Digital - Fall 2025 Catalog (3) (1)

Stay Curious

Fall 2025 Programs Catalog

www.asuolli.org

Questions? Contact us at 602 543 6440

OLLI at ASU is a membership-based program. We have three membership options OLLI membership gives you access to class registration and member-exclusive events.

001 | Annual Membership 2025-2026

The Annual Membership gives members access to all in-person and Zoom classes and events offered by OLLI at ASU for three full semesters (fall, spring, summer)

Additional Annual Membership Benefits

Early registration on Aug. 22

Save money on membership fees

Two FREE annual member-only events

Save time & purchase one membership each year

002 | Fall 2025 Semester Membership

The Fall Semester Membership gives members access to all inperson and Zoom classes and events offered by OLLI at ASU for one semester.

Note: If you purchased an annual membership, you do not need to purchase a semester membership.

003 | Annual Zoom Membership 2025-2026

The Annual Zoom Membership gives members access to all Zoom classes only and events offered by OLLI at ASU for three full semesters (fall, spring, summer).

Note: If you purchased an annual or semester membership, you do not need to purchase a separate annual Zoom membership.

Additional Annual Zoom Membership Benefits

Early registration on Aug 22

In addition, all memberships include these benefits:

Discounted tickets and special member-exclusive offers from our Community Partners

Educational travel opportunities

Special Interest Groups

Special Invitation to ASU events

Co-generational programs with ASU faculty and ASU students

Read and contribute to OLLI-led academic research projects

Refund Policy

Membership fees are non-refundable. Class fees are non-refundable, except in the event a class is canceled Refunds will not be available in instances of double-booking (selecting classes that take place simultaneously).

Important Note

Registration for membership and class fees is per person, not per household. Please note that OLLI at ASU does not currently record classes and we cannot guarantee that instructors will share their presentations.

Our Team

Jared Swerzenski Director

jared swerzenski@asu edu

Tracy Grewe Business Operations Manager

tmgrewe@asu edu

Nate Sawyer Senior Program Coordinator

nsawyer5@asu edu

Jolene Gosling Program Coordinator

jolene gosling@asu edu

Susie Rego Program Coordinator

srego93@asu edu

Kristi Schneider Program Coordinator

kristina.schneider.1@asu.edu

Lindsay Braun Program Coordinator

lbraun21@asu edu

Madeline Yang Program Aide

myang109@asu.edu

THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 – 2026 SPONSORS

On behalf of our entire learning community, OLLI at ASU thanks our partners across the valley for their generosity and support for lifelong learning!

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August Preview Month

004 | The Naked Gun: Film & Discussion at the Majestic Tempe 7

See page 6 for full class description

Tuesday, Aug 12 | 10:30 a m – 1:00 p m Majestic Tempe 7 | Cost: Buy One Ticket $20 – Get One Free

005 | Understanding the Federal Reserve System

See page 6 for full class description. Wednesday, Aug. 13 | 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.

Zoom | Cost: FREE

006 | The Declaration of Independence: Exploring Self-Evident Truths, Inalienable Rights & the Pursuit o See page Monday, A Zoom | C

007 | You See page Wednesd Zoom | C

SPECIALTHANKSTOOURDONORS

We gratefully acknowledge contributions made to OLLI at ASU between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025.

Your participation in OLLI at ASU is so appreciated! Thanks to your curiosity, love of learning, and involvement in our community, OLLI at ASU continues to grow Your gift, at any level, ensures the long-term sustainability of the enriching educational and social programming that touches the lives of our more than 1,700 members (and growing!).

OLLI Visionaries ($5,000 or more)

Janet and Richard Knopf

OLLI Champions ($1,000-$4,900)

Judith Bailey

Estate of Hilda J Brown

Christine Hughes

Nan Jeannero

Richard and Heather Marmor

Janice and John Overdoff

Rio Verde Community Foundation

Ronald Sassano

OLLI Enthusiasts ($500-$999)

Acoya Shea by Cogir

Tammy Austin

David and Lois Berg

Aaron Carreon Ainsa and Gloria Aguilar

Kathleen and Michael Colbert

Donna and Bill Dehn

Sara Dew

Catherine Eden

James Hartman

Judy and R. Hawkins

Sydney Holtan

Wendy Hultsman

Mary Jordan

Christine Lindley

Shirley Lowman

Allen Nelson

Julie and Douglas Newton

Walter and Karen Nielsen

Steven and Gayle Pincus

Patricia Rocha and Francisco Ramirez

Dewey and Sharon Reay

Scott and Vicki Ruby

Carolynn Sheyker

Carolyn and Raymond Sol

Maureen Stratton

Michael Temkin

OLLI Advocates ($250-$499)

David Sprentall and Karen Beckvar

Kathleen Church

Harold and Judith Feldman

Dennis and Kathryn Meyers

Carol and Peter Seidl

Claire Sinay

Daniel Steininger

Jim Stephens Charitable Giving Fund

Dana Woods

OLLI Friends ($1-$249)

Kathleen Adamson

Paula Ashley

Ronald and Jacalyn Askin

Barbara Backes

Phillip and Lindsey Beagley

Judith Bedford

Charlotte Benford

Jo Ann Berger

Daniel Bernstein and Maria Salvucci

Ron Brinkman

Margaret Cattey

Marica Colliat

Donna and Mitchell Davis

Richard and Laura Engelberg

Joan Fagerburg

Michael and Merle Fajans

Rex and Beverly Gulbranson

Stephanie and James Hayes

Helen Hayes

Pamela Holden

Curtis and Julie Jackels

Francis and Donna Joyce

Alan and Karen Kranzberg

Barbara Krupp

Jack and Cassandra Larsen

Jerald and Diane Lindfelt

Joanna Lucio

Karen MacKenzie

Paul Martin

David Meek

George Bacalia and Christina Ngo

Judith Nichols

Barbara Orr

Linda Overby

Manley and Barbara Perkel

Lori Peterson

Douglas and Shirley Schermer

Sandra Sievers

Jack Slovisky

Carol Smetana

Robert Stewart

Clifford Webster

Donald and Sandra Weir

Howard and Noreen Wernick

Marcia Whiteside

Patricia Wirschem

Robert and Shirley York

Turn Your IRA Into Impact

Fall Classes

Classes Beginning the Week of Aug. 11

Tuesday

004 | The Naked Gun: Film & Discussion at the Majestic Tempe 7

Instructor: Dr. Kevin Sandler

Cost $20 1 session: Tuesday, Aug. 12 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Majestic Tempe 7

Join us at the movies on Tuesday, August 12 at 10:30 AM as OLLI takes over the Majestic Tempe 7 for a special screening of The Naked Gun, the reboot of the classic slapstick comedy—this time starring Liam Neeson as the hilariously clueless detective Frank Drebin. Packed with absurd gags, physical comedy, and a satirical take on crime procedurals, the film brings fresh energy to a beloved franchise. ASU film professor Dr. Kevin Sandler will kick off the event with opening remarks and lead a dynamic post-film discussion exploring the film’s humor, legacy, and the challenges of reimagining cult classics. This OLLI experience offers a special discount: buy one ticket, get another for free! Share with a friend or family member and don't miss this fun and thought-provoking outing to the movies!

Wednesday

005

|

Fall 2025 Semester Aug. 11 – Dec. 12

Understanding the Federal Reserve System

Instructor: Dr. Terry McAteer

Cost FREE 1 session: Wednesday, Aug. 13 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom

The “Fed” is one of the least understood agencies in the federal government, despite wielding enormous power. Developed during the Wilson Administration, the Federal Reserve System has served as the nation's economic stabilizer for over 100 years. Many consider the Chair of the Federal Reserve Board to be the second most powerful person in government. In this course, we will explore the economic history of the United States and examine the tools the Fed uses to influence the economy. By the end of the class, you’ll have a deeper understanding of economics—and we encourage you to share the experience by bringing a friend or family member for free to learn alongside you!

Beginning Week of Aug. 18

Monday

006

| The Declaration of Independence:

Exploring Self-Evident Truths, Inalienable Rights & the Pursuit of Happiness

Instructor: Dr. Heather Dudley

Cost FREE 1 session: Monday, Aug. 18 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom

The Declaration of Independence is the most celebrated of America’s founding documents, inspiring movements from the French Revolution to Ho Chi Minh. Both Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis claimed to uphold its principles. In this course, we’ll explore the meaning behind Jefferson’s words—equality, liberty, happiness— and examine the Declaration’s ties to classical and Enlightenment thought. We’ll also consider how valid the claim was that King George III was a tyrant. Dr. Dudley, adjunct professor at Northern Virginia Community College and author of The Free and the Virtuous, will guide our discussion. Bring a friend or family member to join the conversation—guests are welcome to attend for free!

Wednesday

007 | Your Guide to OLLI at ASU: Fall 2025

Instructor: Jared Swerzenski

1 session: Wednesday, Aug. 20 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Zoom

Cost FREE

Welcome to the OLLI at ASU Fall 2025 Semester! We want to hear from you! Join us for a special online gathering with OLLI at ASU Director, Jared Swerzenski. Jared will share a brief history of our program and offer an exciting preview of what’s ahead this fall. Whether you're a returning member or brand new to OLLI at ASU, this is a great opportunity to learn more about our classes, programs, and ways to get involved. Returning members are encouraged to share their favorite experiences and offer feedback. This event is free and open to all; simply register to receive the Zoom link.

Beginning Week of Sep. 1

Wednesday

008 | Natural History of the Sonoran Desert

Instructor: Dr. Ken Sweat

Cost $19

1 session: Wednesday, Sep. 3 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Sun Health – Grandview Terrace

From the empty promise of a mirage to giants that hold their breath whenever the sun is out, to polyandrous raptors, the Sonoran Desert holds many wonders—an extreme environment full of remarkable life. The Arizona Natural History course will introduce students to the geology, flora, fauna, and human history of Arizona. Drawing on information and theories from biology, ecology, geology, and archaeology, the class will explore the adaptations of desert animals, plants, and other life forms, the landscape that set the stage for their evolution, and the human cultures that have called this desert home.

Beginning Week of Sep. 8

Monday

009 | Tai Chi for Health & Wellness

Instructor: Ray Sol Cost $76

4 sessions: Mondays, Sep. 8, 15, 22, 29 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

This exercise class, led by Tai Chi instructor Ray Sol, focuses on martial arts for health and wellness. Class emphasis will be on balance, flexibility, and relaxation. Each session includes stretching and balancing exercises. Students should be able to stand and walk. Students will learn a variety of tai chi moves that exercise the body and mind. In the last session, students will expand their tai chi balancing skills and learn breathing techniques for relaxation. Ample time to practice will be provided. Comfortable clothes and laced shoes are recommended.

Tuesday

010 | The Impact of the Holocaust on Survivors: Diverse Profiles of Luck & Resilience

Instructor: Dr. Ettie Zilber

1 session: Tuesday, Sep. 9 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library

Cost $19

What is the definition of a “survivor,” and what were the common denominators for almost all survivors? Certainly, fear, food insecurity/starvation, and trauma. However, it would be erroneous to paint all survivors with the same brush—each experience is unique. This diversity is shaped by pre-war, war, and post-war factors, including age, geography, socio-economic status, family circumstances, and the wide range of wartime experiences. Post-war experiences also had a significant impact on survivors. This presentation includes examples from the speaker’s family, among others.

011 | Angels Amid the Enemy: The Untold Story of Medical Care for Vietnam's Forgotten Civilian Victims

Instructor: Dr. Richard Carlson

1 session: Tuesday, Sep. 9

2:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Sun Health – La Loma Village

Cost $14

Over one million civilians—mostly women and children— died during the Vietnam conflict. Amid the devastation, volunteer doctors and U.S. military teams worked together in primitive hospitals to provide care and comfort to strangers in need. Civilian physicians treated everything from battlefield injuries to infectious diseases, often with limited resources. Their work helped build trust between local communities and American forces. This lecture tells their untold story of compassion in a war-torn land.

Fall 2025 Instructor Highlights

Allen Reamer

Allen Reamer is a lifelong artist and educator whose passion for art began at an early age, nurtured by a family of artists and a mother who introduced him to oil painting. With extensive undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate studies in studio art and art history, Allen has spent his career teaching a wide range of students, from high schoolers to graduate-level scholars. Based in the Valley, Allen continues to share his expertise widely, having taught over 500 studio art classes and more than 200 art history courses.

This fall, he will be offering multiple courses including Color, Color Schemes, & Composition with Fruit (pg. 18), Diego Rivera & Frieda Kahlo: Their Art & Lives (pg. 27), Dutch Masters: Realism & Republic in the Golden Age (pg 35), and Painting in the Style of Dutch Baroque Still-Life Painters (pg. 42).

Kathe Anderson

Kathe Anderson has been leading bird walks for almost 20 years, and estimates she’s led more than 700 walks for a variety of individuals, conservation organizations, private groups, and lifelong learning programs, learning something new almost every time she's out She’s developed a series of hands-on classes, often coupled with field trips, taught for the ASU non-credit program, and at the Desert Botanical Garden, Hassayampa River Preserve, State Parks, Verde Valley and Southwest Wings festivals, and elsewhere

This semester, Kathe will be teaching Enchanting Wonders: The World of Hummingbirds (pg. 15) and The Desert Dozen (pg 16) Come learn all about birds with our local expert!

Dr. Sarah Bolmarcich

Dr Sarah Bolmarcich is a longtime teaching professor in the School of International Letters and Cultures at Arizona State University, where she specializes in classics and Middle Eastern studies. She earned her degrees from Smith College and the University of Virginia, where her passion for ancient history took root A recipient of a prestigious Fulbright grant, Dr. Bolmarcich spent two years living and studying in Greece an experience that also shaped her dissertation on ancient Greek international relations. Before joining ASU, she taught at the Universities of Michigan, Minnesota, and Texas at Austin, bringing a broad and rich perspective to her teaching and scholarship

This semester, Dr Bolmarcich is bringing us three fascinating classes She is first teaching The Birth of Democracy: Athens, 1300-500 BCE (pg 14) This will be followed by Pompeii's Buried Voices (pg. 36) and The Witches of Greece & Rome: Magic in Antiquity (pg. 38).

Dr. Markus Cruse

Dr. Markus Cruse is an Associate Professor of French at Arizona State University, where he brings a deep passion for medieval history and culture to his teaching and research He earned his BA from Amherst College and his PhD from New York University. Dr. Cruse’s work reflects a fascination with how stories, maps, and knowledge traveled across cultures and centuries

This fall, he will be offering Marco Polo’s America: The Medieval Influence of Early Modern Maps of the New World (pg 11), Global Middle Ages at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (pg 16), as well as French & English: Two Languages with a Shared History (pg 42)

JOINUSFORTHESE FREECLASSES

Invite a friend, neighbor, or family member to experience the power of learning with our expert-led free classes and events this semester. These are the perfect no-cost, high-inspiration opportunities to see what OLLI is all about with some of ASU’s most outstanding faculty Space is limited, registration is required!

025 | The Birth of Democracy: Athens, 1300–500 BCE

See page 14 for full course description Thursday, Sep. 25 | 10:30 a.m. – noon | Scottsdale – Civic Center Library

027 | Piper Distinguished Visiting Writers Series: Andrew Porter & Sally Wen Mao at Changing Hands

See page 14 for full course description. Thursday, Sep. 25 | 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. | Changing Hands Bookstore – Tempe

029 | Enchanting Wonders: The World of Hummingbirds

See page 15 for full course description Monday, Sep. 29 | 10:30 a.m. – noon | Westward Ho, Downtown

035 | Healthy Aging Panel: Impacts of Connectivity, Social Embeddedness & Lifelong Learning

See page 16 for full course description Friday, Oct. 3 | 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

060 | The Buzz on Crime: Unlocking Mysteries with Forensic Entomology

See page 27 for full course description Tuesday, Oct. 21 | 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Glendale Foothills Library

062 | Four Cold-Weather Travel Destinations to Help Break the Arizona Heat

See page 27 for full course description. Wednesday, Oct. 22 | 10:30 a.m. – noon | Scottsdale –Mustang Library

081 | Arizona Stories: Hidden Histories

See page 32 for full course description Tuesday, Nov. 4 | 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Scottsdale –Mustang Library

105 | Poetry as Medicine: An Undergraduate-Led Dialogue on Aging & Healing

See page 40 for full course description Tuesday, Dec. 2 & Thursday, Dec. 4 | 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library

110 | French & English: Two Languages with a Shared History

See page 42 for full course description Wednesday, Dec. 3 | 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Glendale Foothills Library

IMPORTANT NOTE: You will still need to register for free classes when registration opens. Space is limited in these classes and registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis. When you “add to cart,” it will not charge you at checkout. We expect these classes to have waitlists so if your plans change and you cannot attend, please be sure to email olli@asu.edu so we can open spots to the waitlist.

