SMFA Continuing Education Spring 2022 Catalog

OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE AT TUFTS UNIVERSITY

Extraordinary FREE Series for Members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Tufts.

TUFTS’ BEELZEBUBS

NATIONALLY RENOWNED A CAPPELLA GROUP

THURSDAY, MARCH 10TH • 7:30PM

Join Tufts’ Beelzebubs for a fun night as they perform some classic tunes, like Signed Sealed Delivered, Cecilia, Sweet Caroline, Alison, and more. They are Tufts' oldest male-identifying a cappella group who recently released an EP called Prospect Street and have an album that will be out in the fall of 2022. They love spreading fun through song and hope you enjoy this performance!

ELIZABETH STANLEY

TONY-NOMINATED STAR OF BROADWAY MUSICAL THEATER AND TELEVISION

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6TH • 8:00PM

Join Elizabeth Stanley in a behindthe-scenes discussion about singing, acting, and creating emotionally real characters. The event will include excerpts from Stanley’s interpretations of several songs, including her recent leading role in Broadway’s Jagged Little Pill, which was launched at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge.

ALL TALKS WILL TAKE PLACE ON ZOOM.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.

STUDY GROUPS AT A GLANCE

explore new realms of your education

America's Best Choreographers

Barry Schoenfeld, Outside Instructor $150

Monday, 4-6pm (March 21, 28, April 4, 11, 25, May 2)

6 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

"Just put one foot in front of another." It seems simple, but the results can be awe-inspiring, remarkable and glorious. In the hands of American masters like George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, Twyla Tharp and Bob Fosse, choreography can make the show, and make an indelible impression on the audience. Join us for a video tour through the "best of the best," in this fascinating (and interactive) look at America's Best Choreographers.

Ancient History Through Maps

Hannah Alexandra Male, Tufts Alum $175

Thursday, 2-4pm (March 24, 31, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5,12)

8 Sessions, Minimally interactive- mostly lecture

This course is an overview of ancient history through the use of maps. The course begins with an overview of prehistory and will end with the Dark Ages. From Prehistory and the Sumerians, and Egyptians, to the decline of the Western Roman empire, students will gain a broad overview of the changing map of ancient history. The course will cover different regions of the world including Africa, the Middle East, the Mediterranean region, and China.

Artificial Intelligence - Ethical Lessons Learned for Future Actions

Gaurav Sharma, Tufts Graduate Student

Friday, 8-10am (March 25, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12)

8 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$175

As the use of artificial intelligence (AI) systems became significantly more prevalent in recent years, the concerns on how these systems collect, use and process big data also increased. Algorithmic or automated decision-making systems are already used in every aspect of our private and public lives. Algorithms are increasingly being marketed and adopted to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the personalization of products and services. However, despite this ubiquitous state of algorithms and the high stakes and high impact of these decisions on the individual and society, the decisions about what is important, what should be a priority, or how and where these systems should be deployed are still made by a small number of stakeholders. In this course, we will learn the application of artificial intelligence and how these raise complicated ethical and legal issues of bias, oversight, privacy, accountability, and liability. What lessons have been learned and how to create better and sustainable products, services that respect society and work with society’s needs rather than private companies’ interests.

Bay State Transit History

Michael Werner, OLLI Member $125

Monday, 10am-12pm (March 21,28, April 11, 25)

5 sessions, Somewhat interactive- a mix of lecture and discussion

This course will examine the history of public transit in Boston and its suburbs. Starting in the nineteenth century with the construction of the first canals, railroads and streetcar lines, we will examine the increasingly public role in transportation in the twentieth century. The last sessions will focus on the MBTA, its service to the community, and its current and future plans. Classes will be part presentation and part discussion. An accompanying web site will have the slides shown in class and links for optional further reading.

Beowulf Translated by Seamus Heaney

Rory A O'Connor, OLLI Member

Friday, 10am-12pm (March 25, April 1, 8,15, 22, 29, May 6, 13)

8 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$175

Beowulf, written in Old English somewhere between 650 to 950 CE, is a poem set in Scandinavia about a hero who travels from southern Sweden to Denmark to vanquish a man-eating monster called Grendel. He kills the monster and its mother, returns home to Sweden, and slays yet another dragon. It exists in one somewhat tattered manuscript only, now in the British Library. We will take turns reading through the entire 3,183 lines in Seamus Heaney’ translation, commenting on and explaining what we find. Independent research will be encouraged, and members will present their findings to the class. Estimated outside work is two hours per week. Class size is limited to 16.

Beowulf: A Verse Translation (Norton Critical Editions) by Seamus Heaney, edited by Daniel Donoghue, Second Edition, 2019. Available in bookstores or at Amazon for about $11.00 (used) to $22.00 (new)

An Intro to Climate Change and Successful Advocacy

Tom Rawson, Outside Instructor

Wednesday, 4-6pm (March 23, 30, April 6, 13)

4 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$100

This course introduces participants to the issue of climate change. The course is participatory and is designed for people interested in:

Learning more about climate change and climate justice; Becoming more effective in communicating with others; and Taking action to mitigate the impacts on our planet and ourselves.

Participants are expected to attend all four sessions and participate in small group or whole group discussions. We work to foster a sense of shared interest and engagement through this participation. There are some readings and/or videos to watch prior to each session, typically requiring 30 minutes or less, with a range of additional optional materials also available.

Chair Yoga

Yolanta Kovalko, Tufts Staff and OLLI Member

Friday, 4-6pm (March 25, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13)

8 Sessions, Somewhat interactive- a mix of lecture and discussion

$175

Adaptive (Chair) Yoga & Relaxation introduces a gentle form of a Yoga based therapy to older people who may experience a range of ailments related to muscles, bones, joints, and nerve degeneration due to aging. Every week students will be introduced to new postures that will help with mobility, balance, muscle strength, flexibility, and bone health. Adaptive (Chair) Yoga & Relaxation demands the students’ active participation, the course will give students tools they can take with them to improve their posture, increase mobility, balance, strength, and state of mind. Each class will end with guided meditation for deep relaxation.

