Seniors’ Learning Experiences Could be worth $1,000

With more than six decades of life under their hats, Lorain County senior citizens have a story to tell. Those tales could now be worth $1,000 through an essay contest sponsored by Lorain County Community College’s Senior Adults Generating Eloquence (SAGEs) program.

The contest challenges senior citizens to answer the question “What is the most significant learning experience of your life?” The top three winners will receive $1,000 each and be featured in a film produced by the LCCC Digital Media Communications department.

“The senior population is one of the most under-recognized populations nationwide, and yet it is the fastest growing population in the U.S.,” said Kevin Hoskinson, LCCC English professor in the Academic Foundations division. “Senior citizens have insights, experience and wisdom that would be beneficial for all of us to hear more about.”

To enter, writers must live in Lorain County and be at least 60 years old. The essays must be less than 1,000 words and will be judged based on the basis of their originality, clarity, impact and the richness of the message. Submissions must be received by Dec. 15.

The winners will be recognized May 6 at an event to honor Lorain County senior citizens. Keynote speaker Barbara Riley, Executive Director of the Ohio Department of Aging, will address the crowd and the film featuring the winners will be shown.

“The essays and event will give a greater sense of appreciation for some of our most gifted and intelligent minds, who are too easily forgotten,” Hoskinson said.

Essays and applications may be submitted online at www.lorainccc.edu/sages, or may be mailed or delivered to Lorain County Community College, 1005 N. Abbe Road, University Center Room 107E, Elyria, Ohio 44035.  Applications are also available at Lorain County Community College’s Bass Library. For more information, visit the www.lorainccc.edu/sages or contact Hoskinson at (440) 366-7375 or at khoskins@lorainccc.edu.

October 28, 2009