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BECOME OUR NEWEST OSHER MEMBER! Join a community of inquiring and engaging peers age 50+ who thrive on personal fulfillment through education. Whether you are looking for individual classes or a short course series, our programs explore the arts, history, politics, religion, health, social issues and much more. At the same time, you will connect with new friends, discover volunteer opportunities and even find a fresh interest or two! B E N E F I T S I N C LU D E : • Choose your membership option: - Pay As You Go (with small membership fee) - Annual Membership for unlimited courses (offered every fall) • Access to 100+ courses annually • Free intersession discussion groups • Instructors who are highly respected educators and subject-matter experts • Special events and local excursions • Free student admission to the CSUSM Arts and Lectures program
And did we mention … no tests and no grades?
Join today!
www.csusm.edu/el/olli
MONDAY COURSES
THURSDAY COURSES
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Protectors: Muslim Rescuers and Resistors of the Holocaust
9 The Life, and the Afterlife, of Stars
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The Symbols of Our Life: How Hidden Signs and Ancient Archetypes Shape Human Existence
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Nazi Hunters and the Hunted
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The Animal Kingdom — Well, Some of It, Anyway!
9 The 1688 Glorious Revolution, the Catholic Issue in England and Bonnie Prince Charlie 9 Eleanor Roosevelt: First Lady of the World 10 Let’s Talk Musicals 10 The American Revolution and the Fate of the World
TUESDAY COURSES 5
The Rise of the Industrial City: American Urbanization, 1800-1929
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Russia-Ukraine: U.S. and European Perspectives
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Art Topics
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The Dark Triad: Understanding the Toxic Traits of Narcissism, Machiavellianism and Psychopathy
SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP 11 Lunch Meet Thursday, March 19
DESTINATION LEARNING No refunds or discounts on Destination Learning trips.
11 The Miniature Engineering Craftmanship Museum Thursday, Feb. 26
WEDNESDAY COURSES 6 Diane Keaton: Retrospective of a Revisionist Star
11 Norton Simon Museum Monday, April 20
6 Medicine in Art 6 Hamilton vs. Jefferson 7
Our American Heritage Told Through the National Park System
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Battle of the Coral Sea
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Russian Culture in Exile: The History of Russian Immigration
San Elijo Hills
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FREE LECTURE 11 Explore the Living Wonders of Dolphins and Whales Wednesday, March 11
9 Explore the Living Wonders of Dolphins and Whales
EXCITING TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES WITH OLLI AND COLLETTE! Join us for two unforgettable excursions — one to London and Paris, and another to the beautiful region of Tuscany. See page 8 for more information.
CSUSM Extended Learning 288 Campus Way, San Marcos, CA 92078
KEY FOR LOCATIONS CSUSM in San Marcos Zoom D
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute | www.csusm.edu/el/olli
Destination Learning
Hybrid, offered live in the classroom and via Zoom simultaneously (interactive)
OSHER | SPRING 2026
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THE OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE RENEW YOUR ENTHUSIASM FOR LEARNING • EXPLORE NEW INTERESTS • MAKE NEW FRIENDS
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) is an organization established to improve the quality of life for adults over 50 years of age through higher education and the arts. OLLI at CSUSM was established in 2004 and is one of 125 Lifelong Learning Institutes supported by the Bernard Osher Foundation.
Bernard Osher
Osher provides a wide array of courses taught by university professors and experts in their respective fields. The program aims to keep learners intellectually active and socially engaged with like-minded peers. If you’d like to renew your enthusiasm for learning, explore new interests and make new friends, Osher is for you!
MEMBERSHIP*
PROGRAM LINKS
An Osher membership is required to participate in our program.
Memberships and registration fees support the program. Sharing links with spouses and friends is prohibited and serves as a detriment to the longevity of the Osher program.
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP, PAY AS YOU GO $35 membership fee. Valid 5/1/2025 - 6/30/2026. Pay for classes a la carte. When purchasing a la carte classes, if you do not have a current membership, a general membership fee will automatically be added to your shopping cart.
