Meet Our People
The heart of our success lies in our people. We are selective in who we work with, ensuring that every member of our team shares our commitment to excellence and passion for making a positive impact. Please use the Contact Us page to communicate with any member of our team or to inquire about working with us.
Ron Rubin, PhD
Co-founder, Chief Academic Officer & Senior Lecturer
In addition to his leadership role, Dr. Rubin also hosts programs at SeniorU.com on a variety of topics at the intersection of science, technology, and policy. He has founded or co-founded several companies and organizations in the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors, including Therapy Gardens, Rubin Anders Scientific, Boston Manufacturing Group, and the University of the Middle East Project, Dr. Rubin’s focus is on using technology to benefit people. When not starting companies, Dr. Rubin adjunct teaches graduate physics and math courses at universities in the Boston area. Formerly full-time on the mathematics faculty at MIT, Dr. Rubin received his PhD in physics from Harvard and his BA with highest honors from Princeton. His work in science and education has been published in leading technical journals and covered in The New York Times and the Boston Globe. Dr. Rubin’s workshops, particularly his online workshops, are not to be missed.
Anne Wilayto Bishop, MPH
Senior Lecturer
With a master’s degree in public health, Anne is an senior lecturer for Senior U. She boasts an illustrious career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Public Health Specialist. With experience spanning hospital settings to the Boston public school system as a School-based Health Center Provider, she’s also served as an Adjunct Professor in Simmons University’s Graduate Nursing Program. In 2015, she embraced a new role at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, becoming a Visitor Experience Volunteer. This position allowed her to guide diverse groups through the rich history of U.S. Senate exhibits and engage visitors in contemporary political discussions. These days, Anne spends her time as a senior lecturer and presenter for SeniorU and Therapy Gardens with a focus on historical events, gardening, cooking, and nutrition.
Chris Torres
Podcaster and Paranormal Researcher
Chris has had an interest in technology, UFOs, and “The Paranormal” for over 35 years, which has greatly intensified in the last 5 years due to recent government activity on the subject. Open-minded and extremely curious, Chris enjoys researching and discussing “fringe” topics, and co-hosts a podcast doing just that. Considered a local expert on podcasting and an engaging presenter, Chris is also an excellent technology instructor and is in high demand for those services as well. He has experience in the business world as well as working for local senior centers. Originally from Methuen, Massachusetts, Chris now lives near the beach in Salisbury, Massachusetts with his partner, Rosie.
Peggy Curtis
Senior Lecturer and Gardening Expert
A passionate gardener, Peggy has held various elected offices in the Brockton Garden Club, and has been a leader for the PTA, the Girl Scouts, and the Boy Scouts of America. She was most recently appointed as a Commissioner for the Brockton Conservation Commission. In her free time, she volunteers for charities, and enjoys gardening, reading, traveling, and spending time with her grandchildren. Her style is hands-on and gregarious, and her tea tastings and blending workshops for Therapy Gardens/SeniorU are legendary! Peggy is available for gardening, cooking, and various general interest workshops.
Victoria Kichuk
Associate Lecturer, Chocolate Sommelier
Owner of Cocoa Beantown
Born on National Chocolate Chip Day, Victoria is the ultimate chocolate professional. A renowned chocolate sommelier, she has explored chocolate from various countries, walked miles to visit chocolate shops, and studied its history through books and personal experiences. Her unwavering belief in the power of chocolate to bring joy, foster connections, and create lasting memories shines through in her work and interactions with people worldwide. Victoria’s chocolate tastings and informative presentations fill up fast, so book early.
Alex Benedict
Senior Lecturer, Educator, and Life Coach
Alex Benedict is a coach, educator and personal trainer. An experienced facilitator, he has given workshops on a wide variety of topics at senior centers and universities in the Boston area. Professionally, Alex has a varied background, having worked as a public school teacher, business analyst and producer for Japanese television. This background only strengthened his commitment to all forms of diversity, whether it be cross cultural communication, LGBTQ issues or learning styles. Having worked in both the corporate and non-profit world, he is open to a wide variety of viewpoints and paths to fulfillment. Alex is a graduate of Hamilton College, Boston University and the Goldvarg Consulting group. He currently lives in Attleboro with his handsome rescue dog, Fitzgerald. In his spare time, he writes songs and creative non-fiction.
John Gardinier
Lecturer & Lifelong Learner
John Gardinier spent much of his career in client-management, helping to grow businesses. An avid reader, with a degree in Journalism/English, his intellectual curiosity spurs a lifelong interest in learning. Most recently, that’s brought him to discover Eastern philosophy and develop a mindfulness meditation practice. He’s trying now to keep up with his teenage daughter, both on the hiking trails and when they broadcast the news live on a radio station for the visually impaired. John’s Local Food Trivia and other presentations have garnered him a unique and dedicated following. He also doubles as our Outreach Coordinator on occasion.
Dale Senechal
Senior Lecturer, Resident Technology Expert
Owner SeneTech IT Consulting
A US Navy Veteran and MIT alumnus, Dale started SeneTech in 2017 as his own IT consulting firm. After more than 25 years in the IT industry working for other organizations, he uses his expertise and experience with various products and projects to help clients implement and learn technology that gives them the tools they need to succeed. He loves helping customers get the most out of their technology. SeneTech’s focus is on providing comprehensive IT solutions and services. Whether that means managing the intricacies of an Enterprise Content or simply setting up a Home Office, the solution matches the need. SeneTech offers On-Site Visits in Eastern MA, including Cape Cod, and Remote Support anywhere. Dale is available through SeniorU for various individual and small or large group technology instruction, from cell phone help to technology training.
Cynthia G. Neale
Author
Cynthia G. Neale, an accomplished author, has penned five historical novels and the whimsical recipe book Pavlova in a Hat Box, Sweet Memories & Desserts. She has also written a screenplay series and a historical musical drama. Her notable work, The Irish Dresser Series, beautifully narrates the journey of a young Irish girl during the Famine and her coming of age in America, showcasing Neale’s deep passion for history and storytelling. Beyond her writing, Neale’s interests include Irish and ballroom dancing, hiking, gardening, and baking. She resides in New Hampshire with her husband and cat, where she continues to inspire through her creative endeavors and public speaking. Cynthia is available for a variety of author talks, lectures, and workshops in the New Hampshire area.
Join the SeniorU Community!
Ready to embark on a journey of lifelong learning and connection? Join our vibrant SeniorU community today and discover a wealth of enriching programs for seniors and older adults.