Wednesday

012 | Encountering Extra-Terrestrials in Science Fiction Films

Instructor: Butch Epps

2 sessions: Wednesdays, Sep. 10, 17 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom

Friday

Cost $38

From Red Scare-inspired alien invasion movies of the 1950s to more friendly and sophisticated encounters in later years, this course will explore meditations on science and technology, religion and faith, alien and artificial intelligence, and more. Led by Butch Epps, film studies instructor with an MFA from UCLA's School of Film and Television, we navigate this subject at warp speed with the aid of pre-class film viewing, in-class PowerPoint analysis, lectures, and discussions of the following case studies. On week one, we will cover "The Day the Earth Stood Still" (the 1951 version) and "Close Encounters of the Third Kind"; week two covers "2001: A Space Odyssey" and "Contact." Rental streaming sources for the above preclass viewing will be provided one week before the first class.

Thursday

013 | Awesome Sauces: A World of Flavors

Instructor: Chef Larry Canepa Cost $40

1 session: Thursday, Sep. 11 OLLI Workshop 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Chandler Innovation Center

Sauces are the pinnacle of a chef’s achievement requiring study and practice to master.  A great saucier must have a discriminating palate and the ability to understand how to build depth and harmony into a sauce. Today, however, world influences from Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Mediterranean, along with the public’s appetite for new and exciting tastes, has driven sauces in many different directions, and brought an array of flavors and endless possibilities to their preparation and pairing. Explore the history of the World’s Greatest sauces, the basics of sauce making and everyday uses.

014 | ASU Chandler Innovation Center Presents: Laser Cutting for Quilters

Instructor: Brett Kennedy

Cost $35

1 session: Thursday, Sep. 11 OLLI Workshop 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | ASU Chandler Innovation Center

Learn the basics of operating a computer-controlled laser cutting machine to create geometric fabric quilting blocks. These machines use computer designs to precisely cut shapes that participants can sew together into a quilt. This class includes one hour of design and machine operation instruction, followed by 30 minutes of open cutting time to cut your fabric. Designs will be limited to basic geometric shapes—such as squares, rectangles, triangles, and other polygons—no larger than 18” x 24” per individual shape. Participants will leave with several laser-cut fabric pieces, each cut to the geometric design and size of their choice.

Jan. 24 – May 19

015 | The Secrets of Stradivari & Other Great Makers

Instructor: Dr. Matthew Zeller

Cost $40

1 session: Friday, Sep. 12 Community Partner 1:00 – 3:30 p.m. | Musical Instrument Museum

The violins of Antonio Stradivari and the guitars of Matteo Sellas have achieved near-mythological status. Join Dr. Matthew Zeller, MIM’s Curator for Europe, to explore what makes historical string instruments from the late Renaissance through the Baroque period so extraordinary. We’ll examine historical documents ranging from 15thcentury lute-making instructions to architectural treatises by Italian masters. Diving into the technical aspects of violins and guitars, we’ll study the craftsmanship of Andrea Amati, Stradivari, and others. Students will even design their own string instruments in the style of the great masters. This 2.5-hour class includes a curator-led tour of MIM’s special exhibition "Stradivarius and the Golden Age of Violins and Guitars," along with a lecture and hands-on workshop.

Beginning Week of Sep. 15

Monday

016 | The Nash Presents: The Life & Times of Miles Davis

Instructor: Clark Gibson

Cost $40

2 sessions: Mon. & Sun., Sep. 15 & 21 Community Partner 10:30 a.m. – noon & 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. | The Nash Jazz Club

Join jazz musician Clark Gibson for an unforgettable journey through the life and music of one of the most revolutionary figures in American music history—Miles Davis. Born in St. Louis, Miles wasn’t just a participant in the evolution of jazz—he led it. From the fiery complexity of bebop to the cool sophistication of West Coast jazz, and from the spacious beauty of modal jazz to the electric pulse of jazz fusion, Davis continually reshaped the sound of modern music over nearly five decades. Discover the genius behind the horn at the John Dawson Center for Jazz Education at The Nash, and experience the artistry that forever changed the face—and sound—of music.

017 | Exploring the Archaeology & Geography of the Hebrew Bible

Instructor: Rev. Matt Knopf

3 sessions: Mondays, Sep. 15, 22, 29 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library

Cost $57

Unroll a map, grab a pickaxe, and explore the land that set the stage for the Hebrew Bible. Come discover the physical remains—both natural and human-made—that correspond with the epic ancient stories of the Levant. We will examine archaeological sites and key artifacts that illuminate the world behind the Hebrew Bible.

Tuesday

Classes on Zoom

018 | God as General: Was There a Religious History of the American Civil War?

Instructor: Dr. George Rable

1 session: Tuesday, Sep. 16

10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library

Cost $19

As Abraham Lincoln stated in his second inaugural address on March 4, 1865, both sides prayed to the same God and read the same Bible. Indeed, religious language, imagery, and ideas were pervasive during the Civil War era. Americans turned to their faith to explain the causes, course, and consequences of the war. Soldiers and civilians alike found comfort in religion and often viewed the war’s events through the lens of divine providence. The idea of sin—both individual and collective—also became a means of interpreting victories and defeats, including the ultimate outcome of the war.

019 | Alexandre Dumas: The Real Count of Monte Cristo?

Instructor: Ken Sorensen

1 session: Tuesday, Sep. 16

1:00 – 2:00 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

Cost $14

For someone who wrote such extraordinary stories, how closely did fiction mirror reality? Alexandre Dumas lost his father at the age of four—a father who had been a celebrated, yet later forgotten, hero of the Napoleonic Wars. In many ways, the son’s vivid tales of adventure drew inspiration from his father's remarkable life. Join us as we explore the true identity behind "The Count of Monte Cristo." Discover the real figures who inspired "The Three Musketeers," and how their camaraderie came to embody the ideal of heroism. What kind of man was Dumas, who gave us some of the most enduring characters in literary history?

Thursday

020 | Everything You Want to Know About Space, But Didn’t Know Who to Ask

Instructor: Dr. Peter Swan

1 session: Thursday, Sep. 18

3:00 – 4:30 p.m. | Mirabella

Cost $19

The essence of humanity—looking up and wondering—is universal. What’s up there? Can we go there? How does it all work? What makes satellites unique? What are orbits? How do I become an astronaut (even at our age)? This course will explore many of these questions in a non-math, non-engineering way, designed to explain our fascination and wonder about space. We are living through a remarkable shift—both government and commercial— toward space exploration. How does this affect you? Could your grandchildren be involved? Might they even go out there? This course will explain it all at a top-level view: orbits, the vacuum of space, and other complexities—all explained through engaging conversations. Please note that parking is the responsibility of the member.

Friday

021 | Here’s Looking at You: The Best of Alfred Hitchcock, Part Two

Instructor: Jay Sherwin

2 sessions: Fridays, Sep. 19, 26 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom

Cost $38

Alfred Hitchcock was always fascinated with voyeurism and the interplay between voyeurism and film watching. In this two-week online course, a follow-up to last spring's “Best of Hitchcock” course, we’ll consider four of Hitchcock’s best films and explore his obsession with people watching other people. Students should watch the films on their own; in class, we’ll look at brief film clips and discuss key themes. Expect another lively trip into the mind of a brilliant, complicated man and the strange, disturbing world he created on film. (If you didn’t attend Part 1, no worries! That’s not required for this course.)

022 | Marco Polo’s America: The Medieval Influence on Early Modern Maps of the New World

Instructor: Dr. Markus Cruse Cost $19 1 session: Friday, Sep. 19 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | Sun Health – The Colonnade

This lecture traces the evolution of maps of the Americas from the late 15th to the late 16th centuries, focusing on how Marco Polo’s "The Description of the World" shaped European expectations about the inhabitants, resources, and size of the New World. Polo’s influence endured for generations, even as exploration, colonization, and missionary efforts gradually provided Europeans with more accurate understandings of the Americas.

Member Events

OLLI at ASU is fortunate enough to be included in a variety of ASU collaborations, including special invitations to ASU events, speaker series, and other ASU community events. Given that many of these community opportunities are constantly changing, the website will be regularly updated alongside consistent communications to members via emails with the most up-to-date experiences.

OLLI Celebration of Excellence

2 5 Y E A R S O F L I F E L O N G L E A R N I N G

Thank you to the guests who joined us in celebrating 25 years of lifelong learning at OLLI at ASU! We had a wonderful time honoring our members and their commitment to learning, growth, and exploration. We reflected on the wonderful connections, events, and classes we experienced throughout the year. This milestone served as a testament to our members’ dedication, passion, and unwavering curiosity.

The celebration began with the "OLLI Community Showcase" featuring our Community Partners, artwork from the ASU Intergenerational Scholars program, and highlights from OLLI at ASU’s member-led blog, special-interest groups, and travel programs We recognized the founding leaders and our current staff. We thanked ASU and Watts College for their continued support of our program. We celebrated all our instructors and honored the ‘Legacy Instructors’ who have taught with us for more y, we recognized the significance of the financial gifts from our members.

ORIGINS OF OLLI AT ASU

The founding of OLLI at ASU is a story driven by a tapestry of outstanding, devoted individuals whose vision for a stronger community collectively turned possibility into presence Long before our community had a name or structure, ASU’s Dr Vince Waldron had the privilege of working with Shirley Talley – his outstanding student who embodied the spirit of lifelong learning earning her bachelor’s degree in communications from ASU at age 63 As part of her studies with Dr Waldron, Shirley began exploring critical issues facing older adults across the valley – social isolation, missed opportunities for continued growth and community, and more. Dr. Waldron then sent Shirley to a national conference to learn more about these topics It was there that she met a man who showed interest in her research – a man named Bernard Osher Energized by the possibilities that emerged from her conversation with Bernard, she returned to ASU and enthusiastically shared the concept of starting an Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at ASU with key university leaders, including President Michael Crow. Her voice and persistence, with the support of Dr. Waldron, Dr. Diane Gruber (who would go on to serve as director of OLLI at ASU until 2009), and legacy instructors like Allen Reamer, led to the establishment of what would become OLLI at ASU as we know it today.

Shirley’s passion was matched by her dedication In the early years, when OLLI had little funding and even fewer hands, Shirley was the one loading her car trunk with course catalogs, driving across the valley to hand-deliver them to libraries and community centers. She saw those deliveries not just as logistics, but as a chance for face-to-face introductions a way to put a human connection behind the name. She trained new coordinators, mentored student workers, and never missed an opportunity to brighten someone's day with a coffee, a story, or her famously sweet smile Shirley was known affectionately among staff as OLLI’s “bulldog” tenacious in the best sense, fearless in advocating for what she believed in. Having once spotted Dr. Eduardo Pagán on PBS’s History Detectives, she was convinced he belonged at OLLI. She made it her mission to bring him aboard and now he’s regarded as one of ASU OLLI’s most popular and foundational professors. As Karla Burkhart former program manager for OLLI at ASU and Shirley’s colleague and friend said, that mix of initiative and warmth was Shirley through and through

Beyond her remarkable professional contributions, Shirley lived and breathed the values of lifelong learning and service She mentored children in literacy, welcomed foreign exchange students into her home, sewed costumes for church performances, and found joy in her flower garden alongside birdsong. She remembered birthdays with small gifts and heartfelt notes, and infused even the coldest schedule-packing days with snacks, laughter, and warmth Her laughter— bright and birdlike was as unforgettable as her kindness Shirley was generous with her time, talents, and love, and her presence left a lasting imprint on every person and place she touched To remember Shirley is to remember a woman who truly lived the mission of OLLI: to learn, to connect, to grow, and to give. We honor her legacy and the lifelong learning community that has continued to grow over the past two decades with deep gratitude and love. We are committed to continuing to build on the legacy she and our other visionary founders began, ensuring that the spirit of curiosity, connection, and lifelong learning thrives for generations to come

The Faces of Our Story

Karla Burkhart, Former Senior Program Manager, OLLI at ASU

Dr. Vincent Waldron, Professor of Communication Studies at ASU

Dr. Richard Knopf, Former Director of OLLI at ASU, Senior Advisor

Shirley Talley, Former Program Coordinator, OLLI at ASU

Bernard Osher Founder of Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

Dr. Diane Gruber, Former Director of OLLI at ASU

Beginning Week of Sep. 22

Monday

023 | History of the Native Peoples & Nations in the United States, Part Two

Instructor: Jay Roth Cost $38

2 sessions: Mondays, Sep. 22, 29 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center

This is the second half of a two-part course that began in the spring semester of 2025. In this course, we will focus on how the United States has interacted with Native American tribes and nations, beginning with the founding of the U.S. Constitution and the early years of the Republic. We will consider how the ideals expressed in the Declaration of Independence—particularly the phrase "all men are created equal"—contrast with the policies and actions taken toward Native peoples. From 1789 to the present day, we will examine how the U.S. government has approached its relationship with Native nations, often resulting in the continual loss of land and sovereignty for Native communities. This is a complex and often painful history, but one we must understand as informed citizens. We will explore the long-term consequences of policies such as Manifest Destiny, forced removals, and broken treaties—consequences that continue to shape our society today.

024 | Mathematical Modeling in Biology & Medicine

Instructor: Julia Inozemtseva Cost $19

1 session: Monday, Sep. 22 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom

This class explores how mathematics helps us uncover patterns and solve problems in medicine and biology. We’ll examine how mathematical modeling is used to study disease spread and the role of superspreaders, understand hospital-acquired infections, and track the evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (superbugs). The talk will also delve into models of cancer growth and how concepts like fractals and recursion appear in biological systems. From predicting outbreaks to visualizing tumor development, math provides powerful tools for addressing some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare.

OLLI Membership ID Cards

Annual Membership Cards are sent out at the end of September each year. The semester membership cards are sent out at the end of September and the end of February each year. These cards are used to receive OLLI Member discounts. See page 19 for more info!

Thursday

025 | The Birth of Democracy: Athens, 1300-500 BCE

Instructor: Dr. Sarah Bolmarcich Cost FREE 1 session: Thursday, Sep. 25 10:30 a.m. – noon | Scottsdale – Civic Center Library

Democracy is a staple of American life. The idea of democracy was born in ancient Athens, supposedly under the mythical King Theseus, generations before the Trojan War. The first shoots of democracy began with Draco’s law on homicide in 620 BCE, continued through the reforms of Solon in the 590s, and came to fruition under Cleisthenes in 508 BCE. Over the next two centuries, Athenian democracy became increasingly radicalized to the extent that it was rejected by the U.S. Founding Fathers. This class examines the development of Athenian democracy and the flaws that made statesmen, like Hamilton and Madison, reject it in favor of the more moderate Roman model of a republic.

026 | Desert Bugs: Masters of Survival

Instructor: Kurt Leuschner Cost $19 1 session: Thursday, Sep. 25 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom

Did you know that some insects can survive temperatures exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit in the shade, with little or no water? Welcome to the often-overlooked world of insects and other arthropods. Kurt Leuschner, Professor of Entomology at College of the Desert, will highlight remarkable desert species such as the yucca moth, antlion, and tarantula hawk wasp, emphasizing their ecological roles and survival strategies. This presentation will examine the adaptations, behaviors, habitats, and life histories of these and other arthropods—the most diverse group of animals on Earth. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the small but vital organisms that shape ecosystems, many of which thrive right here in the Sonoran Desert.

027 | Piper Distinguished Visiting Writers Series: Andrew Porter & Sally Wen Mao at Changing Hands

Speakers: Andrew Porter & Sally Wen Mao Cost FREE 1 session: Thursday, Sep. 25 Community Partner 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. | Changing Hands Bookstore, Tempe

Presented by the Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing at Arizona State University at Changing Hands Bookstore, OLLI members are invited to a special reading and conversation with noted novelist Andrew Porter and renowned poet and writer Sally Wen Mao. A recent review of Andrew Porter’s work appeared in The New York Times (“A Novel That Takes On Life’s Greatest Mystery: Our Parents,” April 15, 2025). Sally Wen Mao’s debut novel was recently featured in The Washington Post’s “11 Best Science Fiction and Fantasy Books of 2024.” Please join us for this special event to hear from these outstanding writers. Check out the Member Discount link on our website for special discount.

Friday

Classes on Zoom

028 | Decoding Food Labels: The Nutrition Science Behind Your Grocery Store Visits

Instructor: Dr. Christina Shepard

1 session: Friday, Sep. 26

10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom

Cost $19

Grocery shopping can be overwhelming—with countless products, confusing labels, and endless marketing claims vying for your attention. Making smart choices at the store is the first step toward better nutrition and overall health for you and your family. In this engaging presentation, Tina Shepard, a Clinical Nutrition Professor at Arizona State University and a Registered Dietitian, will guide you through the essentials of smart grocery shopping. You'll learn how to: read and understand nutrition labels with confidence, identify nutrient-dense foods and avoid misleading packaging, make budget-friendly, healthy choices in every aisle, compare products to find the best options for your family's needs. Join us and gain the tools to shop smarter, eat better, and feel more in control of your health every time you step into the grocery store.

