Lois E. Marshall Institute for Learning in Retirement
Bergen Community College
Welcome to the ILR at Bergen Community College
The Lois E. Marshall Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR) at Bergen Community College provides lifelong learning opportunities for adults aged fifty-five and older who enjoy learning, connecting, and staying active in a college environment. Since 1999, the ILR has offered high-quality non-credit courses for a nominal fee through a model that encourages peer engagement, intellectual curiosity, and personal enrichment.
Whether this is your first semester or you have been taking courses with us for many years, the ILR is committed to providing you with a clear, friendly, and easy-to-navigate learning experience. This webpage contains detailed information to guide you through registration, course selection, classroom navigation, and membership.
The ILR community is composed of individuals from diverse backgrounds, professions, and life experiences. Participants come together to learn subjects that spark curiosity, from history and literature to science, music, fine arts, health and wellness, creative writing, movement classes, foreign languages, meditation, and more. Classes are offered both in person and online to provide flexibility and accessibility for all learners.
Upcoming Semester Information
Spring 2026 Semester
- Course Proposal Deadline: Wednesday, December 3, 2025
- Catalog Published: Friday, January 16, 2026 – Live Now
- Registration Opens: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
- Semester Dates: Monday, March 2 through Friday, May 29, 2026
- Course Load: Up to four Primary Courses and up to three Bonus Courses
Complete semester information, including holiday closures, teaching availability, and classroom details, can be found on the pages that follow.
What the ILR Offers
The ILR provides:
- A wide variety of non-credit courses taught by knowledgeable volunteer instructors and experienced subject matter experts
- A welcoming community of older adults who value education and connection
- Both in-person and online learning options
- A flexible learning format with no tests, grades, or academic prerequisites
- Social engagement opportunities throughout the semester
- On-campus access to selected college facilities, such as the library, Fitness Center, and swimming pool during free time hours
Teaching Model and Course Structure
ILR courses are offered in a flexible and accessible format to accommodate the interests and availability of instructors and members. Courses may run for one session, multiple weeks, or the full semester. Each semester includes a mix of:
- Multi-week academic courses
- Single-session bonus lectures
- Movement classes
- Discussion groups
- Skills-based workshops
- Creative arts and humanities offerings
- Specialized topics taught by retired professionals and enthusiasts
The ILR welcomes new instructors each semester. Individuals who teach during a given semester receive complimentary ILR membership for that term.
Where Courses Are Offered
Courses are offered:
- In person on the Paramus Campus in the Technology Building, Pitkin Education Center, and other classrooms
- Online, using virtual meeting links provided before classes begin
- With planned future expansion to the Philip Ciarco Jr. Learning Center in Hackensack
Exact classroom locations for each semester are found on the ILR News and Media page and posted at the Continuing Education and Workforce Development office (TEC-115).
Our Commitment to Clear Communication
Because many ILR members prefer detailed guidance, we strive to make all information clear, accessible, and written out in full. This includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for registration
- Full directions to classrooms
- Detailed holiday and closure schedules
- Complete semester timelines
- Defined membership guidelines
- Clear movement class requirements
- Campus navigation support
- Immediate posting of schedule changes and cancellations
If you need additional assistance, please contact the ILR office directly. Staff members are always happy to help.
Contact the Institute for Learning in Retirement
The ILR team is here to support you. Whether you need assistance with registration, help finding your classroom, guidance for online course access, or answers to general questions, please feel free to contact us directly.
We encourage students to reach out whenever they need help. No question is too small, and we are always happy to assist.
ILR Main Office
Telephone: (201) 447-7156
Email: [email protected]
Location:
Technology Building, Room TEC-115
Bergen Community College
400 Paramus Road
Paramus, New Jersey 07652
Office staff are available during regular campus hours and can assist you with:
- Registration and membership questions
- Schedule changes
- Classroom information
- Online course support
- Accident Waiver forms
- General ILR inquiries
Additional ILR Contacts
ILR Program Supervisor
For questions regarding course planning, semester logistics, or instructor support.
Telephone: (201) 447-7156 (main office)
Email: [email protected]
Continuing Education and Workforce Development
For assistance with registration, payments, or CEWD-related matters.
Telephone: (201) 447-7488
Location: Technology Building, Room TEC-115
Campus Resources for ILR Members
Library (Sidney Silverman Library)
Members may borrow materials and use on-site resources.
Please bring a valid Bergen Community College ID card.
Health Services
Required for Fitness Center and Pool access (medical “M” sticker).
Telephone: (201) 447-9257
Location: HS-100
Public Safety
For help navigating campus or accessing buildings.
Telephone: (201) 447-9200 (non-emergency campus line)
Mailing List and Updates
If you would like to receive semester announcements, catalog release notifications, or program news, please contact the ILR office to be added to the mailing list:
Email: [email protected]
Subject Line: Add to ILR Mailing List
Please include your full name and preferred email address.
ILR Office Hours
Office hours follow the general operating schedule of Bergen Community College.
Hours may vary during summer months or holidays.
Please call ahead if you plan to visit in person.
We Look Forward to Hearing from You
The ILR is proud to serve a vibrant community of lifelong learners.
We value your participation, questions, suggestions, and feedback.
Please reach out anytime you need assistance.
