Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Phone:
wmich.edu/olli
Osher
Director’s Message
Happy 10th Anniversary, OLLI at WMU!
Ten years ago, the Osher National Foundation awarded Western Michigan University a milliondollar endowment. This gift was acknowledgment of the hard work that had taken place four years prior with the establishment of the Lifelong Learning Academy, which eventually transformed into the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Western Michigan University we know and love today.
Since that time, OLLI at WMU has:
• Offered over 1,200 courses
• Welcomed more than 1,500 members
• Coordinated nearly 70 events
• Been supported by over 1,000 volunteers
• Partnered with the National Resource Center to continue providing a robust curriculum of online courses
OLLI at WMU’s success is in great part due to the direct contributions of our members, volunteers, and donors. You have probably heard me say that without you, we could not do what we do. With that said, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each of you for your unwavering support and heartfelt donations.
I want to also extend a special thank you to:
• The donor who has bequeathed $500,000 in support of establishing a Lifelong Learning Institute Fund on behalf of OLLI
• Dr. Edward J. and Dr. Ruth M Heinig for establishing the Edward J and Ruth M Heinig Endowment for Lifelong Learning
Every gift has contributed to our community’s success, and we are extremely grateful for your generosity. OLLI at WMU is stronger because of the many members, volunteers, and donors like you who believe in the value of lifelong learning and who are committed to helping us build a thriving future.
With gratitude,
Toni Woolfork-Barnes, Ed.D. Director, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Western Michigan University
OLLI From the Members
“Mr. Thompson explained the complexities involved with weather reporting with humor and made me appreciate the work and preparation that goes into his job.”
Keith Thompson – Weather 101
“The presenters were so knowledgeable! The information presented was so interesting and it was great listening to samples of the music performances during their presentations.”
Zaide Pixley, Adam Schumaker, Pierre van der Westhuizen, Seth Abramson – At the Gilmore: Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, & Brad
“Superb presenter. Superb presentation. Erin obviously loves the topic and her enthusiasm is catching... Erin is a wonderful asset to the Air Zoo!”
Erin Lewis - A Glimpse into Deep Space: Discovering Black Holes, Exoplanets, and a New Frontier
“Lynn is an excellent presenter. I was able to introduce a topic for input—solo aging and the challenges it brings— which opened up further discussion. That may lead to a course of action to further assist senior citizens.”
Lynn McFarlen - Golden Information for Your Golden Years Series: Get to know Milestone Senior Services
“Content was very well organized and sequenced. I also liked Shannon’s use of guest presenters to enhance the class. Equally positive was the “breakout” session that she included in the second session.”
Shannon Huneryager - A Deep Dive into August Wilson’s play Two Trains Running
“The presentation was quite informative and up to date, citing research from February 2025.”
Len Ginsberg - Ancient DNA and Genetics: The Story of Human Evolution
Western Michigan University Civility
Statement
Western Michigan University is committed to creating and sustaining an environment that honors the inherent dignity and worth of all members of the WMU community. Respectful behavior expressed verbally, textually, visually, and physically should be the norm in all university communications and venues including classrooms, meetings, offices, workplaces, forums, events, social media and residential communities.
As an institution of higher education, we welcome a diverse range of perspectives and opinions and uphold the importance of civil debate. We fully support the free exchange of ideas and beliefs, as well as the expression of provocative or unpopular ideas. It is through this process that we generate knowledge and deepen our understanding of humanity.
Freedom of thought and expression may create conflict, strong emotions, and divergent ideological positions. While these effects are expected and welcomed, all members of the community have a responsibility to behave in a manner that does not harm others nor creates a hostile environment. Behavior that attacks, humiliates, belittles, or conveys hatred towards others diminishes our thriving and safe university environment.
Each member of our academic community is encouraged to be thoughtful and sensitive in their choice of words and behaviors. We should be aware of how our behavior affects others. Furthermore, we carry a responsibility to challenge those who communicate intolerance, hatred and bigotry. Words and actions matter. Everyone is asked to do their part in creating a healthy and positive university community and a culture that truly values each member’s uniqueness experiences, and perspectives.
Why Become an OLLI Member?
Intellectual discovery, personal growth, and social engagement are proven to enrich one’s quality of life, boost health, and contribute to one’s overall happiness. Those who are open to new experiences, actively involved in their communities, and cultivators of curiosity often lead more purposeful and productive lives.
From music to history or the arts to the sciences, the opportunities to expand your worldview and broaden your horizons are endless with OLLI at WMU!
OLLI Membership Fees
Benefits of an OLLI Membership
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at WMU is membership-based and open to anyone 50+ with a passion for learning. There are no tests, no grading and no academic credit. Your annual membership fee helps defray costs not covered by our low course fees.
There are many benefits to an OLLI at WMU membership, including:
• 25% discount for most events at the Gilmore Theatre Complex
• 15% discount for most events at Miller Auditorium
• 10% discount for most items at the WMU Bookstore
• Enrollment fee waived at West Hills Athletic Club
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Memberships fees are $50 per year and are nontransferable. Our annual renewal date is July 1. Joining OLL is simple – just head to our website at wmich.edu/olli. If yo have questions about membership, call us at (269) 387-4157 or email wmu-olli@wmich.edu.
Keep us growing by becoming a member and by telling your friends about OLLI at WMU! The gift of an OLLI membership also makes an excellent present for friends, family, and colleagues.
• Access to Shared Interest Groups which are member directed
• Member-only events and tours
Course Locations
College of Health and Human Services
Western Michigan University - East Campus
Fort St . Joseph Archaeology
Project Field
1415 Bond St, Niles MI 49120
Michigan State Capitol
100 N Capitol Ave, Lansing, MI 48933
Portage Zhang Senior Center
203 E Centre Avenue, Portage, MI 49002
General Information and Policies
About the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Western
The Bernard Osher Foundation, headquartered in San Francisco, was founded in 1977 by Bernard Osher, a respected businessman and community leader. The Foundation supports a lifelong learning network for mature adults through their Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes, which can be found on the campuses of 120 colleges and universities nationwide.
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Western Michigan University (OLLI at WMU) takes pride in providing intellectual and cultural stimulation, personal growth, and social engagement for adults 50+ in an informal, lively educational atmosphere. Over the last 10 years, OLLI has offered over 1,200 courses, welcomed more than 1,500 members, been taught by over 450 instructors, and coordinated nearly 70 events.
