The Longwood University College of Graduate and Professional Studies has announced the launch of the Lancer Learning Community (LLC).

The LLC — an educational initiative started by the university — is an outreach to citizens of Farmville and the nearby communities offering “non-credit, fun, diverse and affordable classes,” according to a press release.

“The concept of this initiative is to tap into the talents of business owners, Longwood staff and students, residents and community leaders to offer sessions highlighting topics of interest, enjoyment and diversity while stimulating the economy of Farmville and the surrounding area,” Dean at Longwood University College of Graduate and Professional Studies Dr. Jeannine Perry said in the release.

According to Director of Professional Studies Shelly Madden, the idea for the program stemmed from Longwood President W. Taylor Reveley IV’s mission of reaching into the community. Madden said Perry noticed there were many active senior citizens and other residents in the community still very active in learning and decided to offer short-term, affordable classes people might be interested in taking.

The initial launch of the program offers three multi-session classes ranging from $75-$100.

“Right-Brain Alley” offers four face-to-face two-session art classes — two in March and two in April.

The March sessions offer a painting class, according to officials, entitled, “Tangled Initials,” and a ceramics class, “Make a Mug and Saucer.” The cost of the class is $75.

“Let’s Make a Toast” focuses on pairing alcohol (wine and beer) with different foods. The class will highlight different methods for “creating unique menus, matching flavors and enhancing meals in both personal and professional settings.” The cost is $100 and will cover four meals with instructional pairing handouts.

The sessions will last one hour with 30 minutes allotted at the end for Q&A. Cost of alcohol for each meal is $5 per person and includes one alcoholic beverage to “serve as an example of a well-paired menu.”

“Perk and Brew — Coffee and Tea” will offer two, four-class sessions at Longwood Bed and Breakfast and Uptown Coffee Café. The classes will focus on the history, makings and pairings of teas and coffees. The cost is $75.

To enroll for the sessions, visit http://go.longwood.edu/enrollment. For more information on the initiative, visit http://blogs.longwood.edu/continuingeducation. No prior education or knowledge is required for any of the classes.

“We can make amazing things happen in Farmville, by bringing people, ideas and money to the area,” said LLC’s Cindy Harris.