Presenting the 2026 Björklunden Seminars

"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 this year’s lineup of seminars 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. 

Lawrence 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, Lawrence 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 Lawrence 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 Reunion at Lawrence 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 astrophysicist turned brewer 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 Jerald Podair and U.S. diplomat Jon Greenwald.
• A songwriting retreat orchestrated by musicians Alice Peacock and Sarah Morris, blending workshops, mentoring, and evening jam circles.
• A storytelling workshop led by Shelley Davis 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 Bronwyn Mauldin.  

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 Lawrence 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, Lawrence 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 lawrence.edu/bjorkseminars . For other questions, email bjorkseminars@lawrence.edu or call 920-839-2216.