Spaces still available to learn about ‘better living’ at 11th MTSU Alumni Summer College

With the registration deadline quickly approaching and spaces still available, the MTSU Office of Alumni Relations looks forward to bringing “better living” to some of its faithful alums and supporters during the 11th annual Alumni Summer College on June 20-22.

Highlights of this year’s three-day event will be entertainment by Emmy-nominated comedian Chonda Pierce, a field trip to Ray Stevens’ CabaRay Showroom in Nashville, Tennessee, and a variety of interesting “classes.”

With a theme of “Better Living,” the upcoming Summer College will focus on various aspects of physical, mental and emotional health that can enhance lives.

Open to alumni and friends, this “edutaining” opportunity will be packed with interactive classes and tours specifically created with MTSU alumni in mind, said Rhonda King, assistant director in MTSU Alumni Relations and coordinator of the annual college.

Tuition is $250 per person and includes all classes, meals, transportation around campus and field trips. Reserved parking will be available. Lodging reservations are the responsibility of the participants.

Space is limited, and there is a June 1 registration deadline. To learn more, visit www.mtalumni.com or call the Office of Alumni Relations at 615-898-2922.

Each Summer College has been more successful than the last, noted King, who is excited to offer this year’s participants a theme that will amuse, inspire and impact their lives for years to come.

“Mental and emotional wellness is crucial to our overall well-being,” King said. “Our presenters will provide everyone with takeaways and resources that can be implemented to reach and maintain health.”

Special guest Pierce will be sharing personal challenges she’s faced and how laughter can be the best medicine. In addition to her positive Southern comedy, Pierce will share how she and her brother, Mike Courtney, use their experiences to help others find hope and healing through the founding of Branches Counseling Center, located near the MTSU campus.

Music can also be good for the soul, with the field trip to Ray Stevens’ CabaRay Showroom featuring great food and a live Stevens concert of his various genres of music and comedy.

Another highlighted campus session will be by the Tennessee Center for Botanical Medicine Research led by Elliot Altman, center director, and associate professor Iris Gao. Participants will study the current research processes and findings of hemp and ginseng.

Other sessions at Alumni Summer College will include:

• Bethany Wrye, assistant professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance, will present a workshop on how gratitude can impact your health;
• Mike Courtney, co-founder and director of Branches Counseling Center, will present a session called “Writing a Good Life Story” that relates his story of honesty, hope and healing;
• Professor Rebecca Fischer and assistant professor Elizabeth Smith with the MTSU Speech Language and Hearing Clinic will discuss human communication problems and provide a tour surrounding the educational needs of the student clinicians completing the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology major.
• Cameron Gordon, association professor in the Department of Psychology, will lead a session titled “Enriching Everyday Experiences with Mindfulness.”

“I’d like to invite everyone to benefit from better living at this year’s Alumni Summer College. It will be a highlight of your summer,” said King. “Summer College offers an environment where attendees connect with each other, form friendships through shared experiences and the common bond of MTSU.”

For more information about the Alumni Summer College event, go to https://www.mtalumni.com.