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.

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 the Wannalancit building on the UMass Lowell East Campus.  The Wannalancit building is located on Suffolk Street near the Tsongas Arena.  Parking is available in the garage located next to the Spinners' ballpark, LeLacheur Park, on Pawtucket Street after obtaining a parking permit.  Here is the link to the campus map.