The 2025 Special Studies Catalog Is Here 

Whether you’re a lifelong learner, creative spirit, or simply curious, the 2025 Special Studies season offers a rich variety of classes designed to spark new interests and deepen existing passions. From returning favorites to brand-new offerings, there’s something for learners of every age and stage.  

Print production is underway, and the catalog will soon be on its way to your mailbox. In the meantime, you can explore the full catalog online and begin mapping out your summer experience. 

Some of your favorite classes are back. Kate Junker’s popular nine-week Gentle Yoga series returns, while Sam Whitmore’s always lively Wine Tasting classes continue to explore new vintages and pairings. Literature, psychology, and film lovers are invited to join Kaye Lindauer for in-depth courses exploring topics ranging from Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley to cinema and psychology. Photography with Michael Haritan returns for nine weeks of visual storytelling, and the popular Ukulele and YOU! with Suzanne Shull is back as well. And for music lovers, our keyboard lab returns to Hultquist 206. 

You’ll also find several new classes that reflect our deepening commitment to community and connection. Leah Goldman will lead a weekly series titled Beyond CHQ: Extending a Transformative Experience. Local favorite Jessamine Daly-Griffen from Om Nohm Bakery & Café brings a delicious new series of gluten-free cooking and baking classes. A one-day workshop with Toby Schermerhorn offers the chance to make your own Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle (CLSC) graduation hat. 

This year also welcomes new instructors with powerful stories and talents to share. Robert Lewis will lead multiple classes in Native American crafts and storytelling. Eva Stern returns to bring joyful movement with Let’s Move during Weeks One–Four, and Kevin Reese invites students to explore the art and life of Alexander Calder through mobile-making workshops. 

Youth classes continue to expand, with engaging experiences for toddlers through teens. Highlights include Ultimate Frisbee, the return of Li’l Sprouts Cooking and Baking with Matt Rogers, and the Young Writers’ Institute, featuring two tracks led by authors Ann Marie Stephens, Nikki Shannon Smith and Brian Donovan. Bryan Toy will be back with Young Artists, and hands-on creativity takes center stage in 3D Printing and Balloon Twisting workshops. 

We’re also piloting a few exciting new initiatives. Select classes now offer single-day registration options, making it easier to drop in and try something new. Professional Development Certificates are now available by request for students seeking continuing education credit — particularly helpful for educators and working professionals.  

Behind the scenes, our Community Education and Youth Programs team is here to support you with consistent office hours throughout the summer season. Beginning Monday, April 28, you can also schedule in-person appointments during the pre-season. Additionally, the Special Studies Office is now open year-round, helping you plan your perfect summer no matter the season.  

Special Studies Office Hours 

Pre-season appointments begin April 28 
email: specialstudies@chq.org or call 716-357-6348 

Summer Assembly Office Hours: 
Sunday: Noon–3 p.m. 
Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–3 p.m. 
Saturday: Closed 

The 2025 Special Studies season is full of opportunities to learn — whether for an hour, a week or all nine weeks. We invite you to be part of this learning community.