Lifelong Learning
at Otterbein Granville
Inspiring Intergenerational Connections
Special Partnership with Denison University
Otterbein Granville shares a special bond with nearby Denison University. In 1996, Denison alumni helped establish our community, and the land where our campus now stands was once Denison property. Over time, this connection has benefited both communities, with residents attending on-campus lectures, concerts, plays, athletic events, and more.
Additionally, Denison administration members and alumni serve on Otterbein Granville’s board, and our residents also support Denison. We enjoy hosting students and faculty at the Community Center for lectures, workshops, and various special events.
A Life Enriched by Learning
Community Scholar Program at Denison
The Community Scholar Program opens Denison’s classes to Otterbein Granville residents. Community scholars can enroll in one non-credit course per semester, and there is no limit to the number of semesters for which a scholar may enroll.
Through this program, our residents have taken courses such as:
- Music Theory
- Ancient and Medieval Philosophy
- The History of Psychology
- German
- Macroeconomics
- Ceramics
- Painting
Music that Moves the Heart and Mind
Suzuki Seniors Music Program
Late violinist Dr. Shinichi Suzuki developed the Suzuki method in the 1960s. Because the unique approach focuses on ear training rather than note reading, it’s commonly used with young children and can also be adapted for use by beginners of all ages.
In collaboration with a resident committee, the Denison University faculty helped design and launch a similar Suzuki program in April 2023 at Otterbein Granville called Suzuki Seniors.
Using the Suzuki method, experienced Denison instructors meet with small groups or individual residents interested in learning how to play an instrument, including the cello, violin, piano, and flute. Residents participate in four-month terms and can choose to continue lessons each term when new residents are also invited to join the program.
Otterbein Granville
Artist-In-Residence Program
Otterbein Granville, in collaboration with Denison University, hosts a Denison student studying fine arts who lives onsite, engages with the community, and immerses themselves in the life plan community’s culture. These artist-in-residence students bring fresh enthusiasm and energy to the campus while gaining valuable insights from resident mentors through this meaningful intergenerational experience.
The summer artist-in-residence program further strengthens the connection between Otterbein Granville and Denison University, both of which emphasize lifelong learning, sustainability, building strong relationships, and supporting others in reaching their potential. Many residents are Denison alumni, retired staff, or emeritus faculty.
Artist-in-Residence Participants
- 2018: Harrison Ponce – Music Performance/Chemistry double major
- 2019: Lexie Dungan – Animation, Comics, and Installation Art
- 2019: Amanda Modelski – Creative Writing, Piano, and Painting
- 2021: Teddy Reedy – Music Composition/Guitar
- 2022: KT Amrine – Creative Writing/Violin
- 2022: Lily Thomas – Visual Arts, including painting and calligraphy
- 2023: Abby Conturo – Visual Arts, including painting and printmaking
- 2023: Isabelle Monyak – Exhibition Design, Visual Arts, including charcoal drawing
- 2024: Velvet Sellers – Creative Writing
- 2025: Leah Jackson – Cinema/Studio Art
Book Clubs, Poetry, Art, and More
Other Lifelong Learning Opportunities at Otterbein Granville
Otterbein Granville’s connections with The Ohio State University-Newark and Central Ohio Technical College in nearby Newark also create opportunities for our residents and partners.
Learning goes beyond the area’s colleges. Otterbein’s Speaker Series draws on expertise from across the region. Residents are fully engaged as lifelong learners through:
- Book clubs
- Poetry groups
- Art workshops
- And more
Visit Us
Explore Our Lifelong Learning Firsthand
Schedule a visit to our campus to see how lifelong learning fosters active minds, spirited engagement, and lasting curiosity. You’ll discover opportunities to learn new skills, reignite old passions, and explore fresh interests, all contributing to a sense of purpose and happiness at Otterbein Granville.
How Can We Help?
Contact Otterbein Granville Today