Beginning Week of Sep. 29

Monday

029 | Enchanting Wonders: The World of Hummingbirds

Instructor: Kathe Anderson FREE

1 session: Monday, Sep. 29

10:30 a.m. – noon | Westward Ho

This class, led by Kathe Anderson, community scientist and conservation educator, will feature a 30-minute video created in Southeast Arizona—the Hummingbird Capital of the U.S.—which highlights the different kinds of hummingbirds found in Arizona and their behaviors. In addition to the video, you'll have the chance to see a hummingbird, a hummingbird nest, and a hummingbird feather up close. Learn about their anatomy and lifestyle, and where and when to find these amazing birds. Please note that parking is the responsibility of the member.

030 | Fortunato Film School: “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”

Instructor: Dr. Joe Fortunato

Cost $38 2 sessions: Monday & Tuesday, Sep. 29, 30 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Zoom

Join “Fortunato Film School" where ASU film professor Joe Fortunato will screen, discuss, and provide live commentary on the 1970’s cinematic classic "One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest" – a Best Picture winner and one of the most honored films of all time! We will begin with a brief introduction on the background and making of the film. Then we will screen the film together with live commentary provided, giving you insights into the filmmaking process, fun facts, and some guidance on how to "read" a film creatively. After the film, we will discuss what we've learned and debate if it lives up to its "great film" reputation (and even discuss what that designation means in the subjective world of creative art).

Wednesday

031 | Gen Z Speaks: Literature’s Newest Stars

Instructor: Dr. Heather Ackerman

Cost $38 2 sessions: Wednesdays, Oct. 1, 8

10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom

Now entering their mid-twenties, many talented Gen Z authors are lifting their voices and carving out strong stances regarding their novel experiences and perspectives. As digital natives, they are acutely aware of how identity is negotiated between real circumstances and incomplete virtual performances. Gen Z authors often speak passionately about 21st-century crises, bringing their verve to issues like climate volatility and untenable social and economic systems. They have impressed audiences not only with what they say but also with how they say it: with clarity, conviction, freshness, and hypnotic beauty. In this two-week seminar, we will explore works by notable Gen Z authors—Amanda Gorman, Chloe Gong, Fatimah Asghar, among others—to examine the cultural provenance of this newest literary generation.

032 | Before Natural Selection: Charles Darwin & the Voyage of the Beagle, 1831-1836

Instructor: Dr. Tobias Harper

Cost $38 2 sessions: Wednesdays, Oct. 1, 8

10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center

Charles Darwin's fame as a scientist began with the publication of The Voyage of the Beagle in 1839—twenty years before he published his theory of evolution by natural selection. This account was based on his travels as a young gentleman naturalist during a long voyage of exploration around the world from 1831 to 1836. In this class, Dr. Toby Harper, Associate Professor in the TCLAS School of Historical, Philosophical, and Religious Studies, examines the context and story of the voyage. What was the purpose of early nineteenth-century scientific expeditions like that of the Beagle? What did Darwin and other travelers see (and fail to see) about the natural and human worlds on these journeys? And how did seeing the world shape Darwin's scientific theories about life? We will explore the background, the voyage itself, and its aftermath and legacy.

033 | The Desert Dozen

Instructor: Kathe Anderson

1 session: Wednesday, Oct. 1

Cost $19

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Sun Health – Grandview Terrace

Many birds of the desert-urban interface may be familiar to you, but they are often misidentified and misunderstood. This class focuses on a dozen of our most common species to help you learn more about them. We’ll cover the cactus wren (our state bird!), the whimsical and popular Gambel’s quail, the noisy mockingbird, and the ubiquitous Anna’s hummingbird and mourning dove. We’ll also discuss invasive species such as the city pigeon, European starling, great-tailed grackle, and house sparrow. Discover which bird is a medal-winner, which is a real estate developer, and which appears on the Audubon Watchlist for declining populations.

034 | Heavy Metal Pollution & the Grand Canyon

Instructor: Dr. Ken Sweat

Cost $38

2 sessions: NEW DATES - Wednesdays, Nov. 12, 19 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

The Grand Canyon is one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the natural world. However, nearby mining operations and local coal power plants create air pollution issues that can mar the majestic views and create a lasting legacy of toxic contamination. This course will examine the sources of heavy metal pollution found in the canyon and how that pollution is studied.

OLLI Share

OLLI Share is a collaboration between a group of other OLLI programs designed to expand your learning horizons. Through OLLI Share, ASU members can attend special online courses from partner OLLIs all with membership reciprocity and at a special discounted cost. Check website regularly at the link under Classes button. They get added when we receive information.

Friday

035 | Healthy Aging Panel Discussion: Impacts of Connectivity, Social Embeddedness & Lifelong Learning

Panelists: Dr. Aaron Guest, Sandra Freyer, Dr. Lindsey Beagley, Jared Swerzenski

1 session: Friday, Oct. 3

Cost FREE 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

Join an engaging expert panel exploring how social connection, community involvement, and lifelong learning contribute to healthy aging. Moderated by OLLI at ASU Director Jared Swerzenski, this session features Dr. Aaron Guest, renowned gerontologist and Assistant Professor of Aging at ASU’s Edson College, alongside Sandra Freyer from ASU’s Lodestar Center for Philanthropy & Nonprofit Innovation, as well as Dr. Lindsey Beagley, ASU's Senior Director of Lifelong University Engagement and a national leader in reconceptualizing higher education in an aging society. Together, they will share insights into how staying socially embedded and intellectually active can enhance well-being and longevity, ofering evidence- based strategies for thriving in later life.

036 | Ukraine & Russia I & II: Past, Present, & Future

Spring 2022 Semester

Jan. 24 – May 19

Instructor: Dr. Hilde Hoogenboom Cost $38 2 sessions: Fridays, Oct. 3, 10 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom

Russia shocked the world when Putin invaded Ukraine on Thursday, February 24, 2022. Few believed that Ukraine’s military would last a week. Backed by President Biden’s strong alliance of the U.S. and Europe, the Ukrainian military has fought the Russian military to a virtual standstill. Since Donald Trump has assumed ofce in January 2025, he has jettisoned U.S. alliances with NATO, Europe, and Ukraine. Europe is undergoing its most profound transformation since the end of the Soviet Union in 1991. The NATO military alliance was strengthened when Sweden and Finland joined, but since U.S. withdrawal, Germany is rearming, and Europe now seeks a nuclear umbrella with France and the U.K. Meanwhile, Europe is ending 50 years of cheap energy imports from Russia while six million Ukrainian refugees enter Europe. These two talks are a briefing on the history of Ukraine and Russia’s relations, the war and sanctions thus far, peace talks and possible outcomes.

Beginning Week of Oct. 6

Monday

037 | Global Middle Ages at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Instructor: Dr. Markus Cruse Cost $19 1 session: Monday, Oct. 6 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Chandler Innovation Center

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York holds one of the world's greatest collections of art from the Middle Ages. These objects come from across the globe and tell the story of international trade and travel networks that shaped beliefs, cultures, and artistic practices. This course will examine some of the most spectacular examples of global contact, including a 7th century Chinese vase in the shape of a Greco-Roman amphora, Chinese lions carved on a twelfth-century capital in a Catalonian monastery, and a Chinese sword depicted on a 13th century French tomb. Through these and other works, we will explore the long-distance contacts that shaped art and history.

038 | Media, Music & Counterculture in 20th Century America

Instructor: James Pagliasotti Cost $38 2 sessions: Mondays, Oct. 6, 13 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom

We went from Top 40 rock ’n’ roll as kids to the Classic Era of Rock Music as we were coming of age. Society was in upheaval, and the counterculture was becoming the dominant popular culture of the time. How did it happen, and why did it matter? Join music and culture author James Pagliasotti, who previously worked as the first ever rock music critic for The Denver Post, as we encounter Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, and many other great artists, and tour twice with the Rolling Stones. We experienced a fascinating, intensely creative period that permanently changed the music business and shaped a generation.

039 | The Life & Times of Nikola Tesla

Instructor: Dr. Marc Seifer

Classes on Zoom

Cost $95

6 sessions: Mondays, Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27 & Nov. 3, 10 noon – 1:30 p.m. | Zoom (Osher Online)

This course traces the life and innovations of Nikola Tesla, from his early years and university studies in Graz and Prague to his groundbreaking work in electricity and wireless technology. We will explore his collaborations and rivalries, including his work with Thomas Edison, the “War of the Currents” between AC and DC power, and his partnership with George Westinghouse, which led to the lighting of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Key topics include Tesla’s telautomaton invention, his wireless experiments, and his race against Marconi in the development of radio. We will examine the Wardenclyffe— Tesla’s ambitious wireless transmission tower, his work during World War I with Telefunken, and his interactions with Franklin Roosevelt. We will conclude with Tesla’s laterlife invention of the particle beam weapon, his negotiations to sell it to the Allies during World War II, and the mystery surrounding his secret papers after his death.

040 | Pseudoscience in the Digital Era

Instructor: Dr. Johnnie Hendrickson

1 session: Monday, Oct. 6

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

Cost $19

The age of technology has changed the way we access and process information. The challenge isn’t finding enough information on topics of curiosity—it’s sorting the good from the bad. While many excellent sources exist on the web, there is also a great deal of misinformation, both intentional and unintentional. In such an environment, pseudoscience thrives. What are some of the most common scientific misconceptions propagated by modern media? What aspects of human psychology make us so prone to believing pseudoscience? And how can we distinguish scientific reality from conspiracy theories and snake oil?

Tuesday

041 | The Journey to Trial by Jury: A History of Justice

Instructor: Bob McWhirter, JD

1 session: Tuesday, Oct. 7

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Friendship Village

Cost $19

Why do we use the term “trial by jury”? The Declaration of Independence indicted King George III for depriving the people of “trial by jury.” The Seventh Amendment preserves the right to a jury trial in civil cases where the amount in controversy exceeds $20. Article III, Section 2 of the Constitution mandates that “the Trial of all Crimes... shall be by Jury.” The Sixth Amendment states that in “all criminal prosecutions,” the trial shall be “by an impartial jury.” Each of these references to “trial by jury” implies that there was once another option—and that the choice mattered. This class will trace the history of the jury, showing why it remains as relevant today as ever.

042 | How Smart is Today’s AI: An Introduction to Chatbots & Digital Assistants

Instructor: Zhen Tan

1 session: Tuesday, Oct. 7 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom

Cost $19

You’ve probably heard of ChatGPT or spoken to a voice assistant like Alexa or Siri: but what’s really going on behind the scenes? In this class, we’ll explore how today’s artificial intelligence can carry on conversations, help you write emails, answer questions, and even make decisions. We’ll look at how these “AI assistants” work in simple, everyday terms—and what they might mean for the future of work, learning, and daily life.

043 | The African American Military Experience: From Revolution to Civil Rights

Instructor: John Langellier Cost $95 6 sessions: Tuesdays, Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28 & Nov. 4, 11 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. | Zoom (Osher Online)

African Americans have served in every US military conflict, fighting for both their country and their own rights. From Black patriots in the Revolutionary War to the 180,000 African Americans who fought for the Union in the Civil War, their contributions have shaped American history. After the war, Black soldiers gained congressional approval to enlist in the peacetime Army, leading to the formation of the “Buffalo Soldiers.” This course traces their service from the War of 1812 to World War II, highlighting their valor in conflicts abroad and their struggle against segregation and discrimination at home. It is the story of their resilience, sacrifice, and fight for equality in a nation that often failed to recognize their service.

Wednesday

044 | Watts College & OLLI Presents: Everybody Eats

Instructor: Chef Sasha Raj Cost FREE 1 session: Wednesday, Oct. 8 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Downtown Phoenix

Watts IDEA Ofce and the Osher Life Long Learning Institute (OLLI) invite you to join award winning Chef Sasha Raj for fresh plant based food and fellowship! Chef Sasha will help us all discover how to make healthy, fresh meals that are easy and practical—no matter your lifestyle. Whether you're a student in the dorms, a busy professional with limited time, an empty nester adjusting to cooking for fewer people, or retired and looking for fresh inspiration in the kitchen, this workshop is for you. This FREE Annual member event is limited to 30 registrants. Please register early. OLLI will cover the cost of parking at designated parking location. Note that this is an Annual Member only event!

045

|

Color, Color Schemes, & Composition with Fruit

Instructor: Allen Reamer

Cost $95

4 sessions: Wednesdays, Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29 OLLI Workshop 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library

Create a successful painting every time! Art tells a story, expresses an emotion—or both. By using a variety of compositional elements, colors, and color schemes, you can express any feeling with any subject. In this class, taught by Allen Reamer, a longtime art history and art studio teacher, we will work with a variety of pieces of fruit. We'll take a step-by-step approach, exploring the options and decisions involved in planning and producing a successful work of art. You may use acrylics, watercolor, gouache, pastel, and/or colored pencils. Materials list provided before start of class.

Join the Distinguished Innovation Fellows Program!

Find purpose and make a diference in your community through the Distinguished Innovation Fellows program. Join us for lunch and learn about our program for successful professionals looking to make a change. https://bit.ly/DiferenceFellow

Saturday

046 | The Clay Connection Project: Foundations, Clay, & Connection

ISS Scholar Instructor: Allie Thurgood Cost $10

1 session: Saturday, Oct. 11 Intergenerational Workshop 9:30 a.m. – noon | School of Art, ASU Tempe

Join OLLI Intergenerational Scholar Allie Thurgood, ASU School of Art MA candidate, for a hands-on, heartcentered workshop where creativity and connection come together. This intergenerational class introduces participants to the basic techniques of hand-building with clay, pinching, coiling, and slab work, while weaving in meaningful dialogue and storytelling. Each participant will create a symbolic clay object that represents a personal value or memory. Then, paired with a partner, they'll work together to co-create a second piece to reflect their conversation and themes that emerge. Rooted in community building and intergenerational exchange, this workshop emphasizes both the technical fundamentals of ceramics and the power of shared experiences. No prior clay experience necessary! Just bring your hands, your stories, and your curiosity.

Beginning Week of Oct. 13

Monday

047 | Microbiomes & Planetary Health: The Invisible Connections That Sustain Life

Instructor: Dr. Glen Gerald D'Souza Cost $38 2 sessions: Mondays, Oct. 13, 20 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom

Tiny microbes shape the world in ways we are only beginning to understand. From soil to the human gut, microbiomes regulate health, drive nutrient cycles, and bufer ecosystems against collapse. In this class, we explore the surprising ways microbial life underpins planetary stability—from agriculture and climate resilience to human well-being. Discover how these invisible communities connect personal and planetary health—and how future innovations may rely on learning to work with microbes, not against them.

Your OLLI Member ID Card & Member Benefits

As part of OLLI at ASU membership, exclusive discounts are developed in collaboration with a variety of our community partners across the valley. From free admission days to discounted tickets at a variety of art, cultural, and educational organizations, we work with our partners to increase the overall value of membership for our community. Check out the ‘Member Benefits’ page for member-exclusive discounts and opportunities for this coming semester

Have an idea for a partnership? Submit your suggestion using our new ‘Suggestions for OLLI’ form on our website We’re looking to build more partnerships across the Valley and beyond!

Annual and fall semester members will receive their member ID card by the end of September, and spring semester members will receive theirs by the end of February. Bring your member ID card with you and present it at the counter to take advantage of discounts with our select partners! Some of these partnerships include:

Kerr Cultural Center

Use offer code for $5 off shows at the Kerr Cultural Center

Western Spirit Museum November 14-21, OLLI members will get the student rate of $12 with OLLI membership card.

Cosanti

Receive 10% off classic catalog bronze bells, bronze Cause Bells, and Cosanti Foundation products.

Arizona Science Center Seniors Sundays

Seniors ages 62 or better receive FREE general admission to the Science Center on the first Sunday of each month!

FOOD & WINE OF NORTHERN ITALY & THE ITALIAN RIVIERA

This trip is currently SOLD OUT

Featured OLLI Instructor: Chef Larry Canepa

Eating isn’t just a part of the daily grind here it’s a full-on art form. Stand beside the masters in their kitchens, farms, and wineries and learn the ins and outs of the region’s knockout delights From wine on the Riviera to Parmigiano-Reggiano in Parma to fresh-cooked tagliatelle in Bologna, prepare to indulge in the best the region has to offer on this Food & Wine Tour. Please note that you have the option to include flights in your booking.

April 16 – 25, 2026

$4,495 00 for single accommodation

$4,983 for double accommodation

Dates: May 15 – 24, 2026

Locations: Casablanca, Rabat, Fès & Marrakech

Cost: $4,495.00

Only a few spots left! Join us for a meet-andgreet on Sep. 18!

ASU OLLI CORPS GOES TO MOROCCO

On this immersive trip to Morocco, you'll uncover the bustling medinas and colorful markets of Fès, Rabat, and Marrakech, each offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant culture of the country. You'll have the opportunity to meet with pioneering organizations that are empowering Moroccan women and working to protect the environment, gaining insight into the impactful work being done across the nation Please note that flights are not included in cost of the trip

s IDEA Office and the Osher Life Long Learning Institute (OLLI) invite you oin award winning Chef Sasha Raj for fresh plant based food and wship!

