Kathy Taylor on Lifelong Learning

Making Connections is a Road Scholar Tradition

In 1975, a free-spirited social activist named Marty Knowlton connected with his friend and university administrator David Bianco and together they founded Elderhostel — the creator of today’s Road Scholar learning adventures.

Just this past spring, Geoffrey Fletcher won an Oscar for his screenplay adaptation of the novel “Precious.” As I watched the Academy Awards on television and Geoffrey’s name was announced, the camera panned across the audience and focused on his overjoyed mother. I recognized her immediately — Bettye Fletcher Comer. Bettye was a long-time friend, and the next day I called to congratulate her and to ask if Geoffrey would be interested in speaking at our annual “Taste of Road Scholar” event on Martha’s Vineyard. Six months later Geoffrey was standing at historic Shearer Cottage on Martha’s Vineyard, talking about what it was like to win an Oscar to a full house of more than 300 rapt Road Scholar attendees.

Though separated by 35 years, these two anecdotes both illustrate that just having an idea isn’t enough to bring it to fruition. It helps to connect with others who share the same passion.

At Road Scholar, our passion is lifelong learning and adventure. We are able to offer life-changing educational experiences because we have connected with others who believe in our mission. Instructors, organizers, participants, donors — nearly all are drawn into the Road Scholar circle and the lifelong learning movement through one personal connection or another.

Sharing our vision is not unique among individuals. Several corporations have realized the importance of spreading lifelong learning to diverse audiences. Most notably, WGBH and EMC were sponsors for our recent event on Martha’s Vineyard.

Meeting people who share a passion is one of the core tenets of the Road Scholar experience. Together, we continue to grow the vision that David and Marty had 35 years ago.

All the best,

Kathy Taylor

P.S. Interested in making your own connections? Check Road Scholar out on Facebook, and meet hundreds of people who love learning and adventure.

Visit www.facebook.com/rsadventures.