In addition, hundreds of volunteers have been an integral part of committees and leadership, helping to guide the success of OLLI at WMU. Courses and activities are developed by OLLI members with the support of the staff of WMUx. Members also volunteer as planners, instructors, committee members or advisory board members.
Scholarships
We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn. If you are unable to pay for courses, but want to experience what OLLI at WMU offers, why not take advantage of our robust Scholarship Fund?
An individual may apply for financial assistance to pay for one course per semester. The application is short and confidential. Please email us at wmu-olli@wmich.edu or call (269) 387-4157 for more information.
Trip Registration and Fees
Trips will be announced in the monthly newsletter and on our website. Dates and costs vary on a case-by-case basis. OLLI partners with Premier World Discovery to offer opportunities for family and friends to travel together on extended journeys around the globe. Visit wmich.edu/olli/trips to learn more.
Cancellations, Withdrawals, and Refunds
Cancellations: Instructors reserve the right to cancel a class and will notify course participants accordingly. The instructor will work with class members to arrange a make-up session. If you registered for a course and it is canceled, you may receive a refund or apply your course fee to another course if space is available.
If Western Michigan University classes are canceled for any reason, such as inclement weather, OLLI in-person classes are also canceled. It is the participant’s responsibility to consult the WMU website, OLLI website and/or local media regarding weather or other closures.
Withdrawals: You may withdraw from a course by contacting the OLLI office. Non-attendance or notifying solely the instructor is not an official cancellation.
Refunds: You will be eligible for a refund if you withdraw from a course at least two weeks before the first session. If you withdraw from a course less than two weeks before the first session, fees will not be refunded.
Parking Information
For in-person courses held on WMU’s campus, OLLI at WMU pays for your parking. Other course locations do not require permits. Parking permits are emailed or mailed by USPS (upon request) one to two weeks before the first session of your course.
Please let the office know if you already have a WMU permit or a disability parking placard/license plate, as you will not need a parking permit. If no handicapped parking spots are available when you arrive, you may park in any available space with a valid disability placard/license plate, including metered spots (except reserved parking).
Your Photo
When you participate in OLLI at WMU activities (courses, trips, events, etc.) your photograph may be taken and utilized to promote the Institute. Your photo may be used on the website, in our e-newsletter, in brochures, flyers, catalogs or elsewhere. If you do not want your photo to be used it is your responsibility to step out of pictures that are being taken.
Brain Games
Volunteer with OLLI
Are you eager to make a significant impact on your community? Do you want to utilize the skills you have developed over a lifetime or discover new ones? Would like to make new friends and social connections? If the answer is “yes” to any of the above, please consider volunteering with OLLI!
Teach a Course
You do not have to be a current or past WMU instructor to teach a course! We welcome past and present instructors from public schools and colleges as well as members of the general community who are passionate about a topic and wish to share their knowledge with others. Got an idea for a topic? Contact us via email at wmu-olli@wmich.edu or visit wmich.edu/olli/become-instructor
Support OLLI at WMU
OLLI at WMU is a membership- and volunteer-driven organization. Even though instructors are unpaid volunteers, the Institute incurs other costs related to course offerings. Subsequently, membership and class fees do not cover all costs associated with operating the Institute. There are also people in the community who are committed to lifelong learning but cannot afford the cost of our courses.
Through WMU’s University Advancement and Alumni Relations Office, we accept donations to either our Operating Fund to support the day-to-day operations of OLLI at WMU, or our Scholarship Fund, which provides free or reduced course registration to individuals who are not able to otherwise participate otherwise.
Visit our website for more information about how you can support OLLI with a financial gift.
Connect with us on Facebook
Stay up to date by liking and following us on Facebook! Search for OLLI at WMU (@WMULifelongLearning) on your Facebook account. Our posts include thought-provoking articles, upcoming details for courses, trips, and events, as well as reviews and photos from programs that have already taken place. You can also use our page to connect with fellow OLLI members, post comments, and share interesting information!
Registration
Registration for the Summer semester opens Tuesday, May 13 at 10 a.m. Courses are offered both in-person and online; course descriptions will indicate delivery method.
Ways to Register
Please note that there will be limited “phonein registration” for the Summer 2025 semester.
Online Call the OLLI office at (269) 387-4157
Visit room 1530 in Ellsworth Hall on Western’s main campus
Registering online is the quickest way to secure your spot for the courses you want to take. If you need assistance doing so, email us at wmu-olli@wmich.edu or call (269) 387-4157. If you have a visual or auditory disability, please make the OLLI at WMU office aware and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Trip Registration and Fees
Trips will be announced in the monthly newsletter and on our website. Dates and costs vary on a case-by-case basis. OLLI partners with Premier World Discovery to offer opportunities for family and friends to travel together on extended journeys around the globe. Visit wmich.edu/olli/trips to learn more.
Course Fees
Current fees are based on $10 per session for members and $20 for non-members. Other fees may apply.
If you register by mail, over the phone, or online you will receive registration confirmation and a receipt of payment via email. If you do not have an email address on file, you will receive your confirmation by postal mail upon request.
Online Registration
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*Remember, members enjoy the lowest course fees and other benefits. Add a Membership to your cart if you have not yet renewed your annual membership.
Course Selection
Under Courses, click on the link for the appropriate starting month for your desired course
Browse for your desired course and click the ‘Add to Cart’ button
When you finish making all your course selections, click Cart to Checkout
Checkout and complete your transaction
For virtual courses, online access links will be sent to you prior to your course start date
For on campus classes, parking passes will be emailed a week before your course start date, if needed
200 Years of Change: Down the Road in Kalamazoo
Nolan Bergstrom and Dennis Randolph P.E.
Tues 6/3, 6/10, 6/17, 6/24, 7/8, 7/15, 7/22, 7/29
9 to 11 a.m.
