Free Minds New Haven - A Clemente Course in the Humanities

Free Minds New Haven – A Clemente Course in the Humanities is a free, college-level program for adults who have faced economic or educational barriers. Through literature, philosophy, history, art, and writing, students explore stories and ideas that spark curiosity, open doors to learning, foster civic engagement, and encourage bold dreams. Participants gain confidence, strengthen critical thinking, and can earn free college credit—all within a supportive, welcoming learning community.

Spring 2026: We are offering six (6) sample sessions in New Haven led by faculty from nearby Clemente programs and local universities. Whether you’re interested in becoming a student or exploring innovative approaches to education, we invite you to learn more and help us launch a lasting Clemente program in New Haven.  Join us for any or all of the sessions!

SPRING 2026 SAMPLE SESSIONS

[Registration and contact information coming soon.]

Session 1 - Monday, March 30

What Does It Mean to Be Human?

Charlene Floyd, PhD & Students / Harlem Clemente

• Location: Trinity Church on the Green, 230 Temple Street, New Haven

• 5:30pm: Free Dinner

• 6-7:30pm: Class

Session 2 - Monday, April 13

Once Upon a Reimagining: Tales & Stories

Aurora Celestin, PhD candidate / Yale University

• Location: TBD

• 5:30pm: Free Dinner

• 6-7:30pm: Class

Session 3 - Saturday, April 25

Looking to Understand: An Introduction to Visual Art

Jack Cheng, PhD / Dorchester Clemente

• Location: Yale Art Gallery, 1111 Chapel Street, New Haven

• 2:00-3:30pm

Session 4 - Wednesday, May 13

“Yo soy yo y mi circumstancia” (José Ortega y Gasset) - class in Spanish

George Narvaez, DA, CMI-Spanish, MPH Candidate / Southern Connecticut State University

• Location: TBD

• 5:30pm: Free Dinner

• 6-7:30pm: Class

Session 5 - Wednesday, May 27

“yesterday’s garbage ripening in the hall”: Poetry Confronts Housing Discrimination

Cindy Stretch, PhD / Southern Connecticut State University

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43308/kitchenette-building

• Location: TBD

• 5:30pm: Free Dinner

• 6-7:30pm: Class

Session 6 - Monday, June 15

What Does It Mean to Be an American?

Ousmane Power-Greene, PhD / Springfield Clemente & Holyoke Clemente

• Location: TBD

• 5:30pm: Free Dinner

• 6-7:30pm: Class