The Lifelong Learning Program Closure

It is with heavy hearts that we share the difficult news that the Lifelong Learning Program (LLeaP) will suspend operations as of June 30, 2025.

Over the years, we’ve worked hard to keep registration fees low to ensure our programming remained accessible. However, rising costs and a steady decline in registrations over the past five years have made the program increasingly difficult to sustain.

Unfortunately, the university is unable to absorb LLeaP’s growing financial deficit, and the Centre for Initiatives in Education, the home unit for LLeaP, cannot continue to operate at a loss.

Please know that all expert seminars and series scheduled for May and June will proceed as planned. As a gesture of thanks, we are extending our deadline to register for late Spring session until two days before the series starts. We will continue to offer the Buy One, Get One (BOGO 50%) promotion for Expert Seminars for May and the 20% discount when you take a second lecture series beginning in May.

We understand how disappointing this news may be—we share in that disappointment. This program has meant a great deal to all of us. Your curiosity and passion for learning have inspired us every step of the way. It has been a true privilege to watch you connect with our lecturers, explore new ideas, and build a vibrant and thoughtful learning community.

Although LLeaP is coming to a close, the Centre for Initiatives in Education (CIE) remains committed to supporting lifelong learners. We will continue to share periodic news about free and low-cost learning opportunities at Carleton and in the Ottawa region.

For questions about the closure, please contact Jennifer Gilbert, Associate Director, CIE: Jennifer.Gilbert@carleton.ca

We also warmly invite you to join us for a celebration of the LLeaP community June 18, 10:30 – 12:00 in 102 St Patrick’s Building, where we will gather, reflect, and honour the connections we’ve made together. Register for this event.

Thank you for being an essential part of this journey and our community. Your support has meant the world to us, and the spirit of lifelong learning will continue through each of you.

With heartfelt regards,

Dr. Janet Mantler, on behalf of the Lifelong Learning Program Team
Centre for Initiatives in Education