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We Are:

Deeply accomplished. Intellectually curious.

HILR member engaged in conversation about book
HILR members smiling during conversation
quiet space in HILR building

Composed of retired and semi-retired professionals, our diverse, 500-person community includes:

  • Experts in the fields of education, law, business, medicine, social work, engineering, architecture, technology, the arts, and more
  • Many individuals with master’s and doctorate degrees
  • Women and men aged 55+

A Shared Commitment to Learning

While each participant’s contributions are unique, all community members share a deep interest in intellectual exploration. That’s core to our mission.

Our Mission

To foster a model of learning in retirement that catalyzes active intellectual engagement and volunteer effort. Rooted in an academic curriculum of peer-led seminars, HILR seeks a diverse population of learners reflecting the multi-cultural richness of the larger society.

At HILR, you’ll gain both new experiences and new perspectives. During any given week you might explore geopolitics in the classroom, attend a lecture on the economy, enjoy an exhibition of community artwork, and lunch with friends in our courtyard.

A Dynamic and Engaged Community of Peers

Our learners are deeply invested in the curriculum. In fact, HILR courses are all designed by the program participants, who guide their colleagues in an exploration of an area of interest or expertise in the liberal arts and sciences. When it’s time to lead your own, we’re sure you’ll find the experience to be as gratifying as others do.

Outside the classroom, you’ll find that engaging in special interest groups and activities helps forge new friendships and foster a deep sense of connection among us.

A Home Near the Square

The program is housed at 34 Concord Avenue, a short walk or bus ride from Harvard Square.