About Us

The Academy brings free programs to the community to stimulate learning about a variety of topics. A key concept still found in Scandinavian folk academies today and retained at Winchester Academy, is lifelong learning outside the traditional structure of high school and college. The speakers bring superior scholarship or expertise, yet are understandable to an adult audience with any level of education. The topics are diverse, mostly in the humanities, liberal arts and sciences.

The Academy has offered an average of 25 free public lectures each year, divided into three series - fall, winter/spring, and summer. Many programs have been videotaped and are available on loan at the Waupaca Area Public Library. It is our goal to broaden interest and knowledge about issues from regional to global. See PAST SPEAKERS for examples of past programs.

A volunteer board meets monthly and special committees meet as needed to consider and make decisions on the selection of programs and speakers, grant writing, policy matters, budgetary matters, and fund raising. Activities include preparation of publicity, planning and conducting fund raising events, introducing speakers and serving refreshments at programs. Board members also help to support the Academy financially.

Winchester Academy's expenses include cost of publications and mailing, post office box rental, professional accountant audits, governmental corporate filing fees (e.g., 501 (c)(3)), tax exemption status with IRS, and speaker honoraria-travel-lodging. The executive director receives a modest stipend. He/she provides leadership and follow-through to board decisions, keeps the board and committees organized, communicates with and schedules speakers.