UW-Green Bay reinvents ‘Grandparents’ University’ as generations in learning

Green Bay, WI – UW-Green Bay reinvents Grandparents’ University with Generations in Learning, a series of half-day workshops designed to enhance learning and connection between older adults and kids, and is perfect for grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles and mentors, alike. The first event is Fly Fishing Adventure Day on Sunday, May 4, 2025. To register and learn more about future events, visit the program website.

UW-Green Bay is committed to fostering community and connection, providing opportunities for people of all ages to engage in learning together. When older adults and kids learn together, they build bonds and gain valuable perspective by sharing knowledge and skills, spending time together and engaging in new activities.

“Some of our most rewarding workshops include youth working with a close adult,” said Dennis Rockhill, Makerspace director, Einstein Project. “Both experience the learning, creativity and enjoyment of a hands-on project. We believe they grow a little closer due to this shared time together.”

The workshop details are below.Each workshop is designed for one child and one adult to register together for one affordable price of $49 per workshop. Participants can register for one or all of the workshops.

  • Fly Fishing Adventure Day, Sunday, May 4, 2025. Brown County Reforestation Camp – Spend a relaxing and educational day on the water with a hands-on, interactive fly-fishing experience, for kids ages 9-13. During Fly Fishing Adventure Day, participants will learn the art of fly fishing through expert-led demonstrations and guided casting sessions. After the session, participants will have a chance to catch fish. Designed for both beginners or experienced anglers. Equipment is included. Adults must bring a valid fishing license.
  • Dairy Discovery, Wednesday, June 25, 2025. Pagels Ponderosa Dairy Farm -Enjoy a fun-filled morning or afternoon on the farm with a hands-on, interactive experience for you and your youngster (morning session for ages 5-10 and afternoon session for ages 10-13.) Explore the world of dairy farming through guided tours, up-close encounters with farm animals and a behind the scenes look at how seeds turn into feed. Take home a delicious dairy-inspired treat.
  • Timeless Tales, Tuesday or Wednesday, July 8 or 9, 2025. UW-Green Bay Campus – Create memories during a special afternoon that will last a lifetime. You and your youngster ages 7-13 will work together to design a unique storybook or recipe book to cherish forever. Reminisce, share stories and preserve important family lore with a custom keepsake with the help of UW-Green Bay’s teaching press director Rebecca Meacham.
  • Glow & Grow Sign Craft, Wednesday, August 6, 2025. Brown County STEM Innovation Center – You and your youngster ages 9-13 will have an enLIGHTening afternoon crafting an LED sign together, using technology and engineering skills learned during this workshop. Whether you’re an experienced maker or new to the craft, you’ll create a one-of-a-kind illuminated sign to brighten both your spaces and hearts. Offered in collaboration with the Einstein Project.
  • Generations in Tune, Thursday, August 7, 2025. The Weidner – You and your youngster ages 9-13 will explore The Weidner, uncovering the magic of music production. After the tour, you’ll share a special moment singing intergenerational songs together. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or new to singing, this morning class offers a fun, creative opportunity to bond over music and theater. Offered in collaboration with The Weidner.

Learn more about Generations in Learning by contacting Heidi Leiterman, Program Specialist, at leitermh@uwgb.edu or (920) 465-2356, or by visiting the website.