ANNUAL ALL-INCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP
Please note that all Extended Learning credit card transactions will be charged a convenience fee of 2.65%. The convenience fee is subject to change.
This membership will be available to purchase beginning 7/1/2025. Pay one fee of $560 and select an unlimited number of courses from 100+ offerings throughout the year. This annual membership is valid 7/1/2025 - 6/30/2026. Some exclusions apply.*
OLLI STAFF
FOR REFERENCE WHEN PURCHASING AN ALL-INCLUSIVE ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP:
Amy Sprout , Program Coordinator asprout@csusm.edu 760-750-8613
• Purchase annual membership on our website at csusm.edu/el/olli before enrolling in classes. • Allow 24-72 hours for account activation. • After receiving an email notification from us, log in to your student portal to make class selections. Choose annual or lifetime member and the system will zero-out your balance. (Excludes pop-up lectures, special events and destination learning.) *Pop-up lectures, destination learning excursions, special events, entrance fees, art supplies, etc., are not included in membership packages. $5 park ing fee per day to park on campus.
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CREDIT CARD TRANSACTIONS
OSHER | SPRING 2026
Sherie Cambra, Program Director scambra@csusm.edu 760-750-8716
HOW TO REGISTER BY PHONE 760-750-4020 Note: We can accept eCheck s by phone. No mail-in registrations.
ONLINE csusm.edu/el/olli/howtoregister.html See step-by-step instructions on our website.
MONDAY
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RUSSIA-UKRAINE
MEDICINE IN ART
NAZI HUNTERS AND THE HUNTED
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AMERICAN URBANIZATION
DIANE KEATON
RUSSIA-UKRAINE
HAMILTON VS. JEFFERSON
12 LET’S TALK MUSICALS
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AMERICAN URBANIZATION
DIANE KEATON
RUSSIA-UKRAINE
AMERICAN HISTORY IN NATIONAL PARKS
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5 LET’S TALK MUSICALS
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16 HIDDEN SIGNS AND ANCIENT ARCHETYPES
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AMERICAN URBANIZATION
9 MUSLIM RESISTORS OF THE HOLOCAUST
THURSDAY
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AMERICAN URBANIZATION
DIANE KEATON
RUSSIA-UKRAINE
AMERICAN HISTORY IN NATIONAL PARKS
SPRING 2026 AT A GLANCE
FEBRUARY 2026
26 DESTINATION LEARNING: MINIATURE ENGINEERING CRAFTSMANSHIP MUSEUM LET’S TALK MUSICALS
MARCH/APRIL 2026 2 THE ANIMAL KINGDOM
3 AMERICAN URBANIZATION
DIANE KEATON
RUSSIA-UKRAINE
BATTLE OF THE CORAL SEA
9 THE ANIMAL KINGDOM
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ART TOPICS
RUSSIAN CULTURE IN EXILE
THE DARK TRIAD
FREE LECTURE: DOLPHINS AND WHALES
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THE DARK TRIAD
THE LIFE OF STARS
24 ART TOPICS THE DARK TRIAD
THE 1688 GLORIOUS REVOLUTION
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19 SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP: LUNCH MEET
25 RUSSIAN CULTURE IN EXILE
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12 AMERICAN REVOLUTION AND THE FATE OF THE WORLD
ART TOPICS
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16 THE ANIMAL KINGDOM
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RUSSIAN CULTURE IN EXILE
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THE DARK TRIAD
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20 DESTINATION LEARNING: NORTON SIMON MUSEUM
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute | www.csusm.edu/el/olli
OSHER | SPRING 2026
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MONDAY SCHEDULE
RENEW YOUR ENTHUSIASM FOR LEARNING • EXPLORE NEW INTERESTS • MAKE NEW FRIENDS
MEET OUR INSTRUCTORS CSUSM Osher instructors are leading educators and subject-matter experts in many fascinating fields of study. For a full list of our instructors and their areas of expertise, please visit csusm.edu/el/osher-instructors.
