Kyle Messner
Free public preview week runs Sept. 21 to 24, featuring a Fall semester of 113 classes and 25 new instructors
Get ready for our biggest semester yet! New Adventures in Learning is thrilled to highlight A Taste of New Adventures, our cornerstone preview week running from Sept. 21 through 24. This special event is completely free and open to the public—and we strongly encourage all of our current members to bring along a friend, neighbor, or family member to share in the experience!
Equally important, Fall 2026 Registration officially opens for members on Monday, Sept. 21 at 10 a.m.—right as A Taste of New Adventures kicks off! With our biggest semester ever featuring 113 classes, 25 new presenters, and lots of new topics, courses will fill quickly. Be sure to mark your calendar so you can secure your spot in your top-choice session.
Designed as an exciting sneak peek of our full Fall lineup, preview week offers a welcoming taste of what makes our learning community so special. Whether you are drawn to deep historical biographies, health sciences, cultural explorations, or practical life guidance, guests and returning members alike will get a firsthand look at our dynamic topics and passionate presenters.
To help you plan your week, here is the official presentation schedule.
A Taste of New Adventures
Monday, Sept. 21
10 a.m. Amazing (but little-known) Women: “Grandma” Emma Gatewood (Presenter: Carole Rockland)—Discover the incredible story of the first woman to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail solo, completing the journey in sneakers at the age of 67.
1 p.m. The Second Brain: Do the “germs” in your gut really run your life? (Presenter: Gene Lariviere)—Delve into cutting-edge medical research on the human biome and explore how gut microbes influence physical and mental health.
Tuesday, Sept. 22
1 p.m. Paris: City of Lights (Presenter: Michael Buscaglia)—Take a virtual stroll through the history, art, iconic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods of one of the world’s most romantic cities.
Wednesday, Sept. 23
1 p.m. Pan Dulce and Aguas Frescas: A Sweet History of Mexico (Presenter: Kyle Messner)—Trace the evolution of Mexican bakery traditions and indigenous beverages, concluding with a live tasting of traditional pastries and drinks.
Thursday, Sept. 24
9:30 a.m. Mythbusters! (Presenter: Becky Cholewka)—Join an expert estate planning attorney to separate facts from fiction, put common legal myths to rest, and gain practical advice you can rely on.
Closing Reception: Immediately following Thursday’s presentation, join us for a celebratory closing reception! Enjoy refreshments, mingle with peers, meet our Fall semester instructors in person, and ask questions before registration opens fully.
The Taste of New Adventures sessions are 100% free and open to the public, but seating fills quickly! Fall 2026 registration for members opens Sept. 21 at 10 a.m.
* Call: 480-857-5500 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
* Visit Us: Stop by the office at 25105 S. Alma School Road (across from the Shell station), Monday to Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Come see everything New Adventures in Learning has to offer—we can’t wait to see you at preview week as we kick off an extraordinary season of learning together!