University Express

University Express offers free educational classes for older adults in Erie County. The program runs during spring and fall semesters. You will find classes in a variety of categories, including current affairs, history, humanities, finance, and medicine.

Classes are designed to stimulate the mind and provide opportunities to build social networks, thereby reducing social isolation. No homework or tests, just exciting discussions alongside peers with similar interests!

University Express classes are offered through the Erie County Department for the Aging.

Classes are offered at different locations throughout Erie County. More information about other locations and their offerings here.

Pre-registration is required, as seats are often limited. To register for a University Express class, please call Aileen Gonzalez-Marti at 716-884-6616 x101.

Stay Safe Online - Friday, May 1 | 1 - 2 p.m.

Instructor: Jennifer Andres, Director of Consumer Protection, Erie County Department of Public Advocacy

Learn four key behaviors to lock down your online accounts and keep your data safe.

Intro to Healing Touch - Monday, May 4 | 1 - 2 p.m.

Instructor: Kathryn Frankiewich, RN, MSN, Healing Touch Practitioner

A relaxing energy therapy that uses intentional touch to promote physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This fun, interactive workshop lets you give and receive treatments while seated in a chair.

Handpainted Plates Workshop - Tuesday, May 5 | 1-3 p.m.

Instructor: Aileen Gonzalez-Marti, Manager of Senior Programs at West Side Community Services, Multidisciplinary Artist, and Co-founder of Los Artistas del Barrio Buffalo

Participants are welcomed into a relaxed, creative space where they’ll explore the joy of painting on ceramic dessert plates. Each guest receives a small plate along with a selection of thoughtfully designed patterns to choose from—ranging from simple, elegant motifs to more playful, intricate designs. This is a step-by-step class.

4th of July Tie-Dye Workshop - Friday, June 26 | 1-3 p.m.

Instructor: Aileen Gonzalez-Marti, Manager of Senior Programs at West Side Community Services, Multidisciplinary Artist, and Co-founder of Los Artistas del Barrio Buffalo

Participants will receive detailed, step-by-step guidance on how to design a pattern on a white shirt using rubber bands and patriotic-colored ink.

Dominos & Cafe Workshop - Thursday, July 23 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Instructor: Aileen Gonzalez-Marti, Manager of Senior Programs at West Side Community Services, Multidisciplinary Artist, and Co-founder of Los Artistas del Barrio Buffalo

Participants will learn the basic rules and gameplay of dominoes through simple, step‑by‑step instruction. The session will also include a brief introduction to the origins of the domino game and how it became a beloved tradition in Hispanic and Caribbean cultures. While enjoying a small coffee tasting, attendees will explore the history of coffee and its deep cultural roots in Hispanic communities. After the demonstration, participants will have time to practice playing dominoes in small groups.