New tab
OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI Spring 2025
From the Director's Desk Welcome to the Spring 2025 semester at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Miami! I am happy to welcome back all our returning members and extend a warm welcome to our new and prospective members. Our catalog contains important information about courses, registration, and membership benefits and I encourage you to take some time to review it. This Spring we are offering over 30 new courses! Spring is a great time to try a new class. You are certain to find a course that provides you with the power and pleasure of lifelong learning! OLLI@UM continues to offer courses in various modalities to fit the needs of our OLLI members. If you have any questions about your membership or OLLI courses or would like to explore ways to get better involved with OLLI, please reach out to us. We are available by phone and email, and we would love to have you stop by the office! Michelle Alvarez
2
Table of Contents - Click on Title/Page No. to Access Course Listings....................................................................................................
4
OLLI's Mission and History.................................................................................
9
About OLLI at UM................................................................................................ 10 Membership Benefits and Volunteer Opportunities.......................................... 11 SIGS/Clubs........................................................................................................... 12 Auditing Undergraduate Courses....................................................................... 13 Membership and Registration............................................................................ 14 Policies................................................................................................................. 15 Technology.......................................................................................................... 18 Transportation..................................................................................................... 19 OLLI at UM 50% Tuition Scholarships................................................................ 20 Give to OLLI at UM............................................................................................... 21 Spring 1 Classes.................................................................................................. 22 Mondays: Classes begin on Jan 13, 2025.................................................... 22 Tuesdays: Classes begin on Jan 14, 2025................................................... 32 Wednesdays: Classes begin on Jan 15, 2025.............................................. 43 Thursdays: Classes begin on Jan 16, 2025.................................................. 54 Fridays: Classes begin on Jan 17, 2025....................................................... 66 Spring 2 Classes.................................................................................................. 69 Mondays: Classes begin on Mar 10, 2025.................................................... 69 Tuesdays: Classes begin on Mar 11, 2025................................................... 78 Wednesdays: Classes begin on Mar 12, 2025.............................................. 88 Thursdays: Classes begin on Mar 13, 2025.................................................. 97 Fridays: Classes begin on Mar 14, 2025....................................................... 105 Meet your Instructors.......................................................................................... 108 3
Course Listings - Click on Title/Page No. to Access ART, HUMANITIES, MUSIC & FILM Acrylic Painting Beginning - Advanced……………….................……………………… 63/102 An Introduction to Looking at Art Through the Ages………….......…….......………… 54 Art in Three Dimensions: Finding Your Voice with Clay………………......…......…… 49 Caravaggio: Between Chiaro & Scuro…………………………………………....................... 44 Conflicting Moments in Art……………………………………………………............................. 81 Drawing with the Masters……………………………………………….……........................ 44/90 Four 19th Century Operas, Four Distinct Experiences………………………......…...... 105 From the Ground-Up: Painting the Still Life in Watercolor…………………....… 67/106 Great Conductors: A Behind the Scenes Look at Their Lives & Work…..…....... 83 Introduction to Pencil Drawing & Sketching……………………………………........... 39/85 Introduction to Photo Encaustics…………………………………………………............... 35/80 Johann Sebastian Bach: The Canon of Western Classical Music………..…....... 66 Let’s Put on a Play…………………………………………………………………........................ 56/99 Love & Marriage in the Movies……………………………………………………................. 37/82 Music History………………………………………………………………………........................... 55/98 Swingin’ On a Star - The Big Bands………………………………………………...................... 73 The Best Rock Songs of All Time…………………………………………………...................... 50 The Art of Digital Photography……………………………………………………........................ 54 The Most Famous Art Discoveries: From Altamira to Pompeii……………........... 36 The Magic of the Beatles……………………………………………………………......................... 28 Theatre Theory with John Dalton at UM……………………………………………................ 59 The Music of John Williams…………………………………………………………....................... 70 The 100 Greatest Movie Songs of All Time…………………………………...................... 95 Western Art Masters & Masterpieces…………………………………………................ 32/78 4