Sasha will help us all discover how to make healthy, fresh meals that are and practical no matter your lifestyle Whether you're a student in the s, a busy professional with limited time, an empty nester adjusting to ing for fewer people, or retired and looking for fresh inspiration in the en, this workshop is for you

FREE Annual member event is limited to 30 registrants. Please register . OLLI will cover the cost of parking at designated parking location.

ALASKA’S

NATIONAL PARKS: DENALI & THE KENAI FJORDS

July 31 - August 9, 2026

Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage, Seward

When & Where Cost

$6,329 for double occupancy (flights not included)

Additional $1,710 for single occupancy

Majestic glaciers, unique wildlife, and pristine views do justice to Alaska’s nickname as the Last Frontier. Learn about the history of famous traditions like the Iditarod, and experience the beauty of both Denali and the Kenai Fjords National Parks on this small group Wildlife Tour. In quaint villages and in the untamed wilderness, picture-perfect landscapes will appear around every corner Please note that flights are not included in cost of the trip but can be added for an additional cost.

Launch Meeting is Aug 19th at 3:30 p.m. on Zoom.

Reservations open Aug 20th at 9:00 am. Membership required.

Featured ASU Faculty: Dr. Ken Sweat

Tuesday

Classes on Zoom

048 | Mars: Exploring its Mysteries & Creating a Space Mission

Instructor: Dr. Phil Christensen

3 sessions: Tuesdays, Oct. 14, 21, 28 10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library

Cost $57

Humans have been intrigued by Mars since they first gazed into the night sky. In just the past 50 years, we have seen spacecraft orbiting Mars and surface rovers exploring the planet for evidence of past climates and the potential for life. This class will focus on some key unanswered questions about Mars before moving on to the process of how an actual space mission is built. We will follow the steps from the initial concept through the design, fabrication, and testing of spacecraft and instruments. We’ll also examine mission operations and scientific results. ASU has a long history of participation in planetary exploration, including the development of nine instruments for NASA and international missions to explore Mars, asteroids, and Europa—a moon of Jupiter with a subsurface ocean that may contain life. The final class will include a tour of the labs on ASU’s Tempe campus, where these instruments are designed and built!

Wednesday

049 | WhereAZ Presents: Where to Go & What to See in Southern AZ

Instructor: Jim Jindrick

1 session: Wednesday, Oct. 15 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom

Cost $19

Join Jim Jindrick, a resident of Southern Arizona for over 40 years, for an engaging class presented by WhereAZ. Tucson and the broader Southern Arizona region offer a wealth of unique experiences to see, do, hear, touch, taste, and absorb—making it a truly special place in the world. This class provides a comprehensive pictorial overview that highlights the diverse cultural, natural, and historical attractions of the area. Participants will gain valuable insights into the region’s distinctive qualities and will be equipped with practical tools to explore it further.

050 | Public Health in Action: Addressing Stress, Equity, & Solutions

Instructor: Faith Ogungbe

Cost $95

6 sessions: Wednesdays, Oct. 15, 22, 29 & Nov. 5, 12, 19 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. | Zoom (Osher Online)

In this course, participants will explore the social determinants of health, the physiological mechanisms of stress, and the effects of stress on health and wellbeing. They will also examine stress- and health-related theoretical frameworks. Through this course, participants will gain an understanding of the factors that influence health and engage in discussions on the importance of equitably promoting health and well-being across populations.

Thursday

051 | In Darwin's Footsteps: A Journey to the Galapagos

Instructor: Dr. Eric Simon

Cost $95

6 sessions: Thursdays, Oct. 16, 23, 30 & Nov. 6, 13, 20 8:00 – 9:30 a.m. | Zoom (Osher Online)

From 1831-1836, Charles Darwin circumnavigated the globe aboard the HMS Beagle. In the Galapagos Islands and elsewhere, Darwin collected data that, after decades of study and reflection, formed part of the basis for his publication On the Origin of Species. The ideas presented in that volume remain the foundation of all modern biological thought. Drawing upon original source materials and the instructor’s photos, this course will present the historical and cultural context of Darwin’s era, follow the five-year journey, discuss how Darwin came to his ideas, and explain his theories in detail.

052 | Contemporary Art Adventures: From Helsinki to Tallinn

Instructor: Dr. Kelly Nelson Cost $19 1 session: Thursday, Oct. 16 10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library

Join Dr. Kelly Nelson—proudly 50% Finnish-American—for a lively, illustrated exploration of the vibrant contemporary art scene in Helsinki. This 2025 tour includes highlights from the Helsinki Biennial, visits to three standout art museums, and a look at some of the city’s striking new architecture that blends innovation with Nordic design traditions. From there, Dr. Nelson hops across the Gulf of Finland to Tallinn, Estonia, where she covers a few contemporary art gems tucked within this historic Baltic capital.

053 | S’edav Va’aki’s Connections Through Time: Archaeology of the Phoenix Basin

Instructors: Dr. Christopher Schwartz & Dr. Nicole Armstrong-Best

Cost $65 2 sessions: Thursdays, Oct. 16, 23 Community Partner 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. | S'edav Va'aki Museum

The initial session will explore the archaeology of the contemporary Phoenix area and the cultural tradition archaeologists call “Hohokam.” In reality, this tradition represents the Ancestral Sonoran Desert people who, among many achievements, built and inhabited expansive villages centered around plazas and vapaki (platform mounds). They also constructed large-scale irrigation systems that, at their peak, extended miles from the Salt and Gila Rivers, creating microclimates that supported intensive agriculture and providing networks through which people moved, communicated, and exchanged objects and ideas. The second session will focus on the museum at S’edav Va’aki and its ongoing relationships with the site’s descendant communities. These dynamic collaborations offer insight into the ancestral village site and highlight the importance of preserving cultural connections and archaeological sites. After each discussion, participants are encouraged to explore the outdoor interpretive trail and indoor galleries. Please note that there will be a lot of walking involved, but the site is ADA accessible.

Friday

054 | The Essence of Ballet & “Sleeping Beauty”

Instructor: Claire Martinez Cost $95

2 sessions: Friday & Saturday, Oct. 17, 25 OLLI Workshop 10:00 – 11:15 a.m. & 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. | Ballet Arizona & Symphany Hall

Join us for a look behind the seemingly perfect world of a ballet dancer. Discover the latest evolution of this 400-year-old art form and witness the sweat, joy, and frustration of in-studio rehearsals. Then, reconnect with the dancers a week later and see the fruits of their perseverance and determination when they perform live at Symphony Hall in Downtown Phoenix: Sleeping Beauty. The cost of the class includes tickets to the show on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Accessible seating and other seating requests can be arranged in advance with Claire and our OLLI coordinator. Please note that attendance for the lecture/rehearsal viewing is required. Tickets for the performance will be distributed during the lecture, and there will not be another opportunity to receive them.

055 | Politics & Dating: A Sociological Look at the “Elephant in the Room”

Instructor: Dr. Cassandra Cotton Cost $19

1 session: Friday, Oct. 17 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom

What role does politics play in choosing a romantic partner—especially for older adults? How much does politics really come up on dates, anyway? In this session, led by Dr. Cassandra Cotton, Assistant Professor of Sociology in ASU's School of Social and Family Dynamics, we'll explore how older adult daters consider potential partners’ political views—and whether perceptions of rising political polarization, especially here in Arizona, shape the preferences older adults have for new romantic relationships. Drawing on social science research conducted by Dr. Cotton in Arizona with adults aged 55 and older, we’ll delve into whether political differences might be a dealbreaker for older daters and discuss your questions on research with and about older adults.

Beginning Week of Oct. 20

Jan. 24 – May 19

Monday

056 | Botanical Arts & Sciences

Instructor: Dr. Julie Stromberg Cost $35 1 session: Monday, Oct. 20 OLLI Workshop 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | South Mountain

Botany is becoming a lost art. We will convene in a four-acre rewilded habitat garden in South Phoenix to bolster our botanical skills. Students will learn the basics of botany and delve into controversial new findings on plant ‘intelligence.’ We will sketch botanical details, meet regional plants, learn to recognize three plant families, and observe plants alongside their pollinators. We will discuss the ways in which plants benefit us and explore some of the decisions plants make in their own lives. The session will end with a discussion circle centered on quotes from five botanical authors.

057 | Exploring Morocco: Ancient Kingdom at the Crossroads of Africa, the Middle East, & Europe

Instructor: Dr. Mary Jane Parmentier

Cost $38 2 sessions: Mondays, Oct. 20, 27 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. | Tempe Public Library

The vibrant country of Morocco is located at the far western edge of North Africa and the Middle East, less than twenty miles from Europe. We explore its geography and history, then focus on the current society, religion, and political system of this historic kingdom—the first to recognize the United States upon its independence. Note: Dr. Parmentier is leading an OLLI Corps trip to Morocco in May 2026.

058 | Graceful Exits: Exploring the Economics, Ethics, & Ethos of Death with Dignity

Instructor: Dr. Aleen Bayard

Cost $95 6 sessions: Mondays, Oct. 20, 27 & Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | Zoom (Osher Online)

This course explores the complex issue of Death with Dignity, also known as assisted suicide, through its historical development, ethical debates, legal frameworks, and cultural perspectives. The movement gained national attention through the advocacy of Dr. Jack Kevorkian, sparking widespread discussion on end-of-life choices. Participants will critically examine evolving policies on physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia while engaging in thoughtful discussions on this sensitive and often controversial topic. Designed to educate and foster awareness, this course provides a comprehensive look at the ethical and legal dimensions of end-of-life decisionmaking.

FALL 2025 COMMUNITY PARTNER CLASSES

015 | THE SECRETS OF STRADIVARI & OTHER GREAT MAKERS

Instructor: Dr. Matthew Zeller

1 session: Friday, Sep. 12

1:00 – 3:30 p.m. | Musical Instrument Museum

Cost $40

The violins of Antonio Stradivari and guitars of Matteo Sellas have reached nearmythological proportions. Join Dr. Matthew Zeller, MIM’s curator for Europe, to explore what makes historical string instruments from the late Renaissance through the baroque period so extraordinary. We will consider historical documents ranging from lute-making instructions from about 1440 to architectural treatises by Italian

masters Diving into the technical aspects of violins and guitars, we will examine evidence provided by the instruments of Andrea Amati, Stradivari, and more Students will learn how to design their own string instruments in the manner of the great masters of the past This class includes a curator-led tour of MIM’s special exhibition Stradivarius and the Golden Age of Violins and Guitars This 2.5-hour class includes a tour of the gallery, a lecture, and a workshop. MIM (4725 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050) admission is included for the day.

6 | THE NASH PRESENTS: THE LIFE & MES OF MILES DAVIS

uctor: Clark Gibson

Cost: $40 ssions: Monday, Sep. 15 (lecture) & Sunday, Sep. 21 (performance) 0 a.m. – noon & 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. | The Nash Jazz Club

azz musician Clark Gibson for an unforgettable journey through the life and c of one of the most revolutionary figures in American music history Miles s. Born in St. Louis, Miles wasn’t just a participant in the evolution of jazz he . From the fiery complexity of bebop to the cool sophistication of West Coast and from the spacious beauty of modal jazz to the electric pulse of jazz fusion, s continually reshaped the sound of modern music over nearly five decades over the genius behind the horn at the John Dawson Center for Jazz Education e Nash, and experience the artistry that forever changed the face and sound music. Then, on Sunday, Sep. 21, we will go to The Nash Jazz Club (110 E evelt St, Phoenix) to see how these fundamentals in jazz improvisation work her at a live jam session featuring some of the top jazz musicians in the valley

053 | S’EDAV VA’AKI’S CONNECTIONS THROUGH TIME: ARCHAEOLOGY OF THE PHOENIX BASIN

Instructor: Dr. Christopher Schwartz & Nicole Armstrong-Best Cost $65

2 sessions: Thursdays, Oct. 16, 23 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. | S'edav Va'aki Museum

The initial session will explore the archaeology of the contemporary Phoenix area and the cultural tradition archaeologists call “Hohokam.” In reality, this tradition represents the Ancestral Sonoran Desert people who, among many achievements, built and inhabited expansive villages centered around plazas and vapaki (platform mounds) They also constructed large-scale irrigation systems that, at their peak, extended miles from the Salt and Gila Rivers, creating microclimates that supported intensive agriculture and

providing networks through which people moved, communicated, and exchanged objects and ideas. The second session will focus on the museum at S’edav Va’aki and its ongoing relationships with the site’s descendant communities. These dynamic collaborations offer insight into the ancestral village site and highlight the importance of preserving cultural connections and archaeological sites After each discussion, participants are encouraged to explore the outdoor interpretive trail and indoor galleries Please note that there will be a lot of walking involved, but the site is ADA accessible S'edav Va'aki Museum (4619 E Washington St , Phoenix, Arizona 85034) admission is included for the day

046 | The Clay Connection Project: Foundations, Clay, & Connection

Join OLLI Intergenerational Scholar Allie Thurgood, ASU School of Art candidate, for a hands-on, heart-centered workshop where creativity and connect come together. This intergenerational class with the ASU School of Art (1001 S Forest Mall, Tempe, AZ 85281) introduces participants to the basic techniques of hand-building with clay, pinching, coiling, and slab work, while weaving in meaningful dialogue and storytelling. Each participant will create a symbolic clay object that represents a personal value or memory. Then, paired with a partner, they'll work together to co-create a second piece to reflect their conversation and themes that emerge. Rooted in community building and intergenerational exchange, this workshop emphasizes both the technical fundamentals of ceramics and the power of shared experiences. No prior clay experience necessary! Just bring your hands, your stories, and your curiosity.

Saturday,

ISS Scholar Instructor, Allie Thurgood

059 | Operation Freedom: The Berlin

Airlift

Classes on Zoom

Instructor: Anette Isaacs

1 session: Monday, Oct. 20 3:00 p.m.– 4:30 p.m. | Zoom

Cost $19

It could be called one of the greatest adventures in American military history: the Berlin Airlift of 1948–49. When Soviet troops closed all access routes to West Berlin by land, sea, and rail—threatening the lives of 2.5 million people—American General Lucius D. Clay did not hesitate. He organized a bold and extraordinary bridge across the sky, involving 700 planes and more than 250,000 flights over a period of 14 months. Join German historian Anette Isaacs as she presents a fascinating discussion of this pivotal moment in Germany's postwar history.

Tuesday

060 | The Buzz on Crime: Unlocking Mysteries with Forensic Entomology

Instructor: Dr. Jonathan Parrott

1 session: Tuesday, Oct. 21

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Glendale Foothills Library

Cost FREE

Join Dr. Jonathan Parrott, Assistant Professor of Forensic Science, to explore the fascinating world of forensic entomology—the use of insects in solving crimes! Discover how tiny clues left by insects can provide crucial insights to crime scene investigators and scientists. Dr. Parrott will also share innovative research from Arizona State University, demonstrating how forensic experts— including DNA specialists—are unlocking new ways to understand and solve mysteries involving blow flies, maggots, and other insects at crime scenes.

061 | Diego Rivera & Frieda Kahlo: Their Art & Lives

Instructor: Allen Reamer

2 sessions: Tuesdays, Oct. 21, 28 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Mesa Arts Center

Cost $38

Diego Rivera is often best known today as the husband of Frida Kahlo. However, during his life, he was an internationally famous artist born and raised in Mexico. You will learn how he and his friends developed a new art style, with examples provided. Rivera was especially renowned for his murals and had tumultuous relationships with several women. We will begin with his birth and early art and continue until we run out of time, discussing some of his works in detail. Frida Kahlo was born in Mexico and endured many difficult events in her life, including childhood polio, a serious bus accident, a long recovery, and several miscarriages. She used these experiences, along with personal symbolism and Surrealism, to express her suffering through her work.

Wednesday

062 | Four Cold-Weather Travel Destinations to Help Break the Arizona Heat

Instructor: Dan Fellner

Save the Date!

OLLI Giving Society Luncheon

Friday, Nov. 7  11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Cost FREE

1 session: Wednesday, Oct. 22 10:30 a.m. – noon | Scottsdale – Mustang Library

Looking to vicariously escape the 100+ degree Arizona temperatures? Let’s take a trip through the eyes of a travel writer to four chilly, off-the-beaten-path destinations— Greenland, Spitsbergen, Iceland, and the White Continent of Antarctica. Learn about the indigenous cultures and wildlife living in these territories and see some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet. You might even get some inspiration for your next vacation. Our presenter, Dan Fellner, has written about and photographed all four destinations for the Arizona Republic’s Travel section and will share his recommendations on how best to experience these fascinating places.

