Carolyn White Finds Her Groove With Dallas College Lifelong Learning

March 3, 2026

When Carolyn White turned 80 this past October, she didn’t slow down — she sped up. Carolyn White Her latest passion is participating in Dallas College Lifelong Learning courses and activities at Pleasant Grove Center and Eastfield Campus. Lifelong Learning provides continuing education for adults aged 55 and older, at low or no cost.

“I’m so appreciative of the different programs that are available, and I take advantage of as many as I can,” she said. White credits Lifelong Learning  Project Lead Cynthia Wilburn for keeping her updated on the latest possibilities.

Wilburn remembers White’s first visit about a year ago.

Carolyn White and Cynthia Wilburn “She jumped right in and quickly became a familiar, friendly face in our classes,” said Wilburn. “I’ve watched her grow from a quiet, new participant to someone who shows up early, chats with classmates and actively engages in every session. She often lingers after class to continue conversations, ask thoughtful questions or share how she’s applying what she learned at home.” 

Wilburn says that transformation is common among Lifelong Learning students.

“Many start out just ‘trying a class’ and gradually build friendships, routines and a genuine sense of belonging,” Wilburn explained. “The joy often comes not just from the content, but from the community they build with each other.”

Learning That Makes a Difference

Nutrition programs are White’s favorite. She often shares what she learns with Mother’s Lifelong Learning students Carolyn White and Juanita Simpson with facilitators from Dallas College and City of Dallas 311. Board ministry members at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church of Dallas. The group, all 70 and older, has watched health advice evolve  over the years. “We wrestle with keeping up with what’s good or bad for you today,” she said.  

Lifelong Learning classroom She also enjoys arts and crafts, trying new experiences, and — she admits — the snacks that sometimes accompany events. Despite not being much of a gardener, White completed a six-week planting course last spring. One of her church friends is an avid gardener so she shared everything she learned with her.

White says the events get her moving and connected. She describes Dallas College Lifelong Learning as “engaging, informative and fun.”

“Participants often tell us they join because they want to keep their minds active, stay socially connected and explore interests they didn’t have time for earlier in life,” said Wilburn. “They appreciate the supportive, welcoming environment, the chance to meet new friends and the feeling of accomplishment that comes from learning something new.” 

Among the most popular offerings are:

• Technology and digital skills: smartphones, computers and AI.
• Art and creativity: painting, drawing and crafting
• Wellness and fitness: healthy lifestyle/nutrition, dancing and physical fitness 

Lifelong Learning students with certificates at the completion of a Digital Skills series where they learned basic computer skills, empowering them to learn and explore more.

For White, another benefit has been meeting new people in the Pleasant Grove community that she may never have met otherwise.

“They are from all different ethnicities and cultures,” she said.

Wilburn said that’s intentional.  

“Our program is designed for adults of all backgrounds experience levels and interests. There’s no pressure, no grades, no tests—just a friendly community of people who enjoy learning and connecting. All they have to do is walk in the door, and we’ll make sure they feel welcome.”

While the primary focus is on noncredit continuing education, senior adults who are 65 years or older may also choose to enroll in credit classes at Dallas College using the Senior Tuition Waiver, which covers up to six credit hours per semester if eligibility requirements are met. These credit courses follow traditional college expectations and are open to all students.

“Dallas College Lifelong Learning is more than classes. It’s a community. It’s a place where older adults can explore their curiosity, make friends and feel empowered to keep growing,” said Wilburn. “Our students bring incredible life experiences into the classroom, and those shared stories enrich everyone. Learning doesn’t stop at any age, and this program is built to celebrate that belief.”

Want to learn more? The Lifelong Learning Office can be reached by phone 972-238-6972 or email LifelongLearning@DallasCollege.edu. And you may fill out this form to receive their monthly newsletter.

 

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