Course Listings - Click on Title/Page No. to Access BOOKS & GAMES As the Book Pages Turn………………………………………….........................…………… 65/104 Learning to Play & Love Canasta……………………………………….....................……. 26/72 Learning to Play & Love Mah Jongg…………………………………………................... 47/92 OLLI Book Club, Susan King, Page……………………………………………................... 26/72 HISTORY & CURRENT EVENTS Current Events……………………………………………………………….................................. 68/107 Current World Events……………………………………………………….............................. 43/88 Founding Fathers & Mothers, Pt. 1…………………………………………............................ 23 Founding Fathers & Mothers, Pt. 2…………………………………………............................ 71 In the News……………………………………………………………………................................. 36/81 International Action……………………………………………………………............................ 35/79 It’s About Time! From Stonehenge to Seiko…………………………………….................. 51 Law & Order: Special Speaker Series……………………………………............................. 97 Monday Morning Quarterback……………………………………………….….................... 46/91 Myths & Legends of the Mediterranean Sea - from the Bronze Age to Modern Times, Pt, 1…………………………………………………………………………….................. 48 Myths & Legends of the Mediterranean Sea - from the Bronze Age to Modern Times, Pt, 2…………………………………………………………………………….................. 92 The Role & Influence of the Cuban American Community in South Florida…. 69 Triumph & Tragedy…………………………………………………………………........................ 46/100 Understanding the Cuban Government & It’s Relationship to the United States................................................................................................................... 22
5
Course Listings - Click on Title/Page No. to Access LITERATURE, LANGUAGES & WRITING Advanced French………………………………………………………………............................. 64/103 Advanced Spanish, Pt. A………………………………………………………............................... 40 Advanced Spanish, Pt. B ……………………………………………………….............................. 85 Beginning French, Pt. 3…………………………………………………………............................... 63 Beginning French, Pt. 4…………………………………………………………............................... 102 Classical Literature………………………………………………………………................................ 76 Did That Really Happen?” Memoir & Life Stories………………………………............... 61 Did That Really Happen?” Memoir & Life Stories (the Journey Continues)........................................................................................................... 101 Intermediate French………………………………………………………………........................ 45/91 Italian Advanced……………………………………………………………………......................... 41/86 Italian Advanced Conversation……………………………………………………................. 64/103 Italian Basic, Level 3……………………………………………………………….............................. 33 Italian Basic, Level 4……………………………………………………………….............................. 79 Italian Intermediate…………………………………………………………………....................... 37/82 Poetry of the Modern Americas……………………………………………………...................... 57 Spanish Advanced Conversation on Current Topics in Spanish Culture… 42/87 Spanish Basic, Pt. C…………………………………………………………………............................. 59 Spanish Basic, Pt. D…………………………………………………………………............................. 99 Spanish Intermediate, Pt. C…………………………………………………………........................ 62 Spanish Intermediate, Pt. D……………………………………………………………......................101 The Classics Reading Group………………………………………………………...............…. 66/105 Voices of Today: Contemporary Jewish Women Writers……………………….......... 89 Writer’s Workshop………………………………………………………………........................... 49/94 6
Course Listings - Click on Title/Page No. to Access SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Adobe Photoshop Elements………………………………………………………........................ 97 Apple Care- Answers to Questions Regarding Apple Devices……………..... 23/69 Apple Watch…………………………………………………………………………......................... 43/88 Cosmic Roots: The Conflict Between Science & Religion…………………............. 29 iPhone Skills…………………………………………………………………………......................... 32/78 Mastering Google……………………………………………………………………...................... 47/93 Our Mysterious Fine-Tuned Universe…………………………………………………............... 75 What is Artificial Intelligence?.................................................................... 27/74 SOCIAL SCIENCE Constitutional Law………………………………………………………………........................ 53/96 Freud & The Theory of Psychoanalysis: The Rise & Demise of a 20th Century Phenomenon……………………………………………………………….......................... 24 Great Decisions……………………………………………………………………............................... 58 Hannah Arendt: Origins of Totalitarianism, Pt. 3……………………………................ 26 Hannah Arendt: Origins of Totalitarianism, Pt. 4……………………………................ 72 Investments…………………………………………………………………………......................... 24/71 Law & Order: Special Speaker Series………………………………………………................. 97 Rene Descartes & The Birth of Modern Philosophy………………………................. 38 Sharing America’s Stories with the World…………………………………...................... 33 Voltaire: The Life & Thoughts of Voltaire ………………………………………................. 84
7
Course Listings - Click on Title/Page No. to Access TRAVEL & CULTURE Living & Working Abroad……………………………………………….................................…. 29 WELLNESS & SPIRITUALITY Bible for Beginners........................................................................................... 94 Chair Yoga.................................................................................. 42 & 64/87 & 103 Freestyle Yoga........................................................................... 31 & 52/77 & 95 Postural Stability ....................................................................................... 56/98 RHYTHM – International Fitness.............................................................. 40/85 Tai Chi/Qigong........................................................................................... 30/75
8
OLLI's Mission and History OUR MISSION OLLI's mission, as part of the University of Miami, is to provide adults 50 years old and older with intellectual stimulation, social interaction, service opportunities, and outreach to the university and to the greater community. OUR VISION Our vision is to be a world class, member-driven learning community, accessible to and meeting the needs of a diverse and growing population of older adults in South Florida. OUR HISTORY Founded in 1984 as the Institute for Retired Professionals, OLLI offers members an ongoing menu of programs such as languages, history, literature, the arts, current events and world affairs, to name just a few. With expert instructors, including UM faculty, courses are designed for students aged 50 and over, high-level and high-interest, without being high-stress. LOCATION Osher Life Long Learning Institute Lau Founders Hall 1550 Brescia Avenue Coral Gables, FL 33146 (Between Red Road and San Amaro Drive)
CONTACT INFORMATION Email: osher@miami.edu Phone: 305-284-6554 Hours: 9am - 4pm, M - F Closed for all holidays observed by the University of Miami
STAY CURIOUS. STAY CONNECTED.
