Monday, November 19, 2007

Wilmington, N.C. - Cape Fear area seniors and retirees bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that can have a significant impact in the community. The Adult Scholars Leadership Program (ASLP) at the University of North Carolina Wilmington is looking for seniors who want to better understand and get involved in the challenges and opportunities in Wilmington and the surrounding area.

Registration for the next class of the ASLP is now open, with the eight-week class session beginning in February 2008. Offered through the UNCW Division for Public Service and Continuing Studies, ASLP focuses on topics of interest to both newcomers and lifelong residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Each weekly session has a dedicated focus: regional growth and development, health and human services, education government, law enforcement and the justice system, media, culture and the arts. The instructors, local professionals and elected officials, share their experiences and perspectives in these areas.

"Anyone with the interest to learn how our region is developing, what forces are shaping it, and what challenges and opportunities lie ahead will find ASLP informative and engaging," said Gary Kohunsky, a 2007 ASLP graduate. "It's a great way for people to find out how they can personally make a difference."

Enrollment is limited so participants are encouraged to apply early. The cost of the program is $329, which includes breakfast, lunch and snacks for each class session, a graduation luncheon and all materials. ASLP meets from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the UNCW campus for seven consecutive Thursdays. Information on program enrollment and limited tuition grants is available at www.uncw.edu/adultscholars .

The Adult Scholars Leadership Program has been bringing adult students together with community leaders and decision makers to discuss the region's topical issues and potential solutions since 1991. More than 450 adults - retirees and employed seniors - have benefited from the face-to-face interactive program. An active alumni association is in place and meets monthly, offering a variety of programs and events to help keep graduates in touch with each other and with the changing dynamics of the area.

For more information, contact:

Karel Dutton, director of continuing studies, UNC Wilmington, 910.962.3644 or duttonk@uncw.edu

Dana Fischetti, manager of news and media relations, 910.962.7259 or fischettid@uncw.edu

Note to media: Graduates of the Adult Scholars Leadership Program are available for interviews to talk about their personal experiences in the program and how they have used them to become more involved in addressing community issues.