WISE Program Schedule
Jerry & Esther Krueger
Wisdom in Senior Education (WISE) Program
Fall 2026 Schedule
Don't miss out - visit this secure link and become a member of WISE today!
Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 2 p.m.
The Gilded Age of Mansions in Florida
Speaker: James “Zach” Zacharis
Florida is home to some of the most amazing historic mansions in the United States. Many of these homes were built by the mega industrialists who found Florida as their winter playground.
Tuesday, September 15 at 2 p.m.
Preparing Tomorrow’s Healthcare Workforce
Speaker: Colin Chesley, Ed.D., MBA, LNHA- Associate Vice President, College of Health
& Public Services
Dr. Chesley will provide an overview of the innovative technologies and advanced training methods shaping Daytona State College’s Health Science programs. Learn how graduates apply these skills in local healthcare settings, helping strengthen patient care and support the evolving needs of the community.
Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 2 p.m.
The Invisible Ballet: My 40 years of Helping Keep the Skies Safe as an Air Traffic
Controller
Speaker: Richard Smith, Retired Air Traffic Controller and Instructor
A career in air traffic control is both deeply rewarding and intensely stressful, demanding constant focus and split-second decision-making. In this talk, participants will hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from Richard’s 40-year career guiding pilots safely through some of aviation’s most challenging moments. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how hundreds of dedicated professionals—air traffic controllers among them—are working together every day to keep your next flight safe.
Tuesday, September 29 at 2 p.m.
Behind the Badge: How Experience Keeps Our Campus Safe
Speaker: Lou Marino, Director of Campus Safety
Get an inside look at how the team's law enforcement experience and professional training are used to enhance campus security, support emergency preparedness, and foster a safe learning environment. Gain insight into the strategies, partnerships, and daily efforts that help protect students, employees, visitors, and the broader DSC community.
Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 2 p.m.
Topic: Beyond the Shelves: The Library does that too
Speaker: Amy Cantley, Regional Librarian, and Clayton Duhl, Adult Services Section
Head
Come and learn how Volusia County Public Library serves the community beyond books. With a focus on learning, literacy, and community connections, Volusia County Public Library is a valuable resource to meet the community's needs in the 21st century.
Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at 2 p.m.
Topic: CANDO: Ormond Beach Citizens Make History
Speaker: Jeff Boyle
Learn how a small group of citizens (CANDO) made unprecedented history by initiating a successful 2006 public referendum to limit building heights in Ormond Beach. Jeff has been an Ormond resident since 1970, former teacher, small business owner, Ormond City Commissioner (1996-2005), and 2006 Chair of Citizens and Neighbors Devoted to Ormond.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 2 p.m.
Topic: Marineland Right Whale Project
Speaker: Terran McGinnis (Project Coordinator, Marineland Right Whale Project and
Wild Lessons, and Environmental Education Organization)
Terran will discuss the successful coexistence of North Atlantic Right Whales and humans in Florida, along with the promising rise in whale numbers and what it means for conservation
Tuesday, October 27, 2026 at 2 p.m.
Topic: History of Cattle Ranching in Volusia County
Speaker: Greg LeFils is a 3rd generation family rancher in Florida and owner of the
Diamond L Cattle Company, a 3,000- acre cattle ranch in Deltona.
Learn how the cattle industry has changed from the conditions of settlement in 1842 to the present, from the impact of the Civil War on cattle ranching, and the more recent 20th and 21st century transformations which have led to a vast difference in the average size of a cattle herd today.
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 at 2 p.m.
Topic: The Odyssey of Jackie Robinson & Daytona Beach
Speaker: Steve Barber
On March 17, 1946 at City Island Ballpark, Jackie Robinson stepped up to the plate changing the world of baseball forever as he broke the color line heralding the end of racial segregation with the first integrated baseball game in history.
Tuesday, November 10 at 2 p.m.
Taking Flight: What's New at Daytona Beach International Airport
Hear from airport leaders about recent accomplishments, upcoming projects, and the many ways Daytona Beach International Airport supports the local community. From enhancing travel experiences to driving economic impact, discover how the airport continues to serve as an important regional resource.
Tuesday, November 17, 2026 at 2 p.m.
Daytona State in Motion
Speaker: DSC Leadership
Hear firsthand about the programs, partnerships, and progress driving Daytona State College forward. Gain insights into how DSC is supporting economic growth, educational access, and student success throughout the region.
No Meeting November 24th due to the Thanksgiving Holiday
Monday, November 30, 2026 at 2 p.m. at DSC’s News-Journal Center
Sounds of the Season
Speaker: Jonathon Anderson, Professor of Choral and Vocal Studies, along with DSC
Music Students
Get a front row seat for an exclusive behind the scenes rehearsal as the talented DSC Music students prepare for their many upcoming holiday shows.
WISE participants/members are asked to pay $30 (individual) or $50 (couple) as a contribution to cover the costs of programming once a calendar year. However, inability to pay should not be a barrier to participation in WISE. Payment may be made in person or via this secure link. For more information, call (386) 506-3195 or visit www.DaytonaStateFoundation.org.
All programs, unless otherwise noted, are held at the Daytona State College Advanced Technology College Campus 1770 Technology Blvd, Daytona Beach (on Williamson Blvd. north of LPGA Blvd.).
WISE members have established a scholarship fund that provides support for students
in need of financial support as they pursue an education at Daytona State College.
Please contact Emily Elliott, Director of Development & Community Engagement, at (386) 506-3195 or by email to
Emily.Elliott@DaytonaState.edu for additional information or mail payment to:
Daytona State College Foundation, 1200 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach,
FL 32114.
Give today using this secure link. Thank you!