The Calvin Academy for Lifelong Learning (CALL) was founded in 1996 by a group of Calvin emeriti, alumni and employees who wanted to create a meaningful way for retirees to continue their education.
It started with a pilot program of nine courses. In the two decades since, CALL has added the Noontime lecture series, member events, extended trips and has assumed oversight of the Passport to Adventure travel film series, which is in its 50th year at Calvin.
Now 1,900 members strong, CALL continues to provide entertainment and fellowship, but the program was built on its educational offerings, which include courses in English, history, economics, technology and philosophy.
“I think those of us who teach in CALL, one of the reasons we come back again and again is that we know that it’s a privilege to get to work with folks who continue to show us that you’re never done learning, you’re never done growing, you’re never done being stretched,” said Calvin English professor Jennifer Holberg.