“It fills / The darkening room with light.” – Robert Penn Warren from “Where the Slow Fig’s Purple Sloth”

This summer we invite you to allow yourself to enjoy the enrichment of lifelong learning. Whether you are new to Björklunden, or you have a perennial lifelong learning routine, we’re excited to share with you. 

If you come to this idea with fresh eyes, imagine a day; awakening with sunrise over Lake Michigan. Your needs are met, hot coffee and nourishment. Then, you join friendly and curious companions to explore a topic that has meaning for you—maybe it’s discovering hidden places across the peninsula, learning more about science, discussing great literature and art, or breaking down the deeper themes of past or present societies. Your free afternoon enables you to meditate on what inspired you, discover miles of trails, or explore notable Door County destinations. Imagine this routine wending across three to five days bringing you to a feeling of fulfillment in mind, spirit, and body by its conclusion. Prior Björklunden seminars attendees know this experience very well and its benefits. 

�鶹ӰԺ University is the number one small, private college in Wisconsin. Within its mission is the declaration that “the university is devoted to excellence and integrity in all of its activities and committed to the development of intellect and talent, the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, the cultivation of sound judgment, and respect for the perspectives of others.” So a natural extension from a primary focus on undergraduate education, is promoting lifelong learning that fosters ongoing learning that enriches individuals and thus benefits our society as a whole. The majestic Björklunden property, �鶹ӰԺ University’s northern campus, provides the perfect place for this endeavor, and Björklunden Seminars are open and welcoming to all. 

This year’s curriculum features a wide range of topics led by �鶹ӰԺ faculty, alumni luminaries, and distinguished experts. The season begins the week of June 14, when we have 5-day seminars on Artificial Intelligence, Dreams, and Philanthropy. For alum attending  at �鶹ӰԺ University, select the Thursday departure option, and you won’t miss any activities. Here’s a further sampling of the more than 40 exciting topics available in 2026: 

• A week visiting Door County’s four professional theater companies with actor Dan Klarer, four shows, backstage access, and artist conversations.
• An immersive dive into the history and chemistry of beer with Bobby Fleshman who will lead you on tastings and field‑trips to inspire fascination with every pint.
• A timely reflection on the American Revolution’s military, political, and social upheavals as its 250th anniversary approaches with Professor  and U.S. diplomat .
• A songwriting retreat orchestrated by musicians  ���Ի���, blending workshops, mentoring, and evening jam circles.
• A storytelling workshop led by  that empowers participants to craft and share their own compelling narratives.
• A hands‑on exploration of Earth’s most spectacular geological features with Bill Shefchik through samples, exhibits, and expert guidance.
• A literature‑driven exploration of democratic values through discussions of influential works on resistance, leadership, and civic life curated and facilitated by .����

With dozens of sessions planned, the 2026 season offers something to spark every curiosity. 

Björklunden is located just south of Baileys Harbor in Door County. It is home to a magnificent two-story lodge, a handcrafted wooden chapel, and much more to discover and explore. Prior to the estate being gifted to �鶹ӰԺ University, Donald and Winifred Boynton held the property as their beloved summer home. Winifred writes in her book Faith Builds a Chapel, “feeling that there must be consciousness of peace within each one of us before it can be found throughout the world, we built this retreat.” For the last 50 years and counting, �鶹ӰԺ University has proudly upheld this legacy by stewarding this remarkable site for peace and contemplation. 

Browse all of the 2026 seminars and submit your registrations on our website  . For other questions, email bjorkseminars@lawrence.edu or call 920-839-2216.

Amy Wilson will lead �鶹ӰԺ University’s fundraising and alumni engagement activities as the institution’s next Vice President of Advancement. She also will serve as a member of �鶹ӰԺ’s President’s Cabinet.

President Laurie A. Carter commented, “We are delighted to appoint Amy to the Vice President of Advancement. She brings a comprehensive background of leadership, planning, and strategic programming that will help drive our advancement initiatives, and an incredible, people-centered approach that will be a great fit in working with our alumni and the greater Lawrentian community.”

Wilson joined �鶹ӰԺ University in February 2024 and has actively served in the Interim Vice President of Advancement role over the past several months. During this interim period, she has immersed herself in the �鶹ӰԺ and Appleton communities and began preparations for the university’s upcoming comprehensive campaign.

Commenting on her appointment, Wilson said, “I am truly honored to lead the advancement ambitions of �鶹ӰԺ University. Thanks to the support of countless alumni, parents, and friends, we have a solid foundation. I am eager to advance the university’s important mission in partnership with President Carter and our outstanding advancement and senior leadership teams.”

Wilson brings more than 30 years of development experience to �鶹ӰԺ, including work in higher education and with the Smithsonian Institution. Recent roles include Chief Advancement Officer for Culver Academies, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations at Beloit College, and Senior Director of Leadership Gifts at Bucknell University. Wilson also held leadership roles at Widener University, The Catholic University of America, and McGill University.  She earned her Master of Arts from the University of Notre Dame and Bachelor of Arts from McGill University.