Empower University Launches Winter Semester

Empowerment University for Seniors (Empower U), a groundbreaking continuing education program for older adults, began its winter semester in late September at Berman Commons of Dunwoody. For the first time, the program will also be hosted at The William Breman Jewish Home, giving even more residents across Jewish HomeLife communities access to its unique, uplifting curriculum.

The semester officially launched on Sept. 25, 2025, with a highly anticipated Masterclass: “The Apollo 11 Flashback” — an immersive exploration of the first moon landing, combining history, engagement and memory stimulation with a VR simulation of Apollo 11 Saturn 5 rocket trip to the moon, all designed to spark both wonder and conversation.

Developed by Oy Vey VR and led by founder Stuart Steiner, Empower U has quickly become one of the most talked-about activities in Jewish HomeLife communities. Classes range from world travel to science, culture, history, and the arts, often delivered with the help of innovative technology including virtual reality and EmpowerView custom tablets. The program is designed to show that seniors are, indeed, “never too old to learn.”

“Empower U has been a joy to watch unfold,” said Steiner. “We’ve seen residents light up with curiosity, laugh with one another, and rediscover their sense of purpose. There’s even a group of ladies at Berman Commons who tell us they circle the date of every class on their calendars and start talking about it days before. That kind of excitement and anticipation is exactly why we created Empower U.”

The reception from residents and families alike has been overwhelmingly positive. Many caregivers and families report that their loved ones share what they’ve learned at dinner conversations or phone calls home, a sign that the program is sparking engagement well beyond the classroom.

Lisa Miner, executive director at Berman Commons, emphasized the impact on the community: “Empower U is more than a program; it’s a movement to redefine aging with dignity and vibrancy. We believe every senior deserves the opportunity to connect, learn, and grow and Empower U is our way of making that belief a reality.”

Dr. Mirie Manzour, volunteer services manager at Jewish HomeLife, spoke about the engagement of the residents: “Empowerment University is an exciting opportunity for the residents of Berman Commons and The William Breman Jewish Home to engage in life-long learning. Seeing our residents engaged in a classroom setting sets the stage for what is possible for those living with cognitive decline. During the Empower U classes, the atmosphere shifts into one that focuses on sparking inquisitiveness by offering thought-provoking learning experiences.”

Empowerment University has proven to be more than just a class schedule — it’s a movement of enrichment, empowerment, and community for older adults. With the expansion to The William Breman Jewish Home, Jewish HomeLife is ensuring that more seniors can benefit from this innovative program, continuing to affirm the dignity, joy, and intellectual spark of residents at every stage of life.