Classic Films of Alfred Hitchcock III

Arnie Wright, OLLI Member

Monday, 2-3pm (April 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16)

5 sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$62 50

Alfred Hitchcock’s career as a movie director spans six decades in which he directed over 50 films. He is known as the “master of suspense”. This course will feature five Hitchcock movies, one each week. The films will be viewed before the class, at study group members’ convenience. Most of the films are available on Amazon Prime for $3.99 but some are on kanopy.com for free. An email notice will be sent out a week in advance regarding where each film will be available. The class will be devoted to a one hour Zoom discussion and critique of the film (What is its significance? What is its central theme(s)? What about the film did you like or not like?). The five films we will watch are: Shadow of a Doubt (1943), To Catch a Thief (1955), North by Northwest (1959), Psycho (1960), and Frenzy (1972)

Cooking with Sara: Afternoon Tea

Sara Miller, Tufts Alum

Saturday, 12-2pm (May 7)

1 Session, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$25

Love trying new foods, cooking, and eating together with friends? Then come join me for some cooking time! In this study group we'll all be cooking together to make scones and finger sandwiches. I'll send out ingredient and equipment lists, and then during the session we'll have hands-on cooking time as I share how to make the dish/dishes of the day. We'll have a lot of fun together learning new cooking skills, and then getting to (virtually) share a meal together.

Cooking with Sara: Easy Fruit Pie

Sara Miller, Tufts Alum

Saturday, 12-2pm (May 14)

1 Session, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$25

Love trying new foods, cooking, and eating together with friends? Then come join me for some cooking time! In this study group we'll all be cooking together to make a fruit galette with crème anglaise. I'll send out ingredient and equipment lists, and then during the session we'll have hands-on cooking time as I share how to make the dish/dishes of the day. We'll have a lot of fun together learning new cooking skills, and then getting to (virtually) share a meal together.

Cooking with Sara: Mezze Brunch Spread

Sara Miller, Tufts Alum

Saturday, 12-2pm (May 21)

1 Session, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$25

Love trying new foods, cooking, and eating together with friends? Then come join me for some cooking time! In this study group we'll all be cooking together to make a brunch of Turkish poached eggs, hummus, salads and sweet tea. I'll send out ingredient and equipment lists, and then during the session we'll have hands-on cooking time as I share how to make the dish/dishes of the day. We'll have a lot of fun together learning new cooking skills, and then getting to (virtually) share a meal together.

Cooking with Sara: Thai Street Food

Sara Miller, Tufts Alum

Saturday, 12-2pm (May 28)

1 Session, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$25

Love trying new foods, cooking, and eating together with friends? Then come join me for some cooking time! In this study group we'll all be cooking together to make simple dishes you might get at a Thai market: some tam (green papaya salad) and kai jiow (Thai omelets). I'll send out ingredient and equipment lists, and then during the session we'll have hands-on cooking time as I share how to make the dish/dishes of the day. We'll have a lot of fun together learning new cooking skills, and then getting to (virtually) share a meal together.

Cooking with Sara: Thai Treats

Sara Miller, Tufts Alum

Saturday, 12-2pm (June 4)

1 Session, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$25

Love trying new foods, cooking, and eating together with friends? Then come join me for some cooking time! In this study group we'll all be cooking together to make some delicious Thai desserts: mango sticky rice and crispy fried banana rolls. I'll send out ingredient and equipment lists, and then during the session we'll have hands-on cooking time as I share how to make the dish/dishes of the day. We'll have a lot of fun together learning new cooking skills, and then getting to (virtually) share a meal together.

Designing a Year-Round, Low Maintenance Garden

Mary Lee, Tufts Faculty Member

Tuesday, 10am-12pm (March 22, 29, April 12, 19, 26, May 3, 10, 17)

8 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$175

Design your garden to have year-round interest while being low maintenance with little pruning and no pesticides. Size doesn’t matter - it can be a pocket garden or a large area. In addition to design principles, we’ll discuss a range of hardy, versatile plants, with design cluster examples from my garden, as well as tips on pruning, composting, and plant division. Each session will begin with a presentation followed by a discussion based on participants’ needs and interests. By the end of the course you should have a basic plan of how to proceed successfully in your own garden, not only with the basic design but also the plantings. Participants have the option of a socially-distanced garden tour at my home later in the spring. Limited to 11. Note: This is a repeat of the class taught last spring.

Exploring A Country of Stories: Bangladesh

Md Hasan Abdullah Towhid, Tufts Graduate Student

Wednesday, 10am-12pm (March 30, April 6, 13, 20, 27, May 11)

6 Sessions, Somewhat interactive- a mix of lecture and discussion

$150

Bangladesh is south Asia’s greenest jewel - a country braided with rivers, with a rich culture waiting to be explored by pioneering travelers. This is the most densely populated country in the world having enormous opportunities for economic development. Bangladesh has a rich history, tradition, culture, religions, languages, diversity, and several ethnicities. Being the worst victim of Climate Change, the country is facing challenges for adaptation, whereas the Rohingya crisis creates another challenge for its development. In the sessions, we will provide a brief idea of Bangladesh. Participants will learn about the rich history and culture of this country located in another part of their world. They may feel like visiting someday soon to motivate themselves and to work for the hardworking innocent people of the country. Participants don’t need to do any assignments, prior preparations or written articles. We will watch videos, listen to songs, and enjoy learning about Bangladesh as a whole

Fly Me To The Moon: Understanding The Future Challenges and Opportunities of Moon Governance

Sophia Warner, Tufts Graduate Student

Tuesday, 4-6pm, (April 26, May 3, 10, 17)

4 Sessions, Somewhat interactive- a mix of lecture and discussion

$100

The Moon has guided sailors, inspired artists, and puzzled ancient civilizations. As one of the earliest symbols of human curiosity and creativity, the Moon continues to play an active role in both science and culture. Better technology and increased opportunities for space exploration are now paving the way towards a modern space race, where the United States, China, and Russia all hope to increase their presence in outer space. This class plans to discuss the opportunities and challenges of increased moon exploration. We will begin by looking at the moon as an early symbol of human culture, briefly cover the history of space law and exploration, and then continue with current outer space debates over commercialization, militarization, space debris, tourism, and moon mining. Group members will have a maximum of 30 pages reading a week. The reading will include guided questions. I will also include podcasts, videos, and lectures to listen to before or after class. Half of the class will be lecture, the other half discussion. Group members will be encouraged to prepare brief responses of the reading questions, and will present other writing, art, and/or speeches on the discussion topics.

Getting Your Garden Ready for Spring

Mary Lee, Tufts Faculty Member

Thursday, 10am-12pm (March 24, 31)

2 Sessions, Highly interactive - lots of discussion

$50

This short course is for returning students who took Designing a Year-Round Garden last year. We’ll have two sessions to review key lessons to get your garden ready for a terrific growing season, including pruning, plant division, soil preparation, and plant suggestions for problem areas. Reconnect with fellow gardeners to share your successes and lessons learned from last season, and of course questions to discuss!

Note: this is open only to members who took the Gardening class last spring.

