Explore Economic Development, Local History, and New Ideas with Shepherd Lifelong Learning

ISSUED: 27 August 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Hans Fogle

SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV - Registration is open for three featured fall offerings from Shepherd University's Lifelong Learning Program, giving participants opportunities to examine economic development, step inside a historic landmark, and engage with experts through the reimagined SPARK Lecture Series.

Economic Development Course
"Bright Spots: Expanding and Sharing Economic Opportunity" will examine why some states and communities have achieved stronger economic outcomes than others and what West Virginia can learn from their successes.

Led by instructor David Black, the six-week course was inspired by a recent Urban Institute report that tracks changes in median family income since 1970. Participants will consider practices that have strengthened economic performance, focusing on West Virginia and comparable states.

Interactive sessions will also introduce participants to practitioners working to create economic opportunity in their communities. The hybrid course will meet on Tuesdays in September and October.

Historic Grist Mill Tour
On Thursday, September 10, Lifelong Learning will offer a rare opportunity to explore Shepherdstown's historic Thomas Shepherd Grist Mill.

Built in 1738 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the mill provides a window into the region's history and economic development.

Homeowners Adam and Shannon Thomas will lead participants through the privately owned landmark and demonstrate how the 40-foot overshot water wheel works.

SPARK Lecture Series
The SPARK Lecture Series, a refreshed version of Lifelong Learning's popular Brown Bag Lecture Series, rounds out this fall's featured offerings.

Held twice weekly from September through November, SPARK invites scholars, authors, public servants and other experts to engage in conversation with the community. This fall's presentations will span subjects ranging from artificial intelligence and global demographic trends to American history and environmental change in the Potomac River watershed. Speakers will also examine how communities can build connections across differences.

Shepherd University's Lifelong Learning Program provides educational experiences that help adults remain intellectually active, discover new interests and connect with their community. Programming includes courses, lectures, tours, and day trips, with many offerings available both in person and online.

Participants may register for individual programs or purchase a fall subscription that includes unlimited courses and lectures. Prices vary by program.

Schedules, pricing information, and registration are available on the Lifelong Learning registration page.

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