HOWARD KERNER is a retired English professor who taught at the high school, college and university levels during his 47-year career. His passion project has been discovering unknown stories about inspiring people who performed brave acts of kindness even during the Holocaust. He has presented his uplifting programs at OLLIs, temples, churches and civic organizations across the country and in Canada. ALEJANDRO CASTAÑEDA, MA, holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in communications, the l atter from Università Internazionale Dell’arte and Università Statale di Firenze in Florence, Italy. As a consultant, professional corporate trainer and keynote speaker, Castañeda has taught at the University of San Diego, SDSU, Cal State San Marcos, the Universidad Anáhuac and Universidad Iberoamericana. He is a published author in the fields of leadership, productivity, customer service and sales. STEPHENIE SLAHOR, PhD, JD, is retired from her law practice and university teaching, and she now focuses on writing, lecturing and creating innovative, informational and fun courses for OLLI programs around the nation. She is a life member of the Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society and past president of her local chapter of the American Business Women’s Association.
PROGRAM LINKS We appreciate all of our members! Memberships and registration fees support our program. As we continue online access, please keep our program links private. Sharing links with family and friends is a detriment to the longevity of our Osher program.
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seeks to reveal how they continue to define our identities, choices and worldviews in ways often unnoticed.
OSHER | SPRING 2026
MONDAY, FEB. 16 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Online via Zoom 1 day $18 Alejandro Castañeda, MA
Nazi Hunters and the Hunted
| MONDAY COURSES Protectors: Muslim Rescuers and Resistors of the Holocaust While Christian rescuers in WWII are virtually unknown, even less recognized and celebrated are the extraordinary Muslim resisters and rescuers that saved thousands of Jews and other persecuted people. Learn about an aspect of Islam called Sufism and the cultural/religious concept of Besa and how these influenced diplomats and many others to save Jews at the risk of their own lives. This inspiring course uses films, lectures and discussion to understand and celebrate the beauty of Muslim goodness during the Holocaust.
So many of the most heinous and guilty Nazi perpetrators managed to escape capture at the end of WWII. Although Simon Wiesenthal was the most famous Nazi hunter, there have been many others who have devoted their lives to capturing these despicable men. We will be telling and showing their stories. MONDAY, FEB. 23 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Online via Zoom 1 day $18 Howard Kerner
MONDAY, FEB. 9 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Online via Zoom 1 day $18 Howard Kerner
The Symbols of Our Life: How Hidden Signs and Ancient Archetypes Shape Human Existence This dissertation explores the role of symbols as fundamental mediators between human consciousness and reality. From prehistoric cave paintings to modern corporate logos, symbols have not only reflected cultural values but also shaped our collective imagination and behavior. Yet, many of these symbolic influences operate unconsciously — embedded in art, religion, language and even digital communication. By tracing the evolution and reinterpretation of key symbols across history, this work
The Animal Kingdom — Well, Some of It, Anyway! Our planet hosts a variety of habitats and animals that live in them, from polar regions to jungles. The course looks at the six habitats of sky, arboreal, underground, land, fresh water and salt water and some of the animals that use or live in those habitats. MONDAYS, MARCH 2 - 16 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Online via Zoom 3 weeks $50 Stephenie Slahor, PhD, JD
MONDAY, APRIL 20 See description under Destination Learning on page 11.
