About Us

What is LIRA?
The Learning in Retirement Association (LIRA) is a multi-faceted educational program for the retired and semi-retired for which there are neither educational nor age requirements.  It was founded in 1988 by Dr. Mark Levine, Director of Community Services at UMass Lowell at the time. LIRA is sponsored by the University’s Office of Community Service, which provides space and administrative and office support.  Over 240 similar associations exist on college campuses across the nation, representing more than 62,000 individual members.  It is an academic program, designed by its own members to suit their interests.  Emphasis is on the collaborative and active member participation.  LIRA provides more than classes and social activities – it links its members to a community beyond the classroom and offers a new world of opportunities.

What is LIRA’s Philosophy?
LIRA’s philosophy is to provide, at a modest cost, college level learning experiences for all its members, regardless of previous educational background.  Peer leadership is a key component of this program.  Members plan the topics to be studied and make all decisions relating to curriculum and the operation of the organization. Classes and activities are coordinated by its members, who are active rather than passive learners.

How Does it Work?
All activities are designed to promote participation and involvement of members to an extent compatible with their desires.  Members are encouraged to serve on LIRA committees:  Executive Council, Curriculum Development, Membership, Publicity, Newsletter, Hospitality, and Scholarship.

The program operates on a two semester plan during the spring and fall. A selection of study groups that usually meet for two hours, mornings or afternoons, are offered. Generally the semesters run eight weeks. Members may participate in as many courses as desired. Trips, outings to museums, concerts, plays, and sites of interest are common features of study groups. In the winter and summer between semesters, intersession programs are offered on Wednesdays only.  A different topic is explored each week.  While members propose, plan and coordinate the curriculum, presentations are regularly made by local artists, scholars and community leaders.  Faculty members of UMass Lowell have been most generous with their time and expertise.

Recent semester offerings include:

• Shakespeare
• Documentary Film Series
• Opera
• Ethics in America
• The Joy of Thinking
• Art and Music
• Great Decisions
• Book Discussion
• Biology and Human Behavior
• Economics

Intersession offerings have included:

• Merrimack Repertory Theater performances
• Nanotechnology
• Green Chemistry
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Boston Symphony Open rehearsals
• Garden in the Woods
• Peabody Museum
• Identity Theft 

 
Location
Most LIRA programs are held at Fox Hall on the UMass Lowell East Campus.  Fox Hall, the tallest high-rise building in the area and close to the Spinners’ ballpark, LeLacheur Park, is located on Pawtucket Street via Aiken Street. Parking is available in the new garage located next to the ballpark after obtaining a parking permit.  Here is the link to the campus map.