Portage Zhang Senior Center, Meeting Room 2B
Come explore how transportation has changed in Kalamazoo over the course of two centuries! We’ll start by looking at early forms of transportation, including Native American trails, waterways, and horse-drawn carts. Next, we’ll trace the arrival of trains, a special streetcar system called the “Interurban,” bicycles, and the first roads. We’ll learn about the rise of the automobile in the 20th century, including its influence on suburbanization; the impact of vehicular travel on infrastructure; the emergence of safety features such as seatbelts; and how people tried to find more efficient ways to travel, especially during times when gas and oil were expensive. As we turn our eyes toward modern transportation, we’ll see how cell phones, changes in gas prices, and the growing popularity of SUVs have affected the way people travel. We’ll also examine Kalamazoo’s bus system and some of the difficult issues in the city’s transportation landscape, such as the human cost of traffic crashes and how roadway safety hasn’t caught up to vehicle safety. Finally, we’ll discuss the laws and nationwide trends that are shaping the future of transportation, including the rise of electric cars, the concept of “Complete Streets,” and traffic calming techniques.
The Story of English: From Beowulf to Bae
Becky Straple-Sovers
Tues 6/3, 6/10, 6/17, 6/24, 7/1 6 to 8 p.m.
Portage Zhang Senior Center Meeting Room 2A/2B
The Oxford English Dictionary says it’s quite possible that modern English has more total words than most similar world languages, with about 4,000 new words being added each year. By some counts, there may be over a million words in English! Astonishingly, over 30% of those words are derived from other languages. The story behind the history of English is a fascinating tale spun out over the last 1,500 years, taking us from the epic ancient poetry of Beowulf to modern-day emojis and the emergence of “lolspeak” on the internet. In this five-session course, we will explore the evolution of English by learning the
basics of historical linguistics, experiencing the stages of English through listening and reading, and interacting with one another through discussion, activities, and games. You’ll come to see the most spoken language in the world in a whole new light as we trace its development from Old English through Middle English, Early Modern English, and Modern English—and even look forward to what some people think English will look like hundreds of years in the future!
Live Music and Talk: The Roots of Americana Roots Music
Howard Steiner and The Rinktum Ramblers String Band
Thurs 6/5
1 to 3 p.m.
College of Health & Human Services, Room 1035
Come experience history in a whole new way as we explore how migration to America led to our diverse musical inheritance! Many of our well-known traditional tunes are directly inspired by those of other countries and cultures. We’ll listen to a live performance of American folk songs that have ancestors in other traditions and learn the stories behind them, tracing their lineages back to sources in Scotland, Ireland, England, France, Spain, or Africa, and discover how these countries’ melodies found a home in North American music. The Rinktum Ramblers String Band, comprised of fiddle, guitar, bass, and banjo, will play longtime classics like “Buffalo Gals – Won’t You Come Out Tonight,” “Sally Ann Johnson,” “Soldier’s Joy,” “Flop-eared Mule,” “Charleston Gals,” and more.
Cool City Initiatives Walking Tour: Aimed at Making Cities More Attractive, Vibrant, and Livable
Christopher Hodshire, MSW
Tues 6/10, Wed 6/11, and Sat 6/14
9 to 11 a.m.
College of Health & Human Services, Room 1035
Downtown Kalamazoo and GR
In the early 20th century, downtowns were central to community life, creating opportunities for connection and experiences through city-sponsored events and innovations. These lively centers offered spaces for shopping, socializing, entertainment, and enjoying local food. By the 1970s, however, cultural shifts, increased car ownership, and the rise of suburban shopping malls led people away from downtowns. As a result, these changes often hurt a region’s image and triggered declining economic activity, prompting cities to focus on revitalization efforts. In the early 2000s the “Cool Cities” movement emerged, emphasizing the creation of vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable communities by enhancing public spaces, supporting arts, promoting walkable neighborhoods, and establishing green spaces. Many Michigan cities—including Detroit, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, and Traverse City—have embraced the “Cool Cities” movement, with city planners turning their focus toward neighborhood revitalization, attracting entrepreneurs, and building intentional spaces that energize both the economy and community. The first session will take place indoors, while the second and third sessions will be outside walking tours in the downtown areas of Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. Be ready for moderate to high physical walking. Please dress for the weather and for outside activity (sturdy shoes, hat, water, umbrella). Parking permits will be issued for the classroom session. Parking for both downtown walking tours is free, but you must park in a specific location; details will be provided to participants.
Strange, Unusual, Crazy and Weird Highway Signs
John Geisler
Tues 6/10
4 to 6 p.m.
College of Health & Human Services, Room 1057
Instructor Dr. John Geisler has driven over 5,000 miles in the last 10 years researching the history of highways in Michigan including, but not limited to, the Sauk Trail (US 12) and the West Michigan Pike (US 31). While conducting this research he has noted and recorded signs that seem out of place, out of joint, or out of this world. In this course, you’ll have the opportunity to explore his collection of unique road and highway signs that will entertain, inform, and delight. For example, there is a sign on a county road near Albion that reads, “WATCH FOR WATER UNDER BRIDGE”—but isn’t that where water is supposed to be! In addition, you’ll learn useful information about signage that will be helpful and interesting to all those who drive on highways and roads.
Editing Your Mobile Photos with Snapseed
Lynne Hall
Wed 6/11, 6/18, 6/25
1 to 3 p.m.
College of Health & Human Services, Room 1073
Snapseed is one of the best apps for editing photos on your mobile phone. In this beginner-friendly course, we will learn the basics of how to edit your own photos, including how to remove things from your picture, using the vignette feature, what double exposure does, how to change the brightness, utilizing the saturation tool to bring your images to life, and so much more!
Hoarding: What to Do?
Niki Nimmo, MAT RN
Thurs 6/12
10 a.m. to Noon
College of Health & Human Services, Room 1035
It is common to collect useful things that we may need sometime “just in case,” but what happens when that collection crosses the line and becomes hoarding? There is little that feels more shameful than having someone walk into our homes filled with clutter beyond reasonable limits. Many of us are not actually hoarders ourselves but know someone who is, such as a friend or a family member, and we too can feel defeated by the enormity of the situation before we can begin to offer our support, whether it is in our house or another’s. By taking a compassionate look at how and why hoarding begins, we’ll explore the signs, reasons, and myths of hoarding and discuss ways to avoid becoming hoarders ourselves. We’ll also address the question of, “if I am a hoarder, or know someone who is, how do I approach the subject and get needed help?” This class does not provide all the answers, but you will gain valuable information on untangling the subject of hoarding and how to begin seeking help for you or a loved one.