be led by a retired U.S. diplomat who has negotiated and mediated efforts among Russia, Ukraine and others. We will focus on your questions and ideas, with a goal of uncovering new points and thoughts throughout the course. TUESDAYS, FEB. 3 - MARCH 3 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 5 weeks $80 David Bame, MAT
Art Topics
| TUESDAY COURSES The Rise of the Industrial City: American Urbanization, 1800-1929 This course will examine the emergence and expansion of the industrial city in the United States, an urban form shaped by the rise of industrial manufacturing. We will explore the origins of the industrial city by examining the commercial city — or walking city— that preceded it and by discussing the rise of factory-based manufacturing in the early 19th century. The course will then explore such issues as the geographic expansion of cities, the built environment, transportation in the city, urban politics, and the social and cultural environment of American cities. TUESDAYS, FEB. 3 - MARCH 3 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 5 weeks $80 Andy Strathman, PhD
Russia-Ukraine: U.S. and European Perspectives The Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to befuddle Americans, Europeans and others looking to help. The conflict also presents unprecedented risks, and perhaps opportunities, in Europe and beyond. This course will look at historical and other relevant contexts to learn lessons, understand consequences and focus on key factors for the future. The course will
Topics in this five-week course will include Artists’ Road to Fame, History and Significance of Abstract Art, and What Does Contemporary Art Mean and How We Got Here. TUESDAYS, MARCH 10 - APRIL 14 (SKIP 3/31) 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 5 weeks $80 Robin Douglas, MA
The Dark Triad: Understanding the Toxic Traits of Narcissism, Machiavellianism and Psychopathy This five-week (10-hour) class explores the dark triad — narcissism, Machiavellianism and psychopathy. We will examine the traits, motivations and behaviors associated with these personalities and how they influence relationships, leadership and society. The class will also consider the psychological and social factors that contribute to these patterns and their impact on everyday life, along with strategies for navigating interactions with individuals who exhibit dark triad characteristics. TUESDAYS, MARCH 10 - APRIL 14 (SKIP 3/31) 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 5 weeks $80 Karen Eso, MA
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute | www.csusm.edu/el/olli
MONDAY/TUESDAY SCHEDULE
Norton Simon Museum
ANDY STRATHMAN, PhD, is a lecturer in the history department at CSUSM, where he teaches courses on United States history with an emphasis on California history and the American West. He earned his PhD in history from UCSD in 2005. He has also taught in the history departments at UCSD and USD. Strathman is the co-editor of The Journal of San Diego History. DAVID BAME, MAT, is a retired U.S. Foreign Service officer (diplomat) with a career spanning 29 years in more than 30 countries as well as in Washington, D.C. He has worked on key U.S. national security policies around the world, especially the Middle East and Europe. Bame has lectured extensively, including many U.S. and foreign universities. ROBIN DOUGLAS, MA, an art professor for 36 years, has served as associate director of the School of Art and Design at the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign. She also was on the board of the Spurlock Museum and Krannert Art Museum Council. Her commissioned artwork is in private collections, offices, hotels and university buildings. KAREN ESO, MA, has been a professor at Cal State San Marcos since 2004. Her undergraduate studies were in biology and chemistry and she studied clinical neuropsychology as a graduate student at the University of Victoria.
*Hybrid courses are offered live in the classroom and via Zoom simultaneously (interactive).
OSHER | SPRING 2026
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RENEW YOUR ENTHUSIASM FOR LEARNING • EXPLORE NEW INTERESTS • MAKE NEW FRIENDS WEDNESDAY SCHEDULE
instruction, inspiration, comfort and a sense of beauty to the practitioner as well as to the afflicted. Each of these qualities will be highlighted in the presentation.
BRANDON CESMAT, MFA, has taught cinema at Palomar College and CSUSM since 1992. He earned an MFA in Creative Writing with correlative study in screenwriting from San Diego State University. He has curated the Cinema Series for Carlsbad Library and received several San Diego Press Club awards for best critical writing about movies. He is the author of several books of poems and fiction, which include his reflections on movies. His album of original music, Califor-Noir, is available online. He can be followed @cesmatmusic. PHILIP GOSCIENSKI, MD, retired from the Navy with the rank of captain and was head of the Infectious Diseases Branch in the Department of Pediatrics at the Naval Regional Medical Center in San Diego. A former clinical professor of pediatrics at the UCSD School of Medicine, Goscienski invests his expertise today in writing newspaper and magazine articles.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 4 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 1 day $18 Philip Goscienski, MD
| WEDNESDAY COURSES
Diane Keaton: Retrospective of a Revisionist Star The late Diane Keaton had the benefit of starring in several movies that defined the Hollywood Renaissance: Annie Hall, The Godfather Saga and Reds. Once the revisionist era ended, Keaton continued to appear in roles that revised what was possible for women actors in movies such as First Wives Club, Something’s Gotta Give and The Family Stone. This course will examine her groundbreaking iconography as well as her turn at directing Wildflower. WEDNESDAYS, FEB. 4 - MARCH 4 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 5 weeks $80 Brandon Cesmat, MFA
FRANK TURNER, MA, received both his BA in history and MA in digital history from CSUSM. He is an instructor at Palomar College and San Diego Miramar College, where he teaches United States and Ancient World History. Turner is the vice chairman and historian for the Oceanside Historical Preservation Advisory Commission.
