


ASU’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute has served the community by making the expertise of our faculty accessible to older adults. I cannot be more pleased than to have this impactful program part of the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions. The mission of our college is to build for vibrant, healthy, equitable and sustainable communities. With ASU’s Charter as our north star, we are deeply proud to engage in research and education that engages our local communities. This spring, there are seven classes being taught by faculty from our college, demonstrating our sincere commitment to OLLI. I myself will be talking about activating the process of resilience, one of my favorite topics that is not just based on research, it is highly applicable content for all of us. I am excited to meet many of the learners who engage in classes throughout the year offered by OLLI, and I am grateful to our faculty who are generously giving of their time and talent to enrich the lives of so many Arizonans. Thank you to Jared and his team for advancing this truly meaningful program for our community. Your efforts are a great example of Watts College living the charter.
Dr. Cynthia Lietz
Dean, Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions
Vice Provost, Downtown Phoenix Campus Ernest W. McFarland Arizona Heritage Chair in Public Policy & President’s Professor, School of Social Work
Jared Swerzenski Director jared.swerzenski@asu.edu
School of Community Resources and Development School of Criminology and Criminal Justice School of Public Affairs School of Social Work Centers and Research Units
Tracy Grewe Business Operations Manager tmgrewe@asu.edu
Lindsay Braun Program Coordinator lbraun21@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
Nate Sawyer Senior Program Coordinator nsawyer5@asu.edu
Register Online
www.asuolli.org
Questions? Contact us at 602.543.6440.
OLLI at ASU is a membership-based program. We have three membership options. The OLLI membership gives you access to class registration and member-exclusive events. In addition, all memberships include these benefits:
· Discounted tickets and special offers from our Community Partners
· Co-generational programs with ASU faculty and ASU students
· The opportunity to contribute to academic research projects
· Educational travel opportunities
· Additional benefits based on membership option as described below.
Note: The free classes included in our membership plans are pre-selected for each semester. You will still need to register for the class when registration opens. Space is limited in these classes and registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis. There is a note in the class description indicating which classes are included as free options. 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.
001 | Annual OLLI Membership $75 ($205 value) - not available until Aug. 2025
The Annual Membership gives members access to both in-person and Zoom classes as well as events offered by OLLI at ASU for three full semesters. This membership will expire Jun. 30, 2026.
Additional Annual Membership Benefits
· A minimum of four (4) pre-selected free class sessions in our fall and spring semesters (8 total for the year)
· One $15 promo code towards a class of their choice in our spring semester
The Semester Membership gives members access to all classes and events offered by OLLI at ASU for one semester. This membership will expire May 2, 2025.
Additional Semester Membership Benefits
· One free pre-selected class in the semester
003 | Annual Zoom Membership $60 - not available until Aug. 2025
The Annual Zoom Membership gives members access to all Zoom classes only and events offered by OLLI at ASU for three full semesters. This membership will expire Jun. 30, 2026.
Additional Zoom Membership Benefits
· One free pre-selected class session in our fall semester as well as one in spring
Find the list of FREE classes for Spring 2025 on page 9!
We are delighted to introduce to the OLLI community Dr Cynthia Lietz Dr Lietz conducts research that informs strengths-based practice in social work She is specifically interested in understanding how to activate and cultivate the process of resilience for young people and their families She also founded Bridging Success, a campus-based support program that has served ASU students who come to college with a history in foster care for over 10 years Prior to coming to ASU, she worked for over 10 years as a family therapist working with youth and families involved in the child welfare systems in both Illinois and Arizona
Teaching: 121 | Finding Your Resilience
1 session: Friday, Apr 11 | 10:30 a m – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
See page 35 for course description
OLLI at ASU is thrilled to welcome Patricia Barnhart to our classroom this spring Barnhart has worked in the corrections field for over 30 years She began her career as a Correctional Officer and worked her way up from there to run prisons in three states, Michigan, Maine and Florida as well as having worked in community corrections both as a probation and a parole officer Her passion for re-entry work brought her to Arizona where she wrapped up her career running the Maricopa Re-Entry Center for the Arizona Department of Corrections
Teaching: 021 | Unraveling Correctional Policy: Insights & Innovations
2 sessions: Mondays, Jan 27 & Feb 3 | 1:00 – 2:30 p m | ASU Downtown Campus
See page 11 for course description
We are delighted to welcome back Dr Bill Terrill to the OLLI classroom this spring Dr Terrill is an Associate Dean for the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions and a Professor in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Arizona State University He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Penn State University and his Masters and Ph D from Rutgers University Having served as a Military Police officer, this experience translated to an interest in policing from both a practitioner and academic perspective
Teaching: 101 | Policing Strategies
2 sessions: Mondays, Mar 31 & Apr 7 | 10:30 a m – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
See page 30 for course description
Dale Larsen
Back by popular demand, OLLI instructor Dale Larsen will be returning this spring! Larsen has four decades of parks and recreation professional management practice. He has taught as faculty associate at Arizona State University for 25 years and is currently a full-time professor of practice. He also serves as director of community relations for the College of Public Service and Community Solutions. Larsen is a well-recognized local, state and national leader in public park and recreation professional associations as well as a noted author, leader and community engagement specialist and we are excited to have him back in the classroom!