Thursday

063 | Language Matters: What Linguistics Is & Does

Instructor: Dr. Kathryn Sheffield

2 sessions: Thursdays, Oct. 23, 30

Cost $38

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Chandler Innovation Center

Come explore linguistics! In this class, we’ll examine the sounds humans can make and the rules that help us link those sounds into words and sentences. We’ll also look at how different languages order words in sentences and sentences into longer speech. We’ll discuss ideas of what “correct” grammar is and delve into how words and languages change over time. Additionally, we’ll explore the unwritten rules of language that everyone knows, how location and other social factors influence how we speak, and how different groups use language differently.

Friday

064 | Promoting Late-Life Brain Health: Six Research-Informed Approaches

Instructor: Helen Hayes

Cost $35

1 session: Friday, Oct. 24 OLLI Workshop 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | MIX Center, Mesa

As we age, maintaining cognitive vitality becomes increasingly important—not just for memory, but for overall quality of life. In this engaging and informative workshop, we’ll explore six key habits backed by recent scientific research that support brain health in later life. The class is led by Helen Hayes, Program Director of ASU’s Distinguished Innovation Fellows, an innovationfocused program for individuals 55 and older. You'll learn practical strategies for protecting and enhancing your mental sharpness, emotional resilience, and daily functioning. Participants will create a personalized plan to integrate brain-boosting activities into their everyday routines, and begin shaping a thoughtful, proactive retirement plan centered on lifelong cognitive well-being.

FA25 Curriculum highlight:

AROUND THE WORLD, AROUND THE PLATE

013 | Awesome Sauces: A World of Flavors

Instructor: Chef Larry Canepa

1 session: Thursday, Sep. 11

10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Chandler Innovation Center

Cost $40

Sauces are the pinnacle of a chef’s achievement requiring study and practice to master. A great saucier must have a discriminating palate and the ability to understand how to build depth and harmony into a sauce. Today, however, world influences from Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Mediterranean, along with the public’s appetite for new and exciting tastes, has driven sauces in many different directions, and brought an array of flavors and endless possibilities to their preparation and pairing Explore the history of the World’s Greatest sauces, the basics of sauce making and everyday uses

025 | The Birth of Democracy: Athens, 1300-500 BCE

Instructor: Dr. Sarah Bolmarcich

Cost FREE 1 session: Thursday, Sep. 25

10:30 a.m. – noon | Scottsdale Public Library – Civic Center

Democracy is a staple of American life. The idea of democracy was born in ancient Athens, supposedly under the mythical King Theseus, generations before the Trojan War. The first shoots of democracy began with Draco’s law on homicide in 620 BCE, continued through the reforms of Solon in the 590s, and came to fruition under Cleisthenes in 508 BCE Over the next two centuries, Athenian democracy became increasingly radicalized to the extent that it was rejected by the U S Founding Fathers This class examines the development of Athenian democracy and the flaws that made statesmen, like Hamilton and Madison, reject it in favor of the more moderate Roman model of a republic.

062 | Four Cold-Weather Travel Destinations to Help Break the Arizona Heat

Instructor: Dan Fellner Cost FREE

1 session: Wednesday, Oct. 22

10:30 a.m. – noon | Scottsdale Public Library – Mustang

Looking to vicariously escape the 100+ degree Arizona temperatures? Let’s take a trip through the eyes of a travel writer to four chilly, off-the-beaten-path destinations Greenland, Spitsbergen, Iceland, and the White Continent of Antarctica Learn about the indigenous cultures and wildlife living in these territories and see some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet You might even get some inspiration for your next vacation Our presenter, Dan Fellner, has written about and photographed all four destinations for the Arizona Republic’s Travel section and will share his recommendations on how best to experience these fascinating places.

057 | Exploring Morocco: Ancient Kingdom at the Crossroads of Africa, the Middle East & Europe

Instructor: Dr. Mary Jane Parmentier

2 sessions: Mondays, Oct. 20, 27 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. | Tempe Public Library

Cost $38

The vibrant country of Morocco is located at the far western edge of North Africa and the Middle East, less than twenty miles from Europe We explore its geography and history, then focus on the current society, religion, and political system of this historic kingdom the first to recognize the United States upon its independence. Note: Dr. Parmentier is leading an OLLI Corps trip to Morocco in May 2026.

068 | Travel & Pop Culture: Places Featured in Your Favorite Movies & TV Shows

Instructor: Dan Fellner

1 session: Monday, Oct. 27

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

Cost $19

From "Jaws" to "The Graduate," "James Bond" to "The Birds," "Midnight Express" to "Breaking Bad," take a journey with a leading travel journalist to explore the places around the world where some of the most iconic movies and TV series were filmed. We’ll also visit the childhood haunts of Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and Buddy Holly, and learn about a British pop star’s surprising connection to the Alamo.

076 | Flavors of the ’50s: A Culinary Journey

Instructor: Chef Larry Canepa

1 session: Thursday, Oct. 30

1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Desert Foothills Library

Cost $25

The 1950s were a decade marked by the post-World War II boom, the dawn of the Cold War and the Civil Rights movement in the United States During the 1950s, the United States was the world’s strongest military power, the economy was booming, and the fruits of this prosperity–new cars, suburban houses and other consumer goods–were available to more people than ever before The booming prosperity of the 1950s helped to create a widespread sense of stability, contentment and consensus in the United States. The '50s were full of poodle skirts, greasers and some amazing food. Take a trip down memory lane with old recipes for 1950s food. These appetizers, main courses and desserts were popular back when a gallon of milk only cost $0.82!

092 | Regional Italy: Where History, Culture, & Cuisine Meet

Instructor: Chef Larry Canepa

2 sessions: Mondays, Nov. 17, 24

1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

Cost $50

As one of the world’s most beloved cuisines, it might be surprising to learn that a single, unified Italian cuisine hardly exists. The truth is that Italian food is still largely defined by its regions each region in Italy has created its own unique culinary tradition. These cooking traditions shape people’s identities just as much as their dialects and traditional costumes do. Local cooking preferences and customs are influenced by geographic, historical, and climatic differences: some regions are landlocked and mountainous, while others hug the sea and are hilly; some have absorbed Arab or Greek influences, while others bear the marks of French or Austrian rule Additionally, some regions enjoy the dazzling Mediterranean sun most of the year, whereas others experience cold winters, snow, fog, and harsh winds

Beginning Week of Oct. 27

Monday

065 | Lessons from the Past: Infectious Disease Spillovers, Climate Change, & Toxic Environment

Instructor: Dr. Jane Buikstra

1 session: Monday, Oct. 27 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Zoom

Cost $14

How did ancient people cope with infectious diseases, climate change, and environmental toxins? Join Dr. Jane Buikstra, Regents Professor in the School of Human Evolution and Social Change, to hear archaeological case studies from the ancient Andes that illustrate the unexpected origins of tuberculosis, effective pre-Colonial mechanisms for coping with El Niño events, climate change without increased violence, and the impact of both anthropogenic and natural toxic environments. We will explore the deep history and resilience of tuberculosis, how traditional Andean ontologies addressed climate change and short-term challenges, and how humans have adapted to toxic environments.

066 | Polar Odysseys: Adventure & Tragedy

at the World’s Edges

Instructor: Dr. Richard Carlson

1 session: Monday, Oct. 27 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

Cost $14

There is heroism and tragedy at Earth’s extremes — the quest for the poles and the Northwest Passage: Shackleton, Amundsen, Scott’s tragedy—plus fraud and false claims. Bundle up for an exploration of the top and bottom of the globe during the age of exploration. Join Dr. Richard Carlson as we navigate a journey of ambition, endurance, and the harsh truths hidden in the ice.

067 | Basic Mediation & Negotiating Skills

Instructor: Kristyn Carmichael, JD Cost $38 2 sessions: Mondays, Oct. 27 & Nov. 3

10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library

Mediation is the practice by which a third-party neutral helps people and organizations work through conflict. But these skills are applicable to everyone—from workplace disputes to conflicts with friends or family. In this twopart series led by the ASU Lodestar Center's Kristyn Carmichael, we will discuss and practice the basic techniques of a mediator, as well as how to negotiate at the table as one of the parties. You will learn how to help people navigate conflict, negotiate agreements, and find mutually agreeable solutions.

068 | Travel & Pop Culture: Places

Featured in Your Favorite Movies & TV Shows

Instructor: Dan Fellner

Cost $19 1 session: Monday, Oct. 27 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

From "Jaws" to "The Graduate," "James Bond" to "The Birds," "Midnight Express" to "Breaking Bad," take a journey with a leading travel journalist to explore the places around the world where some of the most iconic movies and TV series were filmed. We’ll also visit the childhood haunts of Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and Buddy Holly, and learn about a British pop star’s surprising connection to the Alamo.

Tuesday

069 | The Magic of Motown

Instructor: Mike Agron

Cost $95 6 sessions: Tuesdays, Oct. 28 & Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25 & Dec. 2 8:00 – 9:30 a.m. | Zoom (Osher Online)

Explore Motown’s golden era from the late 1950s to the 1970s, a period marked by groundbreaking songwriting, iconic artists, and profound social influence. Discover how Motown’s innovative production methods shaped its timeless sound, broke racial barriers, and adapted to shifting cultural landscapes to achieve worldwide acclaim. Featuring legendary artists and curated tracks and videos, this course concludes with a celebration of Motown’s transformative first 25 years. Join us to experience the enduring magic of Motown and its lasting impact on music and culture.

070 | Memory & Cognitive Flexibility: Our Brain’s Executive Functions

Instructor: Dr. Billie Enz

1 session: Tuesday, Oct. 28

10:30 a.m. – noon | Rio Vista Recreation Center

Cost $19

This interactive session reviews the components of executive function (EF), including attention span, working memory, planning and mental flexibility, physical inhibition, and emotional regulation (self-control). The discussion will cover how and when EF skills develop, and how to keep these essential brain functions active throughout our lives. Tips for maintaining memory and problem-solving abilities will also be demonstrated.

Wednesday

071 | Missing & Murdered: Domestic Violence Homicides Disguised as Missing Persons Cases

Instructor: Stuart Somershoe

1 session: Wednesday, Oct. 29

10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center

Cost $19

There have been many high-profile news stories about women reported missing by their husbands, when the cases are actually homicides—and the perpetrator is often the husband. Scott Peterson, Josh Powell, Chris Watts, and Robert Durst are just a few examples. Often complex and challenging, these cases involve intelligent suspects who anticipate traditional investigative techniques. This presentation, led by Stuart Somershoe—a City of Phoenix Police Department detective with the Missing and Unidentified Persons Unit— uses an in-depth case study to outline a profile of this type of offender and explore strategies for dealing with them.

Thursday

072

| When Ideas Became Art: The Revolution in Modern Art & Music

Instructor: Dr. Deborah Robin

2 sessions: Thursdays, Oct. 30 & Nov. 6

10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | Zoom

Cost $38

When photography arrived in the 1800s, artists faced a challenge: cameras could capture realistic images faster than paint. This technological revolution freed artists to pursue questions beyond mere representation, ultimately challenging the very idea of “What is art?” We will examine how both visual artists and musicians throughout the 20th century responded by creating revolutionary works in which ideas became more important than traditional techniques or finished products. From Duchamp’s readymades to John Cage’s experimental compositions, these conceptual works once puzzled audiences but now fill our most prestigious museums and concert halls. Join us to discover these fascinating ideas that have transformed modern art and music.

073 | Exploring the Masters of Jazz: Bossa Nova

Instructor: Dr. Jeffrey Libman

2 sessions: Thursdays, Oct. 30 & Nov. 6

10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center

Cost $38

Emerging in Brazil in the 1950s and garnering worldwide fame in the 1960s, bossa nova combined samba and American jazz to become a style all its own. Replete with poetic lyrics, memorable melodies, rich harmonies, and quiet intimacy, bossa nova songs possess both beauty and depth. Come learn about the music of Luiz Bonfá, Antônio Carlos Jobim, Astrud and João Gilberto, and more. This class, taught by ASU's Dr. Jeffrey Libman, is intended for jazz aficionados as well as those who simply want to learn more about jazz—no instruments required! The class will consist primarily of active listening to exemplary recordings, with guided discussion interspersed throughout.

074 | Ethics in Local Government: Lessons from a Case Study in Corruption

Instructor: Dr. Thom Reilly

Cost $38 2 sessions: Thursdays, Oct. 30 & Nov. 6

10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library

Join Dr. Thom Reilly for an examination of the roots and consequences of public sector corruption, drawing from his book "The Failure of Governance in Bell, California: Big Time Corruption in a Small Town." We’ll explore how weak oversight, disengaged citizens, and a lack of institutional accountability allowed widespread corruption to take hold in a small municipal government. The course also delves into the ethical complexities of leadership, highlighting “right vs. right” dilemmas—situations in which competing values both carry moral weight. The discussion concludes with a practical framework for sustaining ethical governance and preventing corruption at all levels.

075 | Scandals & Controversies in Rock & Pop Music

Instructor: Emanuel Abramovits

Cost $38 2 sessions: Thursdays, Oct. 30 & Nov. 6 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom

Music has always been a source of controversy and scandal. In the search for originality, some artists push the envelope too far—sometimes paying the price, other times using the backlash for self-promotion. There have been fascinating episodes of plagiarism, cultural appropriation, and clashes involving race and sexuality. New technologies are increasingly isolating listeners from the world around them, and artificial intelligence is arriving with a host of tough challenges. This class is full of stories and anecdotes involving The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Peter Frampton, The Rolling Stones, Coldplay, and more!

076 | Flavors of the ’50s: A Culinary Journey

Instructor: Chef Larry Canepa

Cost $25 1 session: Thursday, Oct. 30 OLLI Workshop 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Desert Foothills Library

The 1950s were a decade marked by the post-World War II boom, the dawn of the Cold War, and the Civil Rights movement in the United States. During this time, the United States was the world’s strongest military power, the economy was booming, and the fruits of this prosperity—new cars, suburban houses, and other consumer goods—were available to more people than ever before. The booming prosperity of the 1950s helped create a widespread sense of stability, contentment, and consensus in the United States. The ’50s were full of poodle skirts, greasers, and some amazing food. Take a trip down memory lane with classic recipes from the 1950s. These appetizers, main courses, and desserts were popular back when a gallon of milk cost only $0.82!

077 | 100 Years Grand: The Story of Arizona Highways Magazine

Instructor: Win Holden

1 session: Thursday, Oct. 30

Cost $19

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Foothills Recreation & Aquatic Center

April 2025 marked Arizona Highways magazine’s 100th birthday. How did a brochure produced by the Arizona Highway Department become one of the most revered travel publications in the world? How has Arizona Highways remained relevant for a century while other national magazines have failed? Former Arizona Highways publisher Win Holden will share the inside story of how this extraordinary publication has not only survived but thrived—attracting elite landscape photographers and adopting an unconventional business model that incorporates licensing, retailing, and ancillary products. The presentation features dozens of historical and contemporary photographs that tell the compelling story of a magazine delivering over $65 million in annual economic impact to the state by captivating subscribers in all 50 states and 100 countries.

Beginning Week of Nov. 3

Monday

078 | Religions of Our Neighbors: A Look at Islam & Sikhism

Instructor: Chris O’Brien

2 sessions: Mondays, Nov. 3, 10 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

Cost $38

An understanding and appreciation of the religions of our neighbors is essential to a civil society. In this two-session class, Chris O’Brien—MIM docent, Fulbright winner, and extensively traveled world history teacher—will guide participants on a basic and practical journey through the religions of Islam and Sikhism. Chris will focus on the beliefs, practices, and social aspects of each religion, covering how each has evolved both historically and spiritually. We will also explore some of the interactions that have taken place between these religions. Class materials will be emailed to each participant and posted on the course website prior to the first session. This allows participants the option to preview the materials, print them, and bring notes to class. Session two will include a guided tour of an Islamic mosque and a Sikh temple. Transportation is not provided by OLLI; Chris will meet members at a predetermined location.

Instructor Bios

Instructor Bios are linked on each class on the web catalog. You can also find a complete list of the semesters instructors in the Instructor Biographies link under Catalog button on our website.

Tuesday

079 | ASU Chandler Innovation Center Presents: Laser Cutting for Quilters

Instructor: Brett Kennedy

Cost $35 1 session: Tuesday, Nov. 4 OLLI Workshop 10:00 a.m. – noon | ASU Chandler Innovation Center

Learn the basics of operating a computer-controlled laser cutting machine to create geometric fabric quilting blocks. These machines use computer designs to precisely cut shapes that participants can sew together into a quilt. This class includes one hour of design and machine operation instruction, followed by 30 minutes of open cutting time to cut your fabric. Designs will be limited to basic geometric shapes—such as squares, rectangles, triangles, and other polygons—no larger than 18” x 24” per individual shape. Participants will leave with several laser-cut fabric pieces, each cut to the geometric design and size of their choice.

080 | Native 101: Understanding the Basic Elements of Indigenous America

Instructor: Greg Hansen

Cost $19 1 session: Tuesday, Nov. 4 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Chandler Innovation Center

The aim of this class is to provide members with a comprehensive understanding of the issues faced by Indigenous Americans, both historically and in the present day. Instructor Greg Hansen, a member of the Southern Ponca tribe, leads the class through an intense and interactive experience delving into the candid realities of topics ranging from: Who is considered Native American, what is federal sovereignty, how one becomes a tribal member, the use of blood quantum, and the pros-andcons of casinos. We will also cover federally recognized tribes located in Arizona.