Medicine in Art PROGRAM LINKS We appreciate all of our members! Memberships and registration fees support our program. As we continue online access, please keep our program links private. Sharing links with family and friends is a detriment to the longevity of our Osher program.
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This richly illustrated presentation traces the portrayal of disease from 30,000 years ago, through ancient civilizations, the glory of the Renaissance and the realities of the modern age. Second only to observation at the bedside, art served as education for physicians until the age of technology. It still provides
Hamilton vs. Jefferson After the patriot forces in the American colonies were successful in defeating the British to gain their independence, the Founding Fathers believed there was no need for political parties, because everyone wanted the same thing. But Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson proved this notion to be incorrect, as they had very different opinions on how this new country should be shaped. Their conflicts would lead to the two-party system that we have today. Both men would play an important role in how this new country would be shaped. WEDNESDAY, FEB. 11 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 1 day $18 Frank Turner, MA
There are more than 430 parks in the National Park System. Many people think of these as natural parks. In fact, nearly two-thirds of the parks in the National Park System are historic and cultural parks. They range from well-known places like Gettysburg and Independence Hall to lesserknown places like Hubbell Trading Post and Bent’s Old Fort. The National Park System spans 11 time zones from Saipan to the U.S. Virgin Islands, and grasping the breadth of the park system can be daunting. This course will present a look at places where you can experience U.S. history where it happened.
WEDNESDAY SCHEDULE
Our American Heritage Told Through the National Park System
Battle of the Coral Sea May 8, 1942: America stops the advance of Japan in the Pacific. For the first time in history, a naval battle was fought between aircraft carriers. For the first time, the spectacular success of the Japanese at capturing territory in East Asia was stopped by the brave effort of the U.S. Navy pilots in the Coral Sea. This is a story of a daring, perilous, high stakes gamble by Admiral Nimitz.
Class 1: This class will be a tour of historic homes, sites related to Native Peoples and parks related to European settlement, westward expansion and American industry. Class 2: Battlefields, military parks, forts and national cemeteries constitute a substantial number of places in the National Park System. We’ll take a look at sites related to the Revolutionary War, the Civil War and World War II. WEDNESDAYS, FEB. 18 - 25 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 2 weeks $35 Costa Dillon, MPA
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 1 day $18 John Landry
CONSTANTINE (COSTA) DILLON, MPA, is a retired National Park Service ranger and superintendent who worked in more than a dozen parks in his 35-year career. His awards include the Department of the Interior’s Meritorious Service Award. Costa has a BS in Park Management from UC Davis and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Colorado. ELENA ROMINE, PhD, received her PhD from Moscow State University and her Diploma in Education from Moscow Linguistic University. She is a published author, fluent in three languages and was a senior lecturer for the Institute of Advanced Training in Publishing in Moscow. Romine has been a crosscultural communication instructor and consultant at UC Riverside Extension for over 26 years.
Russian Culture in Exile: The History of Russian Immigration Trace centuries of Russian immigration and the cultural footprints left abroad. Learn about the fates of renowned émigrés in ballet, theater, arts, academia and cuisine, and explore how their creativity contributed to world cultures through memoirs, film, music, faith and rituals. A lively blend of memory, belonging and resilience, with enduring legacies. WEDNESDAYS, MARCH 11 - APRIL 8 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 5 weeks $80 Elena Romine, PhD
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute | www.csusm.edu/el/olli
*Hybrid courses are offered live in the classroom and via Zoom simultaneously (interactive).
