McCall Continuing Education

2026 Fall Term
Previews of all Courses

Join us Thursday, September 12 at 2:00 p.m. in the Assembly Room at Givens Highland Farms
Meet the Instructors and Select your Courses!

MONDAY Course: September 16 to October 28

Mornings: 9:30 – 11:30

The Historic Swannanoa Valley – Joe and Dr. Mary Standaert
Explore the journey from Old Fort to near Biltmore with stops at Black Mountain, Christmont, Blue Ridge Assembly,
Montreat, Mt. Mitchell, Oteen and Azalea through photographs, videos, and postcards. Experience the Valley's religious gatherings,
historic Black Mountain College, and breathtaking mountain scenery.

Mary Standaert holds a BS in Biology from Winthrop University, a Masters in Forest Science from Yale School of Forestry,
and a PhD in Biochemistry from University of South Florida. Joe Standaert possesses a BS in Biology from Rutgers and a
Masters in Ecology from Yale School of Forestry. Both have shared local history knowledge across various venues including McCall,
and authored four books on Swannanoa Valley and Buncombe County history.

Facilitator: Robert Garrison

TUESDAY Courses: September 17 to October 29

Mornings: 9:30 – 11:30

The Semiotics of Mystery and Thriller Novels – Dr. Doug Sutton-Ramspeck
Explore the enduring appeal of mystery and thriller genres through classic works such as Darker than Amber, The Collector, and The Pilot’s
Wife. Analyze these narratives using diverse critical lenses including New Criticism, Psychology, Historicism, Feminism, Marxism, Deconstruction, among others. Our objective is to uncover insights into human nature through these stories.

Doug Sutton-Ramspeck (also known as Doug Ramspeck) has authored nine poetry collections, two short story compilations, and a novella. Formerly a professor at Ohio State University, he specialized in creative writing, composition,
and literature at the Lima Campus.

Facilitator: Samantha Maynard

Afternoons: 2:00 – 4:00

Ancient Human Societies—Rise and Demise – Dr. Suzanne Sutherland
Examine Homo sapiens alongside approximately 20 other human species dating back 2 million years. We will investigate cultures that originated in Africa and spread across Eurasia,
the ecosystems supporting them, and environmental pressures that shaped them.

Our discussions will incorporate cutting-edge research uncovering intricate details of early human existence during the Holocene epoch. We will consider how geological shifts and climatic variations influenced
human development and draw parallels to contemporary global challenges.

Suzanne Sutherland earned her M.D. in Psychiatry at Duke University School of Medicine and conducted pharmaceutical research on psychiatric medications.

Facilitator: John DePew

WEDNESDAY Courses: September 18 to October 30

Mornings: 9:30 – 11:30

The Early Years of the American Short Story: 1835-1920 – Dr. Margaret Whitt
Trace the evolution of short fiction from its origins in periodicals to its emergence as a respected literary form. This course surveys key developments in American storytelling through selected works spanning nearly a century.

Margaret Whitt is a distinguished Professor Emerita affiliated with University of Denver, renowned for teaching Southern literature for 27 years. Her contributions include numerous publications, book reviews, and accolades. This marks her ninth collaboration with McCall.

Facilitator: Paul Grass

Afternoons: 2:00 – 4:00

Introduction to William Faulkner – Dr. Robert Brinkmeyer
Begin with selected short stories from Collected Stories of William Faulkner before concluding with his novel As I Lay Dying. Classes combine lectures and dialogue, requiring approximately 75 pages weekly.

Robert Brinkmeyer, PhD, is Professor Emeritus at University of South Carolina where he directed Southern Studies and taught English.
Facilitator: Susan Denne

THURSDAY Courses: September 19 to October 31

Mornings: 9:30 – 11:30

Introduction to Watercolor for Beginners – Ron Maffett (limited to 8 participants)

Perfect for newcomers, this class introduces watercolor fundamentals including material selection, color theory, and brush techniques. Participants create multiple pieces under guidance. Materials provided except for consumables which require reimbursement of $37 to instructor.

Ron Maffett draws and paints professionally since childhood. His training spans Atlanta School of Art and multiple mentorships. Currently operates studio within River Arts District and Red House Gallery and Studios at 101B Cherry Street in Black Mountain.

Facilitator: Betsy Atkinson

Afternoons: 2:00-4:00

Finishing Strong—Preparing for Life’s Final Stages – Rev. Dr. Steve Runholt
Addresses crucial aspects of end-of-life planning encompassing legal, health, emotional, spiritual, and logistical dimensions. Real-world scenarios illustrate the significance of preparation for both individuals and families.

Rev. Dr. Steve Runholt ordained Presbyterian minister with extensive pastoral experience at Warren Wilson Presbytery. Holds advanced degrees from Duke University and Princeton Theological Seminary. Formerly conducted 90+ funeral ceremonies over two decades.

Facilitator: Helen Balgooyen

Registration

Secure your spot today through our convenient online portal!

Limited enrollment ensures personalized attention with maximum 30 participants per session. For assistance with registration issues, contact Elizabeth Hayford at 828.419.2221 or email mccall@[SITEURL].