What is Tennessee known for?

Hundreds of courses. Knowledgeable instructors.
Have it your way, online or in-person.

Support FGCU Academy | Make a Memorable Gift Now

The Academy’s program fees only cover a fraction of its operating costs. The Academy relies on the purchase of memberships and donations to carry us the rest of the way. Without your support, this vital community lifelong learning and outreach program would not be possible. Thank you for your generosity.

OCTOBER 2022

FGCU Academy
Tennessee’s outstanding voices, art, and history

Greetings, National Tennessee Day recognizes the Volunteer State on October 26. Tennessee was the 16th state admitted to the union. The great state brings with it the Great Smoky Mountains, centers for blues and country music, and depth of history that surges through art.

As the gateway to the deep south, Tennessee experienced heavy burdens during the Civil War. As a slaveholding state with many Union sympathizers and Union occupying units, Tennessee was often as divided as the country during the war. It was the only state to have a battle or skirmish in every county.

Two anchor cities, Memphis and Nashville, provide abundant talent and draw even more. It should be no surprise the music and entertainment industry thrive in Tennessee. For more than 75 years The Grand Ole Opry has provided a cornerstone of radio performances, thrilling audiences of all ages.

The state lays claim to royalty, too! The King of Rock and Roll made his home at Graceland. Today it is the most frequently visited private residence visited after the Whitehouse. The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin was born in Memphis, too.

The region is brimming with waterfalls, trails, and wildlife. The Great Smoky Mountains provide plenty of opportunities to get out and explore.

If you would like to have FGCU Academy provide programs at your community, click below and send us an email with your information: who the contact person is, their email and phone number along with name of your community. We will be happy to reach out and discuss the possibilities with them.

Schedule a Private Education Session
for Your Community!

Please call office to register for classes at 239.434.4737
or
Register Online

Program Guides

View 2022 FGCU Academy FALL Program Guide

View UPDATED October Daily Calendar

View November Daily Calendar

SINGLE LECTURE CLASSES

Optimal Nutrition for Enhanced Mental Health
@ Bentley Village – October 26 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

In this lecture we explore the nutrition-related stressors of mental health and cognition and the evidence-based research around functional foods and sleep that can help prevent and reverse symptoms of mental health and cognitive function impairments. Self-care through optimal nutrition is essential for enhanced mental health and this program explores healthy eating tips from the latest research linking nourishment of the body and brain.

William “Wild Bill” Donovan
@ Bentley Village – October 27 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Donovan was a lawyer, politician and war hero who is one of the founders of U.S. intelligence. His amazing story is one of intellect and bravery. This discussion traces Donovan’s life as the director of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) and the father of the CIA. He was a visionary who identified weaknesses with U.S. intelligence. His observations have lessons for today.

FBI: Politicization and Integrity
@ Naples Center / Online – November 1 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

In the past decade there have been serious allegations of politicization in our judicial system. Several cases have called the independence and integrity of the DOJ and FBI into question. Join a retired federal law enforcement executive in a candid discussion. Topics include: Has the FBI, DOJ been politicized; have investigations and prosecutions been influenced improperly; has FBI’s stellar reputation suffered; if so, why?

Ellis Island: The Immigrant Story
@ Commons Club at The Brooks – November 1 | 1:30 – 3 p.m.

It is estimated that approximately 40% of American citizens can trace at least one of their ancestors to Ellis Island. Using images and many immigrant quotes, Dr. Franz tells the story of American immigration in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and of the most popular entry point, Ellis Island. Immigrants came from so many countries, and for so many reasons, and they greatly contributed to the work and success of this nation.

Queen Elizabeth I – Gloriana
@ Kleist Center – November 2 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Where would England be today had Elizabeth I not become queen? A lesser ruler might have succumbed to the conflicting demands of political factions. A lesser personality might have indulged personal whims at the cost of ministerial respect. Against great odds – her father ordered her mother’s execution; she had no husband; she produced no heir; and her cousin plotted her assassination. Elizabeth nevertheless tackled religious strife, political divisions, court intrigue and war, to guide England to a state of unity and prosperity.

What You Need to Know About Medicare in 2023
@ Naples Center / Online – November 2 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

This presentation offers a review of Medicare Parts A and B, the Part D drug benefit, and what they cover and cost. What is Medigap Insurance and Medicare Advantage Part C and what do they cost? The presentation ends with a comparison of Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage so that you can decide what program is best for you.

Making/Taking Better Photos
@ Naples Center / Online – November 3 | 10 – 12 p.m.

Ansel Adams said, “You don’t take a photograph, you make a photograph.” Photography is a very subjective endeavor. There are no hard-and-fast rules to follow that always assure your picture will be, well, “picture perfect.” However, an understanding of light, exposure and compositional guidelines that can be applied to virtually any scene will enhance its impact and quality. Understanding these principles will help you to capture more compelling images, turning your snapshots into works of art. This lecture is for all photographers, regardless of the camera they use.