Great Decisions 2022

Joe Ash & Pete Baldwin, OLLI Members

Wednesday, 10am-12pm (March 23, 30, April 6, 13, 20, 27, May 4, 11, 18)

$200

9 sessions, Somewhat interactive- a mix of lecture and discussion

Participate in a series of thought-provoking discussions about nine key issues of concern to today’s U.S. policymakers: Changing Demographics; Climate Change; Russia and the U.S.; Outer Space; Drug Policy in Latin America; Industrial Policy; Myanmar & ASEAN; Quad Alliance; Biden’s Agenda. We’ll draw primarily on our required text, Great Decisions 2022 Briefing Book, a publication by the Foreign Policy Association (available for $35 plus shipping from www.fpa.org). We’ll review one topic per week. The study group leaders will begin each session with a presentation on the topic of the day to supplement the text. The rest of the session will be devoted to open discussion based on the text, the presentation, and the ideas and experience of class members, as we seek a deeper understanding of the issues involved. Weekly readings will include about 15 pages from the required text plus occasional additional short articles.

History of Popular Music in the US

Vedran Mehinovic, Outside Instructor

Tuesday, 4-6pm (March 22, 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26 May 3, 10) 8 Sessions, Minimally interactive- mostly lecture

$175

The students will explore American expressions of popular styles, most of which also originated in the US. The course covers both sacred and secular origins of these styles, starting in the 19th century, and their continued evolution to the present day. Important context will be provided, like the development of wax cylinder sound capture, the design hurdles of the solid-body electric guitar, and the streamlining of R&B instrumentation after WWII. A class will also be dedicated to the progression of electronic music, from the drum machines of the ‘50s and ‘60s, to the analog and digital synthesizers, and the analog renaissance of today. Major musical styles will include gospel, blues, country, bluegrass, folk, rock, heavy metal, punk, and more. There are over 100 carefully chosen musical examples, and no assignments or tests.

How Does the U.S. Rank Globally - 2022? A Top 10 Summary

Doug Stowell, Outside Instructor

Tuesday, 2-4pm (May 3)

1 sessions, Somewhat interactive- a mix of lecture and discussion

$25

We review the U.S. global rankings in seven major categories and 25 sub-topics for 2022: the Economy (GDP, wages, taxes, etc.), Environment (global warming, pollution, etc.), Energy (sources, consumption and uses), Education (achievement levels, trends, etc.), External (foreign trade, military preparedness, etc.), Healthcare (costs, outcomes, and future trends, etc.) and Safety (crime rates, firearm usage, suicides, etc.). We’ll also take a look at national prosperity index, a change readiness index, countries ranked and where to be born in 2022. All charts and links to data sources provided to participants in advance. This is year #4 for these rankings with the class goal of 75% presentation and 25% discussion!

Ice Age Floods

Stephen Senturia, OLLI Member

Wednesday, 10am-12pm (April 6, 13, 20, 27, May 4, 11)

6 Sessions, Minimally interactive- mostly lecture

$150

During the last Ice Age, melted waters created immense lakes, setting the stage for equally immense floods.Glacial Lake Bonneville in Utah overflowed north into the Snake River drainage, the released torrent carrying elephant-sized boulders and cutting the depth of Hell's Canyon, ultimately reaching the ocean via the Columbia River. The Great Salt Lake is its still-dwindling remnant. A vastly larger series of floods from Glacial Lake Missoula carved the coulees and scablands of central Washington and the present Columbia River Gorge, permanently changed the course of several rivers, and backed the Snake River up into southern Idaho and the Willamette River as far south as Salem. Because of the unprecedented geographical scale of these events, it took geologists half a century, and a lot of not-so-nice arguments, to figure them out. We will explore the history of the scientific discovery as well as this truly spectacular geologic story. (reading 35 pgs/wk).

Book: Cataclysms on the Columbia, Revised Second Edition (Ooligan Press, 2009) John Eliot Allen, et. al., Pbk, $19.

In-Depth Investment Skills: How to Become a Savvy Investor,

Part 1

Gary Cahn, Tufts Alum

Wednesday, 2-4pm (March 23, 30, April 6, 13, 20, 27, May 4, 11)

8 Sessions, Somewhat interactive- a mix of lecture and discussion

$175

Do you have a financial advisor? Do you know whether the advice you receive is sound and worth the fee you are charged? Alternatively, are you managing your investments yourself and would like a second opinion on whether the investment choices you’ve made are sound? We will review the possible components of an investment portfolio, including mutual funds, ETFs, ETNs, cash equivalents, stocks, bonds, annuities, commodities, REITs, futures, options, and hedge funds. We will discuss the pros and cons of each investment, giving special emphasis to the first two listed. Part 2 of the course, which is optional, will be taught in the fall when you will learn how to build a portfolio appropriate for your specific needs.

Books: How to Get Rich Surely* But Slowly (*Probably) by Gary Cahn (optional)

Music and Peacebuilding

Elke Jahns-Harms, Tufts Faculty Member

Friday, 2-4pm (April 1, 8, 15, 22)

4 Sessions, Somewhat interactive- a mix of lecture and discussion

$100

How can music contribute to constructive dialogue, conflict transformation and reconciliation? What is special about music and other arts that can make them particularly effective approaches to peacebuilding? How can the arts help us overcome or reinforce bias and stigma? We’ll draw on concepts from the fields of conflict resolution, peacebuilding, sociology, cultural diplomacy, and music therapy.Our examples will include organizations using theater and music to bridge divides in Burundi after genocide, and in the US after the 2016 election. We’ll look at a world-famous orchestra composed of young Arab and Israeli musicians, a former child soldier from Sudan who raps to spread awareness and peace, chamber groups who perform in Boston area homeless shelters, musicians who help refugees integrate into their new communities, and professional songwriters who help incarcerated women write lullabies for their children. Sessions will include lectures, brief video clips, and group discussions. Participants may be asked to complete readings or watch videos outside of class (no more than half an hour per week).

One Hundred Years of Newbery Award Winners

Cleo and Steve D’Arcy, OLLI Member

Tuesday, 2-4pm (March 22, 29, April 5, 12)

4 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$100

In each of past 100 years, a single book has been awarded the Newbery Medal for making a distinguished contribution to American literature for children. The purpose of the award is to encourage original creative work in the field of children’s books, similar to that awarded for adult poetry, plays and novels. While the selection criteria and process have changed over the years, the winning books comprise a list of oft-recommended, widely read and carefully critiqued children’s literature. In this study group we will read a selection of Newbery winners from the 1920s to the 2020s. As we enjoy these books, we can discuss how representations and views of people and society have changed over the past century.

Required reading: 2-3 children’s books (mostly middle readers) each week.

