Activities: Learning

University Scholars and Their Work

Do you love hearing about the latest research, or discovering behind-the-scenes information? Avenidas’ Distinguished Lecture Series offers all that and more. You'll delight in dynamic presentations by a variety of guest lecturers from venerable institutions such as Stanford University.

Music is in the air at Avenidas. Dr. Norbert Molder, PhD, has music degrees from Northwestern University, Indiana University, and Harvard University. He has also served on the faculty at both Indiana University and San Francisco State. Come and learn how to listen to music from current and upcoming presentations around the Bay Area with appreciation and an educated ear.

Linda Logan

Learn innovative new techniques while practicing your existing skills. This class is taught by an experienced instructor and is aimed at intermediate and advanced students. Unleash your inner artist and wow your family and friends with the results.

Juliet Lundy

Learn acrylic painting from a lively instructor who has studied Impressionist-style oil painting with both American and European Masters. Her art works have been seen at various shows in the Bay Area. In this course, you’ll observe and study light and shadow, color value, prospective, sketching and painting still life—all at your own pace. All levels are welcomed. Beginners receive special help from the instructor, while seasoned painters will enjoy learning new tips and polishing up old techniques.

Loi Gendzel

Learn history, philosophy, and techniques of classic Oriental Brush Painting from an instructor passionate about this art form. Subjects include flowers and fruits of the various seasons. Special focus on Chinese, Japanese and Korean art.

Janet Rector

Join with others who share your interest while you learn how to do a variety of needlework. Give yourself this opportunity to finish those half-finished projects or challenge yourself to learn a new technique. This warm and encouraging group also donates many of its items to local charities.

Austin Lemoine PhD, Austin Lemoine Capital Management

Given the recent market volatility, this comprehensive course on today’s world of investing is extremely timely. It covers investment alternatives, risks, strategies and tactics for generating income, preserving wealth, and maintaining financial security. Topics include portfolios, hedge funds, private equity, real estate, annuities, long-term care, and historical and future trends in the markets. An extensive syllabus of accompanying course material is also provided.

Benjamin Medved, MS

Are you looking for a group who actively cares about what is happening globally and locally? Then look no further, as this group provides lively and interactive discussions of current world problems, situations, and possible solutions. Come let your voice be heard.

Learn tips and techniques for being a safer driver. Feel more confidence behind the wheel after brushing up on your skills in this helpful class.

Kevin Fox

This free, on-going workshop includes drama skill-building exercises, improvisation, stage practice pieces, and short dramas. All are welcome and no previous experience is required. The goal is to have fun while learning to express oneself. Silliness and spontaneity abound.

Ellen Mastman

Lessen the effects of hearing loss by learning and practicing techniques like lip-reading to ease communication and improve word understanding. This class is for beginning to post-advanced levels. You’ll be surprised by how much you can pick up after receiving instruction from this compassionate instructor.

Learning a new language is a great way to flex your brain muscles. Perhaps you want to learn Spanish for use on a trip to Spain or Mandarin to impress your friends—whatever the reason, Avenidas offers a variety of languages and levels for you to tackle! They include Mandarin, Spanish, and French.

Benjamin Medved, MS

This experienced instructor focuses on development, shared reading, and critique of creative writing forms. Come and learn how to freely capture your thoughts in writing.

Sheila Dunec

Record your family’s oral stories to enrich genealogical information, create a written record of your past for future generations, and even gain new understanding of your own life experiences. This class is sure to move you as you uncover your own story.

Terry Galanoy

This is a complete action course for serious writers interested in learning professional-level commercial writing techniques, practical applications lectures, group interaction, and development of advanced creative writing techniques. Writing projects are guided swiftly and professionally toward creative realizations and commercial goals.

Computer Learning Center at Avenidas

Whether you are new to computers or an advanced user, Avenidas has a variety of classes to keep you connected. Want to learn computer basics, hone your Excel skills, discover Photoshop or have fun with iTunes? Come to the Computer Learning Center at Avenidas. We offer classes for both MAC and PC users, taught by senior volunteers.