Education
Lectures & Keynotes
Education was a founding principle of the Chautauqua Movement. Lakeside continues to value life-long learning by providing educational opportunities for all ages and interests. Offerings range from expert-led lectures and Lake Erie science lessons to family arts and music programs.
Lecture Series
The hallmark of Lakeside’s education experience is the Chautauqua Lecture Series. Experts present topics ranging from history and science to cultural arts and current world affairs. More than 50 lectures are offered during the summer. View theme weeks below and visit the calendar for details. For questions, contact John Mann, Director of Education at (419) 798-4461, ext. 278.
2025 Chautauqua Lecture Series Themes
- Week 1: May 27-30 | Celebrate Ohio: Leaders in Technology This week showcases the people and businesses who called Ohio home and impacted our everyday lives. From the lightbulb to space travel, Ohioans have left their mark on the world
- Week 2: June 2-6 | Getting There is Half the Fun! Going on vacation or traveling is always a fun experience, but the way we get there can be just as memorable. Examine various modes of transportation from the past and modern times
- Week 3: June 9-13 | Weather Forecasting & Calamities The weather is among the most discussed topics daily. Discover how meteorologists predict the weather and about some of the natural calamities that have occurred
- Week 4: June 16-20 | African American Historic Leaders Learn about the historically prominent black individuals who had a deep faith and played an important role in our nation’s history, particularly in the black community
- Week 5: June 23-27 | The Renaissance Explore a period marked by a cultural and intellectual “rebirth” where artists, thinkers and scientists drew inspiration from classical Greece and Rome. This led to significant advancements in art, literature, science and philosophy, effectively changing the world
- Week 6: June 30-July 3 | 1775: Path to Independence Examine what led to the American Revolution and our independence by gaining a better understanding of the events of 1775. – This week’s lecture series is supported by Mary Lou & Don Lefelar
- Week 7: July 7-11 | Global Conflicts The world has experienced a number of conflicts. Learn about the international struggles of the past and how they shaped the world we live in today
- Week 8: July 14-18 | Polar Science Study Earth’s polar regions and what makes them truly unique
- Week 9: July 21-25 | Women to Revere Gain a better understanding of the work women have achieved in leading the way for greater equality for all Americans, the barriers that have been broken, and the work that still remains
- Week 10: July 28-Aug. 1 | Life in the 1930s Life during this time was marked by the Great Depression, widespread poverty and unemployment. At the same time, a new architectural style flourished, and there were innovations in the arts and sciences. It was a decade of longing for a simpler past and dreaming of the future
- Week 11: Aug. 4-8 | Historic Hotels: Much more than an overnight stay, historic hotels are a lasting picture of travel that offers today’s guests a richer experience. This week coincides with the Hotel Lakeside’s 150th Anniversary Celebration
- Week 12: Aug. 11-15 | Art of Glass From noteworthy installations and sculptures to vibrant stained-glass windows and tableware, explore this fascinating art form and gain a greater appreciation for the talented artists
- Week 13: Aug. 18-22 | Documentary Week Engage in thought-provoking documentaries and the stories behind them
- Week 14 Aug. 25-29 | Lakeside University Lakesiders come from different backgrounds and are a wealth of knowledge. This week is their time to shine and share their experiences and expertise with others
Keynote Speakers
The Education Department coordinates numerous programs throughout the year; from lectures and seminars to dialogues and documentaries, a variety of learning methods are used to promote intellectual growth. Some of the topics explored include arts and culture, business, gardening, history, religion and faith, and many more!
Family & Youth Education Programs
With families in mind, Lakeside coordinates a variety of programs for youth – from science and swim lessons to songwriting and theater camp! Learn, grow and have fun while on summer vacation. In addition to the programs on the calendar, be sure to check out the art classes at the the C. Kirk Rhein, Jr. Center for the Living Arts.
Professional Development Graduate Credit
Ashland University, in partnership with Lakeside Chautauqua, offers professional development for graduate credit for educators looking to renew their education licenses, and/or gain professional development in their workplace.
The two-semester graduate credit course is a self-paced, independent study that allows participants to choose and attend the Lakeside programs during the summer. Registration begins May 26 and ends July 30, 2024. The cost is $370. For questions and additional information, email Sally Schuler at schuler05@gmail.com.