081 | Arizona Stories: Hidden Histories

Instructor: Dr. Eduardo Pagán Cost FREE

1 session: Tuesday, Nov. 4

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Scottsdale – Mustang Library

Join Dr. Eduardo Pagán, an ASU professor of history, as he leads us on a historical journey of fascinating, and often overlooked, events and people that will illuminate different aspects of Arizona’s past. The stories will include how national debates ensnared Arizona’s quest for statehood, and the most accomplished Arizona pioneer that you never heard of. As Dr. Pagán delves into these riveting histories, we will get a firsthand look at some of the struggles and triumphs of our great state.

087 | IMPRISONED MINDS:

LOST BOYS, TRAPPED MEN & SOLUTIONS FROM WITHIN THE PRISON

Kevin Wright & Erik Maloney Wednesday, Nov. 12 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Zoom | Cost $30

Imprisoned Minds tells the stories of men in prison that few people ever hear. Authors Erik Maloney and Kevin Wright, through compelling personal narratives and expert analysis, document how unimaginable childhood trauma and neglect can set young men on a pathway for prison or death. Erik is incarcerated, currently serving a life sentence, and Kevin is a criminologist at Arizona State University. Their shared goal in writing this book together is to humanize people behind bars, offering practical solutions and demonstrating a more effective approach to criminal justice is possible Join them both as they lead the class virtually, from prison, and explore whether there might be an imprisoned mind in all of us

You

’ re invited to

The Power of Connection: A Celebration of Learning & Community

December 10:30 a.m. – noon

Tempe 85282 2025 5

Tempe History Museum 809 E. Southern Ave

This event will feature a special presentation by an ASU faculty expert exploring the integrative health science behind why connection matters. We will share highlights of the spring semester classes and events We will also showcase the 2025–2026 Intergenerational Scholars, offering a first look at the innovative and collaborative workshops they will lead in the spring semester Light refreshments will be served, and you’ll have the opportunity to mingle with fellow learners, friends, faculty, and staff in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Spring catalogs will be available to take home!

Wednesday

082 | Dutch Masters: Realism & Republic in the Golden Age

Instructor: Allen Reamer

3 sessions: Wednesdays, Nov. 5, 12, 19

Cost $57

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

This class will explore the Dutch ‘Golden Age’ of painting, spanning from 1585 to 1717. We will examine how Rembrandt, Vermeer, Hals, Steen, and other Dutch painters portrayed their land and society with a strong concern for realism. OLLI at ASU Legacy instructor Allen Reamer will highlight how artists and buyers preferred specific themes or subjects, and how these choices reflect the values of the Dutch Republic and its people.

083 | The 15th Amendment: Dropping the Musket to Reach the Ballot & America Becoming Herself

Instructor: Bob McWhirter, JD

1 session: Wednesday, Nov. 5

1:30 – 3:00 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

Cost $19

Black men picking up muskets to fight for their own freedom laid the foundation for the Fifteenth Amendment. This amendment prohibits the federal government and each state from denying a citizen the right to vote based on “race, color, or previous condition of servitude.” Its purpose was to counter official efforts to prevent African Americans from voting—a purpose as relevant today as ever. America’s greatness lies in its perseverance in the slow fight to fulfill its promise. Join award-winning speaker and author Robert McWhirter for an exploration of the history and lasting impact of this most significant amendment.

Thursday

084 | Curiosity Unlocked: Early Access Exploration at the Arizona Science Center

Instructors: Sari Custer & Esther Groves Cost $85 1 session: Thursday, Nov. 6 Community Partner 9:00 a.m. – noon | Arizona Science Center

Explore the Arizona Science Center in a new way with a three-hour adventure through our newest galleries and makerspace! Start the day before the Center opens to the public with an exclusive demonstration on the Daniel Cracchiolo Stage. After kicking things off, join the team for a behind-the-scenes look at the newly reimagined Dorrance Planetarium. End the morning in CREATE with a hands-on creative challenge: using vector graphic design and laser cutting, you’ll assemble a one-of-a-kind table (or desk) lantern. Bring your walking shoes and get ready to embrace your inner child!

Member Discounts

Exclusive discounts are developed in collaboration with a variety of our community partners – show your OLLI Membership Card to get the discount!

Beginning Week of Nov. 10

Monday

085 | “Aunty Lee’s Delights”: Cozy Mysteries in Modern-Day Singapore

Instructor: Dr. Derek Pacheco Cost $38 2 sessions: Mondays, Nov. 10, 17 10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library

First in a series of cozy mysteries set in modern-day Singapore, this fun and accessible book follows “Aunty” Rosy Lee—a “kaypoh” (busybody) widow, restaurateur, and amateur detective—who serves up mouth-watering dishes in her café while solving local crimes on the side. When a tourist’s body washes up on the beautiful beach of Sentosa, Aunty Lee is on the case, doling out advice alongside the secrets of Peranakan cooking in equal measure. Yu’s novel tackles important themes such as family, aging, love, and tolerance while providing a complex portrayal of the Southeast Asian island nation, where “money flows freely and people of many religions and ethnicities co-exist peacefully, but where tensions lurk just below the surface.” Students will obtain their own copy of Aunty Lee’s Delights (2013) by Ovidia Yu, available in paperback, Kindle, and Audible editions.

086 | The Stoneman Military Road: A Ghost from the Past

Instructors: Len Marcisz & Chris Crum

Cost $38 2 sessions: Mondays, Nov. 10, 17 Community Partner 10:30 a.m. – noon & 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

Discover the story of trailblazer General George Stoneman and the creation of the military road that bears his name. This historic road ran through what is now the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Carefree, Cave Creek, and the Black Canyon. Learn what life was like for the soldiers and civilian men and women who traveled from Fort McDowell to Fort Whipple under nearly unbearable conditions. Session two will include a short, 90-minute, one-mile walk on the Camino Campana interpretive trail loop at the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy’s Fraesfield trailhead in North Scottsdale. This walk explores the history of the area prior to the construction of the Stoneman military road and discusses life in Arizona during the 1870s. At the conclusion of the walk, participants will open a soldier’s haversack and learn about its contents. Please bring water and snacks for the trail. Restrooms are available at the trailhead. No pets allowed. Participants are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the walk begins.

Wednesday

087 | Imprisoned Minds: Lost Boys, Trapped Men & Solutions from Within the Prison

Instructors: Dr. Kevin Wright & Erik Maloney Cost $30

1 session: Wednesday, Nov. 12 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Zoom

Imprisoned Minds tells the stories of men in prison— stories few people ever hear. Authors Erik Maloney and Kevin Wright, through personal narratives and expert analysis, reveal how unimaginable childhood trauma and neglect can set young men on a path toward prison or even death. Erik is currently incarcerated, serving a life sentence, and Kevin is a criminologist at Arizona State University. Together, their goal in writing this book is to humanize people behind bars, ofer practical solutions, and show that a more efective approach to criminal justice is possible. Join them as they lead this class virtually—from prison—and explore the thought-provoking question: might there be an imprisoned mind in all of us?

088 | Pompeii's Buried Voices

Instructor: Dr. Sarah Bolmarcich

1 session: Wednesday, Nov. 12 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | Sun Health – The Colonnade

Cost $19

Explore the vibrant life and sudden destruction of Pompeii, the Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE. Through vivid images, historical accounts, and recent archaeological discoveries, we’ll uncover daily life in Pompeii—from bustling markets and lavish villas to grafti and gladiators. Then, fate suddenly struck on August 24, 79 CE. This session also considers how the city’s rediscovery in the 18th century shaped modern understandings of Roman culture, class, and catastrophe.

Thursday

089

| The Westerns of Clint

Instructor: Dr. Andrew Nelson

Eastwood

Cost $35

1 session: Thursday, Nov. 13 Community Partner noon – 2:00 p.m. | Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West

Clint Eastwood is one of the most iconic figures in American film—and one of the Western genre's most important artists. Eastwood has portrayed some of the Western's most memorable characters, from his breakout role as the mysterious “Man with No Name” in Sergio Leone’s Dollars Trilogy to his Oscar-winning turn as an aging gunslinger in Unforgiven. Join Western Spirit Chief Curator and film historian Andrew Patrick Nelson for an exploration of Clint Eastwood’s Westerns—from Rawhide to Cry Macho, with stops along the way for Hang 'Em High, High Plains Drifter, The Outlaw Josey Wales, Pale Rider, and more. Using carefully selected clips and expert commentary, we will trace Eastwood’s evolving relationship to the Western genre and ofer new insights into the meaning and legacy of his iconic films. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this class ofers a rich look at how Eastwood helped keep the Western alive—and how the Western, in turn, helped define Clint Eastwood. Your cost includes admission to the museum.

090 | Inside Arcosanti: Architecture, Archives, & Ecological Vision

Instructor: Sue Kirsch

Cost $75 1 session: Thursday, Nov. 13 Community Partner 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Arcosanti

In this class, participants will take two guided tours ofering a deeper understanding of Arcosanti’s unique fusion of architecture and ecology. The first tour explores the property’s key structures—including the Vaults, Ceramics Apse, and Bronze Foundry—while introducing Paolo Soleri’s concept of “Arcology,” which blends sustainable design with community living. The second tour dives into the creative mind of Soleri through a close look at original models, drawings, sketchbooks, and photographs. This behind-the-scenes visit to the Archives ofers rare insight into the evolution of Soleri’s ideas and the history of the project. Together, these tours provide a rich and engaging overview of Arcosanti’s architectural vision, historical roots, and ongoing cultural significance. Please note that the property tour route includes some stairs/uneven pathways. It can be made somewhat more accessible, but not completely. There will be a lot of walking. Lunch is included in the price of this class. The coordinator of this class will contact you for your order.

Friday

091 | Viva Italia! The Culture, History, & Heart of Italy

Instructor: Dr. Jennifer Adams

2 sessions: Fridays, Nov. 14, 21 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom

Cost $38

This class ofers an engaging introduction to Italy’s fascinating history, culture, art, and food. Led by Jennifer Adams, Ph.D., Instructor of Italian in ASU’s School of International Letters and Cultures, we will tour the country’s regions and highlight their exceptional culinary traditions, explore the basics of Italian art and architecture, and discover how to live the dolce vita like a true Italian. The course also includes short, practical lessons in basic Italian words and phrases useful for travel, dining, and cultural interaction.

Beginning Week of Nov. 17

Monday

092 | Regional Italy: Where History, Culture, & Cuisine Meet

Instructor: Chef Larry Canepa

Cost $50

2 sessions: Mondays, Nov. 17, 24 OLLI Workshop 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

As one of the world’s most beloved cuisines, it might be surprising to learn that a single, unified Italian cuisine hardly exists. The truth is that Italian food is still largely defined by its regions—each region in Italy has created its own unique culinary tradition. These cooking traditions shape people’s identities just as much as their dialects and traditional costumes do. Local cooking preferences and customs are influenced by geographic, historical, and climatic differences: some regions are landlocked and mountainous, while others hug the sea and are hilly; some have absorbed Arab or Greek influences, while others bear the marks of French or Austrian rule. Additionally, some regions enjoy the dazzling Mediterranean sun most of the year, whereas others experience cold winters, snow, fog, and harsh winds.

093 | Off the Beaten Path: Navigating the World on a Budget

Instructor: Mark Gluckman

1 session: Monday, Nov. 17

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Sun City Fairway

Cost $19

Come hear the story of a man who has taken many a road off the beaten path both here in Phoenix and all around the world! Featured in USA Today for his motley array of interesting experiences, Mark Gluckman will share with members his insights from traveling the world frugally as well as his work navigating the contemporary gig-economy through his multiple jobs balancing being a freelance photographer, wine consultant, and part-time actor. This seminar-style opportunity will also include time for questions and answers so that you can gain any specific, practical advice that you may be curious about.

Tuesday

094 | The Desert Dozen

Instructor: Kathe Andereson

1 session: Tuesday, Nov. 18

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Desert Foothills Library

Cost $19

Many birds of the desert-urban interface are familiar, but often misidentified and misunderstood! This class focuses on a dozen of our common species, including our state bird, the Cactus Wren; the whimsical and popular Gambel’s Quail; the noisy Northern Mockingbird; and the ubiquitous Anna’s Hummingbird and Mourning Dove. We’ll also discuss invasive species such as the city pigeon, European Starling, Great-tailed Grackle, and House Sparrow. Find out which bird is a medal-winner, which is a real estate developer, and which is on the Audubon watch list for declining populations. Part of this class will be held outdoors, with the hope of seeing some of these birds. Please bring binoculars, if you have them, and wear comfortable walking shoes.

095 | The Tracks of My Years: A MusicBased Memoir

Instructor: Doug Bradley Cost $24 1 session: Tuesday, Nov. 18 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Peoria Sports Complex

Doug Bradley played basketball with the Miracles, shared a joint with Grace Slick, and held Dionne Warwick’s hand as he told her that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had been assassinated. He watched his doo-wop–singing brother and World War II veteran father clash over the birth of rock and roll, brought the music of Stax and Motown to a small college in the hills of West Virginia, and soaked in the sounds of CCR, Janis Joplin, and Jimi Hendrix as an Army journalist in the “air-conditioned jungle” of Vietnam. In his latest book, "The Tracks of My Years: A Music-Based Memoir," the acclaimed co-author of Rolling Stone’s 2015 music book of the year, now tells the story of a life lived through—and shaped by—music. The Tracks of My Years is for anyone who grew up in post–World War II America, and for their children and grandchildren trying to see beyond the haze of myths surrounding the Baby Boomer generation.

096 | Mate Choice: What is Beauty?

Instructor: Dr. David Pearson

1 session: Tuesday, Nov. 18 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library

Cost $19

Is beauty truly only skin deep, or can it be understood as a measurable trait, similar to features like blue eyes or blonde hair? To what extent do humans differ from birds and other mammals in selecting mates based on physical appearance? In this class, we will examine human mate preferences alongside those of other species, drawing on evolutionary biology and psychology to gain deeper insights into the concept of beauty and its underlying significance.

Thursday

097 | A Popular Music Fan's Guide to Classical Music

Instructor: John Yaeger

1 session: Thursday, Nov. 20 10:00 a.m. – noon | Surprise

Cost $19

Join us for an engaging session with retired music educator John Yaeger, where you'll explore various periods in music history and develop a greater appreciation for classical music—without the pretentiousness! You'll discover that classical music encompasses much more than just lengthy violin pieces or three-hour operas in foreign languages. We will focus on examples that are more in line with the length of popular songs, featuring catchy melodies—both instrumental and vocal—composed by the great masters.

OLLI at ASU serves over 15 locations across the Valley. Reference the back of the catalog or visit our website, www.asuolli.org for locations and addresses.

098 | The Witches of Greece & Rome: Magic in Antiquity

Instructor: Dr. Sarah Bolmarcich

1 session: Thursday, Nov. 20

10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library

Cost $19

Step into the shadowy corners of the ancient Mediterranean, where gods weren’t the only ones pulling strings. From curse tablets hidden in graves to love spells inscribed on lead, ancient Greeks and Romans turned to magic to bind enemies, attract lovers, and ward off evil. This session explores the fascinating world of sorcery, omens, and everyday superstition—where priestesses, witches, and household spirits shaped fate. Join us for a journey into the mystical mindset of antiquity, where the boundary between religion and magic was anything but clear.

099 | The Administrative State: Key Frameworks to Make Sense of the News

Instructor: Dr. Mary Feeney

1 session: Thursday, Nov. 20

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

Cost $19

The Trump administration, guided by Project 2025, is making sweeping changes to the federal bureaucracy. Do you have questions about how this system operates—and what these reforms mean for public service delivery? This class explores theories and research that explain the balance between politics and administration, as well as the implications of presidential influence on bureaucratic action. We’ll examine key frameworks— including bureaucratic politics, administrative burdens, representative bureaucracy, and the submerged state— and analyze how shifts in science investments, social services, and executive initiatives impact our communities. Dr. Feeney will provide an overview of core concepts and lead a town hall-style Q&A to deepen our understanding of these timely issues.

Friday

100 | Beyond the Binary: NASA’s Path to the Moon and Mars

Instructor: Dr. Peter Swan

1 session: Friday, Nov. 21

10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center

Cost $19

In a recent congressional hearing, the nominee for NASA Administrator stated, "We don't have to make a binary decision when it comes to U.S. aspirations to land astronauts on both the Moon and Mars." This statement has sparked widespread discussion—and some confusion—within the space community regarding the United States' strategic direction in space exploration. Dr. Peter Swan, a distinguished expert in space systems engineering with decades of experience in both governmental and private aerospace sectors, will examine the complexities of current U.S. space policy. He will focus on the nation's plans for lunar and Martian exploration, analyzing NASA's Artemis program—which aims to return humans to the Moon and establish a sustainable presence—as well as the ambitions of private industry, particularly SpaceX’s progress toward Mars missions.

