EIU School of Extended Learning

Situated in the School of Extended Learning at EIU, the Academy of Lifelong Learning offers diverse
noncredit educational opportunities to Charleston, Mattoon, and neighboring communities. Prioritizing
accessibility, our programs are supported by gracious donations from the Friends of the Academy. We
invite you to join us on this enriching educational adventure!

Looking Ahead with Gratitude:

A Letter from Program Coordinator Daniel Douglas

Dearest Academy of Lifelong Learning Community,

It is with a mix of excitement and deep gratitude that I share some important news. My time with the Academy of Lifelong Learning at EIU is coming to a close. I have accepted an incredible opportunity to join the University of Illinois as a Strategic Content Specialist, and my last day with the Academy will be December 10th.

This decision was not an easy one to make. The Academy has been far more than just a job for me - it has been a source of inspiration, joy, and connection. It has been a place where curiosity thrives and where people come together to celebrate learning in all its forms. Working with all of you, witnessing the passion you bring to every program, and seeing the impact of this community firsthand has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.

In my new role, I will be crafting accessible content for audiences far and wide, collaborating with brilliant minds at the University of Illinois, and helping translate research and programs into stories that resonate with people from all walks of life. A large part of my work will focus on Search Engine Optimization (SEO), a field that has become increasingly vital in making information discoverable and accessible online. For those unfamiliar, SEO ensures that online content reaches the right people at the right time, bridging the gap between complex ideas and the audiences eager to learn about them.

To everyone who has supported the Academy: thank you. Thank you for being the heart and soul of this program. Thank you for your ideas, your passion, and your willingness to learn and grow together. While I’ve had the honor of shaping the Academy in my time here, the truth is that it’s not about me. The Academy has always been - and will always be - about all of us as a community. It’s about working together toward a shared goal of learning, connection, and growth.

Though I will no longer be here in my current capacity, I will carry the spirit of the Academy with me always. I look forward to seeing the incredible ways this program will continue to grow and thrive in the years ahead. The future is bright, and I know that together, you will continue to nurture this remarkable community and its shared purpose.

Thank you for making my time here unforgettable and for showing me the true power of lifelong learning. This is not goodbye, but rather a heartfelt "thank you" and a hopeful "see you soon."

With Deepest Gratitude and Warmth,

Daniel A. Douglas

Download the Letter in PDF Format Here

Now Accepting Applications to Lead/Teach Sessions in Spring 2025!

Are you an expert in your field or passionate about sharing your skills with others? The Academy of Lifelong Learning at Eastern Illinois University is thrilled to announce that we are now accepting applications for session leaders for the Spring 2025 semester!

We’re seeking insightful individuals who can offer engaging and enriching sessions to our diverse community. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a hobbyist, or someone with a unique talent, we invite you to join us in fostering a culture of lifelong learning.

As a session leader, you'll have the opportunity to inspire and connect with learners of all ages and backgrounds. Our program values inclusivity, curiosity, and the joy of discovery.

If you're ready to make a difference and share your expertise, apply now to be a part of our dynamic community of educators! Together, let's ignite a passion for learning and exploration. Apply today and be a catalyst for lifelong growth!

If you have an idea but are not an instructor/leader, or if you want to suggest that the Academy ask someone else to be an instructor/leader, no worries! Click here to share your ideas.

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