The Learning Collaborative (TLC) brings together people who now have the time and the freedom to take classes for fun and who enjoy the real pleasure of continuing to learn. The curriculum is patterned after successful national programs designed to meet the educational interests of the retired community.
TLC provides you with a wonderful opportunity to join with others like yourself – people whose life experiences enrich class exchanges. The program’s expert lecturers lead fascinating discussions on topics that range from science to current affairs, from the arts to interpersonal relationships.
The Learning Collaborative is the unique result of a passion felt many years ago by a small group of retired Rockland County residents. They wanted to go back to school again, to join with others in a rich learning environment.
The Learning Collaborative is governed by a Board of Directors that meets frequently to evaluate its programs and to make them even more attractive to the general public. These unpaid directors include original founders of the Collaborative, current and past instructors, and students.
For more information, please contact info@learningcollaborativeny.org.
Sam Mazen, Chair
A student-participant of The Learning Collaborative (TLC) since 2009, and Board Chair since 2018. In his professional life he was a Staff Attorney at the New York State Insurance Fund.
Sally Borgman, M.Ed., LMSW
Worked for the Rockland County government for almost 20 years, as a community resources program specialist and Training Coordinator. Collaborated with various county agencies and not-for-profits to provide linkages and partnerships for programs to benefit the community, including being a founding member of the grassroots organization that started the Rockland County Drug Court.
Mary Buchbinder, MPH
Was a community outreach coordinator and educator for several voluntary health agencies. Co-managed an independent bookstore before retiring. She was a partner in establishing TLC.
Phil Carmichael
A graduate of New York University School of Engineering, he is a retired electrical engineer with extensive experience in communications technology. The holder of several patents, he helped develop the precision timing for the GPS navigation satellite and portions of the GOES weather satellite.
Phyllis Citrin
Had 45 years of experience as an Advanced Placement Biology teacher and Science Research mentor. Currently serves as VP on her Homeowners Association Board, has taught many courses for TLC, such as Introductory Biology, Genetics, Evolution, Immunology/focusing on Covid-19, Introverts, Middlesex, and The Merchant of Venice.
Marty Cohen, Ph.D.
Actively involved in promoting adult education since the 1970s. At TLC, he recruits instructors, is the editor of the catalog, and has taught dozens of courses on many different topics.
Judy Gorman
Berton Greenberg, Ph.D.
An active participant who is willing to help TLC with its mission of education and social interactions. Has taught in college and holds a PhD in Materials Science.
Warren Grodin, MD
A retired physician, he was a research professor at Columbia University, and then Chairman of Anesthesiology at Nyack Hospital. He is an experienced teacher in TLC, and a lover of poetry.
Phyllis Levin
Educator, Home Economist. She taught Home Economics and Math at all levels in Brooklyn and Nanuet., and was a Home Economist at Procter and Gamble, New York. “Education is my shining star. Proud member of TLC.”
Alan J Pierce, Ed.D.
Alan’s 40-year career as an educator included teaching in NYC, CCNY and ECSU in NC. He also served as the New York State Ambassador for Occupational Education for NYS Ed Dept. He is the author of 6 textbooks and served as an author, editor and/or consultant on over 250 other published works. He has received many awards including a National Research Award and a University Professor of the Year award from the University of North Carolina system.
FAQs
TLC PRICING – Spring 2026
$70 per person
For two people at the same computer, please register both individuals!
There are three optional special courses this term that are available to students who register for the Spring Semester. Each optional special course is an additional $25.
Regular Program: all classes are on Tuesday mornings. The optional special courses are held on Thursdays.
Students will be informed by email in advance of all classes.
See page 9 of the Catalog for detailed information.
You will receive the Zoom links in a reminder email that is sent to students before each class begins.
We welcome new instructors with something interesting to share. Email The Learning Collaborative team at info@learningcollaborativeny.org to start the conversation!
Email The Learning Collaborative team at info@learningcollaborativeny.org to start the conversation!