Power, Privilege, Intersectionality, and Everything in Between

Isha Vajpeyi, Tufts Graduate Student

Thursday, 6-8pm (March 24, 31, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12)

8 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$175

Politics today cannot be isolated from the concept of intersectionality as multiple identities of an individual often interact to determine the quality of their life in society. In order to better understand systems of oppression and how they marginalize certain identities, we need to develop a lens of intersectionality. This course will unpack the concept of intersectionality, its connections with feminism and marginalization, and look at its relevance in today’s context. Through short games/interactive exercises, videos, and readings (8-10 pages approx.; some may be longer), the course will explore identities (gender identity, caste, class, ethnicity, and sexual orientation, to name a few) and privileges and how it impacts each individual’s life. The course will also look at how we can aim to involve and listen to varied and diverse voices in the way we lead our lives. The classroom will be a safe space for all students to reflect, share, and learn from each other.

Smart, Strong Voices: A Study of Short Stories and Essays

Jane Katims, OLLI Member

Thursday, 10-12pm (April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26)

8 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$175

In this class, we will focus on three authors whose voices are distinct and compelling. We will explore the range and craft specific to the short story and essay forms, and we will compare themes, styles of writing and character development. Among the questions we ask: How do authors express human impulses and emotions? How do they create atmospheres and moods?How is time managed in the narratives?Class members will be asked to locate or buy three books and read approximately 60 pages per week. The class encourages spirited discussion -- diverse and provocative -- about the contemporary narratives we consider together. For our first class, please read the essays Three Fathers, The Paris Tattoo, and My Years of No Shopping in the collection These Precious Days by Ann Patchett. We will be reading and discussing selections from three books: These Precious Days by Ann Patchett, Varieties of Exile by Mavis Gallant, Angel on the Roof by Russell Banks.

The Essays of Michel de Montaigne

Emese Soos, Retired Tufts Faculty Member, OLLI Member

Wednesday, 2-4pm (March 23, 30, April 6, 13, 20, 27)

6 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$150

Michel de Montaigne (1533-1592), author of over 100 essays, drew his inspiration from the study of classics and observations from his travels, as well as his experiences as a judge in the Parlement of Bordeaux and as mayor of the city. By making himself the subject of his reflections he reveals his profound humanism in a century fraught with religious quarrels. The conversational tone that merges anecdotes with analysis and insight makes his writing both accessible and intellectually stimulating. We will read and discuss some of his most important essays.

Books: Michel de Montaigne: Essays, selected and translated by John M. Cohen and published by Penguin, ISBN-0-14-017897-X.

The Evocative Films of Michelangelo Antonioni: Master of

Art-House Cinema

Allan Elfant, OLLI Member

Tuesday, 1-4pm (March 22, 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26 May 3, 10)

8 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$175

Michelangelo Antonioni was a masterful Italian cinema director whose bold films became the cornerstones for international filmmaking. His films are best known for his poignant focus on visuals, ambiguous narratives that pose difficult questions and mystify audiences, and a focus on modern alienation and discontent. His films emphasized the psychological and emotional landscapes of his characters whose very human struggles often lacked clear resolutions. We will view 8 of Antonioni’s films together: Story Of A Love Affair, The Vanquished, L'Aventurra, La Notte, L’Eclisse, Red Desert, Blowup, and The Passenger Each of our classes will involve first showing a film and then exploring and examining the main themes. Classes will be up to 3 hours in length depending on the length of the film and the extent of our discussion. Optional internet readings will be provided.

The Four Ages of Rome

Gabriela Mirazon-Hahn,

Outside Instructor

Wednesday, 10-12pm (March 23, 30, April 6, 13)

4 Sessions, Minimally interactive- mostly lecture

$100

Capital of the Western World in the Antiquity, center of Christianity in the Middle Ages, Rome became the Capital of the Papal States in the Renaissance and Baroque, and finally embodied the nascent Italian State. Urban traces of the four ages of Rome mingle today in a vibrant contemporary city.

Breaking down the complexity of Rome’s fascinating urban past is the aim of this course. Its goal is to provide orientation in terms of place and time about Rome’s topographical history and expand knowledge about architectural landmarks that have inspired the Western World ever since. Based on maps, we will uncover layers of history and explore selected buildings that reveal spectacular transformations. Participants may interact in discussions associated with maps, history and architecture.

The Portrait of Frida Kahlo as a Communist

Amrita DasGupta, Outside Instructor

Monday, 10am-12pm (March 21, 28, April 4, 11, 25, May 2, 9, 16)

8 Sessions, Somewhat interactive- a mix of lecture and discussion

$175

At eighteen Frida Kahlo met with an accident and lived a life of pain and illness until death. The fatal incident which crushed her pelvis, fractured her leg, broke her foot, and confined her to the bed for years could not crush her spirits or creative energy. Hanging a mirror on top of her bed to catch her reflection she painted her “suffering self” on the canvas. She was a born rebel. Starting from childhood, Kahlo’s exposure to the Mexican Revolution, ideas of communism as a student member of the Los Cachucha a campus based radical group only grew strong with age: her relationship and marriage with Diego Rivera, friendship with Trotsky, membership at the Mexican Communist Party, experiences of the Great Depression, aiding of refugees in the Spanish Civil War and demonstration against the 1954 U.S. overthrow of Guatemala’s democratically elected government made her physically broken self an ideological whole. The course will talk of Frida’s honest self and indomitable ideologies as is depicted in her selected few paintings, interviews, and letters.

Note: Each week, initial 20 minutes of footages from the movies on Frida Kahlo will be played, followed by 60 minutes of overview lecture/presentation and interpretation of Kahlo’s paintings, interviews, and letters, followed by 40 minutes of class discussions on preassigned weekly readings. Reading materials will be provided. Maximum 50 pages per week.

Book: Herrera, Haydon. 1983. The National Preparatory School, The Biography of Frida Kahlo. New York: Bloomsbury Publishing

Twelve Crises Shaking the World, and Why We Care

Robert Rotberg, Retired Tufts Faculty Member

Tuesday, 10am-12pm (March 22, 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26)

6 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$150

The contents of this course may expand if new crises erupt in March, when the course begins, but at the end of January the key conflicts that threaten global stability and world order include: the invasion of Ukraine, the continuing humanitarian disaster and war in Yemen, the equally tragic humanitarian collapse of Afghanistan, the ongoing militarycivilian face-off in Sudan, the internecine war in Ethiopia, the jihadist surge in Somalia, its counterpart in Mozambique, the war in the Sahel (just south of the Sahara), the intrastate conflicts that are destroying Nigeria, the cutting down of the Amazon in Brazil, the lack of vaccines and future mutations in Africa, and the fate of Cyprus, one of the longest running antagonisms anywhere. We will analyze the causes and conduct of each crisis and examine what is at stake for those immediately embroiled and for the U. S., usually two crises per session. There will be abundant interactive participation, especially as some of these crises will be unfolding in front of our eyes. If Armenia and Azerbaijan start shooting again, we could add that crisis. Likewise, if the Belarus attack on its own people heats up again, we would look at it. Or if China tries to conquer Taiwan...

