Lifelong Learning for Adults Ages 50+

Specially designed for the plus 50 job seeker, this course will help you update your resume, practice interviewing and develop a plan to take the next step in your career transition. This course will also connect you with training opportunities and resources available at COD and within the broader community. Every class promises lots of group discussion and interaction, led by a leading career advancement expert. Instructor: Rob Noonan

Thursdays, Sept. 3 to Oct. 8
6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-150, $49
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Thursdays, Oct. 15 to Nov. 19
6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-151, $49
Naperville Center

Film Legends: Billy Wilder

Discover the life and work of one of Hollywood’s greatest directors, Billy Wilder. Go behind the scenes to appreciate Wilder’s ambition and genius in classic films such as “Double Indemnity,” “The Lost Weekend,” “Stalag 7,” “Sunset Boulevard,” “Sabrina,” “Witness for the Prosecution,” “Some Like It Hot,” “The Seven Year Itch,” and “The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes.” Instructor: Tony Quattrochi

Wednesdays, Aug. 5 and 12
10 a.m. to noon
CEHUMNT-0001-036, $59, Lifelong Learner $39
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Television Legends: Dick Van Dyke

Celebrate one hundred years of entertainer Dick Van Dyke, highlighting his many contributions to radio, Broadway, movies and television, and reflecting on his personal challenges and triumphs. Reflect on the world of “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” and explore Van Dyke’s book, “100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life.” Instructor Tony Quattrochi

Wednesdays, July 8 and 15
10 a.m. to noon
CEHUMNT-0001-035, $59, Lifelong Learner $39
On campus in Glen Ellyn

A Stab in the Back: The Rise of Nazi Party in Germany

In 1920, the Nazi Party was a fringe group with little support. By 1933, it was the most powerful entity in Germany. Discuss the party’s evolution, the impact of WWI, and the roles of anti-Semitism and anti-communism. How did Hitler manage to transform Germany into a totalitarian state so quickly? Nazification of Germany and the thanks!1936 Berlin Olympics will also be explored. Instructor: Melanie Bemben

Wednesdays, July 8 to Aug. 5
10 a.m. to noon
CEHUMNT-0001-046, $139, Lifelong Learner $99
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Cultures of Asia

Learn about the diversity of ethnicities and cultures of the Asian continent, from Indigenous peoples like the Hmong to the current inhabitants throughout Central, East and Southeast Asia. Instructor: Rachel Diaz

Mondays, July 20 to Aug. 10
6 to 8 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-002, $119, Lifelong Learner $79
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Gurdon Hubbard: Transformation of Illinois

Gurdon Hubbard arrived in Illinois as an American Fur Company clerk and witnessed the state’s transformation from backwater to economic powerhouse. Explore Illinois history through the 19^th century via Hubbard’s remarkable business life, his relationships with Native Americans, and locations throughout Chicago and northern Illinois named after him. Instructor: Brian Conroy

Monday, July 13
1 to 2:30 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-048, $29, Lifelong Learner $19
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Irish Americans in the Civil War

In the 19th century, Irish immigrants faced intense discrimination. The Civil War offered many a chance to prove loyalty and claim citizenship, leading them to enlist on both sides. Explore Irish regiments, notable figures, the NYC draft riots, regimental flags and monuments commemorating their service. Equipment and uniforms will be on display. Instructor: Brian Conroy

Monday, July 27
6 to 8 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-055, $29, Lifelong Learner $19
On campus in Glen Ellyn

The Literature, Life and Lies of Truman Capote

The brilliant author of “In Cold Blood” and “Breakfastat Tiffany’s” was a pop culture icon, appearing on talk shows and dancing at Studio 54. As his substance abuse increased, his writing diminished and his lying intensified. Explore Capote’s early literary achievements and examine his downfall to an early death at age 59. Instructor: Frank Serafino.

Thursdays, July 9 to 30
10 a.m. to noon
CEHUMNT-0001-040, $119, Lifelong Learner $79
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Reading Around the World, Part I

Discover the world through its books and cultures. Each week, we will read a book from a different continent and discuss the story, culture and the countries we are reading about. Students will need to read on their own time outside of class. A book list will be provided in advance. All selected books will be readily available at local libraries or through interlibrary loan. Instructor: Rachel Diaz

Thursdays, July 16 to Aug. 20
6 to 8 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-001, $159, Lifelong Learner $119
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Wild About Wilde

Oscar Wilde is Ireland’s most famous-and infamous poet and playwright. The acclaimed author of “The Importance of Being Earnest” and “The Picture of Dorian Gray.” A celebrity author arrested, convicted and imprisoned for “gross indecency,” Wilde died penniless at age 46. Instructor: Frank Serafino

Wednesdays, July 8 to 29
10 a.m. to noon
CEHUMNT-0001-021, $119, Lifelong Learner $79
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Prepare for your next career step by updating your digital presence on LinkedIn with this condensed workshop. Our career advancement expert helps you create a LinkedIn profile and learn how to leverage it to move ahead.

LinkedIn is more than social media for business; it’s your professional online brand. This workshop will guide you in building a complete, polished profile, teach you how the LinkedIn algorithm works and show you how to leverage the platform to connect with people and opportunities to land your next role. Instructor: Rob Noonan 

Monday, July 6
5 to 8 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-155, $19
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Wednesday, July 15
9 a.m. to noon
CEHUMNT-0001-156, $19
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Wednesday, July 22
Noon to 3 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-157, $19

Put technology to work for you. You’ve heard the buzz about ChatGPT, CoPilot, Gemini, and Claude— but have you ever thought of them as your personal job search team? This workshop shows how to use generative AI as a career coach, copy editor, and interview prep partner to open new opportunities. 

Tuesday, Sept. 22
6 to 9 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-152, $19
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Saturday, Oct. 17
Noon to 3 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-153, $19
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Tuesday, Nov. 17
9 a.m. to noon
CEHUMNT-0001-154, $19
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Evaluate your past accomplishments, current interests, skills and future goals in a friendly and supportive environment. This course is designed for adults returning to school, entering the workforce, or exploring volunteer opportunities. It utilizes assessment tools, including writing exercises, to help you uncover your true interests. Develop an awareness of yourself and your goals to help you take the next step. Instructor: Rob Noonan 

Tuesdays, Oct. 6 to 27
6:30 to 9 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-158, $49
On campus in Glen Ellyn

How to Be a Nonprofit Board Member 

Every nonprofit organization relies on its board to effectively deliver on its mission and is always searching for enthusiastic board members. Whether you’ve served on a nonprofit board or are considering it, this course teaches you exactly how to be an effective board member. Learn board roles and responsibilities, different forms of support, and best practices. Serving on a nonprofit board is rewarding, and this course shows what’s involved in serving your community through board service. Instructor: Shefali Trivedi 

Tuesday, Sept. 22
6 to 8 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-163, free
Virtual classroom

Thursday, Oct. 22
1 to 3 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-164, free
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Volunteerism In DuPage County 

Across DuPage County, there are thousands of opportunities to give back to the community by applying your passion, strengths, skills and experience. Learn about local volunteer needs, the benefits of volunteering, and how to find the right match for your time and skills. Get a snapshot of volunteering and discover who needs your help and how you can make a big difference through rewarding volunteer experiences. Instructor: Shefali Trivedi 

Friday, Sept. 18
1 to 3 p.m.
CEHUMNT-0001-160, free
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Tuesday, Oct. 20
10 a.m. to noon
CEHUMNT-0001-161, free
Virtual classroom

Thursday, Dec. 10
10 a.m. to noon
CEHUMNT-0001-162, free
Virtual classroom