Utah Valley University’s Community and Continuing Education Department hosts a program called “Elder Quest” weekdays at the Orem Senior Friendship Center on 93 N. 400 East.

Founded in 1992, Elder Quest is a life-long learning program that provides seniors 55 and older the opportunity to take classes on a variety of subjects from retired university professors, while actively being involved in social and cultural activities and field trips.

Jillana AhLoe, program coordinator for UVU’s Community and Continuing Education Department, said UVU was originally only partnered with Elderhostel, but UVU wanted to provide a program primarily for the local community. Elderhostel is an international educational travel organization for seniors 55 and older.

“There is something for everybody,” she said. “There are classes about history, current events, literature and family history.”

AhLoe said the most popular class is their old classic movie class.

With more than 200 members, AhLoe said Elder Quest, is the biggest group of its kind in Utah, with similar groups in Salt Lake and St. George.

“We’re outgrowing every space that we’re using,” she said. “We are trying to find other places to accommodate our members.”

Tal Huber, president of and former professor for Elder Quest said he attributes the popularity of the program to the ability of distinguished professors to engage seniors in the classes that interest them.

“We have outstanding teachers that are very passionate about their subjects,” he said, “They are leading scholars in their fields of study.”

Tal Huber used Dr. Richard Cracroft as an example of the quality of Elder Quest instructors.

Cracroft, a retired BYU English professor, has been involved with Elder Quest for 10 years. He said he appreciates teaching students who love learning.

“I am just attracted to the caliber of people who take these courses and the friendship and association with accomplished people in their own areas,” he said. “It’s fun to rub shoulders and rub minds with them.”

JoAnn Westover, 70, from Orem, said the dues are very reasonable for seniors. Membership is only $35, which includes up to three classes available each day of the week as well as the activities.

The kick-off dinner will be Sept 16 and reservations are required. For more information call 801- 863-8012.