Understanding Anime
Wayne L. Bond II
Thurs 6/12
3 to 5 p.m.
College of Health & Human Services, Room 1035
What was once an isolated fad beloved by quiet individuals, anime is now a global phenomenon. This course will serve as a thematic introduction to the art form of anime, how anime culture has grown within the United States, and how it is broadly viewed by millennials and Gen Zers. While this course is not meant to answer every question one may have, it presents the themes that have captivated multiple generations within the West, and you’ll walk away with a better understanding of why millions worldwide fell in love with the whimsical and wonderful world of anime.
A Case for Love in Action
Marvinetta Woodley-Penn
Wed 6/18, 6/25, 7/9
10 a.m. to Noon
College of Health & Human Services, Room 1035
This course is designed to examine “Love in Action” as a transformative force in personal, relational, and societal contexts. Through an exploration of effective communication, compassion, empathy, and altruism, participants will investigate how love can be actively practiced and expressed to create meaningful impact. We’ll combine theoretical perspectives with practical applications, empowering you to better understand, experience, and implement “Love in Action” as a powerful agent of change in your own life.
Nature
Photography: Anybody Can!
Jeanne Church
Option 1: Wed 6/18. 1 to 3 p.m.
Vicksburg Senior Center, Taylor Room
Option 2: Thurs 6/26. 9 to 11 a.m.
College of Health & Human Services, Room 1035
Whether you use a cell phone, a simple camera, or advanced photography equipment, there is abundant joy to be found in experiencing nature through the lens of a camera! Nature photography is a fun and interesting hobby that boosts well-being in multiple ways just by exploring the beauty of the world around us. In addition to learning basic information about photography equipment and useful tips for photographing birds, butterflies, dragonflies and other creatures, you’ll discover a wide variety of local preserves, nature centers, and sanctuaries that are perfect for nature photography. We’ll also get inspired by a colorful and informative presentation featuring local birds, butterflies, dragonflies, mammals, amphibians, and plants that will be sure to ignite your curiosity and compel you to get outside and capture stunning photos of your own!
July 2025 Courses
Taking Better Pictures with your iPhone
Lynne Hall
Wed 7/9, 7/16, 7/23
1 to 3 p.m.
College of Health & Human Services, Room 1035
The iPhone is an amazing device that can do much more than make a call or send a text—the device’s camera is quite amazing and is consistently being upgraded. In this class, we will explore the many ways you can use the iPhone camera along with some simple composition rules to take beautiful, professional-looking pictures. Let’s explore together!
Eating for a Healthy Life!
Patrice Kaufman, BA INHC
Thurs 7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31
1 to 3 p.m.
College of Health & Human Services, Room 1035
Are you confused by all the conflicting advice about diets and eating strategies? Or which foods are the best for creating and sustaining good health, especially as we age? Furthermore, is it possible to avoid chronic diseases, or even reverse them once we’re diagnosed? And what about recipes, menus, and food preparation? It can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Come learn everything you need to know about Healthy Eating with simple, practical tips for choosing the healthiest foods and easy ways to create meals that nourish your body, mind, and spirit. You’ll walk away with comprehensive resource lists of the best books, recipes, and nutrition-oriented online physicians and health professionals that can help guide you on your journey to optimal health and wellness.
Only Hope: My Mother and the Holocaust Brought to Light
Irving Lubliner
Fri 7/11
1 to 3 p.m.
Online via Webex
Before she passed away in 1974, Felicia Bornstein Lubliner wrote about her internment in Polish ghettos and two Nazi concentration camps, Auschwitz and Gross-Rosen. Her powerful stories were collected by her son, instructor Irving Lubliner, who now invites you to travel back in time alongside his mother into the concentration camps as he
shares excerpts from his book, “Only Hope: A Survivor’s Stories of the Holocaust,” which sheds light on both his mother’s horrific experiences and indomitable spirit, as well as his own experiences as a child of Holocaust survivors. You’ll also learn about the process behind working to publish these invaluable stories and his personal journey toward bringing the book to fruition.
Birds of the World
Randy Schau Mon 7/14
10 a.m. to Noon College of Health & Human Services, Room 1035
There are about 11,000 species of birds on Earth, of which only an estimated 10% live in North America. This class will focus on the 90% that live elsewhere— Europe, Africa, Asia, South America, and the islands and oceans in between. The beauty of our foreign feathered friends will be on full display with hundreds of photos of these fascinating birds, including lorikeets, bustards, beeeaters, and tanagers of the rainforest, as we learn about their migration patterns, food gathering strategies, mating habits, peculiar behaviors, and more!
Lessons on Longevity
Niki Nimmo, MAT RN Tues 7/15
10 a.m. to Noon College of Health & Human Services, Room 1035
“How to live longer” is a question that crosses everyone’s mind from time to time. We want to make our lives as purposeful, enriching, and independent for as long as we can, striving to both have the highest quality of life possible while avoiding becoming a burden to our loved ones. Longevity has been the subject of many research studies that have helped determine several factors that better guarantee an active life full of quality, friends, family, and well-being. We’ll examine what lifestyles and locations have the best chance of extending our length and quality of life, one of the most notable being the “Blue Zones” on our planet where the highest number of centenarians live. It is never too late to adopt these habits into your own daily life—join us as we learn from others who have found some “fountain of youth” extenders!
July 2025 Courses
Art Adorns the Paths of Life
Valerie Marvin and Brian Page
Mon 7/21
1 to 3 p.m.
College of Health & Human Services, Room 1035
For eighty years, Detroit’s William Wright Company decorated and furnished the interiors of buildings and boats, from the Michigan State Capitol to the Bob-lo Island ferry S.S. Columbia. From basic painting to decorative artwork, custom furniture and carpentry, draperies and upholstery, and high-end carpeting, their client list was extensive—including the U.S. and state government, wealthy industrialists, opulent theatres, fashionable hotels, churches, businesses, banks, private clubs, and the occasional charity-funded hospital or special event. During the latter portion of the company’s tenure, they also imported European art and antiques, and managed a Detroit based gallery. In 2018, descendants of Christian Weidemann, a longtime Wright employee, designer, and foreman, donated over 200 pieces of art to the Michigan State Capitol Collection, including dozens of Wright Company decorative ceiling and wall designs. Join Capitol staff to learn more about what this collection can tell us about Michigan’s unique history and how it is being used by historic preservationists today!
