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.

Wearable Spooky Art - Create a One-of-a-kind Necklace - Wednesday, October 14 | 10 a.m. - 12 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

Celebrate the spooky season by creating your own wearable work of art! In this fun, hands-on workshop, participants will design and craft a unique spooky-themed necklace using a variety of materials including beads, yarn, twine, charms, fabric, natural elements, and mixed-media embellishments. 

Draw inspiration from pumpkins, ghosts, bats, spiders, haunted houses, autumn leaves, moons, and other seasonal symbols to create a piece that reflects your own spooky style. Learn simple jewelry-making and fiber art techniques while exploring color, texture, and creative expression. 

Perfect for beginners and creative makers of all skill levels, this workshop encourages imagination and experimentation in a relaxed and welcoming environment. 

All materials are provided. Participants will leave with a complete wearable spooky art necklace and the skills to continue creating at home. The workshop lasts approximately two hours.

Autumnal Handpainted Plates Workshop - Wednesday, November 4 | 10 a.m. - 12 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

Celebrate the cozy spirit of November with a relaxing and creative painting experience. Participants will learn how to transform a ceramic dessert plate into a unique decorative piece inspired by the season. Choose from a variety of autumn-themed designs, including fall leaves, pumpkins, harvest motifs, florals, and simple seasonal patterns. 

This beginner-friendly workshop provides step-by-step instruction, guiding participants through the entire painting process—from transferring a design to adding color and decorative details. Whether you’re an experienced artist or trying something new, you’ll enjoy creating a personalized plate to display or give as a thoughtful handmade gift. 

All materials are provided. Participants will leave with a beautifully painted decorative plate and new artistic skills. The workshop lasts approximately two hours. 🍂🎨🧡 

Healing Through Art: A Meditation Angel Ornament Making Experience - Wednesday, December 9 | 10 a.m. - 12 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

Enter a peaceful, heart-centered space where calm meets creativity. In this two-hour workshop, you’ll create your own meditation angel ornament, beginning with a gentle guided meditation to ground and inspire you. Surrounded by soft music and beautiful materials like feathers, crystals, and wood, you’ll craft with intention and intuition—no experience needed. We’ll close with a reflective sharing circle, and you’ll leave with a handmade angel carrying your personal message of peace, love, or protection. All materials provided.

Creating a Legacy Document: What Your Survivors Need to Know - Wednesday, December 16 | 10-11 a.m.

Instructor: James Bardot, MS, BPS, Researcher, Retired Lecturer, Program Coordinator, Assistant Professor & Academic Dean

When a loved one passes—or becomes incapacitated—survivors are often left scrambling for critical information. Traditional documents don’t tell the whole story.

That’s where a LEGACY DOCUMENT comes in. It’s a simple, powerful way to organize the essential details your loved ones will need most. It’s not just a document. It’s a gift—the Gift of Information.

Learn how to gather and organize the practical, personal, and logistical information your survivors will need after a significant life event.

This session does not provide legal, financial, or estate planning advice.

What the Heck is a Trust and Do I Need One? - Wednesday, December 16 | 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Instructor: Valerie Stanek, Attorney at Law

An introductory course on the basic types of trusts, how they work, what they accomplish, and who might need one.