9
OLLI AT UM COMMITTEES AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEES Advisory Council Chair: Susan Rosenthal Curriculum Committee Chair: Rudy Gonzalez Social Committee Chair: Randy Letzler Volunteer Committee Chair: Shirley Katz Marketing, Communications, Membership Committee Chair: Vicki Luther Development Committee Chair: Ed Cutie Election Committee Chair: Elizabeth Newman Speaker Series Committee Chair: Joe Falowitz By-Laws Committee Chair: Lucy Harper STAFF Executive Director: Michelle Alvarez Curriculum Coordinator: Caroline Carlson Program Coordinator: Melissa Gonzalez Office Assistant: Ryan Da Silva
ABOUT
OLLI AT UM For 40 years, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Miami (OLLI at UM) has been providing courses and social activities for its members. As part of the University's Division of Continuing and International Education, OLLI at UM welcomes all members of the community who consider learning an integral part of life. Membership is open to all those who wish to continue their pursuit of learning. The Institute's programs are designed to accommodate a relaxed learning atmosphere; thus, making it easy for anyone who may have been away from a formal learning environment for many years. Classes included in this catalog are offered with no tests and, in most cases, no homework. They are designed to spark your curiosity, encourage your participation, and fit a flexible schedule. A NOTE FROM ONE OF OUR MEMBERS: HAIM KARP "I like the atmosphere; I like the friendship with people; and I like to devote some time for activities at OLLI. I like volunteering.” 10
Membership Benefits and Volunteer Opportunities MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS Eligibility to register and enroll in our OLLI at UM courses (tuition fees required)
Access to the University Library System with borrowing privileges at the Richter Library ($250 Value)
Ability to audit University undergraduate classes (additional fee required)
FREE general admission to the Lowe Art Museum ($60 value)
Eligibility to participate in FREE Shared Interest Groups (SIGs/Clubs)
Invitations to University special events and speaker presentations
FREE Invitations to the OLLI Speaker Series throughout the year
Contact with a lively and stimulating group of fellow lifelong learners
PARTICIPATION AND VOLUNTEER COMMITEMENT Share your skills and knowledge! Members are encouraged to make a volunteer commitment to the program and its ongoing development. Join us in one or more of the following ways: Teaching or co-teaching a course Serving as a leader or facilitator of a Shared Interest Group Serving as a virtual Class Assistant or Greeter Participating in the Advisory Council and/or one or more committees: Curriculum
Social Events
Elections
Development
Volunteer
Speaker Series
By-laws
Marketing and Communications 11
SIGS/Clubs REGISTRATION Registration is required. SIGS/Clubs are free with your OLLI membership.
SHARED INTEREST GROUPS
WHAT ARE SIGS? OLLI Shared Interest Groups (SIGS/Clubs) are groups organized around areas of interest and offer a forum for you to discuss topics of importance.
WHEN DO WE MEET? SIGs meet from 12 noon -12:50 p.m. (50 minutes). DO YOU HAVE AN IDEA? If you have an idea for a Shared Interest Group that you would like to facilitate, please contact the OLLI Executive Director.
WHO OPERATES SIGS? OLLI member facilitators.
OUR CURRENT SIG OFFERINGS ARE: IN THE NEWS Led by Janet Krutchik and Leslie Gross A discussion group focused on what is “in the news” each week.
CURRENT EVENTS Led by Haim Karp Would you like to discuss current events within a small group? Do you share the same passions as other OLLI members on certain national and/or global topics? Join us.
OLLI BOOK CLUB Led by Susan King A committed group whose sole purpose is to have a lively and engaging discussion about the novel(s) chosen to read.
AS THE "BOOK" PAGES TURN Led by Susan Rosenthal Join other OLLI members who like to read and engage in a lively discussion about a book chosen to read and when possible, meet the author.
MONDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK Led by Arthur Young Join other OLLI members who have an interest in sports. 12
Auditing Undergraduate Courses Auditing UM undergraduate courses is a benefit granted by the University of Miami.
An auditor is a person who enrolls as an observer or listener only.
