Caps, gowns, and course catalogs aren’t just for college freshmen anymore. At Cumberland Village, residents are heading back to class — on their own terms.
The senior living community is launching Cumberland University, a new way to recognize residents who take six or more courses through the Center for Lifelong Learning (CLL) at USC-Aiken. Once residents complete their sixth class, they’ll receive a Cumberland University diploma in a spring graduation ceremony.
CLL offers a wide selection of courses, ranging from history and literature to computer science and local culture. The program is open to anyone, and many residents of Cumberland Village have already signed up.
Though retired from careers, many residents have long embraced educational programs and partnerships, often attending lectures held in the community from local experts like Lauren Virgo, Curator of the Aiken County Historical Museum, who shared insights on the history behind Aiken’s old roads, including Whiskey Road, Pine Log, and Two Notch.
“It just makes things easier for them and more accessible,” Suzanne Deegan, Director of Activities for Cumberland Village, told WJBF. “Not everybody has a car or likes to drive or find parking … we just drop them off at the front door and off they go!”
There’s also a nod to tradition. The USC-Aiken mascot is the Pacer — so Cumberland Village has adopted the phrase “Setting the pace for lifelong learning” as a lighthearted connection.
One resident who helped shape the very heart of this program was the late Dr. Doris Hammond, a longtime contributor to the Center for Lifelong Learning. From giving the first lecture for the Academy in 1991 to teaching courses as recently as fall 2024, Doris brought warmth, humor, and wisdom to every classroom. Her legacy continues to inspire Cumberland Village residents as they embrace learning later in life.
“Plenty of our residents are already taking classes,” said Don Jones, Executive Director of Cumberland Village. “Cumberland University gives them a meaningful way to pursue their interests, stay mentally engaged, and celebrate the lifelong joy of learning.”
“It’s never too late to grow, be curious, and discover something new about the world — or yourself.”
Keep Growing, Keep Learning at Cumberland Village
Retirement at Cumberland Village is about so much more than comfort — it’s about curiosity, connection, and continuing to grow. With unique opportunities like our new Cumberland University program, residents can stay engaged, inspired, and celebrated for lifelong learning. Schedule your personal tour today and see how Cumberland Village sets the pace for retirement living.