The History and the Literature: JAMES
Diane and Stanley Henderson
Tues 7/22
1 to 3 p.m.
Portage Zhang Senior Center
Meeting Rooms 1A/1B
Before historical novelists can bring the stories of the past back to life, they must do extensive research so that their writing accurately reflects the lived experiences of a certain time and its people. Using “JAMES” by Percival Everett as our launching point, this class will first look at the history and culture of the Mississippi River in the 1800s, including the river’s role in the American slave trade and the Civil War. In the second hour, we will continue with a discussion of the novel as seen through the lens of contemporary literature. Readers and history buffs welcome!
Participants should read “JAMES” by Percival Everett before class.
Walking Tour of the Michigan State Capitol Building in Lansing
Valerie Marvin Wed 7/23
1 to 3:30 p.m.
Michigan State Capitol 100 N Capitol Ave, Lansing, MI 48933
Take an in-depth look at the State Capitol building in Lansing! From the marvels of the building itself to the art that adorns its walls, we’ll spend a delightful 2 1/2 hours on a guided indoor tour that elaborates on the history of the State Capitol’s interior design and takes a sneak peek at some of the behind-the-scenes spaces not available to the public.
This walking tour of the State Capitol is an additional option for the class “Art Adorns the Paths of Life,” however, you need not attend the class to participate in the tour. Please dress and be ready for extensive walking. Transportation and parking are the responsibility of the participants; street parking is available using the Passport Parking app. There is also a parking ramp across the street with paid options available. The State Capitol is handicap accessible and elevators are available for navigating various floors. Please let the office know if you need accommodations.
August 2025 Courses
Can You Dig It?
John Geisler
Sat 8/2
10 a.m. to Noon
Fort St. Joseph, 1415 Bond St, Niles, MI 49120
An OLLI-exclusive tour of the Fort St. Joseph Archeological Dig Site will take place in Niles, MI, during their Annual Open House. Every summer, staff from the WMU/Niles Archeological Project and archeological students continue to expand the site and now are constructing buildings whose locations were on the “dig” site. The Project’s beginnings took place in the late 1990s and began in earnest in 2002. The tour will be organized by Dr. John Geisler and conducted by the Principal Director of the WMU/Niles Archeological Project, Dr. Michael Nassaney, Professor Emeritus, WMU. Maps will be sent to participants and other sites will also be identified. Fort St. Joseph is located at 1415 Bond St in Niles, MI 49120; the tour will be outdoors, so please dress appropriately and be ready for extensive walking and standing. In case of rain, this course will take place on Sunday, August 3.
Osher Online Courses
The Economics of Public Policy Issues
Dr. Geof Woglom
Tues 7/8 through 8/12
1 to 2:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Economics plays a central role in shaping every aspect of society. This course examines a series of prominent policy issues with economics at their core. We will explore the origins of these issues, the underlying data and evidence, and the policy tools available to address them. Each lecture will be standalone, delivered by a subject matter expert with a Ph.D. in economics. Potential topics include climate change, healthcare economics, economic inequality, and more, with final selections based on the most relevant and timely issues at the start of the course.
Behind Those Baby Blues: The Films of Paul Newman
Dr. Arnold Blumberg
Tues 7/8 through 8/12
3 to 4:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Paul Newman, the embodiment of charisma, captivated movie audiences with his iconic baby blue eyes, striking features, and powerful screen presence. Known for his multiple Academy Award-nominated performances in films like Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), The Hustler (1961), and Absence of Malice (1981), Newman ultimately won an Oscar for The Color of Money (1986), the sequel to The Hustler. Alongside his acting career, he pursued a parallel path as a race car driver and dedicated significant time to entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors. This course will trace the timeline of Newman’s remarkable career, from his legendary collaborations with Robert Redford in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) and The Sting (1973) to his final roles in Road to Perdition (2002), Empire Falls (2005), and Cars (2006), where he voiced the retired race car Doc Hudson.
History of Beer
Karl Brown
Tues 7/8 through 8/12
7 to 8:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Historians, beer enthusiasts, and curious minds alike will enjoy this exploration of the history of brewing. We will begin in the distant past with the invention of beer around 4000 BCE. Then we will journey through time to the modern rise of craft brewing. Along the way, we will dive into fascinating topics including medieval brewing, beer in Shakespeare’s era, colonial brewing, Prohibition, indigenous brewing traditions worldwide, and the evolution of beer commercials. This course meets during happy hour, so feel free—nay, encouraged—to raise a glass and toast to history while we learn.
Enjoying the Past and Present New York City: A History of Recreation in the Big Apple
Adam Kocurek
Wed 7/9 through 8/13
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
This course will explore the history of Manhattan, emphasizing the unique traits that drew into its harbor millions of immigrants and millions more tourists seeking its many resources, rich culture, and complex history. Together, we will explore the history of New York City’s parks, city shopping, entertainment venues, museums, and concerts. We will also discuss the social and arts movements that grew out of the city. Gain an appreciation of what the city has to offer its visitors and an insight into the history behind the tourist attractions.
Demystifying Energy Security
Beth Hill-Skinner
Wed 7/9 through 8/13
1 to 2:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Energy is essential for both national and economic security, underpinning all aspects of life. Yet discussions of energy security often exclude the public, reducing complex issues to simplistic narratives like “Green is Good” or “Oil is Evil,” which provide little actionable insight. In this course, you will engage in a comprehensive examination of energy’s role in human development. Topics include the unmatched importance of hydrocarbons (oil and more); advancements in electricity, the past, present, and future of nuclear energy; and the potential of renewables. We will explore how these energy sources impact national security, economic stability, industrial production, transportation, and daily life. Join this course for a balanced, realistic assessment of energy security, a critical issue of our time.
Public Health Across the Lifespan
Michelle Boyd
Wed 7/9 through 8/13
5 to 6:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
This course provides a comprehensive overview of key public health topics across the human lifespan, from prenatal health to aging care. We will examine major health challenges, interventions, and policies that impact individuals at each life stage. By focusing on health disparities, preventive care, and the role of public health systems, the course equips us with the knowledge and skills to understand health issues in diverse populations. Through readings and case studies, we will gain insight into the life-course approach to public health, emphasizing the importance of early intervention, continuous care, and aging with dignity.