OSHER | SPRING 2026
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SUMMER OSHER TRAVEL
TRAVEL WITH CSUSM AND COLLETTE! Explore Tuscany AUG. 5-13, 2026 9 DAYS
Discover the rolling hills of Tuscany, home to sprawling vineyards, medieval hill towns and enchanting cities. Steeped in history, culture and legend, this is Tuscany as you always imagined it. With your base in Montecatini Terme, explore Lucca, Florence, Pisa and San Gimignano as you discover medieval history, architectural masterpieces, the art of winemaking, a familyowned farm, a local cooking class and much more. Plenty of time is available for independent exploration as well. For more information and to sign up:
Discover London and Paris AUG. 12-20, 2026 9 DAYS
From cosmopolitan London to romantic Paris, take in the best of these iconic cities. Highlights for London include a walking tour of Westminster, a traditional pub dinner, a ride on the London Eye, afternoon tea at Covent Garden, and travel by the Eurostar train to Paris. In the City of Light, you will have some reflective time at the Paris American Cemetery, create your own fragrance in a hands-on workshop and enjoy an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower. Make the trip your own in both cities with time for independent exploration. For more information and to sign up:
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Meet Bonnie Weingarth, your guide to discover the world of dolphins and whales. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to think and move as a group, or wanted a fresh perspective on connection and cooperation, this class is for you. We’ll blend science, awareness, story telling, and reflective prompts to help you see yourself — and others — through the eyes of dolphins and whales. Just bring your curiosity, playfulness, and a sense of wonder. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* Free to Members Bonnie Weingarth
WEDNESDAY SCHEDULE
Explore the Living Wonders of Dolphins and Whales
The 1688 Glorious Revolution, the Catholic Issue in England and Bonnie Prince Charlie English history has a number of times where conflict between Catholics and Protestants changed history. We will trace this issue through the tangled stories of James II and how 1688 connects to earlier and later troubles. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 1 day $18 Kim Keeline, PhD
The Life, and the Afterlife, of Stars
Eleanor Roosevelt: First Lady of the World
Did you know that nearly every star you see in the night sky is in its death throes? Or that the pretty nebulae in our favorite sky photos are really star nurseries? Before the sun became the benevolent bringer of warmth and energy, it was a turbulent disc of gas. When it runs out of fuel, it will become a bomb on a cosmic scale. And that’s, in many ways, just the beginning of the story. Join historian and science fiction author Gideon Marcus for a jaunt though the birth, life and life after death of all that twinkles in the sky.
Eleanor Roosevelt, our pioneering feminist first lady, was also one of our most active and influential first ladies. While her paralyzed husband led our country through the Great Depression and World War II, Eleanor Roosevelt traveled throughout the country and the world bringing back to the White House a perspective that Franklin Roosevelt valued, appreciated and often implemented. An activist and humanitarian before, during and after FDR’s presidency, she served as Harry Truman’s ambassador to the United Nations, where he called her First Lady of the World.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 1 day $18 Gideon Marcus
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* 1 day $18 Blaine Davies, MA
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute | www.csusm.edu/el/olli
GIDEON MARCUS is the founder of Journey Press, an independent publisher focused on unusual and diverse speculative fiction. He is a professional space historian and has just finished Hyvilma, the third book in The Kitra Saga. His short fiction can be found in Dark Matter, Utopia, Simultaneous Times and more. Marcus lives in San Diego County with his writer/editor wife and their polymath artist daughter. KIM KEELINE, PhD, fell in love with Shakespeare’s plays when she was 12 years old. Her PhD in English literature is from the University of Southern California and she has lectured extensively on Shakespeare. She writes mysteries and published two short stories in 2020. A book collector, steam train operator and freelance website and graphic designer, Keeline geeks out about history, technology and books. BLAINE DAVIES, MA, has a master’s degree in history and a bachelor’s degree in business. He taught U.S. history at Boise State University for 14 years. Prior to that, he spent 20 years as a product marketing manager at Hewlett-Packard. He enjoys researching and preparing history lectures. When traveling, he often reads historical novels in the same locations where the stories take place.
*Hybrid courses are offered live in the classroom and via Zoom simultaneously (interactive).
