
An
enriching weekend in 2009 SMU-in-Taos Cultural Institute July 23-26, 2009 |
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Visit our photos page to see highlights from previous SMU-in-Taos Cultural Institute weekends. |
Focus your lens on the beauty of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Excavate the past near historic Fort Burgwin. Learn new perspectives on the art, cultures, and colorful characters of Taos. Explore New Mexico’s past as the birthplace of the nuclear age. Renew yourself in the spectacular setting of Northern New Mexico.
For over 30 years, the 295-acre SMU-in-Taos campus has been used for undergraduate summer semesters and our archaeological field school. Now, with the addition of the Cultural Institute, we are opening our doors to the general public by offering enriching weekend classes for adults in a relaxed and inspirational setting. Taught by distinguished SMU faculty, class topics reflect the unique geology, archaeology, literary and artistic traditions, cultural richness, and scientific contributions of Northern New Mexico, as well as the recreational opportunities provided by the local environment.
Each topic is explored over two and a half days, including fieldtrips to relevant sites, with time allowed for sightseeing and recreation on your own. Classes are limited in size to allow for in-depth discussion and individual attention. Through evening receptions and shared mealtimes, you may enjoy an atmosphere of relaxed academic congeniality and exchange, learning at your own pace in a setting that captures the imagination, encourages exploration, and renews the spirit.
"Vacationing has changed. People now want to collect ‘experiences’ as opposed
to photos or other ‘brag-abouts.’ SMU-in-Taos provides a venue, a learning
environment, and just enough mental stretches. It all added up to a memorable
experience. I am so glad I was there."
– Lisa LeMaster
Learn more about previous courses. The 2009 SMU-in-Taos Cultural Institute courses will be available January 2009.
Cost Information
The registration fee for each class ranges from $650 - $750, and includes course
tuition, field trip entry fees and permits, materials costs, and designated
meals. Lodging and transportation to and from Taos are the responsibility of
each participant.
Cancellation Policy
Registrants may cancel by notifying the SMU-in-Taos Cultural Institute up to
30 days prior to the start date of the Institute. A handling fee of $50 will be
withheld from your registration fee, and the balance will be refunded to you.
Refunds will not be permitted after June 21. Should the SMU-in-Taos
Cultural Institute cancel a course, a full refund will be made to the
registrants of that course.
Accommodations
Participants in the Taos Cultural Institute are responsible for making their
own arrangements for lodging during the weekend. Because July is one of the
busiest times in Taos, you are encouraged to make these arrangements sooner
rather than later. For a list of lodging options that we highly recommend,
please click here.
Getting There
If you choose to fly, the nearest airport is the Albuquerque International
Airport, from which you may rent a car or take a shuttle into Taos (about a
2-hour drive). If you choose to drive from Dallas to Taos, plan on approximately
11-12 hours.
Taos Weather in July
The weather in Taos in July is (typically) delightful. While daytime highs
are usually in the mid to high 80s, evenings and early mornings are cool, with
lows in the low to mid 50s. Days are mostly sunny, although late afternoon
showers are common. Click here for the current Taos forecast.
What to Wear
Dress is very casual during the day and “nice casual” at night. Dress in
layers to accommodate temperature changes. Comfortable walking shoes are
suggested. And because the sun is more intense at higher altitudes, sunscreen
and a hat are highly recommended.
Please Note
The Taos area is at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level. Some
fieldtrips will include walking trails and climbing moderate inclines at this
altitude.
For More Information
Contact Allison Curran at taosci@smu.edu or call 214-768-TAOS (8267).

