Guidance for Immigration-Related Enforcement
For the most up-to-date information on Harper’s immigration-related guidance, please visit this page. We understand that the current climate is causing real uncertainty, and students’ safety and peace of mind matter to Harper College and the Community Education department.
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Debut Novel Published by CE Writing Studio Student
In 2019, Brian Gary checked his mail and found a catalog from Harper College’s Community Education program. Impressed, the 59-year-old, who works in information technology and lives just half a mile from the Palatine campus, decided it was the perfect time to enroll. Longing to rekindle his passion for writing, Brian took a course from Harper’s Writing Studio, which offers noncredit classes and workshops ranging from poetry to technical writing.
Flash forward six years later and Brian is a published author who recently debuted his children’s novel at Printer’s Row Lit Fest in Chicago. His book – Acrimons: The Awakening, written under pen name Clayton Keith – will also be featured at the Texas Book Festival in Austin later this year. Brian credits his CE experience for his success.
“I never planned on being published,” he said. “I wanted to leave something for my kids and grandkids and just to scratch that itch. But because of how comprehensive the courses are in preparing us not just to be good writers and tell a good story, but also to market ourselves and our idea and our product, it just happened.”
Brian is equally serious about his writing, continuing to enroll in CE courses. As someone who wanted to write since high school but found that life always got in the way, he’s excited about this new facet of his life. He praises his Harper writing instructors, the CE program and the Harper community with helping him learn the fundamentals.
“I’m a fiction writer, so I really wanted to learn how to write and be engaging,” he said. “I’m mainly taking classes with Laura Ehrke. She’s a published author, and she’s fantastic, and the cohort we have is fabulous. They’re wonderful creatives, super supportive. It’s great to learn from others as well as from the person who’s teaching the class.”
This is an excerpt from the article, “From improv to Arabic, Harper College offers Community Education classes for a variety of ages and interests,” published by Harper College News Bureau on October 1, 2025.
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Find Your Next Favorite Read–And Fellow Readers–at Harper
Looking for a fresh way to connect with fellow book lovers while discovering your next favorite read?
Join us at the Harper College Library for our ongoing free Book Discussions! Whether you’re a lifelong reader or just dipping your toes into new genres, you’ll find a welcoming space to share ideas, swap recommendations, and explore a different literary theme each term. Each session is facilitated by our expert Harper librarians and staff, so the conversation is always lively, insightful, and fun.
The best part? You can pick and choose the discussions that fit your interests—no need to commit to every book. Registration is quick and free for each session, so you’re always in control of your reading list. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the beautiful Harper College Library, make new friends, and expand your reading horizons. Click the link below to see the current line-up and reserve your spot. We can’t wait to welcome you into the conversation! Learn more and register.
Please contact Christine Kuffel 847.925.6859 ckuffel@harpercollege.edu or Melissa Merlos 847.925.6170 mmerlos@harpercollege.edu with any questions.
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Meet Brooke Jensen, a Lifelong Learner at 95!
We were delighted to welcome Brooke Jensen back to our registration desk as he signed up for yet another class. At 95 years young, Brooke is currently taking private piano lessons and has now added French Conversation to his schedule, proving that curiosity and growth truly have no age limit.
Brooke’s philosophy for a long and joyful life? “Eat well, live well, and laugh well.” And we’d add “learn well”, because his commitment to learning is nothing short of inspirational.
Science backs him up. According to Harvard Health, lifelong learning strengthens neural connections and builds cognitive reserve, fortifying the brain’s ability to maintain function despite aging or disease. Activities like learning a new language or instrument help keep the brain adaptable and resilient, supporting memory, focus, and overall mental agility.
Brooke’s story reminds us that it’s never too late to explore something new, challenge your mind, and connect with others through learning. Whether you’re 25 or 105, continuing education offers a path to personal enrichment, brain health, and joy.
Our noncredit courses are designed for learners of all ages and interests, from arts and languages to wellness and technology. If Brooke’s energy made you smile (it certainly made our day!), we invite you to join our vibrant community of lifelong learners. Find a course to enrich your life at ce.harpercollege.edu
Let’s keep learning, laughing, and living well – together!
Story submitted by Festus Johnson, CE Registration, pictured here with Brooke. As you can see, Festus brings the sunshine and Brooke brings the spark! Proof that joy and curiosity are always in style.
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