best books about New Jersey. Now the updated and expanded edition offers a reflection on the turnpike’s evolution over the past thirty-five years, showcasing its impact and cultural significance as an inspiration for signers and poets and the many lives it was impacted.

Thursday, December 4, 1:30pm – 3pm, $49

Includes coffee and bagels

Reduced fee made possible by Friends of Lifelong Learning

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMG-000-DEP01

Evan Weiner, journalist, author

Is he a forgotten American President assassinated by an anarchist in 1901 or a groundbreaking President? The McKinley Tariff of 1890 might have been responsible for the Panic of 1893. McKinley might have been bought off by political donors. He might have gone to war with Spain because of one newspaper publisher’s pressure. McKinley did make America a global power by annexing Hawaii and taking Guam, the Philippines, Puerto Rico and Cuba as part of the treaty that ended the 1898 Spanish-American War. Discover how America changed under McKinley.

Friday, December 12, 10:30am – 12pm, $49

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMG-000-DEP02

Martin McDermott, associate professor, Brookdale

In the United States, many of us hold the belief that freedom of speech permits us to express anything at any time. This idea is widely accepted and deeply rooted in our national identity. However, this is not the case. Join us as we delve into fourteen legal limitations on expression and uncover the intriguing historical narratives that illuminate these boundaries.

Thursday, September 25, 10am – 12pm, $49

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMG-000-SEP01

John Gutman, retired sociology lecturer, Hunter College

Engage in an examination of how societies are created, challenged and collapse through four influential novels: Animal Farm, Lord of the Flies, 1984, and Brave New World. Monthly discussions will focus on the political, cultural, and moral institutions depicted in these works and their relevance to contemporary society. Join us to explore the insights these literary pieces offer about our own societies and potential future. 3 SESSIONS

Tuesday, 10:30am – 12pm, $89

September 16: Animal Farm & Lord of the Flies

October 21: 1984

November 25: Brave New World

Search Course Code: XHUMG-000-SEP03

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Debbie Peterson and Wendy Bright-Fallon, national board-certified health and wellness coaches, founder, Nourish Coaches

Blue Zones – regions like Okinawa, Sardinia, and Nicoya – have been celebrated for their unusually high member of centenarians and low rates of chronic disease. They’ve become shorthand for “how to live longer.” But lately, recent critiques are calling the original research into question. Come take a broader, more grounded look at Blue Zones exploring what made them so compelling and what’s come to light since. Discuss, explore, and leave with ideas that nourish, inspire, and make sense for real life – not just headlines. 2 SESSIONS

Tuesday, October 14 & 21, 1:30pm – 3pm, $59

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUG-000-OCP03

Franca Giuliani, BFA, instructor, Carol Cofone, translator, BA Italian, Certificate Historic Preservation

Dreaming of your next trip to Italy? Join us for an mini film festival comprised of a dozen memorable films set in Italy and know before you go. Compare your visions with those created by notable directors, screenwriters, and actors, past and present. Be transported to the heart of Italy where every scene is postcard and every moment magical. You’ll view Italy – and your itinerary – through an exciting new lens.

Thursday, October 9, 10:30am – 12pm, $49

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMG-000-OCP06

Rachael Goldman, PhD, historian

Early 20th-century authoritarian regimes controlled not just geography and national identity, but also artistic expression and ownership of art. The Holocaust was not an event only about genocide and the eradication of peoples, but also the ability to appropriate their possessions. This is especially true regarding the collection and management of artwork from 1933-1945. Consider the issues affecting objects with a Holocaust-era provenance including title, deed and ownership, the condition of objects, and even what constitutes objects that are returnable. Examine case studies including Egon Schiele’s Wally Neuzil, The Utah Museum of Fine Art’s Francois Boucher, and the Collection of Jacques Goudstikker, and consider the many ways provenance can affect the art we view. 2 SESSION.

Monday, October 6 &13, 10am – 12pm, $69

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMG-000-OCP04

Rachel Goldman, PhD, historian

Join historian Dr. Rachel Goldman for an immersive experience of Gustav Klimt’s 1907 portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer, along with other superb examples of Klimt’s “golden style.” Nestled in a stunning Upper East Side Gilded Age mansion, the Neue Galerie is a cultural gem – an exquisite blend of artistic depth and elegant design. Enjoy a private guided tour of the featured exhibit, “German Masterworks,” showcasing works from 1890 to 1940. Take in the entire museum collection with time on your own and don’t skip a visit to Café Sabarsky, renowned for its amazing assortment of pastries inspired by Viennese style and flavors – be sure to grab a treat to take home! A leisurely lunch at Acadia, where you can savor delicious Levantine dishes is the perfect end to a perfect day.

