The University Connection
Within the tranquil environment of the Gardens is a vibrant community of residents that brims with curiosity, energy, and an eagerness to remain engaged in the life of the surrounding communities. That desire to connect is evidenced by the remarkable number of partnerships the Gardens and its residents have forged with local schools, colleges and universities. The nearby Claremont Colleges offer residents the opportunity to audit courses along with access to diverse educational and cultural events.
On the Gardens campus, a focus on reciprocal learning creates collaborations on a spectrum of programs, from social work and healthcare to technology and environmental studies. These partnerships offer an enriching experience for residents and help students develop and practice their skills in a real-world environment.
A Unique Opportunity
The Napier Initiative, established by residents from the neighboring community Pilgrim Place in 2010 in cooperation with faculty and administration of the five undergraduate colleges, was created to recognize and encourage students who demonstrate leadership promise.
Elder co-learners participate in the Napier course at the Claremont Colleges by completing assigned readings, engaging in online and classroom discussions, and working with undergraduates in the class on a team project or report as assigned by the faculty member. Elder co-learners are usually excused from writing a final paper or taking the final examination.
To learn more, check out the Napier website at www.napierinitiative.org.
Jay Labinger is a Gardens resident, he was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. Jay received his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Harvey Mudd College. He attended Harvard University where he earned a Ph.D. He was an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Notre Dame. His career has included positions with Occidental Research Corporation & Atlantic Richfield. He is the Administrator of Beckman Institute at the California Institute of Technology as well as a Faculty Associate in the Chemistry Department. He enjoys reading, playing the piano, tennis and traveling. He has published books on the history of chemistry, sociology of science and literature & science. Here at the Gardens, Jay is part of the Conservation & Sustainability Committee the Green Fund as well as many other groups through the Gardens Club.
Jane Hurd is a Gardens resident, she was born & raised in a small town in Arkansas. After she received her BA from the University of Arkansas she moved to California and taught seventh grade English in Porterville CA. After two years she moved to Los Angeles and worked for the Department of Health Services and pursued a master’s degree in public administration from USC.  She served as CEO for two Los Angeles area hospitals. She continues to consult as an executive coach for CEOs of healthcare companies.  She has served on several boards including Mutual of America Insurance Company, YMCA of Metropolitan LA, LA Visiting Nurses Association and Inland Empire Girl Scouts. Jane is an award-winning author and plays several musical instruments. Here at the Gardens, Jane is part of the newly formed Bequest Committee, as well as many other groups through the Gardens Club.
