By Jennifer Fetterly
Madison College
From ceramics, cooking classes, retirement planning or language courses, it’s a summer of learning and exploration at Madison College’s Commercial Avenue and Truax campuses. The courses are affordable, accessible and a great way to expand skills and build confidence.
Demi Weisbrod, of Madison College’s Professional and Continuing Education Department, said anyone can find a class that fits their career needs or just for fun. “Continuing education at Madison College can offer a ‘third space’ for people to learn, socialize and feel a part of a community,” she said. “Use this community resource to discover a new interest or have the proper space and tools to dial in on a hobby or skill sustainably.”
Beyond learning, continuing education classes promote social wellness and interaction with others who share similar interests. This helps improve mental health and relieve stress.
Our Commercial Avenue space has become a premier destination for people to try out their creative skills in ceramics, upholstery, jewelry making and more. This summer, an eight-week ceramic wheel-throwing class is designed for beginners or seasoned potters to refine their skills. Well-known local artists Scott Draves and Gloria Van Dixhorn will lead students in this popular class.
In addition. the Commercial Avenue campus offers Japanese and Spanish language courses. Students can also learn about estate planning or improve their retirement investments.
For culinary enthusiasts, instructor Bradley Kahn is cooking up tasty Mediterranean cuisine featuring veggie-forward meals and easy-to-love flavors at the Truax campus. Participants will create salmon grain bowls, easy oven-roasted chicken, and eggplant. The pizza and pasta class will help food lovers build their creative skill. The two-hour cooking classes, are affordable and hands-on. Participants leave with plenty of leftovers to share with family and friends.
Some of the most in-demand classes are musical courses. Students can learn guitar, ukulele and mandolin. Scott “Boo” Mullarky, of the popular local band “The Cajun Strangers,” engages students with humor and knowledge, so they’ll be playing tunes quickly.
More than 50 continuing education and professional development classes are available this summer at the Commercial Avenue and Truax locations. Linda Nellen, School of Professional and Continuing Education manager, encouraged area residents to take advantage of the opportunities.
“Learning doesn’t have to stop when school ends; and at Madison College, it doesn’t. Our continuing education programs are where curiosity meets real-world skills,” Nellen said. “Whether you’re picking up a power tool, perfecting a pasta sauce, or prepping for your next career move, we’ve got a class — and a great instructor — waiting for you.”
Find out more about class offerings and register today at madisoncollege.edu/academics/professional-continuing-education or call 608-258-2301.
