Professional Development Institute

08/22/2026

Rum education just became a little more global.

The Certificate in Rum & Sugar Cane Spirits is now live through our partners at Forth Valley College in Scotland, creating a new option for learners looking for a European-friendly schedule.

Here in the U.S., the next University of Lynchburg cohort begins September 14, led by Master Rummelier® Greg Hill. The 10-week, 100% online program explores rum through history, culture, production, tasting, and real-world industry experience, and leads to the Level 1 Rummelier® credential.

Whether you're joining us from this side of the Atlantic or theirs, we're building a global community around the serious study of rum and sugar cane spirits.

U.S. cohort: September 14
European-friendly option: Forth Valley College, Scotland

https://store.pdi.lynchburg.edu/product?catalog=SCS101

University of Lynchburg is a nationally recognized private university where students gain a greater heart for humanity and a mindset of individual growth. Here, thought-provoking learning ignites change in each individual, and the world.

08/18/2026

New from PDI: Mastering ChatGPT & AI for the Workplace Certificate

Ready to move beyond experimenting with AI?

This new three-course online certificate is designed to help professionals build practical skills using ChatGPT and other conversational AI tools for research, writing, brainstorming, problem-solving, productivity, and everyday workplace applications.

Beginning with effective prompting and foundational concepts, the program progresses to more advanced applications and repeatable AI-assisted workflows you can put to work in your professional life.

💻 100% online
📚 Three-course certificate
⏱️ 48 hours
📅 Begins September 8

Explore the new certificate and see what AI can help you do next. https://store.pdi.lynchburg.edu/product?catalog=MasteringChatGPT

University of Lynchburg

08/15/2026

University of Lynchburg at the Key West Rum Fest Grand Tasting!

It's been an incredible week in Key West for University of Lynchburg Rum & Sugar Cane Spirits instructor Greg Hill.

Today, Greg had the opportunity to present Master Rummelier® certificates during the Key West Rum Fest Grand Tasting, where rum enthusiasts and industry professionals came together to explore spirits from around the world.

Thanks to everyone who stopped by, connected with Greg, and helped make this such a memorable week in Key West!

08/14/2026

A great afternoon at the Key West Rum Fest! 🥃

University of Lynchburg's Rum & Sugar Cane Spirits instructor Greg Hill joined fellow rum authors for today's book signing, and we're happy to report that Greg sold out of all the books he brought with him!

It's been a great week of connecting with rum enthusiasts, industry professionals, former students, and friends from across the rum community.

Congratulations, Greg, and thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello!

08/13/2026

Greetings from Key West Rum Fest! 🥃

University of Lynchburg's Rum & Sugar Cane Spirits instructor Greg Hill is enjoying Rum Fest this week with Bruce Cross, who completed the certificate program this past spring.

One of the things we love about this program is the community that grows around it, bringing together learners, alumni, industry professionals, and rum enthusiasts through a shared curiosity and passion for rum and sugar cane spirits.

These connections continue well beyond the classroom!

08/12/2026

Curious about careers in the cannabis industry?

Join a free live online information session tomorrow, August 13, at 7 p.m. EDT to learn how cannabis career certificates connect to real industry roles, what employers look for when hiring, and what “job-ready” means in today's cannabis market.

Can't attend live? Register anyway to receive the recording.

Free registration - follow the link in the comments below.




University of Lynchburg

08/11/2026

Heading to Key West Rum Fest this week? Be sure to look for Greg Hill, instructor for the University of Lynchburg’s Certificate in Rum & Sugar Cane Spirits.

Greg will join fellow rum authors Ian Burrell, Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, and Shawn Dean for a special Rum Fest Book Signing on Friday, August 14, from 12:30–1:30 p.m. at The Studios of Key West.

Stop by, say hello, and talk rum with some of the people who know it best.

08/10/2026

Attending the Key West Rum Fest this week?

Be sure to look for Greg Hill, Master Rummelier® and founder of the Royal Rum Society, and say hello!

Greg is also the instructor for the University of Lynchburg’s Certificate in Rum & Sugar Cane Spirits, where learners explore the history, culture, production, and global traditions of rum.

If you’re in Key West, we hope you’ll have a chance to connect with Greg and enjoy a great week of rum, learning, and community.





University of Lynchburg

08/04/2026

Fall is the perfect time to invest in yourself.

Whether you're looking to advance your career, earn a professional credential, or explore a new interest, the University of Lynchburg's Professional Development Institute offers 100% online, non-credit courses designed for adult learners.

Explore what's next for you.

https://pdi.lynchburg.edu/

07/27/2026

Will AI replace UX designers?

Probably not.

But AI is changing what successful UX professionals need to know.

Our latest PDI Insights article explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping user experience and why human centered design may be more valuable than ever.

Read the article: https://store.pdi.lynchburg.edu/catalog?pagename=douxdesignersneedaiskills

University of Lynchburg

University of Lynchburg is a nationally recognized private university where students gain a greater heart for humanity and a mindset of individual growth. Here, thought-provoking learning ignites change in each individual, and the world.