Unpacking Whiteness: Our Role in Racial Justice

Sarah Iacobucci, Tufts Staff Member

Thursday, 10am-12pm (March 31, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5)

6 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$150

Join us as we engage in fascinating, compelling, and sometimes challenging dialogues about whiteness, white privilege, white supremacy, racism, reverse-racism, equity, intersectionality, micro-aggressions, red-lining, mass incarceration, affirmative action, dog-whistle politics, and many other topics. No textbook required; informative handouts will be sent by email. Expect to read about 20 pages per week, and also listen to podcasts, and watch videos. Each session will be a group dialogue on the weekly articles, podcasts, videos, and various documentaries. Active participation will be strongly encouraged. Past participants of this dialogue group have found it to be not just educational, but transformative!

Visiting Pre-Inca Andean Archaeological Sites

Margaret Lourie, OLLI Member

Monday, 2-4pm (April 4, 11, 25, May 2)

4 Sessions, Minimally interactive- mostly lecture

$100

Most everyone has heard of the Inca and knows something about them, and perhaps even visited Inca sites such as Machu Picchu. But, between the first human settlements in the areas west of the Andes and the rise of the Inca around 1400, many other civilizations rose and fell in the area eventually dominated by the Inca until their fall to the Spanish. Who were these earlier peoples, where and how did they live, and what did they leave behind that gives us clues to who they were? In this study group will take an introductory look at some of the archaeological sites, artifacts, and other clues left behind by pre-Inca inhabitants of the area now mostly in Peru. Links to videos and other optional background materials will be distributed by the study group leader.

Weekly Memoir Writing Habit Calling to

Chris Farrow Noble, OLLI Member

You?

Monday, 10am-12pm (March 14, 21, 28, April 4, 11, 25)

6 Sessions, Highly interactive- lots of discussion

$150

Do you recall weekly memoir writing in an OLLI study group as the pandemic took hold?

Have these months brought old experiences to mind or new awareness of your life and mortality? Do you have stories to savor & share as your legacy? Rekindle or begin a weekly memoir writing habit now! Each week participants will write a memoir of 2-4 pages to share via email before meeting.Writers will receive & give constructive feedback and suggestions, focusing on the writing, not the backstory.We’ll visit published memoirs, write spontaneously with prompts, and read parts of our memoirs aloud. We can write & speak freely in a close circle of fellow writers.You are the only one who can tell your story.

Note: Participants will read the memoirs of fellow participants prior to each weekly Zoom session, i.e., 8 participants will produce 16 - 32 pages each week.

World's Largest Democracy: The Indian Republic

Tathagata Dutta, Tufts

Graduate Student

Thursday, 10am-12pm (March 24, 31, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12)

8 Sessions, Somewhat interactive- a mix of lecture and discussion

$175

The world’s largest democracy, India was born from the womb of violence, illiteracy, poverty, hunger, and partition in 1947. Yet for the past 75 years India has survived as a functioning democracy. While India is today known as a steadfast ally of the United States, at one point in history, India and the then Soviet Union shared a formal alliance. This course will begin with the partition of the sub-continent between India and Pakistan, the integration of more than 500 Princely states into India and take through the difficult process of drafting a viable constitution and implementing democracy successfully in what was the biggest gamble until that time in history. It will also cover the several wars that India fought with Pakistan and China and explore the fault lines which continue to divide not only the sub-continent and the Indo-Pacific but India’s society internally. Most importantly it will explore how India, from the brink of dictatorship in the early 1970s, has managed to remain a democracy and the challenges to democracy it continues to face as lessons important for democracies all over the world.

Writing a Legacy Letter

Jay Sherwin, Outside Instructor

Friday 10am-12pm (May 6)

1 Session, Somewhat interactive- a mix of lecture and discussion

$25

A legacy letter (also called an ethical will) is a written document that allows people to share their life lessons, express their values and transmit their blessings to future generations. A legacy letter is shorter than a memoir, typically just a few pages. Writing one is a rewarding experience that creates an enduring gift for family, friends and loved ones. This workshop includes discussion and brief writing exercises to help you examine your life history, explore your values and capture important insights. It offers advice, encouragement and a model structure to help you draft and complete your own legacy letter.

Spring 2022 Lunch and Learn “Zoom”

Lectures

Talks take place on Wednesdays and run from 12:301:30pm!

MARCH 2

Sean Carroll, Distinguished University

Professor of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, Vice President for Science

Education, Howard Hughes Medical Institute

A Series of Fortunate Events: Chance and the Making of the Planet, Life, and You

MARCH 9

MARCH 16

Ethan Danahy, Professor at the Center for Engineering and Outreach, Tufts University

Robotics for the Whole Person

MARCH 23

Jan Brogan, Author, Journalist, Instructor, Boston University’s Summer Journalism Institute

Murder Convictions and the Media

World Class Service Dogs - Hannah Kump and Lori Barrett

NEADS: All about World Class Service Dogs-Training from Start to Finish

MARCH 30

Dr. Fiorenzo Omenetto, Frank C. Doble

Professor of Engineering and Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Physics, EE, Tufts University

Unraveling a Silk Thread for Global Health and Sustainability

APRIL 6

June Carolyn Erlick, Editor-in Chief, ReVista, The Harvard Review of Latin America Historical Memory in Latin America

All Spring Lunch & Learn talks are held on Wednesdays from 12:30-1:30pm ET via Zoom

Spring 2022 Lunch and Learn “Zoom”

Lectures

Talks take place on Wednesdays and run from 12:301:30pm!