OSHER | SPRING 2026
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RENEW YOUR ENTHUSIASM FOR LEARNING • EXPLORE NEW INTERESTS • MAKE NEW FRIENDS THURSDAY SCHEDULE
The American Revolution and the Fate of the World
SAM AND CANDY CAPONEGRO have worked in all aspects of theater for over 40 years. They hope to keep the classic movie musical and the golden age of Broadway alive through their lectures. RICHARD BELL, PhD, is a professor of history at the University of Maryland. He is the author of the book Stolen: Five Free Boys Kidnapped Into Slavery and Their Astonishing Odyssey Home, a finalist for the 2020 George Washington Prize and the 2020 Harriet Tubman Prize. Bell is the recipient of the National Endowment of the Humanities Public Scholar award and is a fellow of the Royal Historical Society.
When we think of the American Revolution, we often picture a parochial drama: 13 colonies squaring off against the British Crown in a spirited bid for independence. In this riveting program, historian and author Richard Bell invites audiences to rediscover the revolution as a world war that unleashed chaos, opportunity and transformation across six continents.
| THURSDAY COURSES Let’s Talk Musicals To quote a line from 42nd Street, “Think of musical comedy, the most glorious words in the English language.” Using various clips from Broadway and movie musicals, this course will explore five categories: movies to Broadway musicals, Broadway to movie musicals, off-Broadway musicals, message musicals and show biz musicals. Join us as we dissect and discuss one of America’s true art forms, musical comedy.
From the sugar fields of the Caribbean to political uprisings in Sierra Leone and Peru, the war that gave birth to the United States was never simply America’s own. It was a seismic global event that redrew maps, toppled hierarchies, catalyzed migration and accelerated new movements for liberty — and for empire. Bell traces the far-flung reverberations of the war through the lives of the people it displaced, empowered or destroyed, and he explores how the revolution stirred a transoceanic refugee crisis, ignited antislavery activism and inspired uprisings from Ireland to India.
THURSDAYS, FEB. 5 - MARCH 5 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Online via Zoom 5 weeks $80 Sam and Candy Caponegro
The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum THURSDAY, FEB. 26 See description under Destination Learning on page 11.
Special Interest Group: Lunch Meet THURSDAY, MARCH 19 PROGRAM LINKS We appreciate all of our members! Memberships and registration fees support our program. As we continue online access, please keep our program links private. Sharing links with family and friends is a detriment to the longevity of our Osher program.
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See description under Special Interest Group on page 11.
This program offers a bold new framework for understanding the Revolutionary War not as a tidy founding moment but as a sprawling, high-stakes struggle fought on land and sea, shaped by commerce, diplomacy, propaganda and contingency. THURSDAY, MARCH 12 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. Online via Zoom 1 day $18 Richard Bell, PhD
Lunch Meet Join us for lunch at the San Elijo Hills Town Center Park. Surrounding restaurants to order from include Sourdough & Co., Shane’s Pizza, Lourdes Mexican Food, Sapporo Sushi, Starbucks and more. THURSDAY, MARCH 19 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. San Elijo Town Center Park 1256 San Elijo Road North Buy your own lunch
Norton Simon Museum No refunds or discounts on Destination Learning trips. The Norton Simon Art Museum has an encyclopedic art collection featuring over 12,000 works of art. It maintains an expansive impressionism collection along with 20th century artwork by Picasso, Henry Moore and Giacometti to name a few. Robin Douglas will prep our visit with some notes on the highlights of the museum and its gardens. The bus will leave promptly at 8:30 a.m. and arrive in time for lunch at a nearby restaurant. The museum visit will be approximately from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The cost of this trip includes bus ride, entrance to the museum and parking at CSUSM Lot B. MONDAY, APRIL 20 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Meet at CSUSM, Parking Lot B off Craven Road 1 day $149 Robin Douglas, MA
| DESTINATION LEARNING
SPRING OSHER EVENTS
| SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP
Become An Osher Volunteer! We would not be able to provide our exceptional programming and services without the work and support of our dedicated volunteers. Please consider joining a committee, supporting special projects, assisting as a classroom ambassador or distributing catalogs in the community. We welcome your participation! For more information on how to participate, please contact: Sherie Cambra at scambra@csusm.edu or 760-750-8716
The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum No refunds or discounts on Destination Learning trips. The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum (MECM) honors the work of artisans worldwide in a growing collection of excellent craftsmanship projects at its location in Carlsbad. Visitors will see prime examples of functional miniature engines and intricate models, such as the 1/6-scale 1932 Duesenberg SJ that includes more than 6,000 handcrafted parts and an operational engine. The facility also includes a well-equipped machine shop operated by local artisans and a book and magazine collection. THURSDAY, FEB. 26 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. 3191 Lionshead Ave. Carlsbad 92010 1 day $18
| FREE LECTURE Explore the Living Wonders of Dolphins and Whales Meet Bonnie Weingarth, your guide to discovering the world of dolphins and whales. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to think and move as a group, or wanted a fresh perspective on connection and cooperation, this class is for you. We’ll blend science, awareness, storytelling and reflective prompts to help you see yourself — and others — through the eyes of dolphins and whales. Just bring your curiosity, playfulness and a sense of wonder. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CSUSM ELB 470: Hybrid* Free to Members Bonnie Weingarth
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute | www.csusm.edu/el/olli
*Hybrid courses are offered live in the classroom and via Zoom simultaneously (interactive).