TECHNOLOGY CLASSES
Instructor: John Guerra

iPhone/iPad: Tips, Tricks & Secrets of Apple’s Newest Operating System iOS 16
@ Moorings Park Grande Lake – October 27 | 1 – 2 p.m. RESCHEDULED DATE

Join this lecture-style presentation to learn all of the new features, upgrades and enhancements of Apple’s newest operating system for iPhone and iPad, iOS 16. We will explore tips, tricks and secrets that make using your device easier, more powerful and efficient.

iPhone & iPad for Beginners
@ Moorings Park – October 31 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

The iPhone provides access to phone, voicemail, email, the web, photos, calendars, texting, maps, games and more. iPads have revolutionized computing since their introduction. With its larger screen the iPad is absolutely a viable replacement for your desktop or laptop! Whether you already own an iPhone or iPad, or are considering purchasing one, join us as we explore the important capabilities of these remarkable devices. This lecture-style demonstration will teach you the important basics of: models to choose from, installing and deleting apps, using the touch interface, Apple ID, settings, email and more.

LOOKING AHEAD – see what’s coming

• The Balkan Countries – Clash of Cultures
• Marco Polo, Silk Roads and the Great Divergence
• The Creation of Germany
• VENONA – Soviet Spies in America
• The Creation of Italy
• Space Exploration: History and What Does the Future Hold?
• Voyage to Mars

2023 Travel

Join us ONLINE at one of our very exciting and informative FREE open houses
You must pre-register

REGISTER NOW

November 1 at 2 – 3:30pm, Tuesday

November 16 at 10 – 11:30am, Wednesday

December 5 at 2 – 3:30pm, Monday

Travel The World With FGCU Academy
Travel is not reward for working, it’s education for living

INSIDER’S JAPAN – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
May 20 – June 1, 2023 | 13 days
It’s a land of delicate art and bustling commerce, of rich traditions and dizzying modernity; a jumble of sights, sounds, and tastes that for visitors are truly foreign – and truly fascinating. This well-crafted tour features the highlights of Tokyo and Kyoto, engages us in local life, and takes us off the beaten path to the lovely historic cities of Takayama and Kanazawa.

UNTAMED ALASKA – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
August 20 – 30, 2023 | 11 days
Awe-inspiring natural beauty and outdoor adventure await as we explore Alaska’s varied landscapes and noteworthy cities. From Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, and Kenai Fjords national parks to the energy of Anchorage and scenic Seward, our small group encounters the breadth and beauty of America’s Last Frontier.

LEGENDARY TURKEY – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 1 – 15, 2023 | 15 days
Exotic sights, scents, and sounds reign in this fascinating land where Europe and Asia meet. From Istanbul, magnificent “Empress of the World,” to ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and the dramatic – and legendary – Turquoise Coast, Turkey engages and beguiles, offering us an unparalleled small group experience.

ACROSS SPAIN & PORTUGAL – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 10 – 26, 2023 | 17 days
Fortified cities and tiny fishing villages, rugged Atlantic coastline and commanding Pyrenees peaks, iconic shrines to both religion and fine art, and intimate lodgings in historic paradores and pousadas – it all awaits on this singular small group journey from Lisbon across the north of Spain, ending in vibrant Barcelona.

PEARLS OF DALMATIA – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 14 – 28, 2023 | 15 days
Independent, democratic Croatia welcomes visitors eager to absorb its remarkable history and culture – and its beautiful and unspoiled Dalmatian coastline. As our small group travels from historic Zagreb and beautiful Lake Bled to the Habsburg resort of Opatija, the island of Hvar, and beloved Dubrovnik, we see why this cherished region lays such a claim on the hearts of all who visit.

SICILY IN DEPTH – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 28 – October 9, 2023 | 12 days
Crossroads of the Mediterranean … the “toe” in Italy’s boot … “God’s Kitchen” … Sicily is all this, and much more, as we see on our stellar small group journey around this Italian island. It’s lively cities and ancient ruins, temples of man – and of nature, hospitable people and delectable cuisine … a feast for all the senses.

ISRAEL: TIMELESS WONDERS – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
October 14 – 25, 2023 | 12 days
Encounter a land of extraordinary beauty and belief, of spirit and story, history and hospitality. From modern Tel Aviv to scen¬ic Upper Galilee, ancient Tiberias and storied Nazareth to Jerusalem, “City of Gold,” we engage all our senses in a small group encounter with this extraordinary and holy land, with a five-night stay in Jerusalem at the legendary King David hotel.

Support FGCU Academy | Make a Memorable Gift Now

The Academy’s program fees only cover a fraction of its operating costs. The Academy relies on the purchase of memberships and donations to carry us the rest of the way. Without your support, this vital community lifelong learning and outreach program would not be possible. Thank you for your generosity.

FGCU Academy
Collier / Lee / Charlotte

FGCU ACADEMY NAPLES CENTER
704 Goodlette-Frank Rd N
Suite 330
Naples, FL 34102

239-434-4737

[email protected]

FGCU Academy | 704 Goodlette-Frank Road N., Suite 330, Naples, FL 34102