Beginning Week of Nov. 24

Monday

101 | Science in Shakespeare's World

Instructor: Dr. Johnnie Hendrickson Cost $38 2 sessions: Tuesdays, Nov. 25, Dec. 2 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Friendship Village

Shakespeare lived during the Scientific Revolution, a time of rapid advancement in scientific understanding. For the first time, academics were writing in English rather than Latin, making these revolutionary ideas accessible to the average educated person—Shakespeare among them. From hidden praise for Galileo in Cymbeline to the possibility that one of his plays serves as an allegory for the shift toward heliocentrism, Shakespeare’s work reveals a deep awareness of contemporary science. This class is designed for lovers of both literature and science!

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program Seeks Volunteers to Help Taxpayers

Nora Mandel and Geof Wolf are reaching out the OLLI at ASU Community to recruit volunteers for this impacful service opportunity.

The 2026 Tax filing season may be months away, but the Tax-Aide program in Arizona is already seeking volunteers who wish to serve their community through the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide program. Tax-Aide focuses on serving older adults and low to moderate income taxpayers to file their Federal and Arizona tax returns to help them secure much-needed tax refunds. Arizona residents can get their taxes done for free beginning in early February and continuing through mid-April. AARP membership is not required.

Volunteers are trained during the month of January for the upcoming tax filing season. Training time varies depending upon the volunteer position. We have several positions available at 60+ Tax-Aide sites across Arizona such as assisting taxpayers with forms, complete and E-file tax returns, do quality review of tax returns and manage volunteers at sites.

During the tax filing season, February through April, volunteers assist taxpayers at local Tax-Aide sites. All required equipment is provided for every volunteer. Most sites are open 1 or 2 days per week. Volunteers typically assist 5 to 7 hours per week.

To apply please visit: https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/ causes/tax-assistance/

The time commitment starts at four hours per week during tax season.

THE BERNARD OSHER FOUNDATION

Osher Online is a non-governing center of excellence, hosted by Northwestern University, benefiting older adults through the national network of 120+ Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLIs) They offer high-quality, synchronous courses to members of participating OLLIs We are excited to provide this opportunity to our members to learn with experts and peers nationwide. Please note that you will need to create a free account with NRC to access the meeting link and any course materials. Space is limited. Times listed below are in Pacific Time. Please account for daylight savings on Nov. 2.

FALL

2025 CLASSES

039 | The Life & Times of Nikola Tesla

Instructor: Marc Seifer

Mondays, Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27 & Nov. 3, 10 Noon – 1:30 p.m. on Zoom

Cost $95

This course explores the life, inventions, and legacy of Nikola Tesla, highlighting his groundbreaking work in electricity and wireless technology, key collaborations and rivalries, and the enduring mystery surrounding his later innovations and secret papers.

See page 17 for full course description

043 | The African American Military Experience: From Revolution to Civil Rights

Instructor: John Langellier

Tuesdays, Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28 & Nov. 4, 11 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. on Zoom

Cost $95

This course explores the history of African American military service from the War of 1812 to World War II, highlighting their contributions, sacrifices, and ongoing struggle for equality in the face of discrimination.

See page 17 for full course description

050 | Public Health in Action: Addressing Stress, Equity & Solutions

Instructor: Faith Ogungbe

Wednesdays, Oct. 15, 22, 29 & Nov. 5, 12, 19

4:00 – 5:30 p.m. on Zoom

Cost $95

This course offers a comprehensive overview of the social and physiological factors influencing health, with a focus on stress, its impact on well-being, and the importance of promoting health equity across populations

See page 22 for full course description.

051 | In Darwin's Footsteps: A Journey to the Galapagos

Instructor: Dr. Eric Simon

Mondays, Oct. 20, 27 & Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24

8:00 – 9:30 a.m. on Zoom

Cost $95

Together, we will explore Charles Darwin’s five-year voyage on the HMS Beagle and the development of his evolutionary theories, exploring their historical context, scientific impact, and lasting influence on modern biology.

See page 22 for full course description.

058 | Graceful Exits: Exploring the Economics, Ethics, & Ethos of Death with Dignity

Instructor: Dr. Aleen Bayard

Mondays, Oct. 20, 27 & Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24 Cost $95

2:00 – 3:30 p.m. on Zoom

This six-week class will examine the ethical, legal, and cultural dimensions of Death with Dignity, exploring its history, key figures, and ongoing debates surrounding end-of-life decisionmaking

See page 23 for full course description

069 | The Magic of Motown

Instructor: Mike Agron

Tuesdays, Oct. 28 & Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25 & Dec. 2

8:00 – 9:30 a.m. on Zoom

Cost $95

This course explores Motown’s golden era, highlighting its iconic music, pioneering production, cultural impact, and lasting legacy from the late 1950s to the 1970s

See page 30 for full course description

Beginning Week of Dec. 1

Monday

102 | Fortunato Film School:

“Casablanca”

Instructor: Dr. Joe Fortunato

2 sessions: Monday & Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Zoom

Cost $38

Why is Casablanca considered one of the most iconic films of all time—and does it still deserve that title? Join ASU film professor Joe Fortunato for an in-depth exploration of the 1942 classic starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. We will begin with a brief introduction to the film’s historical and production background, followed by a screening of the film accompanied by live commentary from Professor Fortunato. As you watch, you’ll gain behind-the-scenes insights, learn about cinematic techniques, and discover how to interpret film like a critic or scholar. After the screening, the discussion continues: what makes a film “beloved,” and does Casablanca hold up through a modern lens? Like a book club for movie lovers, this class invites you to watch and reflect!

103 | Behind the Scenes: The Building of the Dorrance Planetarium

Instructor: Sari Custer

Cost $35

1 session: Monday, Dec. 1 Community Partner 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Arizona Science Center

With Arizona’s rapid growth in STEM industries such as tech, aerospace, biomedical, and more, the Arizona Science Center (600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 ) is evolving to stay at the forefront of innovation. Join us for an exclusive 90-minute tour offering a behindthe-scenes look at the groundbreaking technology fueling the transformation of the Center’s galleries and signature experiences, including the reimagination of the Dorrance Planetarium. This is your chance to witness the future of stargazing before it’s unveiled to the world.

104 | The Art of Cooking Small

Instructor: Penny Friedberg

Cost $50

2 sessions: Mon. & Wed., Dec. 1, 3 OLLI Workshop 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center

Join Penny Friedberg, MBA, MS, on December 1st and 3rd for a two-session course designed for those cooking for one or two. In week one, the focus is on breakfast, highlighting the benefits of home cooking and offering practical techniques to make it more manageable. Participants will explore essential tools and cookware for a healthier kitchen and watch a live demo featuring granola, vegetables, and eggs. Week two shifts to dinner, featuring a thoughtful discussion on sugar, artificial sweeteners, fats, and oils, followed by a live cooking demonstration of stir-fry and other healthy dinner recipes.

Tuesday

105 | Poetry as Medicine: An Undergraduate-Led Dialogue on Aging & Healing

Led by: Dr. Rosemarie Dombrowski’s Students Cost FREE 2 sessions: Tues. & Thurs., Dec. 2, 4 OLLI Workshop 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library

Current students from Dr. Rosemarie Dombrowski’s Medical Humanities course at ASU (HON 394 Poetry & Medicine) will lead this intergenerational session exploring the efficacy of reading and writing poetry as a means of navigating aging, illness, and loss, while promoting wellness and healing. Students will share excerpts from studies, lead discussions of selected poems, and engage attendees in short reflective writing exercises.

106 | Celebrating the Music & Magic of Jimmy Buffett

Instructor: Dr. Suzanne Hetts Cost $19 1 session: Tuesday, Dec. 2 10:30 a.m. – noon | Rio Vista Recreation Center

Jimmy Buffett has been called a modern-day Mark Twain and a self-proclaimed “cultural infidel.” His legions of dedicated fans—aka Parrotheads—were devastated by his death on September 1, 2023. His final message to fans and family was to “keep the party going,” and his Coral Reefer Band, joined by other well-known musician friends, is doing exactly that. This presentation will explore Buffett’s life and 50-plus-year career, highlight key milestones, examine the reasons behind his enduring popularity, and have some fun along the way—listening and even dancing to the music. Buffett often said he was selling escapism and likened himself to a court jester, but we would argue that his appeal is much broader and more profound. Come prepared to share your thoughts, experiences, and questions. If you have content you’d like to see included in the presentation, send links to: kschne20@asu.edu. Parrothead attire is encouraged, but not required!

107 | Great Leaders of Native America

Instructor: Greg Hansen Cost $19

1 session: Tuesday, Dec. 2 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Sun City Fairway

Native peoples have given us some of the most renowned military, political, and spiritual leaders ever recorded. Moved by their dedication to protecting their people, traditions, and homelands, this presentation delves into the lesser-known traditional stories and histories of great Indigenous leaders such as Crazy Horse, Geronimo, Sitting Bull, Wilma Mankiller, and the great Chief Joseph. Join Greg Hansen, Tribal Relations Coordinator for the Arizona Conservation Corps, to learn about these celebrated Native women and men through traditional storytelling and be inspired by their unyielding devotion to preserving their traditional lifeways.

108 | The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair & the Birth of Modern American Culture

Instructor: Dr. Stephen Siek Cost $38

2 sessions: Tuesdays, Dec. 2, 9

1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Mesa Arts Center

Some 27 million visitors prepared for the twentieth century by attending the World’s Columbian Exposition, which once occupied nearly 700 acres on Chicago’s South Side. Most had never even seen a light bulb, yet they were suddenly greeted with more electric lights than were then in use in the entire city of Chicago. The Fair was a striking blend of the palatial and the modern: its GrecoRoman buildings evoked Renaissance grandeur, while the visionary architecture of Louis Sullivan hinted at the future. Elegant concert halls—where thousands heard Handel’s Messiah—were complemented by the music of John Philip Sousa and Scott Joplin. This course will revisit the architecture, art, and music of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.

Wednesday

109 | Painting in the Style of Dutch Baroque Still-Life Painters

Instructor: Allen Reamer Cost $48

2 sessions: Wednesdays, Dec. 3, 10 10:00 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center

Dutch still-life painters were renowned for showcasing their skill in rendering textures and surfaces with detailed, realistic light effects. Their still-life paintings often featured various types of food artfully arranged on tables alongside silverware, pots, and dishes. They employed specific paints, pigments, and techniques to achieve these effects. In this class, we will explore these techniques and study the work of notable Dutch Baroque still-life painters. You will also have the opportunity to create one or more paintings reflecting the style and characteristics of these artists. This is a studio art class. A materials list will be provided before the start of class.

110 | French & English: Two Languages with a Shared History

Instructor: Dr. Markus Cruse Cost FREE 1 session: Wednesday, Dec. 3 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Glendale Foothills Library

This lecture will explore the history of the French language from its Latin origins to the present, with a focus on the relationship between French and English. We will examine maps, monuments, manuscript illuminations, and paintings to establish the historical context of each era of linguistic development. Next, we will discuss the major phenomena that shaped both spoken and written French. Much of our discussion will focus on the French influence on English in the late Middle Ages, as well as the influence of English on French since the nineteenth century. Other topics include the transition from Latin to French, the reasons people began writing in French, how French dialects were replaced by a standard language, and the future of the French language.

Thursday

111 | Girton College Lifelong Learning Summer Program: Information Session

Instructor: Dr. Nick Godfrey Cost FREE 1 session: Thursday, Dec. 4 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Tempe Public Library

Join us as we welcome Dr. Nick Godfrey, Director of the Summer Program at Girton College (part of the University of Cambridge), who will speak to our OLLI community. We are excited to host him here in Arizona, where he will announce a new, exclusive offer for OLLI at ASU members. Dr. Godfrey will give a brief presentation on the August 2026 Girton College Lifelong Learning Summer Program and explain how and why you can participate. In addition, several OLLI at ASU members who attended this year's program will be present to share their experiences. You’ll hear why staying at Girton was so much more than just "summer school"—and what made it a true "bucket list" experience! Light refreshments will be served. This event is free, but registration is required as space is limited. Please add this event to your cart and complete the checkout process to RSVP and reserve your spot.

112 | Dickens & His Ghosts

Instructor: Chris Hamby

Cost $70 2 sessions: Thurs. & Sun., Dec. 4, 7 Community Partner 10:30 a.m. – noon & 2:00 – 4:30 p.m. | Theater Works

This lecture offers an in-depth exploration of Charles Dickens’ beloved novella A Christmas Carol, with a particular focus on the symbolic roles of the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, and how they contribute to Ebenezer Scrooge’s personal transformation. The lecture also examines the theatrical interpretation of the story, highlighting the TheaterWorks stage production through discussion of set and costume design, thematic emphasis, and the creative elements that bring the magic of Dickens' world to life. This session is ideal for those interested in literature, theater, and the ways classic texts are adapted for the stage. Class includes a ticket to the 2:00 p.m. showing of A Christmas Carol on Sunday, December 7.

113 | Everything You Want to Know About Space, But Didn’t Know Who to Ask

Instructor: Dr. Peter Swan

1 session: Thursday, Dec. 4

2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | Sun Health – La Loma Village

Cost $19

The essence of humanity—looking up and wondering—is universal. What’s up there? Can we go there? How does it all work? What makes satellites unique? What are orbits? How do I become an astronaut (even at our age)? This course will explore many of these questions in a non-math, non-engineering way, designed to explain our fascination and wonder about space. We are living through a remarkable shift—both government and commercial— toward space exploration. How does this affect you? Could your grandchildren be involved? Might they even go out there? This course will explain it all at a top-level view: orbits, the vacuum of space, and other complexities—all explained through engaging conversations.

Beginning Week of Dec. 14

Monday

114 | From Babylon to Buffalo: An Early History of Canals

Instructor: Buck Beasom

1 session: Monday, Dec. 8 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom

Cost $19

Before the huge steam-driven machines that cut through the Suez and Panama Canals, magnificent canals and aqueducts shaped civilizations from ancient times through the Industrial Revolution. In this class, we follow the story of how humans learned to move water. Cultures that began with primitive irrigation channels, dug to water a few meager crops, eventually built canals that connected Europe to Asia and the Mediterranean to the Atlantic. These canals changed the world long before the age of steam, internal combustion engines, or electric power. We’ll also explore how human ingenuity used downhillmoving water to propel boats uphill. Our journey takes us to China, Egypt, the Pontine Marshes south of Rome, the French Riviera, England’s coal country, and finally the early American frontier—where a four-foot-deep ditch became the information superhighway of its time.

115 | Creationism & Science: Why Do So Many Americans Not Accept Evolution?

Instructor: Dr. David Pearson

1 session: Monday, Dec. 8

Cost $19

10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Chandler Innovation Center

How did the divide between science and religion develop? Is this divide maintained only by extremists on each side, or is there middle ground? We will discuss the history of science and the evolution of its role into the modern day. What influences and historical context from JudeoChristian beliefs contributed to the rise of modern science as we know it today? Does the scientific method preclude faith, or must religion reject science? Is it possible for a scientist to believe in God, and if so, how? Join retired ASU School of Life Sciences professor Dr. David Pearson as we explore these questions and address some of yours.

Tuesday

116 | Angels Amid the Enemy: The Untold Story of Medical Care for Vietnam's Forgotten Civilian Victims

Instructor: Dr. Richard Carlson

1 session: Tuesday, Dec. 9

1:00 – 2:00 p.m. | Desert Foothills Library

Cost $14

Over one million civilians—mostly women and children— died during the Vietnam conflict. Amid the devastation, volunteer doctors and U.S. military teams worked together in primitive hospitals to provide care and comfort to strangers in need. Civilian physicians treated everything from battlefield injuries to infectious diseases, often with limited resources. Their work helped build trust between local communities and American forces. This lecture tells their untold story of compassion in a war-torn land.

117 | Wastewater Treatment Facility Lecture & Tour

Instructor: Mike Boule

1 session: Tuesday, Dec. 9 10:00 a.m. – noon | Surprise

Cost $24

Join Water Resource Management Director Mike Boule for a walking tour of the City of Surprise Wastewater Facility. The tour will provide an in-depth look at the processes and technologies involved in wastewater treatment. Participants will explore the various stages of treatment—including preliminary, primary, secondary, and tertiary processes—while gaining insights into the environmental impacts and regulatory requirements of wastewater management. The tour will also cover the role of innovative technologies in enhancing treatment efficiency and sustainability. Please bring a jacket and wear closed-toed shoes. The tour includes both indoor and outdoor areas, with about half a mile of walking, some stairs, and gently sloping small hills around the facility.

