Pathways Institute for Lifelong Learning®
The mission of Pathways Institute for Lifelong Learning® is to foster in persons 55+ a quest for lifelong learning that enriches the mind and spirit to pursue wisdom, service, and understanding. Programs are offered to Landis Homes residents, to affiliates and partners of Landis Communities, as well as to individuals in the wider community.
Each fall and spring, more than 40 courses are offered onsite at Landis Homes on subjects including history, arts, religion, contemporary issues, science, technology, wellness, and more. These opportunities also include hands-on offerings and off-site excursions.
Welcome to the Spring 2026 Term
This spring you can listen and learn about music, whether that is Frank Sinatra, folk music, women songwriters, or 2,000 years of music history. Get engaged with nature and geology, through courses on volcanoes in Hawaii, monarch butterflies, and awe-inspiring images of wildlife. Go back in time to learn about the rise and demise of Lancaster trolleys, or the construction of the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Be inspired by the story of Amish mercy on Beechdale Road. Thrill to the power of literature through discussing short stories or learning about the genre of the mystery novel. Use your creativity to decorate a ceramic sunflower snack dish. Find hope in a course on caregivers, the unsung heroes, or on end-of-life companionship. Learn cautionary lessons from a course on the rise of Hitler and Auschwitz. Achieve better health through a hands-on course cooking anti-inflammatory food, and through learning about “the Rosetto Effect.” Discover the history and ongoing relevance behind the Declaration of Independence.
Learn about local Underground Railroad activity through an intercultural program and meal, “Living the Experience.” Film buffs will appreciate two movie courses: a new series on America’s greatest film directors, and images of dogs in movies. Deepen your sense of history via an exploration of Christianity and patriotism over time, or origins of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Classes about current events will help you consider refugees at the southern border, affordable housing in Lancaster, and modern art appreciation. You can learn about the architecture of Hershey and the life of “the chocolate king” through a trolley tour or a course. Day trips this semester will visit Amish schools, tour significant sites in Lancaster Mennonite and Methodist history, or take you to explore the Pennsylvania State Capitol.
We welcome you to enroll in our stimulating spring 2026 courses and excursions and look forward to providing you with many new and enriching opportunities for learning this term. We can’t wait for you to join our community of lifelong learners!
Get your copy of the Spring 2026 course catalog:
- At the Kick-Off Event
- Online beginning February 10
- Request a copy from the Pathways Institute office at 717.381.3577 or pathways@landis.org
Register for the Spring 2026 Term
Registration for the Spring 2026 Term opens for members on Wednesday, February 11 and for non-members on Wednesday, February 18
Register online at https://www.thepathwaysinstitute.org/lancaster-county/#register or contact our office for assistance at 717.381.3577.
If you are new to Pathways Institute, you can enjoy a free course!
*This offer only applies to courses with a $22 course fee under a non-member option. The discount will be applied automatically upon checkout for all new participants choosing a non-member registration.
Testimonials from Pathways Institute Participants
It has been an exciting 13 years since my husband and I became aware of Pathways Institute for Lifelong Learning! There has been amazing, affordable ongoing education in a broad scope of courses, all of which are offered with capable leadership and outstanding, experienced presenters, instructors, and educators in their own fields of study. Each class provided eye-opening experiences and opportunities to grow and remain mentally and physically keen. Some off-ground trips were offered as well. During these expeditions, I made more friends and shared memorable experiences.
Cathy Boshart, Landis Homes Resident
When the new Pathways Institute catalog is out, I make a cup of tea, and browse the catalog to plot my journey: where will my curiosity steer me this season? I will indulge in a smorgasbord, offered by engaging and knowledgeable presenters – I might taste of space exploration or drones, sample historical eras, update my personal health and diet knowledge. Add a tour of the Star Barn, a lecture on a local architect, and maybe craft a wreath as my ‘dessert’? What fun!
Diane Garrett, Landis Homes Resident
Examples of Courses Offered at Pathways Institute
- Underground Railroad Reenactment & Meal
- Legacy of Hitler and Auschwitz
- In Pursuit of Nature’s Beauty
- Lancaster County Trolleys: Rise and Demise
- Founding Fathers of Philadelphia
- The Music of Frank Sinatra and His Lyricist
- The Genius of Women Songwriters
- Declaration of Independence
- Preparing for End of Life
Unique Lifelong Learning Courses
Pathways Institute’s Three Components
Personal Development Path
Promotes continued learning opportunities, personal enhancement, and spiritual growth
Service Path
Provides venues for those 55+ to share their knowledge, beliefs, and life experiences with others
Legacy/Sharing Path
Fosters generativity of those 55+ through opportunities to pass on wit and wisdom for future generations
