Skidmore Encore program returns in a virtual format

Skidmore Encore, a survey of liberal studies presentations by Skidmore College faculty for adult learners, will be offered online this fall to Skidmore faculty, staff, students and retirees, as well as community members age 55 and over.

The traditional fall lecture series will take place online each Tuesday from Oct. 13 through Nov. 10. It will feature 10 Skidmore College faculty speakers from a variety of disciplines, ranging from computer science to psychology.

For the first time ever, the program will be open to all Skidmore community members, including students, faculty, staff and retirees, for free participation. The programming will also be available for members of the broader community age 55 and over for a $95 fee.

Scholarships are also available to members of the broader community whose annual income is below $22,000. All scholarship requests must be made to Coleen Stephenson by email or telephone at 518-580-5447 and are subject to verification. 

Professors will discuss contemporary topics and themes, such as the impacts of the pandemic, political polarization and even conceptions of humanness. A detailed schedule of presenters and topics is available on the Skidmore Encore website.

Online registration begins at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 29. Those interested should visit the Skidmore Encore website at that time for a registration link.

“Skidmore Encore has been a staple of the fall season in the Capital Region for 40 years. Encore brings the exceptional teaching that is a hallmark of Skidmore to the local community,” said Auden Thomas, managing director of academic programs, residencies, institutes and community programs at Skidmore College. “We are thrilled to make the lecture series available during a time when people need connections more than ever.”

Because the series will be delivered online this year, participants must have a computer, laptop, tablet or cellphone and internet service to see and hear the presenters. Participants may call into the webinar by telephone but will not be able to see any visuals that may be presented.

“Tech-check” practice sessions are scheduled for 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 22, and 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 6, for those who wish to confirm that their technology is suitable. For a link to the session, submit your email address here.

Questions regarding the 2020 Skidmore Encore program should be directed to Coleen Stephenson at cstephen@skidmore.edu or 518-580-5447.