Pillar Institute for Lifelong Learning

09/25/2026

The fall term is underway, but there is still time to become a PILLAR member and take part in everything this season has to offer.

From history and science to technology, the arts, current events, and more, PILLAR offers opportunities to keep learning, stay curious, and connect with other lifelong learners.

A Fall Membership is $75, and members receive free admission to PILLAR classes throughout the term.

It’s not too late. Join us this fall and keep learning! https://www.pillarinstitute.org/membership

09/22/2026

We are proud to see PILLAR Institute featured in a recent Gazette guest opinion by Executive Director Vickie Heffner, “There’s no age limit on going back to school.”

The piece highlights something we see every day at PILLAR: learning does not have an expiration date. Classes can spark curiosity, introduce us to new ideas, and create opportunities to build meaningful connections with others. As Vickie writes, lifelong learning can be as simple as giving yourself permission to remain interested in the world around you.

We are grateful to see PILLAR’s mission and community recognized in The Gazette, and we invite you to give the article a read.

Read “There’s no age limit on going back to school” here:

Every fall, we hear a lot about going back to school. We see the school supplies in stores, families settle into new schedules and students prepare for another year of learning. But learning isn’t just for children and young adults. It doesn’t have to stop when you earn a diploma, finish a caree...

09/21/2026

There is always something new to explore at PILLAR. This week, dive into topics ranging from international relations and American history to grief, the Constitution, and more.

Please remember to pre-register for classes, as there are no walk-ins for registered programs: https://www.pillarinstitute.org/learn

#3016 The Future of NATO Unchained
Tuesday, September 22 | 10:00am–12:00pm
Explore how changing geopolitical concerns are putting NATO’s strategic relationships and capabilities to the test.

#3017 The Courage to Grieve: Finding Hope Through Vulnerability
Tuesday, September 22 | 12:30–2:30pm
Explore the realities of grief, the six needs of mourning, and the role of healthy community support.

#3018 A House Divided: Politics of the Civil War 1826–1865
Wednesday, September 23 | 10:00am–12:00pm
Examine the political divisions that led to the election of 1860, secession, and the Civil War.

#3019 The Constitution Amendments in Conversation
Wednesday, September 23 | 12:30–2:30pm
Read and discuss the Amendments to the Constitution and bring a copy to follow along.

All classes are FREE for PILLAR members and $25 for not-yet-members.
There is still plenty of time to join us this week. Come learn something new, ask questions, and enjoy the conversation that makes PILLAR such a special community.

08/31/2026

Fall is here, and we are kicking off a new term with a great lineup of classes! From civics and voting to AI, emergency preparedness, and Mah Jongg, there are plenty of opportunities to learn something new and connect with the PILLAR community.

Please remember to pre-register for classes at the link in bio, as there are no walk-ins for registered programs.

#3000 Taste of PILLAR: Three Mini PILLAR Classes
Tuesday, September 1 | 10:00am–12:00pm
Sample three engaging mini classes exploring the Bill of Rights and civic obligations, voting methods, and the world of AI data centers.
Free to all. Registration required.

#3001 Beginning Mah Jongg Lessons: 2 Extended Lessons
Tuesday, September 1 & Wednesday, September 2 | 12:30–3:30pm
Learn the fundamentals of Mah Jongg using National Mah Jongg League rules. Only 1 spot remains!

#3002 Ready, Set, Safe: Fire and Emergency Preparedness
Wednesday, September 2 | 10:00am–12:00pm
Learn practical tips for fire safety, emergency preparedness, and prevention.

Course Development Meeting
Wednesday, September 2 | 12:00pm
Join the conversation as we explore potential classes and instructors for the spring term.

We are excited to begin another term of learning, discovery, and community at PILLAR!

08/25/2026

Fall registration opens tomorrow, August 26th, and there are 63 classes to choose from in the new fall catalog! Don't forget to purchase your Fall Membership before registering for classes.

Join us tomorrow at 10:00am for the Catalog Party to pick up your fall catalog, enjoy refreshments, and spend time with friends deciding which classes you want to take.

Come find something that sparks your curiosity and get ready for another great season of learning at PILLAR!

08/09/2026

A new week brings another great mix of learning opportunities at PILLAR, from exploring our solar system to discovering the history of blues and R&B. There is something for every curious mind, and we would love to have you join us.

Please remember to pre-register for classes when required, as there are no walk-ins for registered programs. Register at: https://www.pillarinstitute.org/learn

Mah Jongg Open Play
Every Wednesday | 10:00am–1:00pm
Bring your 2026 Mah Jongg card and enjoy a fun, social afternoon of play with fellow enthusiasts.

#2071 Our Solar System: “Sector 001 of the Alpha Quadrant”
Tuesday, August 11 | 12:30–2:30pm
Take a closer look at our solar system, including its planets, orbits, and fascinating objects.

#2072 Nikola Tesla: The Genius Who Electrified the World
Wednesday, August 12 | 10:00am–12:00pm
Explore the inventions, ideas, and intriguing personality of the visionary who helped shape modern electricity.

#2073 The Urban Blues and Rhythm and Blues
Wednesday, August 12 | 12:30–2:30pm
Travel through the history of urban blues and early R&B while listening to the artists who shaped these influential genres.

#2074 Mah Jongg Strategies
Thursday, August 13 | 10:00am–12:00pm
Learn new strategies and techniques to help improve your Mah Jongg game.

Come learn something new, meet fellow lifelong learners, and make the most of another week at PILLAR.

08/02/2026

We're excited to share our feature on Our Town!

PILLAR Institute for Lifelong Learning is the only independent lifelong learning institute in southern Colorado, and we're proud to keep the Pikes Peak region curious, connected, and learning at every age.

In this episode, our own Sandy Halby talks about what makes PILLAR different: no exams, no homework, just classes on everything from art history to Mah Jongg, taught by local and international instructors, plus the social connection that comes with being part of our community.

Give it a listen:

Dedicated to promoting educational and social opportunities for adults in the Pikes Peak region. As the only independent lifelong learning institute in southern Colorado, we offer a diverse range of liberal arts and science classes. https://www.pillarinstitute.org/

07/31/2026

Mah Jongg Together was a hit!

Thank you to everyone who joined PILLAR Institute at Dillard's at the Chapel Hills Mall this past Saturday for an afternoon of Mah Jongg! The 3rd floor was buzzing with great conversation, Mah Jongg play, and plenty of curious first timers.

Guests watched live play, got their questions answered by our instructors, and got a first look at Dillard's new line of Mah Jongg tiles. Thanks for the great turnout and the energy you brought!

07/28/2026

We're honored to be featured in a recent Beacon Senior News - Colorado Springs-Pueblo article highlighting PILLAR's Mah Jongg program and our commitment to lifelong learning in the Pikes Peak region.

The article spotlights Board President and instructor Sandy Halby, whose passion for teaching Mah Jongg has helped introduce countless learners to a game that promotes strategy, connection, and lifelong learning.

We're grateful for this recognition and proud to share the impact PILLAR continues to have in our community through engaging classes, dedicated instructors, and meaningful opportunities to learn together.

Read the full article here:

From mental exercise to competitive tournaments, instructor Sandy Halby breaks down the game of Mah Jongg and reveals where to find local playing groups.