Program Guidelines Auditing is for lecture classes ONLY when space is available, and attendance has been approved by both the faculty member and OLLI. "Lecture type" classes are those in which students can observe the delivered lecture of material by the professor. Auditing is limited to a maximum of 3 UNDERGRADUATE courses, per term. Auditing is permitted during fall and spring sessions ONLY, not summer. Auditing is NOT permitted in language, laboratory, creative writing, seminars, performance courses, or in graduate programs (law or medical school). You will be notified, via email, when you have received permission to audit the classes you requested. You must complete and submit an Audit Request Form available on our website: miami.edu/olli. All requests to audit must come through the OLLI office through the online request form and be approved by the OLLI Executive Director. Audit request forms should be submitted no earlier than ONE MONTH prior to the start of the class being audited. No audit request forms received 7 business days prior to the beginning of class will be accepted. OLLI members cannot attend a class without having received written permission from the instructor and clearance from the OLLI Executive Director. 13
Membership and Registration JOIN OLLI
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP non-refundable
To become a member of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Miami, visit our website at miami.edu/olli.
$55 per year Start Date August 1st
End Date July 31st
REGISTER FOR COURSES Registration information is available in the latest edition of the OLLI News & Notes and on the website at: miami.edu/olli. Online registration is encouraged. Should you need assistance, please call us from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and an OLLI staff member will assist you with your registration. All class information (times, days, and course descriptions) is contained in this catalog and is also available on our website.
MULTI-MODUAL LEARNING All classes at OLLI at UM are taught:
Zoom Only (Online)
In-person Only OR
Hybrid: you can choose to attend either in-person OR via Zoom (online) NOTE: The Zoom version of a Hybrid class has a “Z” after the course number. Example, OSH 686 Z4. Modalities are subject to change depending on enrollment and instructor preference.
HOW-TO REGISTER
14
Policies CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICY The University reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any class with insufficient enrollment or for reasons beyond our control. In such cases, a full refund of fees will be issued.
DROP/ADD COURSE All requests for drop/adds must be IN WRITING via an email sent to: osher@miami.edu. All drop/add requests must be received no later than the close of business (by 5 p.m.) on the Friday of the first week of class.
If a class is canceled for any reason, we will notify you via email.
ACCOMMODATION POLICY OLLI at UM provides reasonable accommodations in its programs in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. To request disability accommodations, you must contact the OLLI at UM office at 305284-6554 as soon as you register and at least two weeks before classes begin.
Course tuition will not be refunded unless the refund request is received, VIA EMAIL, no later than the close of business (by 5:00 p.m.) on the Friday of the first week of class. Fees paid cannot be transferred or pro-rated.
INCLEMENT WEATHER AND UNIVERSITY CLOSURES OLLI operates only when the University of Miami is open. If the University is closed due to a holiday, inclement weather or any emergency situation, OLLI at UM is closed as well. Please check your local TV and radio stations for information or call the University of Miami’s Hurricane Hotline: 1-800-227-0354.
15
Policies CLASSROOM POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Phones: All phones are required TO BE TURNED OFF OR SET TO VIBRATE when classes are in session. If you must answer a call during class, PLEASE EXIT THE CLASSROOM. Guest Policy: Bringing guests to class is a great way to introduce OLLI to a potential student, and you are encouraged to do so. Guest passes are available at the front desk. Please inform the OLLI office at least 48 hours in advance to ensure that there is space available in the class. Each guest must register with the front desk. Guests are limited to one complimentary visit where space is available. Guests are not permitted in sold out or full classes. Children under the age of 15 are not permitted to attend. Smoking, Drinking, and Eating: UM is a smoke-free campus and smoking is not allowed inside OLLI facilities, on the patio, outside entrances/exits, or anywhere on the UM campus. UM defines smoking as “inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted cigarette or electronic cigarette, cigar, pipe, or other such device which contains tobacco or smoke-producing products.” Drinking alcoholic beverages is PROHIBITED at OLLI at UM. This is for the safety of our members. While OLLI at UM encourages community celebrations and social activities, we also want to keep OLLI clean and pest free. With the exception of special events open to all OLLI members, eating is limited to the café/kitchen area. Eating in the classrooms is prohibited. Feel free to bring a beverage in a mug with a lid to keep OLLI clean and green.
16
Policies MASKS AND FACE COVERINGS Wearing a mask at Lau Founders Hall is now at your discretion. As members of OLLI at UM are categorized as individuals at high risk for severe illness, we extend an invitation to those who prefer wearing a mask for added comfort, both inside Lau Founders Hall and throughout all classes.
