Finding Love Through Learning: A Road Scholar Romance
When Stephen M. spotted Ilene F. for the first time at Road Scholar’s A Feast for the Senses: Ashland and the Art of Theater in Oregon, love was the furthest thing from his mind. She had slipped into the opening session a bit late, catching his attention with a flurry of quiet apologies and a confident air. Stephen couldn’t help but think, with a mix of amusement and exasperation, “California time, I suppose.”
Ilene and Stephen
But five days immersed in Shakespeare’s world worked a little magic of its own. Over dinners and shared conversations, Stephen’s initial impression transformed into curiosity — and something more. By the end of the program, Stephen and Ilene were swapping contact information, with plans to reconnect soon.
It didn’t take long. Stephen signed up for The Civil Rights Movement: Atlanta, Montgomery, Selma, Birmingham, a program Ilene had mentioned. What began as casual chats to exchange travel tips soon turned into nightly conversations spanning everything from personal philosophies to hopes for the future. “We talked for hours,” Ilene recalls.
On his birthday, Stephen received a framed photo collage of their time together in Ashland — a thoughtful gesture that left no doubt about the connection forming between them.
Participants on The Civil Rights Movement program
A New Chapter Together
Eight months after their first meeting, Ilene and Stephen are navigating a long-distance relationship with grace and humor. At 83, they’ve found joy in blending their independent lives while building something new together.
Ilene, a retired school psychologist, is an avid volunteer, bridge player, theatergoer and traveler. Stephen, a former banker, keeps busy with community work, gardening and Rotary Club projects. Together, they split their time between Chatsworth, California, and Portland, Oregon, savoring the best of both cities — and plenty of FaceTime “happy hours” when they’re apart.
“We enjoy life’s experiences in each other’s towns,” Ilene said. “It’s an adventure I never imagined at this stage of life.”
Shared Values, Different Paths
Despite their different backgrounds, Ilene and Stephen have found common ground in their love for learning, shared values and appreciation for one another’s lifestyles. Their mantra? “One day at a time.”
Their story is a reminder that the connections made on a Road Scholar program — whether with the world, new ideas or other participants — can sometimes lead to the most unexpected and rewarding journeys of all.
Have you made any unexpected relationships on a Road Scholar learning adventure? We’d love to hear about it — join the conversation on Facebook.
This Road Scholar story was shared by Fran Lieber Krimston, June 2024.