ElderCollege
Discover the Joy of Lifelong Learning
ElderCollege at BGSU Firelands invites adults 50 and better to explore, connect, and learn in a relaxed, welcoming environment. For more than 20 years, ElderCollege has been a proud part of the BGSU Firelands community bringing curious minds together for learning that inspires and energizes.
Our offerings span a wide variety of topics, from history, culture, and current events, to science, the arts, and beyond. Learning doesn’t stop in the classroom either. ElderCollege also hosts engaging field trips to local organizations and businesses that bring ideas to life.
The impact speaks for itself:
- 250 classes offered over the past 10 semesters
- 15,000+ adult learners served
- 50 field trips enjoyed by more than 2,000 participants
Learning Without Pressure, Just Pure Enjoyment
At ElderCollege, learning is about enjoyment and connection. There are no tests, no homework, no grades, and no stress, just the pleasure of discovering something new alongside fellow lifelong learners.
Powered by Volunteers, Driven by Community
ElderCollege is proudly supported by dedicated volunteers, including our board members, curriculum committee, and presenters. Their passion and generosity make every experience possible.
Interested in giving back? We are always looking for enthusiastic volunteers with fresh ideas who want to help shape meaningful learning experiences for our community.
Join us and rediscover the joy of learning.
I am honored to accept the role and responsibilities of President of ElderCollege at Bowling Green State University’s Firelands Campus. As I begin my tenure, I want to express my deep appreciation to Karen Walderzak for her vision, leadership, and many accomplishments as our immediate past president. An alumna of Bowling Green State University, Karen has exemplified the University’s motto "A Public University for the Public Good " through her dedication to ElderCollege. Since joining the board in 2013 and subsequently serving as Vice President and President, her energy, commitment, and creativity have been central to strengthening and expanding the program we all value.
I bring to this position more than thirty years of classroom and administrative experience in higher education. My career includes teaching in the undergraduate curriculum in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and later in the MBA program, where I was honored with Senior Faculty designation. I also served as Dean of the University Center at Polaris, where I was responsible for the management, administration, and academic oversight of multiple undergraduate and graduate degree programs. These professional experiences have provided me with a deep understanding of both the opportunities and the challenges inherent in fostering meaningful educational engagement and perspectives that align closely with ElderCollege’s mission.
Looking ahead, I am eager to work collaboratively with the BGSU Firelands faculty, staff, and administration, as well as with the many dedicated ElderCollege presenters and participants who make this program so engaging and dynamic. Together we can continue to uphold ElderCollege’s strong reputation while exploring opportunities that support its future growth and enrich the learning experiences we offer.
Thank you for the warm welcome into this role. I look forward to all we will accomplish together.
Sincerely,
Dick Ries, President
ElderCollege at BGSU Firelands
Updated: 01/29/2026 11:23AM