Thursday, December 11, 7:30am – 3:30pm, $239

Bus departs from Parking Lot 1

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XTRVY-339-DEP01

James J. Kimble, professor of communication, Seaton Hall, author, exhibition curator, documentarian

Although history remembers President Franklin D. Roosevelt as a master orator, his famous Four Freedoms war aims started out as notable flops. It took the efforts of the artistic world – most notably Saturday Evening Post cover artist Norman Rockwell – to rescue the Four Freedoms from rhetorical oblivion, launching them into such renown that they would eventually shape the formation of the United Nations itself. This presentation, based on years of archival research, reveals a fascinating but forgotten story about the Greatest Generation and how it mobilized for World War II.

Tuesday, September 30, 10:30am – 12pm, $49

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMG-000-SEP02

Gene Wisniewski, professional artist, teacher, author

While you won’t walk away with an actual diploma, this engaging yet highly informative seminar DOES offer mini-version of the essential courses included in the typical art major. Besides Art History and Art Appreciation, there are hands-on drawing exercises that demonstrate the thought process and techniques behind making a piece of art, and a general discussion on developing creativity. Featuring over 250 works of art. No previous art education/training required. 2 SESSIONS

Tuesday, December 2 & 9, 11am – 2:45pm, $149

Includes lunch

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMG-000-DEP03

Sixty years ago, The Beatles released Rubber Soul, an album that marked a turning point in popular music with its sophisticated songwriting and studio innovation. Ten years later, Bruce Springsteen’s Born to Run captured the restless spirit of America and launched him into rock stardom. Explore the cultural impact, musical evolution, and enduring legacy of these two iconic albums.

Morning Presentation

Turning Point: Celebrating the Beatles’ Rubber Soul at 60
Kenneth Womack, PhD, professor of English and popular music, Monmouth University, author

Mark the 60th anniversary of Rubber Soul’s release with in-depth analyses of the album’s unforgettable songs, as well as the riveting story of the LP’s break-neck recording schedule. Particular attention will be devoted to understanding Rubber Soul as the turning point in the band’s illustrious, unparalleled career.

Afternoon Presentation

Born to Run and the American Experience
Melissa Ziobro, MA, curator, Bruce Springsteen Archives and Center for American Music, Monmouth University

Take a closer look at Born to Run’s historical context, lyrical depth, and cultural resonance, examining why it continues to speak so powerfully across generations. Then explore the work of the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music – an essential institution that goes beyond the work of Springsteen to tell the broader story of American popular music.

Wednesday, October 22, 10:30am – 3pm $89

Reduced fee made possible by Friends of Lifelong Learning

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMM-000-OCP01

Doug Clarke, celebrated jazz guitarist, adjunct faculty, Brookdale Community College

Explore Latin Jazz, a rich cultural fusion of jazz improvisation and Latin American rhythms. Discover influences from Cuban, Puerto Rican, and Afro-Caribbean styles like salsa and rumba, starting with Jelly Roll Morton’s “Spanish Tinge” in New Orleans Jazz. Learn about artists like Mario Bauza, Dizzy Gillespie, Tito Puente, and Mongo Santamaria. Investigate Brazilian bossa nova and samba’s impact on American jazz through Jobim’s work (The Girl from Impanema), played by Stan Getz, Charlie Byrd and João Gilberto. Conclude with modern Latin jazz artists such as Michel Camilo, Chick Corea, and Arturo Sandoval.

Monday, October 27, 10am – 12pm, $49

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMM-000-OCP02

Pat Barton, professional musician

Although songwriters singing their original compositions were not unheard of in the first half of the twentieth century, in the mid 60s and well into the 70s, the singer-s0ngwriter model fast became a dominant one. Trace the ascendancy of this model using recordings and background information on influential tunesmiths from the mid 60s through the early 21st century, all of whom have helped shape popular music. 3 SESSION

Thursday, November 6 – 20, 10am – 12pm, $89

Register HERE (search by course code or title) or call us at 732-224-2315

Search Course Code: XHUMM-000-NOP01