Academy of Lifelong Learning
The Academy of Lifelong Learning at 海角社区 offers noncredit courses, programs, and events for adults in Charleston, Mattoon, and surrounding communities.
Housed within University Advancement, the Academy creates opportunities to explore new interests, connect with others, and continue learning at any stage of life.
Our programs are designed to be accessible and welcoming, supported by Academy memberships and generous contributions from the Friends of the Academy.
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Academy Membership
Why Join the Academy?Stay curious. Stay connected. Keep learning.
As a member, you can explore new interests, attend engaging programs, and even sit in on an EIU class through the Academy Pass Program with no tuition, no tests, and no pressure. It is learning simply for the joy of it.
Benefits
- Discounted tickets to Doudna Fine Arts Center performances booked through the Academy
- Reduced registration fees for select programs
- Academy Pass: The opportunity to audit one EIU credit course per semester at no cost
- Parking pass for on-campus Academy events (available upon request)
Gift Memberships
Membership Costs
As of Jan. 1, 2026
| Membership Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Single Adult | $60 |
| Couple | $100 |
| Family of Four (two adults, two children) |
$150 |
| Additional Child (with family membership) |
$20 |
| Child Membership | $25 |
Household members must live at the same address to qualify for couple or family memberships.
Friends of the Academy
Lifelong learning brings people together. It sparks curiosity, builds connections, and keeps our community vibrant and engaged.
The Academy of Lifelong Learning is made possible by the generosity of people who believe in the value of learning at every stage of life. We are deeply grateful for the support we have received and invite you to continue being part of this growing community. Your gift helps create meaningful opportunities for others to explore new ideas, connect with one another, and stay engaged.
You can also leave a lasting legacy by including the Academy in your estate plans, helping ensure these experiences are available for years to come.
$2500+: Doctorate Level
- Academy membership
- Parking pass
- Discounted pricing
- Recognition in program guide
- Tax deductible donation receipt
- 4 guest passes (per year)
- 6 programs Included (per year)
- 25% off on additional programs
$1000-$2499: Master Level
- Academy membership
- Parking pass
- Discounted pricing
- Recognition in program guide
- Tax deductible donation receipt
- 2 guest passes (per year)
- 5 programs Included (per year)
- 20% off on additional programs
$750-$999: Baccalaureate Level
- Academy membership
- Parking pass
- Discounted pricing
- Recognition in program guide
- Tax deductible donation receipt
- 4 programs Included (per year)
- 20% off on additional programs
$500-$749: Associate Level
- Academy membership
- Parking pass
- Discounted pricing
- Recognition in program guide
- Tax deductible donation receipt
- 3 programs Included (per year)
- 15% off on additional programs
$250-$499: Undergraduate Level
- Academy membership
- Parking pass
- >Discounted pricing
- Recognition in program guide
- Tax deductible donation receipt
- 2 programs Included (per year)
- 10% off on additional programs
$100-$249: Enrollee Level
- Academy membership
- Parking pass
- Discounted pricing
- Recognition in program guide
- Tax deductible donation receipt
- 1 programs Included (per year)
- 5% off on additional programs
Community Interest Survey
We invite all community members to participate in our Community Interest Survey for the Academy of Lifelong Learning. Your input will help us better understand your interests and shape future programs that inspire learning, connection, and personal growth.
Take the Survey