Collin College Scholars Active In Learning (SAIL): Making Waves Since 1996

Collin College Founding President Dr. John Anthony believed in lifelong learning. His belief that “we need to educate all ages of students” inspired the birth of Collin College Continuing Education’s Scholars Active in Learning (SAIL) program.

The SAIL program, for individuals 55 and older, started in 1996 as a club that rented space at Collin College. During this time, members were able to participate in 12 classes. Since 1996, the program has become a part of the college and has grown to approximately 60 face-to-face and online classes per semester with more than 500 dedicated students.

“The best thing that happened to the SAIL program is when it became part of the college because then it had the college’s support,” said Sherry Scamardo, program director of SAIL. “The program has stayed true to the classes that were offered in the beginning – history, literature, science, and current events – and we have added AI courses. Every semester we offer all new courses, face-to-face and online.”

Scamardo has been a part of Collin College for 10 years and with SAIL for eight years. She discovered later in life that her place was in higher education, and her love for learning is her connection to this student population. She believes the program provides a wonderful learning opportunity and a chance for students to get involved with the college.

“It’s important that we keep the classes fresh and in the eyes of the community to attract new students,” Scamardo said. “We really look at SAIL as a community service. How can we keep our community involved in learning? Students come from all backgrounds and educations.

“I had a student who never got to go to college. She was 82 years old and because of the war during her youth, she said, ‘I stayed home to raise my kids. And now, I’m so happy to tell my great grandkids that I am in college.’”

The oldest SAIL student, Ann Stephens, is 94 years old and has been a part of the program for 15 years. Sally Roberts was one of the first students in the program in 1996 and continues to participate in SAIL classes.

SAIL is also known for its notable instructors which have included a retired secret service agent, a brigadier general, and many of Collin College’s very own noteworthy professors.

“SAIL and Collin College think it is important to encourage students to be part of the Collin family, whether it is to take lifelong learning classes, Continuing Education classes, or credit courses to finish a degree,” Scamardo said. “We want our scholars to know that ‘we see you and that we want to educate you.’ Collin College is an education space. Whether you’re 18 or you’re 94, you’re important to us. I truly believe that because I’m going to be one of those students.”

To learn more about this affordable program, visit www.collin.edu/sail or call 972.985.3788.