Where Inquisitive Minds Meet: The Bond Between Road Scholar and Chautauqua

A Shared History of Learning

Founded in 1874 by a Methodist bishop and an Akron businessman, the Chautauqua Institution began as an educational experiment to create out-of-school learning experiences. It quickly grew into a thriving retreat for intellectual and cultural enrichment, becoming one of the first institutions to offer distance learning through its 1878 Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle.

Chautauqua’s most significant contribution to education was the radical idea that learning should be lifelong — a concept far ahead of its time. This belief in the importance of education, regardless of age or background, is a core value that unites both Chautauqua and Road Scholar.

Similarly, Road Scholar has evolved into a community-centered organization that inspires discovery and connection through learning. The idea that adults can and should continue learning not only enriches life but also challenges the stereotype that post-retirement years are unproductive.

With such closely aligned missions, it's no surprise that Road Scholar and Chautauqua Institution have been partners for more than 20 years.

A Natural Partnership

Road Scholar inspires adults to learn, discover and travel. Chautauqua is dedicated to the exploration of the best in human values and enriching life through the exploration of issues and stimulating provocative and thoughtful involvement in creative responses to those issues.

With two organizations so closely aligned on self-reflection, self-discovery and fostering of a thoughtful, expansive community, an alliance was inevitable.

As Matt Cotter, a senior director in Road Scholar’s program management department, notes, “Their origins echo our own. Chautauqua does a great job of capturing that traditional Elderhostel spirit — offering access to great educators and an environment that encourages learning and growth.”

Scott Beresford, from the Chautauqua Institution, agrees. “What we’ve found over the years is that Road Scholars are perfect for Chautauqua. Not only do they want to learn and attend lectures, but they also want to relax and be mentally stimulated while relaxing. They try to do as much as humanly possible, while also becoming integrated with those attending who aren’t Road Scholars. That sense of community that’s so important to them is also important to Chautauqua.”

It's an effortless partnership, he adds. “It’s the easiest thing I’ve ever done because we’re of the same mind. We understand each other, as organizations, from an educational and programming aspect.”

He goes on to say that Road Scholar has been an important aspect to the Institution as a whole, from the beginning. “They force us to continually improve, to always do better. I don’t see how we couldn’t exist together. We get to be a hub on this global university wheel that’s Road Scholar, and that’s awesome.”

The Road Scholar Experience at Chautauqua

Road Scholars have the unique opportunity to experience Chautauqua in both its vibrant summer season and its quieter off-season when Road Scholar has Chautauqua all to itself. “I’ve loved creating relationships with Road Scholars,” says Scott. “That evolution has been so satisfying, and Road Scholars are just incredible learners and seekers. I like knowing that, every single session, when one group leaves and the next comes, they’re going to be really incredible people who want to be involved in this place I love.”

One thing Scott hears the most from Road Scholars is that they wish they had known about Chautauqua sooner. “I always tell them, ‘You know about it now, so keep coming back.’ And they do! Now I see participants who have been coming for decades arrive with their adult children. I love that it becomes a family thing."

Truly, whether participants choose to dive into a weeklong exploration of a single topic or enjoy the broader curriculum in spring and fall, every visit offers something new. The social aspects of Chautauqua are also a major draw, with opportunities to connect with fellow participants in settings like the historic Athenaeum Hotel, kayaking on the lake or simply strolling the picturesque campus.

At Chautauqua, they have a saying: Blessed are the flexible because they will never be bent out of shape. “You need to be fluid,” Scott explains. “That’s the whole experience here — and Road Scholars can do that because they’re all about the experience.”

Words From Participants

Road Scholars who have been to Chautauqua often describe the program as transformative. Mary from North Chesterfield, Virginia, shares, “Chautauqua is the gift that keeps on giving. It stirs the mind, enervates the body and calms the soul. I gained new insights and made new friends.” Sandra, a four-time Chautauqua participant from Sagamore Hills, Ohio, says, “It never disappoints — the speakers are generous with their time and knowledge, and the participants with their mealtime conversations and great questions. I look forward to continuing interactions with my new friends.”

Jeanne from Rockwood, Pennsylvania, calls it “one of the most thought-provoking and cerebral weeks of my life,” and Linda from Brighton, Michigan, describes it as “a resort, college campus, entertainment venue, think tank and religious community all rolled into one.” Marsha from Walworth, New York calls the people and place “enchanting — I felt a sense of deep and vibrant energy that I carried with me as I left the grounds.”

But maybe Barbara from Cary, North Carolina said it best: “If you like intellectual stimulation, dynamic and dedicated speakers, incredible companions and want to be challenged to think, Road Scholar at Chautauqua is the place for you.”

Want a firsthand look at Road Scholar at Chautauqua? Check out our video and experience it for yourself.