Academy for Lifelong Learning Honors Its First Lecturer

Story courtesy of the Academy for Lifelong Learning

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AIKEN, SC (05/29/2018) During the annual Earl F. Kauffman Recognition Day, the Academy for Lifelong Learning recognized its very first presenter.

Dr. Doris Hammond received the Earl Kauffman Award for her years of service to the academy.

When the Aiken Lifelong Learning program first began, it consisted of only three lectures a year. Hammond presented the group's inaugural lecture in 1989, which she titled: "In Search of the Fountain of Youth."

Since then, she has taught several other courses on a variety of topics, which academy members say are "always well received." She plans to teach Academy for Lifelong Learning classes again this fall.

"Dr. Hammond has a long history with the [Academy for Lifelong Learning], possibly the longest history of anyone in Aiken, and a lifetime of working and serving her community," said one member of the academy. "Congratulations."

The Cincinnati, Ohio native received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati. She earned her master's from Marshall University and her doctorate from the University of Georgia.

Hammond dedicated her life to education and taught elementary school in five states. She also had her own counseling practice.

The Kauffman Award is named for the founder of the Academy of Lifelong Learning who was the driving force of the academy for many years. Members of the Kauffman and Hammond families attended the award presentation. Aiken Mayor Rick Osbon and Dr. Sandra Jordan, chancellor of the University of South Carolina Aiken, also attended.

The Academy for Lifelong Learning is an all-volunteer organization that operates under the auspices of the University of South Carolina Aiken. It provides seniors throughout the Central Savannah River Area a wide range of learning opportunities tailored to their needs and interests. From its modest beginnings almost 30 years ago, the academy has evolved into a multi-faceted program that provides fun and educational opportunities. Each semester, the academy offers short courses and events covering a broad span of interests, ranging from art, music, literature, and science to hobbies, cooking, current events, religion, and history.