A NOTE FROM TWO OF OUR MEMBERS: GUILLERMO & NORMA CUETO "OLLI is such a vast and eclectic scholastic depository of knowledge, that there are always classes, guest lectures, and occasions to learn something new, something I never knew," said Guillermo. “It is the optimum place to ‘stay curious and stay connected,’ as we like to say." Norma agrees, adding, "OLLI is a place where friendships are made, minds are enriched, and new experiences happen."
OLLI AT UM CODE OF CONDUCT OLLI at UM expects all members to be respectful of the thoughts and opinions of others expressed in the classroom. All members are encouraged to participate in the discussions and to express opinions freely in a way that respects others in the class. Members should conduct themselves responsibly and respectfully at all times. In the event of disruptive behavior, OLLI at UM reserves the right to terminate a member’s participation in the class without refund. 17
Technology
BEST PRACTICES ON ZOOM OLLI at UM suggests tips and tricks to ensure a great Zoom experience for our OLLI members! Find a place with good internet and little to no background noise.
Wear headphones with a built-in microphone if you are in a public place.
Eliminate distractions. Make it less likely that anything will interrupt your meeting. MUTE your microphone. This decreases background noise.
Close any unnecessary programs or tabs on your device.
Turn off or silence other devices.
Get everything ready beforehand: Get your coffee, water, etc.
If the instructor/host sent out any content ahead of time, have it open and ready to view.
Be on time. If possible, join the meeting 5 minutes early.
To access Zoom's detailed guide on how to join meetings, how-tovideos, and additional support, click the button below. ZOOM SUPPORT
18
Transportation The University of Miami Parking and Transportation department is responsible for parking and transportation policies for UM. UM would like to facilitate your visit to our beautiful campus. Please familiarize yourself with parking and mobility options. CAMPUS PARKING OPTIONS Parking on the University of Miami campus in UM lots is extremely limited. All vehicle owners parking on the University of Miami campus must:
be assigned a UM parking permit for the GRAY ZONE
OR
METRORAIL/METROBUS Our campus has a Metrorail station which makes it convenient for members to get to the campus. From the University Metrorail Station, you are able to catch a university shuttle or Metro Bus to get you close to Lau Founders Hall offices. From the Metrorail station, take bus 56 south to San Amaro Drive, which is a 3minute walk to our offices.
purchase parking using the Pay by Phone App on his/her iPhone or Android device
OR
purchase parking at the pay station(s) located on UM lots
OLLI members may purchase a discounted GRAY ZONE parking permit from UM Parking and Transportation Services located at 5807 Ponce de Leon Blvd., McKnight Building, Suite 100, Coral Gables. There is a cost for the full year, and prices are prorated weekly. Permits expire on August 15 each year. The parking permit does NOT guarantee you will find a parking space. You must be an active OLLI member and have a valid vehicle registration to purchase a permit. NOTE: Remember to park head-in only. Call the UM Parking Department at 305284-3096 or go to their website at www.miami.edu/parking for more details. 19
OLLI at UM 50% Tuition Scholarships OLLI at UM wants to ensure that everyone in the community has access to our program. Through the generous support of our members, a limited number of partial tuition scholarships are available to current, active OLLI at UM members. Awards are based on financial need and are reviewed on an ongoing basis.
A NOTE FROM ONE OF OUR MEMBERS: DONNA GORDON "OLLI is " the best kept secret for retirees”! OLLI allows us retirees, to continue to have purpose, to continue to learn and to be intellectually engaged, particularly in those areas in which we may have had an interest in the past, but just never got around to pursuing because we were always working." These scholarships are applicable only to courses or lectures offered by OLLI at UM and cover 50% of the tuition. Only two classes, per session, per person, for a maximum of six classes for the year, are eligible for a scholarship. Scholarships are NOT applicable for OLLI membership fees, summer courses, field trips/social activities, or for auditing UM classes. Drop/adds are not permitted on scholarships.
Please submit your scholarship request by clicking HERE. All information on your application is kept confidential and awards will not be publicly announced. Please contact the OLLI office for more information at 305-284-6554. To donate to our OLLI at UM Scholarship Fund, see the information contained in this catalog entitled Give to OLLI at UM. 20
Give to OLLI at UM Be a part of our OLLI 40 for 40 campaign in 2024 as we celebrate OLLI’s 40th Anniversary. Your support in any amount work to maintain affordable membership dues and class fees, supplement scholarship funds and build the program’s capacity to provide excellent member service for years to come. Your support allows us to offer: Classroom/Facility Enhancements: Your gift will help fund such classroom and building improvements as the purchase of comfortable classroom chairs and new classroom tables. OLLI Scholarship Fund: Your gift to the OLLI Scholarship Fund allows members who otherwise would not be able to attend OLLI classes to experience and enjoy the dynamic lifelong learning experience here at OLLI at UM. Technology Updates: Your gift will help improve the learner experience so that we can provide such things as new audio visual equipment and Smart TV monitors, a new digital audio system, and new computers for classrooms. Take the opportunity to make a donation today. Your support will help ensure that these program enhancements will be funded, making OLLI at UM the absolute best it can be. To donate online, please go to our website and complete our secure electronic donation form HERE. To donate by mail, make your check out to University of Miami and write either OLLI at UM or OLLI at UM Scholarship on the memo line. Send your donation checks to: UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI – ADVANCEMENT DIVISION P.O. BOX 248073 CORAL GABLES, FL 33124 21
Meet your Instructors
Mr. Emanuel Abramovits is a native of Venezuela and received his MBA from the Universidad Catolica Andres Bello.
