Channel 10 feature on the Renaissance Society

Frequently Asked Questions:

Below are some Frequently Asked Questions from members new to the Renaissance Society. If you have a question that you believe belongs on this list, please contact our website administrator teri.stone@csus.edu.

What is the Renaissance Society?

Renaissance Society is a participatory lifelong learning community where members explore topics shaped by shared interests, curiosity, and experience. Members enjoy programs on a wide variety of subjects, led by peers, guest speakers, faculty, and community experts. Programs may be offered on campus, on Zoom, off campus, or in hybrid format, and many are recorded for later viewing.

Who may join the Renaissance Society?

Membership is open to all who enjoy learning. Most members are older adults simply because their daily schedules are often flexible, but members of all ages welcome.

What does membership cost?

As of the 2025-2026 academic calendar, RS membership is $120 for the academic year, July 1 through June 30. A spring-only membership is also available for $70.

How do I join RS?

You may join online with a credit card or by mailing in a paper form with a check. Visit the Membership page for both options.

What kinds of programs are offered?

RS offers lectures, seminars, discussions, forums, special events, and more on subjects such as history, science, literature, music, art, current issues, travel, and wellness. Check the current Program Catalog to see specific offerings. You can also check the Weekly Update for special events.

Where and when do programs meet?

Zoom programs are offered mainly Monday through Thursday. Friday programs are usually held on campus, with some also available on Zoom. The Friday Forum is offered both in person and on Zoom. Many of our programs are recorded and you can enroll as "recorded only". (There are also special RS member social events like group pizza, picnics, or concerts held on or off campus.)

How do I register for programs?

First become an RS member. Then use the catalog and registration system found on our RS homepage to choose and enroll in programs. Contact the office if you need help.

Where can I find the current program schedule?

Our RS website homepage is the place to begin.

• Click on the Catalog for program dates, times, locations, and formats.
• The Weekly Update is the best place to check for reminders and current happenings.
• The corrections page for changes and updates to programs.
• After you register for programs, use the button that says "email by program list" to receive a list of all the programs you are registered for. You can do this at anytime by simply logging in to our member portal.

Why do RS members wear badges?

The badges identify us as a group to the university and as individuals to each other. It is easier to make a friend when you see a matching RS badge. They also provide the all-important emergency contact information on the reverse side. To order a badge, email your name and emergency contact person’s name and phone number to renaissa@csus.edu.

Are recordings available?

Many Forum and Summer programs are recorded, but not all. They can be accessed via the Renaissance Society YouTube Channel or the RS website recordings page.

If you have signed up for a "recordings available" class, the recordings will be emailed to you by the instructor.

Do I need a parking permit to park at Sac State?

Yes, you do! RS member parking permits may be used on Fridays and Saturdays only. Sac State parking uses virtual permits through UTAPS, with your license plate serving as your permit. To purchase a permit, click the link and follow the directions. If you'd like to park at Sac State on other days, purchase a daily permit at the same link.

Is Wi-Fi available on campus?

Yes. Sacramento State offers Wi-Fi access for phones, tablets, and laptops, including guest access.

• To connect to the guest wireless network, follow these steps.
  • • 1. Open the Settings app on your phone
    • 2. On iPhone Click on the Wi-Fi tab and select SacLink Guest Network Access. On Android phones click on Network & Internet then Internet.
    • 3. Your browser should automatically open and you should be prompted to enter an email address.This should be your personal email address, not a Sac State one.
    • 4. Click the Login button. Once completed, you should now have wireless access. Reminder—Your wireless access must be renewed every 4 hours.

Can I use the library?

Yes, you can always visit the Sac State library to look around. To borrow a book, Sac State library cards are available for $10 per year. You can purchase the library card when you enroll as an RS member.

Is there a campus map?

Yes. A printable campus map and the Sacramento State mobile app are both available.