APRIL 13 Dr. Roxanne Zimmer, Community Horticulture Specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Suffolk County, New York

A Walk in Olmstead’s Park - in Honor of Frederick Law Olmstead’s 200th Birthday

Please note: This presentation will be at 1-2:30 PM

APRIL 20

APRIL 27

Rachel Kowalsky, MD, Pediatric Emergency Physician, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York City

A Literature Major’s Journey in Medicine

Katrina Moore, Senior Director of the Africana Center, Tufts University

Celebrating the African Diaspora at Tufts University

MAY 4

MAY 11

Daniel Leclerc, MA, History, Northeastern University, retired Educator and Administrator, current Facilitator, OLLIUMASS Boston

Operation Magic Carpet - The Soldiers Come Marching Home at the End of World War II

Peter Drummey, Chief Historian and Stephen T. Riley Librarian, Massachusetts Historical Society

Going the Limit: The Relief Expedition from Massachusetts in the Aftermath of the Halifax Explosion in December 1917

MAY 18

MAY 25

Linden Hu, MD, Paul and Elaine Chervinsky Professor in Immunology and Vice Dean for Research, Tufts University School of Medicine

A Walk Through Lyme: Past, Present and Future

Alonso Nichols, Chief of Photography, Tufts University

Thoughts and Stories Behind the “Leading While Black” Exhibit

Joe Ash, OLLI Member

Joe Ash holds a B.S. in electrical engineering from Cornell University and a M.S. in management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

During his 39-year career with an electric and gas utility, he held a number of officer-level positions in such areas as customer service, supply chain, regulatory affairs, pricing, and energy supply acquisition. He has been a member of Osher LLI since he and his wife retired to Somerville in 2009. In his retirement he has been certified as a mediator and has undertaken a variety of volunteer activities. Joe has led previous study groups, including most recently Great Decisions.

Pete Baldwin, OLLI Member

Peter Baldwin has been involved in all aspects of the gas turbine and compressor industries for over 55 years and has very broad general industry knowledge and equipment best practice. base-e is his Boston based independent consulting company focused on practical product positioning and commercialization strategies for Distributed Energy Technologies, Gas Turbines and various Air & Gas Compression interests. Pete was President of Ramgen Power Systems, a developer of an advanced shock compression technology for use in utility scale Carbon Capture and Storage Systems (CCS). Pete was the principal point of contact for all equipment selection, technical and commercial issues for 10 years. Pete spent 33 years with Ingersoll-Rand Company, serving as President of Woburn-based NREC, the developer of the I-R’s microturbine for use in Distributed Power Generation. Pete had been Vice President of Sales & Service North America for Ingersoll-Rand’s Air Compressor Group, and has held a variety of executive level positions, including international assignments in the UK and Italy. Pete holds a BSME degree from Purdue University. Pete has led previous study groups, including most recently Great Decisions.

Gary Cahn, Tufts Alum

Gary Cahn is a retired chief financial officer of two companies in Washington, D.C. He received his B.A. from Tufts University and his M.B.A from Dartmouth College. He has been teaching adult learners for over fifteen years, including courses in investing, computers and digital photography. He is the author of How to Get Rich Surely* But Slowly (*Probably). He does not sell financial products or advice. Gary is a new study group leader for Osher.

Cleo and Steve D’Arcy, OLLI Members

Cleo and Steve D’Arcy are retired professors who taught at the University of Illinois for over 30 years. After moving to North Reading in 2016 to be closer to family, they discovered OLLI at Tufts. They have since co-taught study groups on the National Parks, Massachusetts Trustees of Reservations properties, U.S. Highway 1, TED talks, plant disease epidemics, personal finance, birding and Southern Vermont. While they enjoyed teaching college students, they really enjoy sharing their interests and experiences with their contemporaries. Cleo and Steve both love to read. They are excited to have this opportunity to explore classic children’s books, some of which they read long ago and some of which their grandchildren will be reading soon. Cleo & Steve have led previous study groups, including most recently Visiting Southern Vermont.

Amrita DasGupta, Outside Instructor

Amrita Dasgupta is a Doctoral Candidateat the Department of Gender Studies, School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, researches on transnational migration, borders, sex work, climate crisis and gender in the lower deltaic Bengal. Her Ph.D. deals with Indo-Bangladesh borders and trafficking in humans. After an undergraduate and postgrad degree in English Literature, she acquired an M.Phil degree in Women’s Studies from Jadavpur University, India in 2018. Her research interests also include Postcolonial Studies, and Environmental Humanities with regards to South Asia.Thenceforth, she worked as a Project Assistant on the project named, Transformation Towards Sustainability in Higher Education: Interactional Dynamics in Gender and Intersectionality with a consortium of partners including Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom and the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. She researched on the the position of educational policies in India within the gamut of sustainable development goals, the function and practicality of such goals in relation to higher education, and its effects on intersectionality. Amrita is a new study group leader for Osher.

Tathagata Dutta, Tufts Graduate Student

Tathagata Dutta grew up in Calcutta, India, in what was once the capital of British India. Since the age of 18 he has been on a westward journey to Delhi where he attended St. Stephen's College for a B.A. in History and then to the U.K. for a M.Phil in World History from the University of Cambridge. Presently he is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of History at Tufts. The primary area of his research is frontiers and borders of Asia. Tathagata has led previous study groups, including, most recently: The End of Empires and The Rise of Asia, US Foreign Policy Since the First World War, and Second World War Through the Writings of Sir Winston Churchill.

Allan Elfant, OLLI Member

Allan Elfant has a B.A. in psychology from Brooklyn College and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from New York University. He was in clinical practice for over 40 years and held teaching positions at several universities. He has led over 200 presentations at national and regional professional conferences and meetings, and has led over a dozen study groups for our OLLI on various cinematic, psychological and philosophical themes. Allan has led previous study groups, including most recently Ingmar Bergman’s Films: His Cinematic Search For Meaning.

Elke Jahns-Harms, Tufts Faculty Member

Elke Jahns-Harms teaches International Development Aid at The Fletcher School and previously taught Music and Social Change at the New England Conservatory. A professional flutist, she has found music to be a crucial means of connecting with people wherever she goes, and her flutes are among the first items she packs on her travels. Her courses often bring together her life-long interests in music, poverty alleviation, social justice, and peacebuilding. Elke holds a Ph.D. in International Relations, a Master’s in Music, a Master of Public Affairs, and a B.A. in Geology and Environmental Science. She has led dozens of study groups with OLLI and is delighted to be back. Elke has led previous study groups, including most recently Sanctus! Choral Masterpieces from Gregorian Chant to Today.

Sarah Iacobucci, Tufts Staff Member

Sarah Iacobucci earned her Ph.D. at Tufts and is currently the Director of Undergraduate Labs in the Chemistry department. She has been interested in social justice issues for many years and has participated in numerous social justice activities. She has been active in dialogue groups at Tufts for several years. Sarah has led previous study groups, including most recently Unpacking Whiteness: Our Role In Racial Justice.

Jane Katims, OLLI Member

Jane Katims has written and produced six radio series for Wisconsin Public Radio, one earning her a Peabody Award in Broadcasting. She is the author of the poetry collection Dancing on a Slippery Floor and the story collection Until Now Along with teaching at Tufts Osher, Jane teaches literature and creative writing at The Cambridge Center for Adult Education. She is a member of the Board of Visitors of the English Department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.She lives with her family near Boston. Jane has led previous study groups, including most recently "Evocative Voices: A Study of Short Stories and Essays."