Ms. Simona Bai is a native of Italy and has a Bachelor's Degree in Education from the University of Bologna in Italy.
Ms. Liz Chifari holds a B.A. in English from the University of Rochester, an M.L.S. from Emory University, and a J.D. from the University of Miami. She spent her career working in publishing and then as the library manager at the law firm of Holland & Knight. She is now happily retired and is active in local literary and theater circles. Ms. Andrea Clement has a B.A. in Art History from American University of Paris, France and an Associates of Science Degree in Professional Photography from Southeastern Center for Photographic Studies from Daytona Beach State College. She has been a workshop instructor at Fairchild Tropical Gardens since 2017. Dr. Batia Cohen has a Doctorate in Mesoamerican Studies from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design from the Universidad Metropolitana in Mexico City. 108
Meet your Instructors Dr. Deborah Vidaver-Cohen received a B.A. in Studio Art and Art History from Brown University, an M.F.A. in Sculpture from the University of California and a Ph.D in Arts and Sciences from Columbia University. She has worked in a wide variety of media ranging from reprentational works in clay and bronze to large scale wall sculptures and multi-media architectual installations. Dr. Marsha B. Cohen is a lecturer, educator, independent scholar, news analyst, and writer in Miami, FL. She earned her PhD in International Relations at Florida International University.
Mr. John Dalton has a B.F.A. in Theatre Arts from Drake University. After working in theatre, film and television in New York, Chicago and Los Angeles, Mr.Dalton moved to Miami in 2014 and developed a Theatre Appreciation Course around locally produced theatre helping audience members understand plays, the actors' job and the jobs of the entire creative team.
Dr. Gabriel Das Chagas has a Doctorate of Philosophy in Comparative Literature, a Master of Arts in Comparative Literature, and a Bachelor of Arts in Portuguese and English from Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. He is currently a Portuguese and American Studies Teaching Assistant at the University of Miami and is working on completing his Doctorate of Philosophy in Literary, Cultural, and Linguistic Studies at University of Miami 109
Meet your Instructors Ms. Anush Dawidjan has her BS from Westfield State University and completed her graduate studies in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University. She retired from the US Government after a successful 35 year career.
Mr. Robert Dawson is a BFA graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. Mr. Dawson creates and performs historic characters in the "Triumph and Tragedy" series.
Ms. Jeanne DeQuine is an experienced journalist for Time, Newsweek and People magazines. She has graduate degrees from Columbia Graduate School of Journalism and Florida International University.
Dr. Craig Dicker has a B.A. in History, a Masters in Applied Linguistics and a Doctorate in Foreign Language Education from Columbia University. He served 28 years as a member of the U.S. Foreign Service as Counselor for Public, Cultural and Educational Affairs.
Mr. Alan Dietz is an active OLLI member who graduated with a B.A. and MA in history at the University of Miami, where he taught American and world history as a graduate teaching assistant.
110
Meet your Instructors Dr. Lorella Di Gregorio has a Master of Arts in Art History from the University of Bolgna - Bolgna, Italy (2010) a Master of Arts in Spanish from Texas State University (2014) and a Doctorate in Literary, Cultural & Linguistic Studies from the University of Miami (2020). She is presently a full-time lecturer at the University of Miami. Ms. Susan Dow has taught adults for over 20 years. She is a retired director of adult education at Miami-Dade College and current adjunct lecturer at UM in Spanish and English as a Second Language.
Ms. Paulette Dozier has a B.A. in English from Florida International University and a Masters of Science from Nova SouthEastern University. She has a certification as a Group Fitness Instructor from the Athletics and Fitness Association of America and National Academy of Sport's Medicine. Mr. Armando Droulers is an artist, art historian and educator. He studied at Bard College, Academia de Arte Federico Brandt, New World School of the Arts and the University of Florida.