OSHER | SPRING 2026
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YOUR SUPPORT MAT TERS! Help us sustain this vibrant community of learners now and in the future.
Please consider giving to Osher so we can continue providing an outstanding, easily accessible and reasonably priced program. There are many ways to give and your donations are tax-deductible, secure and private. Your support will help ensure the continued success of our program! IDEAS FOR GIVING BACK TO YOUR OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE • Donate in honor or memory of a friend or loved one • Create a matching gift • Give toward Osher member scholarships • Support instructors • Fund institute operations • Create an endowed fund • Set up a gift or bequest through your estate plan THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR SUPPORT. To make your gift today, please call 760-750-4400 or visit csusm.edu/giving.
Each year, Osher members support our program on Giving Day with donations that help us expand our programs, activities and membership, all while keeping member fees affordable. We are grateful for every gift and for the many ways our Osher members contribute to this community!
2025/2026 DONORS • Gay and William Borsari
• Joseph M. Ramos
• Dove Coltharp
• Patricia Ratledge
• Kathleen Constantine
• Dr. K. Brooks and
• Epstein Family
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OSHER | SPRING 2026
Marion T. Reid
• John and Pam Lundblad
• Judy Updegraff
• John and Nancey Lyden
• Susan Wright
• Margaret Mahin
• Anonymous
• Claire Nelson
• Anonymous
• Michael Pierce
• Anonymous
MISSION STATEMENT The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at California State University San Marcos (OLLI at CSUSM) is an intellectual and social community of inquisitive learners established to engage people over 50 years of age through higher education and the arts. OLLI connects members to the brightest minds and ideas in our society, including university-level professors and successful professionals who are leaders in many fields. The program strives to inspire seasoned learners who share intellectual curiosity and a quest for knowledge. Established in 2004, OLLI at CSUSM is one of 125 Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes nationwide supported by the Bernard Osher Foundation. OLLI facilitates meaningful learning, increases community involvement and enhances social connections, all beneficial to a flourishing life. If you want to renew your enthusiasm for learning, explore new interests and make new friends, OLLI is for you!
California State University San Marcos 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road San Marcos, California 92096-0001
NON PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 825 SAN DIEGO, CA
To be removed from our mailing list, mail this page to the address above. Not printed or mailed at state expense.
| FREE LECTURE FOR MEMBERS Explore the Living Wonders of Dolphins and Whales WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2026 Meet Bonnie Weingarth, your guide to discovering the world of dolphins and whales. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to think and move as a group, or wanted a fresh perspective on connection and cooperation, this class is for you. We’ll blend science, awareness, storytelling and reflective prompts to help you see yourself — and others — through the eyes of dolphins and whales. Just bring your curiosity, playfulness and a sense of wonder. See page 11 for more information.
HOW TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES 760-750-4020
Note: We can accept eChecks by phone.
csusm.edu/el/olli/howtoregister.html
CSUSM.EDU/EL/OLLI