“I want to see what the Houghton of 2018 is and be a part of it,” Diane Emmons said when asked why she was compelled to audit classes as a community member. Emmons, along with fellow auditor Eileen Spear, are two community members who are far from losing their passion for learning.
Spear started auditing classes in 1999 after retiring from working in the International Development department and the library at Houghton. “I’ve audited fifty-seven classes and they varied from Bible, English, writing, theology, science, communication, history, psychology, church music—note, there were no math courses in there,” Spear said.
Eight of Spear’s grandchildren graduated from Houghton, and she was able to audit a class with each one of them. She also went “on the first semester to Australia” and “on a ten day trip with an English class to see movies and theater productions.” Spear graduated from Houghton in 1952 with a degree in music education, which she admitted “limited my liberal arts education.” Auditing classes has given her the opportunity to learn in new disciplines. This semester she is auditing a class that examines the Pentateuch.
For Emmons, who also graduated from Houghton with a degree in music, auditing classes has provided her with a “fresh opportunity.” Emmons has audited Outdoor Leadership Training, and is currently enrolled in Western Civilization and Old Testament Theology.
“Coach Smalley’s Outdoor Leadership Training (OLT) class on the ropes course challenged each student to contribute toward group success and to set personal goals,” Emmons stated, reflecting on her experience. “Knot tying, rock climbing, and shelter building became catalysts for stretching and strengthening the bonds among classmates and emphasizing our dependence on God’s grace at all times.”
This semester, Emmons joined Old Testament Theology because she wants to grow spiritually and enjoys being in the presence of Dr. Derck, whom she describes as “a model of grace in action.” Emmons is also auditing Western Civilization this semester. “When I told Dr. Pearse that my understanding of Western Civ was pathetic, he still welcomed me to join the class,” she remarked. “Of course, one great benefit of auditing classes is the freedom to learn new things without the pressure of papers to write, tests to take, or grades to earn!”
“Personally, I’m at a stage in life when I struggle to know where I belong and how to contribute in meaningful ways,” Emmons said. “I’m finding that auditing a class can help keep vitality in life—even after loss of precious loved ones.” She smiled as she explained how auditing classes makes her feel “like a child in a way—an old lady, yet free to experience the wonder of a five-year-old.” One way Emmons seeks to contribute is by creating intentional and meaningful relationships with fellow students and teachers. “I feel connected that way,” she said.
Regardless of the stage of life where we find ourselves, Emmons and Spear model how it looks to be a lifelong learner.