Mr. Mark Egdall is the award winning author of the popular science book Einstein Relatively Simple: Our Universe Revealed in Everyday Language. A retired aerospace program manager, he has been teaching at other South Florida lifelong learning programs since 2006 and at OLLI @UM since 2010. 111
Meet your Instructors Dr. Judith Etzion received her doctoral degree in musicology from Columbia University, and has enjoyed a distinguished career as a scholar, performer, and university professor in the US, Israel, and Spain. Ms. Peggy Falagan, has a Bachelor of Art in Art Education K12. She is a retired Advanced placement art history educator and tutor. Ms. Falagan is an artist, art history lyceum instructor and volunteer with awards and acknowledgements. Dr. Luis Carlos Fallon has a Doctorate of Law, Political and Social Sciences from the Universidad Nacional, Bogota, Colombia. Dr. Fallon has published five books and has taught Spanish language and literature for over 40 years. Mr. Carlos Gallostra has a Master in Fine Arts in Studio Painting from the PRATT institute of Fine Art & Design and has been an Adjunct Professor at Fairchild Tropical Garden (2017-Present) and at the University of Miami (2019-Present) in Instruction in Visual Arts Program Studio Practice. Dr. Andy Gomez received a Master's degree in Education (1991) and a Doctorate of Education in Administration, Planning and Social policy (1993), both from Harvard University. Dr. Gomez is considered one of the leading scholars on Cuba. He worked in higher education for 35 years before retiring from the University of Miami in 2013. While at UM, Dr. Gomez was the co-founder of the Institute for Cuban and Cuban American studies and served as the senior fellow at the institute.
112
Meet your Instructors Ms. Grisell Gonzalez studied under Tai Chi Master, Tony Garcia, and Certified Tai Chi for Health by Dr. Paul Lam - The Yang 24, Sun Tai Chi for Arthritis I/II, Sun/Chen Tai Chi for Energy and Qi.
Mr. Leslie Gross graduated from Harvard College and Harvard Law School. He taught Social Institutions at Miami Dade College while working at Greenberg Traurig.
Dr. Cynthia Halpern, has a PhD from Princeton University. She taught Ethics and Public Policy for over 30 years at Princeton University and Swarthmore College. She is an associate professor emeritus at Swarthmore College and a published author of Political Theory. Dr. Ed Harper, is an active OLLI member who earned a B.A. with honors from Principia College in Government and Foreign Affairs and a PhD from the University of Virginia. For several years, together with Richard Hauser, Esq., he has co-taught a series at OLLI at UM called “Law and Order." Richard Hauser, Esq. has a BS in Economics from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and a law degree from the University of Miami, School of Law. For several years, together with Dr. Ed Harper, he has co-taught a series at OLLI at UM called “Law and Order: A Distinguished Speakers Series.”
113
Meet your Instructors Mr. Haim Karp has been an OLLI member for the past 11 years, after retiring from a Financial Services company.
Ms. Alicia Menendez-King, is a UM graduate with a double major in French and English. She received an MA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in French. Ms. Menendez-King studied in France and lived in Bordeaux.
Ms. Susan King is an OLLI member who enjoys leading and facilitating the Book Club.
Ms. Anita L. Klimek is an illustrator, graphic artist, freelance artist, layout artist, art director and art teacher.
Mr. Ronald Kohn graduated from University of Wisconsin with a double major in History and English. He worked as a real estate investor and developer. He has been reading Shakespeare for the last 7 years. Mr. Karl Koslowski received his degree in Industrial Design from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. Mr. Koslowski has been teaching various courses in the Art of Digital Photography and Adobe post processing enhancement at OLLI at UM, Miami-Dade Community College and FIU.
114
Meet your Instructors Ms. Janet Krutchik is an active OLLI member who enjoys leading the “In the News” Special Interest Group. She is a retired educator with experience teaching film.
Ms. Randy Letzler is a professional actress, dancer, choreographer and director. She is a member of Actor's Equity and when not performing she taught improvisation, musical theatre and acting to students ranging in age from six to adult. She has directed and choreographed shows for numerous universities and off broadway. Ms. Phyllis Levy is an active OLLI member who participated in the PhD Cinema Studies program at the University of Miami and belongs to several film discussion groups and has facilitated her own film group for the past three years. She is a retired librarian who managed the Kendall Branch Library for 18 years. Ms. Ronnie Londner has a B.A. in Political Science from Long Island University, and a MEd in Community Psychology from the University of Miami.
Robert (Bob) Maland, Esq. is a Miami native and a graduate of Gables High and the University of Florida Colleges of Journalism and Law. Following his Clerkship with a U.S. District Court Judge in Miami, Bob practiced as a civil trial lawyer in Miami for 45 years and was lead trial counsel in numerous civil jury and non-jury trials. 115
Meet your Instructors Dr. Alan Mason received the Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in Piano Performance from the Manhattan School of Music, and the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Vocal Accompanying from the University of Miami. Additionally, Alan has completed post-doctoral coursework in vocal and operatic accompanying at Northwestern University, and several summers of study at Hebrew Union College in Cincinnati.
