Presented by Jennifer K. Wills

Claytor Nature Center, the “hidden gem of Central Virginia”, is 491 acres of diverse habitat and natural beauty, and is just 25 miles from campus. It serves as a research center, education center, and a center for community engagement. The power of nature is ubiquitous in the activities at Claytor from environmental education and scientific research to team-building retreats. Researchers, students, and the public can immerse themselves in nature at Claytor while participating in data collection and helping to answer important scientific questions.

Teams and individuals could also benefit from the power of nature. Research continues to show that being in nature reduces stress hormones and improves creativity. The obvious lack of screens allows for an ‘unfocused’ brain, permitting new ideas and connections. While the stress reduction benefits may be short-term, there are longer-term benefits from the self-awareness gained through creating art, hiking while learning about native plants, taking a CliftonStrengths workshop, or taking a guided sound walk.

Places like Claytor Nature Center could be the prescription for what ails us and what ails the planet.

The University of Lynchburg’s LIFE@Lynchburg program offers not-for-credit learning opportunities for community members age 50 and older. The program features weekly presentations on a variety of engaging topics, taught by current and retired faculty and staff members or area educators and presenters.

Our payment and membership options and benefits provide access to a range of on-campus amenities.

• Semester pass: $85
• Semester Virtual Membership: $49
• Annual Membership: $150
• Annual Virtual Membership: $79
• Single Event Pass: $12

Learn more about our different membership options.