The Academy is founded on the principle that it is important for adults to remain involved and active. Our 300+ members, whether in transition from one career to another or “retired,” are most challenged when they share a community of interests with others who believe that every stage of life can be a time of rejuvenation, enrichment, accomplishment and meaningful productivity.

Academy members achieve this through activities focused in four areas:

Working and learning within the community

ASPEC's Interest Groups offer opportunities for mental and physical stimulation, exploration and relaxation, with topics in the arts, politics, science and philosophy, as well as boat-building and Tai Chi. Most Interest Groups meet at Lewis House on the Eckerd College waterfront.

Working with the faculty and students at Eckerd College

Our members work with faculty and students in a variety of ways, collaborating on diverse projects in and out of the classroom. Students find Lewis House (ASPEC's home) a comfortable place to meet with ASPEC members where they can regularly be seen working together on academic endeavors.

Working with the community in which we live

Many ASPEC members devote time and resources to numerous community service organizations, enriching the lives of others as well as their own.

Having fun!

We never forget to have fun. Our social events provide the collegiality and camaraderie necessary to a successful organization such as ours.