Architectural Oddities: An Off-theBeaten Path Look at Unconventional Architecture
Eleanor Schrader
Thurs 7/10 through 8/14
1 to 2:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Architectural history follows a canon of both traditional and eclectic styles from ancient to contemporary times. But what happens when a mix of whimsy, eccentricity, humor— and sometimes the creator’s genius—insert themselves into the mix? Occurring throughout time and in various parts of the world, these unconventional structures exist to serve the cultures they were created for, from ancient religious sites to modern car-culture merriment. This course explores a myriad of structures set against the backdrop of the societies in which they existed, the construction methods used, the patrons for whom these structures were constructed, and the notions of the builders and architects who created them.
100 Years of Magic: The Disney Legacy and Influence
Maria Massad
Thurs 7/10 through 8/14
7 to 8:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
How did Walt Disney’s life and vision shape the creation of an entertainment empire? How did early challenges influence the company’s identity and creative output? And how did Disney grow into a global powerhouse? This course explores these questions and more as we delve into the 100-year history of the Walt Disney Company, tracing its evolution from humble beginnings to a global entertainment giant. Topics include the rise of Disney animation and theme parks, the company’s 1990s revival, and the strategic acquisitions that transformed Disney into a media conglomerate. We will also examine Disney’s future and gain insights into what it’s like to work behind the scenes at the company. Throughout the course, we will consider diverse perspectives—from those who revere the Magic Kingdom to those who critique it and everywhere in between. This course offers a comprehensive look at how Walt Disney’s vision became a cultural force shaping today’s entertainment industry.
The Rehnquist Court, 1986-2005: Moves Toward Small Federal Government
Lauren Andersen, JD
Mon 7/14 through 8/18
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Chief Justice William Rehnquist led the U.S. Supreme Court for nearly 19 years (1986–2005), overseeing cases on privacy, civil rights, the environment, the First Amendment, and states’ rights. Under his leadership, the Court actively struck down federal statutes and precedent, often with conservative outcomes. However, as its composition shifted, some conservative rulings diminished. This course examines the legacy of the Rehnquist Court, as well as his 15 years as an associate justice under Chief Justice Warren Burger. We will explore landmark cases, including Woodson v. North Carolina (1976), Craig v. Boren (1978), Miller v. Johnson (1995), Bush v. Gore (2000), Atkins v. Virginia (2001), and Lawrence v. Texas (2002).
Stories of Adventure: The Norse Sagas
Vic Peterson
Wed 7/16 through 8/20
3 to 4:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Vic Peterson is the author of The Berserkers (Hawkwood, 2022; Recital, 2023), a novel set in a fictional Nordic country. He holds a BA in English from Kenyon College, and MA degrees in humanities from The University of Texas at Dallas and in religious studies from the University of Chicago, where he also completed coursework at the Booth School of Business. After a successful career as a business executive, Vic now focuses on writing and teaching.
Meet the Instructors
Lauren Andersen, JD
Lauren Andersen is the director of the Utah Judicial Institute. Andersen practiced appellate law in the state of California and presented arguments to the California Supreme Court and the US Supreme Court. During this time, Andersen closely studied the Roberts Court. She has lectured about the Supreme Court and the death penalty. Her opinions were quoted by The New York Times and the ABA Journal. She was previously the director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Utah.
Nolan Bergstrom
Nolan Bergstrom, Community Planner, brings valuable expertise to OLLI at WMU. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Earth Science with minors in Biology and Sustainability from Northern Michigan University in 2018 and a Master of Science in Geography from Western Michigan University in 2020. Nolan’s professional background includes an internship with the City of Kalamazoo from 2019 to 2020, followed by a 10-month service term as an AmeriCorps member for the City of Kalamazoo from January 2021 to October 2021. Since November 2021, he has served as a Community Planner for the City of Kalamazoo. In his free time, Nolan enjoys photography, reading, and relaxing.
Dr. Arnold Blumberg
Dr. Arnold T. Blumberg is a publisher, author, artist, and pop culture historian. He has taught courses in media literacy and cultural studies at University of Maryland, Baltimore College (UMBC), the University of Baltimore, Community College Baltimore College (CCBC), and the Osher Institute at Towson University. With fifteen years of experience in the comic book industry and five years curating a pop culture museum, he now runs his own publishing company, ATB Publishing.
Wayne L. Bond II
Wayne Bond brings experience working with people from all over the world. His responsibilities at WMU include being an instructor for the School of Social Work, where he is proud to help develop future social workers. When he is not working or studying, Wayne can be found relaxing with a book or catching up on his favorite shows like Game of Thrones or One Piece. Wayne comes to the instructor position as a member of the millennial generation that helped introduce Anime into mainstream culture within the United States. When he is not reading, Wayne has taken to writing and directing online video essays depicting various themes and lessons within anime.
Michelle Boyd
Michelle Boyd is an epidemiologist and public health researcher dedicated to advancing health equity through data modernization and effective health communication. With a focus on infectious disease data collection, surveillance, and maternal and child health, she brings expertise in analyzing public health data to uncover meaningful patterns and trends. Boyd holds a Master of Public Health in epidemiology from Indiana University Indianapolis and BS in human communication sciences from Northwestern University. Boyd is a board member for Fearless Brown Girls, a nonprofit organization aimed at empowering young girls and increasing financial literacy. Her passion for health equity and public health education drives her commitment to improving healthcare outcomes through data and community engagement.
Karl Brown
Dr. Karl Brown teaches courses in modern European history, film and media studies, and the history of drugs and drinking at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. Before his academic career, he installed and operated brewpubs in Japan and Greece. Brown co-founded Second Salem Brewing Company in Whitewater and is an avid homebrewer of beer, cider, wine, and mead.
Jeanne Church
Jeanne Church is a retired Special Education teacher who spent 35 years working with blind and visually impaired children. She has had a lifelong interest in the out of doors but only developed an interest in, and a passion for, nature photography after retiring. Over the past several years, Jeanne has spent countless hours outdoors taking thousands upon thousands of pictures, gaining a great deal of knowledge along the way about the habits and peculiarities of a wide variety of creatures and how best capture their beauty. She has documented her photography journey through her blog, picturewalks.org, and has written a monthly nature column for the South County News since 2021. Jeanne’s passion for nature photography has also inspired her to create a yearly photo calendar for friends and family, as well as boxed sets of nature photography note cards.
