Tim Shriver's nonprofit, Project Unite, Inc., was founded with the goal of easing divisions in the country. In searching for the source of this divisiveness his team discovered that it is not disagreements that cause our divisions; it is treating people with contempt when we disagree. This realization led to the development of the Dignity Index, an 8-point scale that measures how we talk to each other when we disagree. This interactive course is based on this scale, which shows the degree of dignity or contempt in speech and how this affects our relationships. Participants will leave with tools and insights needed to ease divisions, prevent violence, solve problems and create a culture built on dignity.

Speaker:  AAUW Batavia/Geneva/St. Charles

Co-facilitator:  Ruth Harmon

On Zoom we will briefly review selected recently decided SCOTUS cases having major effects upon our fellow citizens individually, and our society as a whole. This is not a class on Constitutional law, but an opportunity to look at a few consequential recent cases and how they may affect us and the functioning of our democratic/republican government.

This class is identical to the November Class.

Co-facilitator:  Carl Hays

Has Donald Trump's second term broken free of the limits that constrained the first? Explore his expanded claims of presidential power, confrontations with the courts and Congress, military actions and the questions these new developments raise about American democracy and constitutional government.

Book:  Regime Change by Maggie Habberman and Jonathan Swan (Not required)

This special screening of No Small Matter, the first feature-length documentary exploring the critical importance of high-quality early childhood education and its lasting impact on children, families, communities, and the economy.

The evening will begin with networking and opportunities to connect with local organizations and community resources, followed by the film screening. After the movie, a panel of early childhood experts, educators, and community leaders will discuss the film's key themes, answer questions, and explore how our region can work together to strengthen early childhood education and support families.

Whether you're an early childhood professional, student, parent, policymaker, employer, or community advocate, this event offers an opportunity to learn, connect, and be part of the conversation about investing in our youngest learners.

This class is complimentary and all ages are welcome. We will have heavy refreshments.

Note:  Meet and greet begins at 4:40 pm.

Co-facilitator:  Carl Hays

We approach the 2026 Midterms. Understanding the heightened polarization of Americans is crucial. Voters are entrenched in party loyalties, often politicizing ideological alignment over bipartisan dialogue. The hyper-partisan environment not only shapes political strategies but also influences voter turnout and engagement. This raises questions about the future of collaboration and governance in an increasingly divided political landscape.

Speaker:  Rich Kiefer, WCC Professor

Co facilitator:  Carl Hays

Gain insight into the perspectives of today's college students by attending a meeting of the Waubonsee Socialists, a student organization at Waubonsee Community College. Club members explore socialist ideas, discuss political and social issues, and learn through conversation and debate. LLI participants will observe a regularly scheduled meeting and may have an opportunity for respectful interaction with club members. This is not a lecture or advocacy program, but an opportunity to listen, learn, and better understand how some younger adults view issues affecting society today.

Speaker:  J. Chatman, WCC Professor

Co-facilitator:  Ruth Harmon

On Zoom we will briefly review selected recently decided SCOTUS cases having major effects upon our fellow citizens individually, and our society as a whole. This is not a class on Constitutional law, but an opportunity to look at a few consequential recent cases and how they may affect us and the functioning of our democratic/republican government.

This class is identical to the October class.