Thursday

118 | Invasive Species: When Biodiversity Bites Back

Instructor: Dr. Ken Sweat

Cost $25 1 session: Thursday, Dec. 11 OLLI Workshop 10:00 a.m. – noon | Deer Valley Petroglyph

In collaboration with the Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve and Dr. Ken Sweat, this community service opportunity invites participants to take part in the removal of stinknet (Oncosiphon piluliferum), an aggressive invasive plant from South Africa that is rapidly spreading across Maricopa County. This hands-on activity will support the preservation of the native Sonoran Desert ecosystem and reduce local fire hazards. As part of this course, participants will also explore the broader impact of invasive species on biodiversity, with a focus on the challenges posed by stinknet. Learn how increased global travel has enabled certain species to thrive in new environments and discover how land managers are responding to these ecological threats with innovative control strategies. Join us in making a meaningful impact on our desert landscape while deepening your understanding of invasive species and ecosystem resilience.

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS

SIGs are member-driven and peer-facilitated groups made up of OLLI members who share an interest in exploring a particular topic. They do not replace OLLI classes, but are a different type of participatory group that allows members to delve deeper into subject matter or interests. SIGs are open to all OLLI members and foster fellowship and active learning.

SIGs are listed online under the “Member Benefits” button Register for a SIG the same way you do a regular OLLI class, by adding it to your cart. Each SIG is unique; please read the description carefully. The SIG facilitator will receive registrant's contact information and will send a welcome email including any needed details or information. Please email the facilitator for your SIG. The facilitator will provide venue details for SIGS that meet at varied locations. Your facilitator will share more details if they are not in the description

Please register for SIGs by Sep. 16. Any registrations after this date, please email Kristi Schneider at Kschne20@asu.edu directly.

Volunteer With Us

Facilitator: Kim Thomas | Various Locations Meeting: Monday, Sep. 8

Our SIG has a simple purpose - to help with OLLI classes

As a volunteer with the OLLI Volunteer Special Interest Group (SIG), your role would involve assisting with various aspects of OLLI classes, such as:

Classroom Setup: Preparing the classroom environment to ensure it is conducive to learning. Attendance Management: Taking attendance allows the coordinator to focus on the presenter and address participant questions

Off-Site Class Assistance: Providing support for classes held at external locations like Taliesin West, Kerr Cultural Center, or Phoenix International Raceway.

World Tastes

Facilitator: Joanne Henning | Various Locations Meeting: Thursday, Sep. 11 |11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Join us on a delightful culinary journey designed for members ready to step outside their food “comfort zone ” Together, we’ll explore diverse cultures through cuisine, meeting for lunch at a variety of ethnic restaurants from central Phoenix to the West Valley These unique gatherings will take place in our informal classroom settings, where you’ll savor authentic flavors, make new friends, and deepen your appreciation for global traditions. Perfect for food lovers seeking adventure and connection! This SIG will meet once a month on Thursdays through December The restaurant for the first meet-up will be shared after registration Future Thursday lunch dates will be chosen collectively by the group.

Asian Cooking, Culture, & Care: A Backyard Gathering

Facilitator: Tammy Austin | Central Phoenix Meeting: Friday, Nov 7 | 4:00 – 8:00 p m

Please consider joining us for a night of fun and education. Chef Paul Lindsay from 2322 PHX will be treating us to a dinner that includes time-honored Asian cuisine. He comes with 25+ years of global experience. Paul is an innovator who will inspire us with a commitment to flavor, nutrition, and service Our educator will be Dr Ann, who is a Doctor of Chinese Medicine Ann is trained and has been practicing at the highest level of her field at Harmony and Health She will talk about her journey and answer questions about the differences between Western and Eastern Medicine. Your host, Tammy Austin, is a home cook who focuses mostly on delicious food, but always with health and nourishment in mind. She has taken cooking classes for more than 25 years and is a trained (but not practicing) Health Coach.

t’s

‘Listen to the Music’ Together

ilitator: Jo Ellen Alberhasky | Various Locations eting: Thursday, Sep. 25 | 4:30 p.m.

ling all music lovers! Like to hear live music in all kinds of venues – big, small, local talent, ld-acclaimed, club or MIM acoustic; interested in all kinds of music, or maybe jazz is your ove; craving a little education or trivia on your favorite vocalist? This SIG is for you. We will et 1-2 times a month to find some music activity that ‘rocks’ your soul This SIG is for those s who are tired of going to concerts alone, love to swap tips on where to find great music, or want more music in their life! he first meeting will start at 4:30 at the Vig, 10199 E Bell Road, he SW corner of Bell and Thompson Peak Road, to plan a schedule. The music begins at 6:30!

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS

Personal Investment

25 Great Decisions—Current Affairs

litator: Jim Stephens & Kathleen Adamson | Tempe Public Library, Connections Room ting: Saturdays, Sep 27, Oct 25, Nov 29, Dec 27 | 10:00 a m – noon

ng materials provided by the Foreign Policy Association (fpa.org), and facilitated by Jim phens, Ph D and Kathleen Adamson, this SIG is a discussion group where all members are ected to prepare in advance, and willingly share experiences, readings, and cultural pectives in a civil environment This is a small group providing opportunities for all to share in discussion. We will meet at the Tempe Public Library, the fourth Saturday of each month, tember through December. The first topic will be American Policy in the Middle East (# 8 in 2025 FPA edition) The reading booklet is purchased at www fpa org/great decisions for $35 A per-member $10 fall fee is required to rent the Tempe Library room

Facilitator: Neil Rayes | Scottsdale Arabian Library – Room 2

Meeting: Sep. 17, Oct. 1 & 15, Nov. 5 & 19, Dec. 3 & 17 | 11:00 a.m. – noon

Join a dynamic and supportive group focused on personal investing We will uncover the fundamentals of investment vehicles, the types of investment choices, the tools available to evaluate investments, and the relevant metrics used to assess investments We'll explore real-world topics such as portfolio diversification, risk & return, different types of investment accounts, and break down common investment vehicles such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, preferred stocks, CEFs, and options trading. Expect open conversations, practical tips, and different perspectives Whether you're brand-new or looking to refine your strategy, this group is a chance to build confidence, learn collaboratively, and grow your financial knowledge in a judgment-free zone A permember $4 fee is required to rent the Scottsdale Library (10215 E McDowell Mtn Rd, Scottsdale 85255)

Being Present – Mindfulness Practice for Stress Reduction

Facilitator: Aimee Shramko | Hospice of the Valley, Dementia Campus Meeting: Saturday, Sep 13 | 1:00 – 2:00 p m | First Meeting

If ruminating on the past can lead to depression and stressing about the future can lead to anxiety, what’s the answer? The practice of mindfulness involves choosing to focus on the present moment It doesn’t ask that you attempt to quiet your mind – by design, our brains are meant to be active – but it does encourage you to relax, focus, and breathe, thus calming the mind and body Otherwise known as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), this meditative practice has been found to improve physical symptoms such as chronic pain, high blood pressure, shortness of breath, and insomnia. It has also been shown to decrease emotional and psychological distress such as depression and anxiety Come practice with us! We will meet once a month for a 30-minute meditation at the Dementia Campus (3811 N 44th St, Phoenix, AZ 85018) followed by several readings and poems. We’ll leave time afterwards for sharing thoughts and discussing the practice. We’ll also explore mindful walking and eating.

OLLI Hikes the Valley

Facilitator: Sarah Levine | Various Locations Meeting: Tuesday, Sep. 30 | 9:00 a.m. | First Hike

Join us for a fun, monthly hiking group exploring easy to moderate trails (3–6 miles) around the Valley. We’ll meet Tuesdays at 9:00 a m at designated trailheads, with the first location shared after registration Some hikes may be led by volunteer trail docents who will share insights about local desert plants and wildlife Future trail locations will be selected by participants during the first hike. Hiking sticks, snacks, and water are recommended. This is a great opportunity to enjoy nature, stay active, and make new friends while discovering the beauty of our desert surroundings. Hikes run once a month through December come explore with us!

Pen & Paper Writer's Circle

Facilitator: Carol Kubota | Zoom Meeting: Tuesday, Sep. 2 | 1:30 – 3:00 p.m | First Meeting

If you’re passionate about creating fiction, memoirs, journalism, travel writing, poetry, or nonfiction, this is the group for you! Open to all writers from beginner to experienced, we’ll offer a platform for growth, discussion, collaboration, and connection with other OLLI students. The group will meet via Zoom, once a month through the end of the semester. Additional information about our first meeting will be sent to registered members. Subsequent meeting dates/times/places to be discussed at first meeting

Fall 2025 Classes by Location

Classes listed in chronological order

Tempe

010 | The Impact of the Holocaust on Survivors: Diverse Profiles of Luck & Resilience

017 | Exploring the Archaeology & Geography of the Hebrew Bible

018 | God as General: Was There a Religious History of the American Civil War?

027 | Piper Distinguished Visiting Writers Series: Andrew Porter & Sally Wen Mao at Changing Hands

045 | Color, Color Schemes, & Composition with Fruit

048 | Mars: Exploring its Mysteries & Creating a Space Mission

052 | Contemporary Art Adventures: From Helsinki to Tallinn

057 | Exploring Morocco: Ancient Kingdom at the Crossroads of Africa, the Middle East, & Europe

067 | Basic Mediation & Negotiating Skills

074 | Ethics in Local Government: Lessons from a Case Study in Corruption

085 | "Aunty Lee’s Delights": Cozy Mysteries in ModernDay Singapore

096 | Mate Choice: What is Beauty?

098 | The Witches of Greece & Rome: Magic in Antiquity

105 | Poetry as Medicine: An Undergraduate-Led Dialogue on Aging & Healing

111 | Girton College Lifelong Learning Summer Program: Information Session

ASU – Tempe Campus

020 | Everything You Want to Know About Space, But Didn’t Know Who to Ask

046 | The Clay Connection Project: Foundations, Clay, & Connection

Desert Foothills Library – Cave Creek

076 | Flavors of the ’50s: A Culinary Journey

094 | The Desert Dozen

116 | Angels Amid the Enemy: The Untold Story of Medical Care for Vietnam's Forgotten Civilian Victim

Sun City

008 | Natural History of the Sonoran Desert

033 | The Desert Dozen

093 | Off the Beaten Path: Navigating the World on a Budget

107 | Great Leaders of Native America

Friendship Village

041 | The Journey to Trial by Jury: A History of Justice

101 | Science in Shakespeare's World

Zoom

005 | Understanding the Federal Reserve System

006 | The Declaration of Independence: Exploring Self-Evident Truths, Inalienable Rights & the Pursuit of Happiness

007 | Your Guide to OLLI at ASU: Fall 2025

012 | Encountering Extra-Terrestrials in Science Fiction Films

021 | Here’s Looking at You: The Best of Alfred Hitchcock, Part Two

024 | Mathematical Modeling in Biology & Medicine

026 | Desert Bugs: Masters of Survival

028 | Decoding Food Labels: The Nutrition Science Behind Your Grocery Store Visits

030 | Fortunato Film School: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest

031 | Gen Z Speaks: Literature’s Newest Stars

036 | Ukraine & Russia I & II: Past, Present, and Future

038 | Media, Music & Counterculture in 20th Century America

039 | The Life & Times of Nikola Tesla

042 | How Smart is Today’s AI: An Introduction to Chatbots & Digital Assistants

043 | The African American Military Experience: From Revolution to Civil Rights

047 | Microbiomes & Planetary Health: The Invisible Connections That Sustain Life

049 | WhereAZ Presents: Where to Go & What to See in Southern AZ

050 | Public Health in Action: Addressing Stress, Equity, & Solutions

051 | In Darwin's Footsteps: A Journey to the Galapagos

055 | Politics & Dating: A Sociological Look at the "Elephant in the Room"

058 | Graceful Exits: Exploring the Economics, Ethics, & Ethos of Death with Dignity

059 | Operation Freedom: The Berlin Airlift

065 | Lessons from the Past: Infectious Disease

Spillovers, Climate Change, & Toxic Environment

069 | The Magic of Motown

072 | When Ideas Became Art: The Revolution in Modern Art & Music

075 | Scandals & Controversies in Rock & Pop Music

087 | Imprisoned Minds: Lost Boys, Trapped Men & Solutions from Within the Prison

091 | Viva Italia! The Culture, History, & Heart of Italy

102 | Fortunato Film School: "Casablanca"

114 | From Babylon to Buffalo: An Early History of Canals

Fall 2025 Classes by Location

Scottsdale Libraries

025 | The Birth of Democracy: Athens, 1300-500 BCE

062 | Four Cold-Weather Travel Destinations to Help Break the Arizona Heat

081 | Arizona Stories: Hidden Histories

089 | The Westerns of Clint Eastwood

Mesa

061 | Diego Rivera & Frieda Kahlo: Their Art & Lives

064 | Promoting Late-Life Brain Health: Six ResearchInformed Approaches

108 | The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair & the Birth of Modern American Culture

ASU Chandler Innovation Center

013 | Awesome Sauces: A World of Flavors

014 | ASU Chandler Innovation Center Presents: Laser Cutting for Quilters

037 | Global Middle Ages at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

063 | Language Matters: What Linguistics Is & Does

079 | ASU Chandler Innovation Center Presents: Laser Cutting for Quilters

080 | Native 101: Understanding the Basic Elements of Indigenous America

115 | Creationism & Science: Why Do So Many Americans Not Accept Evolution?

Surprise

022 | Marco Polo’s America: The Medieval Influence on Early Modern Maps of the New World

088 | Pompeii's Buried Voices

097 | A Popular Music Fan's Guide to Classical Music

117 | Wastewater Treatment Facility Lecture & Tour

Downtown

029 | Enchanting Wonders: The World of Hummingbirds

044 | Watts + OLLI Everybody Eats

053 | S’edav Va’aki’s Connections Through Time: Archaeology of the Phoenix Basin

054 | The Essence of Ballet & "Sleeping Beauty"

084 | Curiosity Unlocked: Early Access Exploration at the Arizona Science Center

103 | Behind the Scenes: The Building of the Dorrance Planetarium

ASU Health Futures Center

009 | Tai Chi for Health & Wellness

019 | Alexandre Dumas: The Real Count of Monte Cristo?

023 | History of the Native Peoples & Nations in the United States, Part Two

033 | The Desert Dozen

034 | Heavy Metal Pollution & the Grand Canyon

035 | Healthy Aging Panel Discussion: Impacts of Connectivity, Social Embeddedness, & Lifelong Learning

040 | Pseudoscience in the Digital Era

066 | Polar Odysses: Adventure & Tragedy at the World’s Edges

068 | Travel & Pop Culture: Places Featured in Your Favorite Movies & TV Shows

071 | Missing & Murdered: Domestic Violence

Homicides Disguised as Missing Persons Cases

073 | Exploring the Masters of Jazz: Bossa Nova

078 | Religions of Our Neighbors: A Look at Islam & Sikhism

082 | Dutch Masters: Realism & Republic in the Golden Age

083 | The 15th Amendment: Dropping the Musket to Reach the Ballot & America Becoming Herself

086 | The Stoneman Military Road: A Ghost from the Past

092 | Regional Italy: Where History, Culture, & Cuisine Meet

099 | The Administrative State: Key Frameworks to Make Sense of the News

100 | Beyond the Binary: NASA’s Path to the Moon and Mars

104 | The Art of Cooking Small

109 | Painting in the Style of Dutch Baroque Still-Life Painters

West Valley – Peoria & Glendale

060 | The Buzz on Crime: Unlocking Mysteries with Forensic Entomology

070 | Memory & Cognitive Flexibility: Our Brain’s Executive Functions

095 | The Tracks of My Years: A Music-Based Memoir

106 | Celebrating the Music & Magic of Jimmy Buffet

110 | French & English: Two Languages with a Shared History

Litchfield Park

011 | Angels Amid the Enemy: The Untold Story of Medical Care for Vietnam's Forgotten Civilian Victim

113 | Everything You Want to Know About Space, But Didn’t

PO Box 37100, Phoenix, AZ 85069-7100

ASU Health Futures Center 6161 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix 85054

ASU Chandler Innovation Center 249 E Chicago St, Chandler 85225

Desert Foothills Library 38443 N School House Rd, Cave Creek 85331

Fairway Recreation Center 10600 W Peoria Ave, Sun City 85351

Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center 5600 W Union Hills Dr, Glendale 85308

Foothills Library 19055 N 57th Ave, Glendale 85308

Friendship Village 2645 E Southern Ave, Tempe 85282

Mesa Arts Center 1 E Main St, Mesa 85201

Mirabella at ASU 65 E University Dr, Tempe 85281

Peoria Sports Complex 16101 N 83rd Ave, Peoria 85382

Rio Vista Recreation Center 8866 W Thunderbird Rd, Peoria 85381

Scottsdale Public Library – Civic Center 3839 N Drinkwater Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Scottsdale Public Library – Mustang 10101 N 90th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85258

Terrace 14515 W. Granite Valley Dr, Sun City West, AZ 85375

Health

La Loma Village 14154 W. Denny Blvd, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

Health – The Colonnade 19116 N Colonnade Way, Surprise, AZ 85374

Surprise Regional Library 16089 N Bullard Ave, Surprise 85374

Public Library 3500 S Rural Rd, Tempe 85282