John Geisler
Dr. John Geisler flunked out of one college but was quite successful during his second effort at earning a bachelor’s degree when he headed to Adrian College, where he was an athlete, scholar, and thespian. He then earned his master’s and doctorate degrees at the University of Toledo. John was a public school teacher in mathematics and science, as well as a college counselor and a counselor educator at two universities—Central Michigan and Western Michigan. He has also been an NCAA referee and served as president of three counselor professional groups at the local, state, regional, and national level. John is married to Candace Ross, a psychotherapist in Kalamazoo, and is the father of three adult children, grandfather to seven, and has three great grandchildren.
Lynne Hall
Lynne Hall has taught a variety of classes for OLLI for several years. She is an occupational therapist with an MA in Audio Visual Media and she has been a member of the Log Cabin Quilt Guild since 1984. Lynne enjoys sharing her knowledge, all while enthusiastically encouraging others to learn and grow.
Stan & Diane Henderson
Stan and Diane Henderson are avid readers—Stan reads history, Diane fiction. In other lives, they would have been History and English professors. Now they team up to share their passions with us. Pre-retirement, Stan was the Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Life at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and Diane was an educational program planner and consultant. They say they are now both “failing” retirement!
Beth Hill-Skinner
Beth Hill-Skinner has graduate degrees in Theology and International Diplomacy with a specialization in transnational terrorism. She has educated individuals and organizations for the purpose of empowering citizens to improve their community, state, and country. She believes there is a clear difference between providing information and education. She enjoys transforming the opaque or complex into clarity for her students or audiences.
Christopher Hodshire, MSW
Christopher Hodshire is a Macro Social Worker with specialized expertise in Urban Renewal, Diversity Dimensions, and Cool City Initiatives. A prolific academic, he has published articles, contributed a book chapter, spoken on television documentaries and radio programs, attended a number of international conferences, and is currently writing a book on Cool Cities. Christopher’s educational background includes an AA from SMC, a BSW with a Psychology minor from Western Michigan University, and an MSW in Social Systems from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, where he was honored as the Commencement Speaker. Christopher was also deeply involved in Detroit’s Urban Agenda program, where his work intersected with the city’s challenging downturn and inspiring revitalization. This experience fueled his passion for understanding how cities can rise, innovate, and sustain themselves. Following his graduation, Christopher made history by launching the first international community-impacting program connecting United World College of Singapore and the University of Science of Malaysia. His international engagements extend to South Korea, where he currently chairs the Lansing-Asan City Sister City program. Now a Professional Instructor II at WMU’s School of Social Work, Christopher leads macrolevel courses that immerse students in community-based research and projects, emphasizing the creation of healthy and sustainable, vibrant communities. A passionate global citizen, he has traveled extensively to study innovation, creativity, and economic vitality in cities worldwide, sharing his knowledge to inspire the next generation of changemakers.
Patrice Kaufman, BA, INHC
Patrice Kaufman has passionately studied healthy eating and all things wellness since 1975 and has personally experimented with many dietary systems over several decades. In 2014, Patrice was certified as an Integrative Health Coach by the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. She loves teaching Healthy Eating courses, most recently at the Portage and South Haven Senior Centers. Participants in her courses comment that Patrice is a wealth of information and is both inspiring and enthusiastic in her presentations. Her driving interests are healthy aging, optimal metabolic health, and the avoidance and reversal of chronic disease. Patrice enjoys yoga, walking, strength training, and cardio, and spends time every day researching the latest science of diet and nutrition. She practices a nourishing hobby of growing nutrient-dense microgreens, selling them to friends and at local farmers markets. zz
Meet the Instructors
Adam Kocurek
Adam Kocurek is a PhD candidate in History at The CUNY Graduate Center. His research lies at the intersections of LGBTQ+ history, labor history, and the history of higher education. He is an adjunct lecturer at Hunter College where he teaches modern American history. He has held fellowship positions at Queensborough Community College and Medgar Evers College and has taught at Baruch College. He is a tour guide for Big Onion Walking Tours, leading locals and visitors on innovative and exciting tours through New York’s ethnic neighborhoods and historic districts. Through his research and teaching, he is committed to illuminating the complexities of American history and fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse narratives that shape our society today.
Irving Lubliner
Irving Lubliner is a professor emeritus at Southern Oregon University, where his specialty was mathematics education, and he has earned degrees from two University of California campuses, Berkeley and Davis. During his 40-year career in education, Irving taught mathematics at all levels—kindergarten through graduate school—as well as led seminars for teachers in 39 states and delivered over 350 conference presentations, including several keynote addresses. Since his retirement in 2014, Irving has taught math, blues harmonica, and literature classes for the OLLI program at Southern Oregon University, where he also served on the Council of Directors. In 2019, he created Felabra Press to publish his mother’s writings about her experiences during the Holocaust. This book, “Only Hope: A Survivor’s Stories of the Holocaust,” serves as the theme for this semester’s presentation, which, over the last four years, Irving has delivered to 85 different OLLI programs nationwide.
Valerie Marvin
Valerie Marvin is honored to serve as the Historian and Curator of the Michigan State Capitol, a National Historic Landmark. She graduated from the University of Michigan in 2005 with a Bachelor of Arts in Russian Studies and earned her Master of Science degree in Historic Preservation from Eastern Michigan University in 2009. Valerie lives with her husband David in a historic home built in 1906 in downtown Lansing.
Maria Massad
Maria Massad is a seasoned marketing leader and storyteller with a lifelong connection to the magic of Disney. Early in her career, she contributed to PBS’s acclaimed American Experience, a Walt Disney documentary, helping bring Walt’s visionary story to life for audiences nationwide. Massad also served on the leadership team of The Walt Disney Birthplace, where she led digital marketing and strategic partnerships to preserve and celebrate the Disney brothers’ legacy. With an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Massad has worked across marketing, media, and storytelling, helping organizations craft impactful campaigns and connect with audiences. Her deep knowledge of Disney’s history, combined with her professional expertise, offers unique insights into the company’s evolution and enduring influence.