Dr. John McGrath has a Doctorate in Medicine from the University of Chicago and was an Adjunct Professor of Medicine in George Washington University and an Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry at Howard University.
Dr. Margarita Montemar has a Doctorate in Education from University of Miami, a Master of Science in Mathematics from New York University and a Bachelor in Business Administration from University of Puerto Rico. She is presently an Adjunct Mathematics Professor at the University of Miami. Mr. Brian Murphy is a pianist, composer, clinician, instructor and arranger who has recorded and performed extensively in the U.S., Canada, and around the world. He has guided Honors Jazz Ensembles in the development of their music related skills.
116
Meet your Instructors Ms. Joan Nurse is a Corporate Trainer. She trained in various computer systems at AT&T and FedEx, domestically and internationally. In addition, she has extensive experience in Microsoft and Macintosh. Dr. Manuel Prestamo earned his PhD and MA from New York University in higher education and arts administration. Dr. Prestamo is an internationally recognized symphony orchestra conductor and has extensive experience in all areas of music. He is presently an adjunct faculty at Florida International University. Ms. Lauren Radick has a Master of Science in Education from George Washington University, and a Bachelor of Science in Journalism and Literature. She has been a literature instructor at both OLLI at FIU and FAU.
Dr. Mitra Raheb has a PhD from the University of Miami in Islam and extensive experience in academia, and a Master's degree in Soviet Union and Middle Eastern Studies. She is an accomplished consultant and educator, known for her expertise in negotiation, diplomacy, global strategy, and community outreach.
Ms. Nina Ramos graduated with a B.A. in humanities and art from the Escuela de Artes Visuales Cristobal Rojas, in Venezuela. She is a life coach, medical assistant, and licensed massage therapist.
117
Meet your Instructors Rebecca Staton-Reinstein, PhD, has a Doctorate in organizational development from Union Institute & University, a Masters in Biochemical Genetics from Indiana University Bloomington, and a Bachelor in Biology from William & Mary. She is currently the President of Advantage Leadership, and she has been an instructor at OLLI FIU and NSU. Dr. Daniel Rivera has a Ph.D in Arabic and Islamic Studies and has 13 years of academic teacing experience. He is an expert on international relations and Middle Eastern history and politics. Dr. Rivera is a political analyst for America TeVe (Ch. 41) and Radio Miami. Ms. Susan Rosenthal is a retired M-DCPS teacher. Susan attained her masters in Reading and is also certified by the National Certification Council for Activity Professionals as an activity consultant. Ms. Judith Schwartz is a retired Clinical Social Worker. She is now a "by the book" Canasta instructor who teaches in accordance with NMJL and CLA standards. She has taught Canasta with as many as 125 students. She firmly believes that sharing the skill - and fun - of these games has been a productive way to spend her retirement years.
Harvey J. Sepler, JD, PhD received his JD from the University of Miami and is a seasoned appellate attorney having personally litigated over 1,400 civil and criminal appeals spanning a 32-year career. He is a Fellow in the American Academy of Appellate Lawyers. 118
Meet your Instructors Ms. Blanca Silva has a Masters in Modern Languages and a B.A. in French and Spanish Literature. She taught French at Miami Coral Park High School for 17 years.
Mr. David Vess is a composer, music theory instructor and 2nd Year DMA Student at the University of Miami Frost School of Music. Dave teaches classes about Classical Music and Film Music, helping audiences from all kinds of backgrounds enrich their enjoyment and love of music.
Dr. Daniel Vitaglione obtained a B.A. and master’s degrees in English and psychology from the University of Aix-Marseille and a master’s degree in Comparative Philosophy from the University of Hawaii. He was awarded his PhD in English and Comparative Literature at St. Andrews in the UK. He is the author of several books. Mr. Arthur Young has coached and refereed youth sports and officiated high school and small college football for 43 years. He was a member of the Miami Dolphins, University of Miami and Orange Bowl games’ chain crew. Ms. Josie Zomerfeld is an active member who enjoys leading and facilitating technology classes. She attended Miami-Dade College and Barry University, obtaining a degree in Liberal Arts. She retired as a manager from AT&T and later worked as an Assistant to the Mayor of the City of Coral Gables.
119
Register Online at miami.edu/olli
For more information: Osher Lifelong Learning Institute 1550 Brescia Avenue Lau Founders Hall Coral Gables, FL 33146 305-284-OLLI osher@miami.edu
A special thanks to the OLLI Art class members whose fine works of art were chosen to be displayed in this Catalog.