Yolanta Kovalko, Tufts Staff and OLLI Member

Yolanta Kovalko is a certified yoga teacher and meditation practitioner who owns and teaches at her studio Ball Square Yoga in Somerville. She has been practicing yoga for the last 15 years. She fell in love with yoga because of the pleasure it gave her and the serenity she found in the practice. She enjoys working with mature students and offers her expertise and specialization to students who may need more time, attention and assistance with their practice. She strives to create a safe, comfortable and relaxing environment for all her students.She is a proud mother, wife, grandmother, and pet mommy. Yolanta has led previous study groups, most recently Guided Medication.

Mary Lee, Tufts Faculty Member

With 40 years of gardening experience, Mary is a retired internal medicine physician, former Tufts dean and associate provost, whose mature garden was featured in Tufts Medicine magazine. She is an artist (oil painting since retirement, see maryyleefineart.com) who has brought her esthetic to year-round garden design. She is a returning OLLI instructor. Mary has led previous study groups, including most recently Designing a Year-Round, Low Maintenance Garden.

Margaret Lourie, OLLI Member

Margaret Lourie spent her career as a professional librarian in several libraries and professional organizations in the Boston area. She has led study groups in the Tufts Osher program on several topics, including digital resources from our public libraries, visiting museums virtually, and intrepid women travelers. She enjoys learning new things and exploring new topics with other Tufts Osher members, and looks forward to this new topic. Margaret has led previous study groups, including most recently Great Stuff From Your Public Library ... Online and Free!

Hannah Alexandra Male, Tufts Alum

History and archaeology buff Hannah Male is a 2019 graduate of Tufts History and Museum Studies M.A. program. Her coursework has focused on the ancient world and the history of archaeology. She has been accepted to the Heritage of Egypt and the Middle East M.A. program at University College London but is deferring until 2022. Ultimately she hopes to become a curator of Egyptian and/or Near Eastern antiquities. Currently she is located back home with family in CT. Hannah also offers World History/Social Studies tutoring services for the rest of 2021 Hannah has led previous study groups, including most recently The Egyptians: Kingdoms, Intermediate Periods, Oh My!

Vedran Mehinovic, Outside Instructor

Vedran Mehinovic was born in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. A gifted pianist from an early age, he and his musical family helped maintain the artistic life of the city during the Bosnian War. Mehinovic received Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Composition from New England Conservatory, and a doctorate from University of California, Santa Cruz. In 2007, his piece RA was selected as one of just three orchestral works to be performed during the Gaudeamus Music Week in Amsterdam, winning Honorable Mention at the week’s end. An enthusiast of world arts, Mehinovic has organized concerts of Korean, Hindustani, Uyghur, and Chinese music in Boston. He facilitated the Pacific Rim Music Festival 2010 and 2017, which took place in multiple international locations and featured new compositions for Korean and Western instruments. Mehinovic’s works have been performed in Bosnia, Croatia, Switzerland, France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Japan, Korea, and the United States. Vedran has led previous study groups, including most recently Understanding Music.

Sara Miller, Tufts Alum

Sara Miller is a bit of a professional chameleon and has lived and worked all over the world, including in Thailand. She lived there for just over a year teaching English in a rural Northern Thai province. Sara loves cooking and eating and connected with her Thai community through cooking lessons and exploring the local markets and dishes with her Thai colleagues and students. Sara is an alum of the Fletcher School. Sara has led previous study groups, including most recently Dumplings of the World.

Gabriela Mirazon-Hahn, Outside Instructor

Architect Gabriela Mirazon-Hahn, born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, has studied in Sao Paulo, Brazil, New York City (M.S. Urban Design, Pratt institute) and Rome (Conservation of Monuments, Universitadi Roma) and has been living in Germany with her family since the 1990s. She has taught Architectural Analysis and History in Maastricht, NL and led study-trips in Tuscany and Rome. History of Urban Civilisation interests her mostly and she feels particularly committed to sharing knowledge about the city of Rome with other culturally interested people. Gabriela has led previous study groups, including most recently The Four Ages of Rome: Architecture and Urban Transformation Over Time.

Chris Farrow Noble, OLLI Member

Chris Farrow-Noble has always written & loves to encourage others to write. She has compiled family histories and creative writings of students and family. She self-published two books of her mother's writings as well as one on her daily labyrinth walking. She has facilitated OLLI study groups on Dreamwork, Anne Frank's Life and Writings, and Memoir Writing. Chris has led previous study groups, including most recently Write Fiction for National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) Challenge!

Rory A O'Connor, OLLI Member

Rory O'Connor has a special affinity for the Middle Ages and has led a number of courses in the philosophy and mysticism of that era. He led a course at Tufts OLLI on Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, a 13th century poem. Although not a poet, he also enjoys the poetry of those times, especially anything touched by Seamus Heaney! Rory has led previous study groups, including most recently Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.

Tom Rawson, Outside Instructor

Tom Rawson is a recently retired 7th- and 8th-grade science teacher who lives near Boston. He works with a team to help lead Can We Stop Climate Change courses, works on climate change education with Mass. Audubon, and is an En-ROADS Climate Ambassador. He spends his free time with his family and doing carpentry, bicycle riding, and hiking. Tom is a new study group leader for Osher.

Robert Rotberg, Retired Tufts Faculty Member

Robert Rotberg is president emeritus of the World Peace Foundation, former MIT professor of political science and history, professor at the Harvard Kennedy School, Tufts academic vicepresident, and the author of many books about Africa. He has taught five adult courses in Lexington, several over Zoom. Robert has led previous study groups, including most recently Modern Africa: Challenges and Prospects.

Barry Schoenfeld, Outside Instructor

Barry Schoenfeld has over 40 years’ experience in the marketing, advertising, research, social media & consulting fields, including executive positions in New York and Los Angeles, and now with his own consulting business, Clear Vision Partners, which he founded in 2001. He moved to Palm Springs in 2014, and almost immediately began teaching at OLLI/CSUSB and OLLI/UCR, OLLI/DUKE and OLLI/Tufts, in his many fields of interests and "teaches from his passions" from opera to social media; from archeology to history; from mindful meditation to cults and; from ballet to current events. Barry has led previous study groups, including most recently Breaking the color barrier in Opera.

Stephen Senturia, OLLI Member

Stephen Senturia taught electrical engineering and applied physics at MIT for 36 years before his retirement. He has led a wide variety of study groups: one previously at OLLI on Faulkner's Absalom, Absalom! and more than fifteen at HILR on various topics, including two others in the area of geology: The Restless Earth (Volcanoes, Earthquakes and Tsunamis) and The Geology of the Colorado Plateau. Stephen has led previous study groups, including most recently Faulkner’s Absalom, Absalom!