Niki Nimmo, MAT RN
Niki has a master’s in teaching and was a certified diabetes educator RN. Her interest in hoarding came out of her personal experience navigating her deceased brother’s 2300-sq-ft home after his death to cancer in 2008. Since that time, Niki has been on her own journey of decluttering and has read numerous books about the subject. As she nears 75 herself, she finds the research into wellness for seniors more and more intriguing. Two books that Niki read years ago set off an interest in not only longevity, but also quality of life during the final chapter of our Earthly lives—“Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest” by Dan Buettner discusses nine powerful yet simple lessons for longevity, while “Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End” by Atul Gawande examines how medicine and our management of aging can, at times, run counter to the interest of the human spirit.
Brian Page
Brian Page is the Collections Registrar and Web Coordinator at the Michigan State Capitol. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University in Public History and Museum Studies and has worked in the museum field for ten years. In his role at the Capitol, Brian has helped to establish and manage the building’s artifact and archival collections, using them to build exhibits, public programs, and accessible databases and catalogs. In his role as Web Coordinator, Brian built and maintains the Capitol’s main website at capitol.michigan.gov, as well as websites dedicated to the Capitol’s Save the Flags program at mscbattleflags.org.
Vic Peterson
VicPetersonistheauthorofTheBerserkers(Hawkwood, 2022;Recital,2023),anovelsetinafictionalNordic country.HeholdsaBAinEnglishfromKenyonCollege,and MAdegreesinhumanitiesfromTheUniversityofTexas atDallasandinreligiousstudiesfromtheUniversityof Chicago,wherehealsocompletedcourseworkattheBooth SchoolofBusiness.Afterasuccessfulcareerasabusiness executive,Vicnowfocusesonwritingandteaching.
NikiNimmo,MATRN
Dennis Randolph, P.E.
DennisA.Randolph,P.E.isanexperiencedlocal governmentmanagerwithover50-yearsofengineering experience.Currently,heisthePublicWorksDivision ManagerfortheCityofKalamazoo.Previously,hewasthe DirectorofPublicWorksfortheCityofGrandview, Missouri,andbeforethat,aRoadCommissionManaging Director,amongothertechnicalandmanagerialpositions. Mr.Randolphalsohasover20-yearsofuniversity-level teachingexperienceandcurrentlyservesasaninstructorin civilandconstructionengineeringattheUniversityof Missouri–KansasCity.Herecentlycompleteda6-year termontheNationalEnvironmentalJusticeAdvisory Council,andcurrentlyservesontheFinancialAdvisory Board,bothEPAadvisorycouncils.Heisaco-authorofthe AmericanSocietyofCivilEngineers’recentpublication EngineeringforSustainableCommunitiesandhasover100 publishedpapers,books,andarticles.
Randy Schau
RandySchau,Kalamazoo’sformerdeputycityattorney,has beenadedicatedOLLIinstructorforovereight years.Drawinguponadeepreservoirofknowledgeand experiences,Randy’scourseshavespannedawiderangeof topics,includingthehistoryofbaseball,television,and music;fascinatingfactsaboutlivingthings;theinternment ofJapaneseAmericans;howtheUnitedStatesgottheir borders;andmanymore.
Eleanor Schrader
EleanorSchraderisanaward-winningeducator,lecturer, andauthor.Shelecturesandleadstoursworldwideon artandarchitecturalhistory.Shehasbeennameda distinguishedinstructoratUCLAExtension,whereshe teacheshistoryofarchitecture,interiordesign,furniture, anddecorativearts.SchraderisaProfessorEmeritaofart
and architectural history at Santa Monica College. She has completed graduate work in fine and decorative arts at Sotheby’s Institute in London and New York. She has served as a design review commissioner for the City of Beverly Hills and currently serves on the board of directors of the John Lautner Foundation.
Howard Steiner and Band
Howard Steiner has no ethnomusicology credentials other than being an avid banjo player and an enthusiastic collector of musical history. He hosts jam sessions and house concerts featuring old-time string band musicians, occasionally plays in bands for contra/square dances, and attends old-time music festivals where he delights in learning different versions of tunes.
Dr. Geof Woglom
Geof Woglom, PhD is professor emeritus of economics at Amherst College, where he taught for over 40 years. He has held visiting positions at Cambridge, Harvard, and the London School of Economics. Woglom was a Fulbright Scholar at the University of the Western Cape in Cape Town and at Nanjing University. Over his career, he has served as an economic consultant for the International Monetary Fund, the Federal Reserve Board, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.
Marvinetta Woodley-Penn
Marvinetta Woodley-Penn is a visionary leader and arts educator, dedicated to empowering youth through the performing arts. As the founder and executive director of Global Girls, Inc., she has spent over two decades helping inner-city girls in Chicago find their voices through theater, dance, and leadership training.
A passionate advocate for social change, Marvinetta has directed numerous stage productions that highlight underrepresented stories and foster self-expression. Her work has earned her recognition both locally and nationally, solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer in arts education and youth development with a focus on empowering young women to live authentically. With over 15 years of experience as a life coach, motivational speaker, and workshop facilitator, Marvinetta has guided many individuals on a journey of self-discovery and transformation through engaging workshops and thought-provoking exercises.
Trips, Events, & Shared Interest Groups
Premier World Discovery 2025
Trips
Black Hills, Badlands & Mt. Rushmore
September 10 to September 16, 2025
New England Rails & Trails
October 1 to October 9, 2025
Visit wmich.edu/olli/trips for additional details
Shared Interest Groups
Highlights of the Douro with Spain
November 3 to November 12, 2025
EDISON: The EDucation IS ON -Resident Scholars
Group Dates TBD, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Michigan, 420 E. Alcott Street, 49001
Shared Interest Groups Continued
German Conversation
Gail Ledbetter
Fridays, on-going, 10 a.m. to noon, location varies, please contact the OLLI Office for details
Photography
Contact Gillian Stoltman at gillianstoltman@gmail.com or Carole Smith at carolesmith@chartermi.net for information about meeting times, dates, or other information
Pétanque, French outdoor game play sessions
Martha Beverly & Stanley Sackett
Mondays weekly beginning May 5, 2025
10am – 12pm
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Texas Township campus
please contact the OLLI office for details
Readers Theatre Comes Alive
Dr. D. Terry Williams & Mary VanDerMass
Wednesdays, ongoing, 1 to 3 p.m.
Parkview Hills Clubhouse