Gaurav Sharma, Tufts Graduate Student

Gaurav is a global citizen with 16 years of experience in the telecommunication and automotive industries. Gaurav has lived in 30 countries and speaks 4 languages. He earned a Bachelor of Engineering with majors in Electronics and Telecommunication back in 2005. Through his course, he developed a passionate interest in digital communications. At Nokia and Volkswagen, Gaurav built teams with people from different geographies and diverse backgrounds to achieve one common business objective for small- and large-scale multimillion-dollar projects. In his last job, Gaurav worked as Product Strategy Manager with Volkswagen Germany and designed connectivity car products. His long-term goal is to work as a social entrepreneur to solve the world’s pressing challenges. Gaurav’s fascination with realworld problems comes from his early experiences in India and later travel in Burma, Russia, and Eastern Europe. Gaurav plans to launch his own venture-based on technology to tackle social challenges. Gaurav has led previous study groups, including most recently Life Lessons Learned Through Traveling.

Jay Sherwin, Outside Instructor

Jay Sherwin has practiced law, given away money for five different charitable foundations and served as a hospital chaplain. In 2019, he created the Life Reflections Project to educate people about legacy letters, ethical wills and other legacy documents. Jay has extensive experience facilitating adult learning programs and he has taught this course for OLLI programs nationwide. He holds a B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania and a J.D. from Northeastern University School of Law. Jay has led previous study groups, including most recently Writing a ‘Legacy Letter’.

Emese Soos, Retired Tufts Faculty Member, OLLI Member

Emese Soos majored in French and history at Mount Holyoke College, earned a Ph.D. in French from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and taught French language and culture courses at Tufts for over 30 years. She delights in revisiting some of her favorite literary works, this time in English. Emese has led previous study groups, including most recently Marguerite Yourcenar’s 1968 Novel, The Abyss.

Doug Stowell, Outside Instructor

Doug Stowell has been an OLLI Instructor at Furman University in Greenville, SC since 2015 and a national instructor since 2018. His career includes Director of Market Research for the Xerox Corp., U.S. Director for the U.K. firm National Opinion Polling, Ltd. In London, and Senior Consultant with Wirthlin Worldwide Polling in DC. He opened his own firm in 2008 and continues today conducting global consumer issues surveys. Doug has led previous study groups, including most recently What In The World Is Going On? A Top 10 Summary! (4th Annual Edition).

Md Hasan Abdullah Towhid, Tufts Graduate Student

Hasan Abdullah Towhid, a Bangladesh Foreign Service Officer, is currently pursuing a Master of Arts at the Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy. He joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dhaka as an Assistant Secretary in 2013. He was posted to the Embassy of Bangladesh in Lisbon, Portugal for three years during 2016-2019 as the First Secretary & Head of Chancery. Hasan also worked as an Assistant Commissioner & Executive Magistrate in 2012. He was posted to the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Natore. He worked as an International climate Champion of British Council from 2010 to 2012. He worked at the Climate Change and Health Promotion Unit, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. As a popular Radio Jockey, he conducted different types of Radio Programs on Radio Aamar 88.4 FM. He participated several international conferences and summits in home and abroad. Hasan has led previous study groups, including most recently Knowing South Asia.

Isha Vajpeyi, Tufts Graduate Student

Isha Vajpeyi is a first-year Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy candidate at the Fletcher School, focusing on International Communication and Environmental Policy. She has nearly three years of work experience in the development sector in India on issues of Gender Justice, Health, and Education. Previously, she worked as a Programs and Communications associate at a non-profit organization in India and supported the publication of their online magazine. Isha is a new study group leader for Osher

Sophia Warner, Tufts Graduate Student

Sophia Warner is a current graduate student at The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy where she plans to specialize in space law and policy. Prior to Fletcher, she spent two years teaching English, debate, and history at the Carl Friedrich von Siemens Gymnasium in Berlin, Germany. Sophia’s current research focuses on space commercialization. She is passionate about finding solutions to space governance and management. Sophia hopes to one day work for the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. Sophia is a new study group leader for Osher

Michael Werner, OLLI Member

Retired computer science professor Mike Werner has a long-standing interest in public transit. In the 1970s he took a course given by Fred Salvucci, secretary of transportation in the Commonwealth. Mike has taught a number of computer-related classes for Tufts OLLI. He has also taught for Coastal Senior College in Maine, and for the Instituto Allende Lifelong Learning program in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Michael has led previous study groups, including most recently Pandora’s Box—Computing, Bioengineering, and Human Enhancement.

Arnie Wright, OLLI Member

Arnie Wright was a professor at Boston College and Northeastern in the School of Business. He loves reading and traveling. He is an avid movie and theatre fan. His interest in this study group is that one of his favorite movie directors is Alfred Hitchcock. The upcoming course is a sequel to two previous Osher classes he led on Hitchcock films.Arnie has led previous study groups, including most recently Classic Films of Steven Spielberg.

OLLI REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Become a Member or Renew your Membership

(Membership runs from 7/1/2021-6/30/2022)

By visiting our website: https://universitycollege tufts edu/lifelong-learning Membership is required for class registration.

Register Starting on Tuesday, February 15th at 9am.

Register online - E-newsletter subscribers will automatically receive a reminder email with registration instructions. Email OsherLLI@tufts.edu and join our e-newsletter to get a reminder and more!

Receive Confirmation and Submit Payment

After the close of initial registration, we will contact you with a summary of your courses, your total balance due, and payment instructions.

REGISTRATION SCHEDULE

Initial Registration Period: February 15-16

OLLI Office Confirms Initial Course Enrollments: February 18

Add/Drop Period: February 22 - March 18

Classes Begin: March 21

PRICING

Membership Fee: $50 (Membership runs from 7/1/2021-6/30/2022)

Study Group Pricing: Varies by Course

HOW TO PAY

After your registrations for the term are finalized, our office will contact you to let you know how much you owe You will then have the option to pay via our online payment portal or send a check (made payable to Trustees of Tufts College) to our office.

FINANCIAL AID

Partial tuition remission is available on a limited basis For more info, call our main office and ask to speak with the director

WITHDRAWALS & CANCELLATIONS

You will be charged $25 for each withdrawal before the second session of a multi-session class (No refunds will be available after the second session ) If the OLLI office cancels any courses, full refunds will be issued When an individual session needs to be cancelled due to instructor illness or other reason, we do our best to schedule a makeup session 1 2 3

Tufts University Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

039 Carmichael Hall Medford, MA 02155

Phone: 617-627-5699

Email: OsherLLI@Tufts.edu

Web: universitycollege tufts edu/lifelong-learning