Teaching: 055 | Balancing Leisure & Quality of Life
1 session: Tuesday, Feb. 18 | 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Desert Foothills Library
See page 17 for course description.
Teaching: 059 | Where Have All the Leaders Gone?
1 session: Wednesday, Feb. 19 | 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Downtown Campus
See page 18 for course description.
Dr. Steven Sassaman
We are beyond delighted to welcome to OLLI at ASU Dr Steve Sassaman, Clinical Assistant Professor and Outdoor Recreation Program Director at Watts’ School of Community Resources and Development. Steve has over 15 years of experience in outdoor education, including residential summer camp management, professional guiding, and collegiate recreation program development Steve’s research agenda includes identifying best practices to achieve positive mental health outcomes through engagement with the more-than-human and examining how socialized gender norms influence social and environmental injustice.
Teaching: 090 | Nature & Wellness: Deep Connections
3 sessions: Thursdays, Mar 20, 27 & Apr 4 | 10:30 a m – noon | Tempe Public Library
See page 27 for course description
Dr. Abigail Henson
Bringing her expertise in criminology in an accessible way to OLLI members of all different backgrounds this spring, we are excited to welcome Dr Abigail Henson Dr Henson is an assistant professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Arizona State University Her research focuses on issues of transformative justice, program evaluation, and the impact of corrections and policing on identity, families, and communities Her work strives to shift narratives and eliminate stigmas by both engaging strengths-based human-centered frameworks and applying a critical gaze toward systemic injustices She mainly employs qualitative and ethnographic methods to provide nuance and context to research findings She has published articles in top-tier journals, including Justice Quarterly, Crime & Delinquency, Punishment & Society, and Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency
Teaching: 096 | Navigating Difficult Conversations: Practical Strategies in Empathy
2 sessions: Wednesdays, Mar 26 & Apr 2 | 10:30 a m – noon | Zoom
See page 28 for course description
OLLI at ASU is dedicated to providing enriching educational and social experiences for its members. Our members become part of a network that builds the kinds of relationships that define an exclusive, vibrant, and engaged learning community.
While membership fees and endowment interest help fund operations, they don’t cover all our costs. We need your help! The gifts from our members are an investment that help propel our successes today and into the future.
For as little as $42 monthly or $500 annually, join our OLLI Giving Society. Society members enjoy benefits including early registration access, invitation-only events, opportunities to meet with OLLI leadership and instructors, and more!
On behalf of our entire learning community, OLLI at ASU thanks the generosity and support of our partners across the valley for their support for lifelong learning!
FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025
12:30 P.M. - 2:30 P.M.
ASU HEALTH FUTURES CENTER
The OLLI Celebration of Excellence celebrates our members and their commitment to learn, grow and explore. We will reflect on the wonderful connections, events and classes that we have had this year We thank our sponsors, community partners and our OLLI instructors for the special classes and programs they provide us. We recognize the university and Watts College for all their support. We honor our OLLI at ASU donors and their financial contributions. This combined support ensures the long-term sustainability of our enriching educational and social programming that touches so many lives
Prior to our celebration, Dean Lietz presents her class Finding Your Resilience 10:30 a.m. – noon. See page 35 for more details. Registration required, space limited. This presentation is FREE for all members.
Classes Beginning Week of Jan. 6
Instructor: Jared Swerzenski Cost FREE
1 session: Tuesday, Jan. 7
10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Zoom
Welcome to OLLI at ASU Spring 2025 semester – we want to hear from you! Join us to meet with OLLI at ASU Director, Jared Swerzenski. Jared will share about our history and talk about the new and exciting things coming this Spring. This is a great opportunity to learn more about our program, classes, and how you can get involved. It's a time for returning members to share about their favorite class or provide feedback. This is a FREE event. All members new and returning are invited to attend! Register under the "Member Benefits, Events & Travel" button to receive the Zoom link for the class.
Beginning Week of Jan. 13
Instructor: Dr. Alicia Ellis Cost $19
1 session: Monday, Jan. 13
10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
This class examines the related concepts of economic warfare, geoeconomics, economic statecraft, and economic coercion. It outlines the ways major powers conduct various forms of economic warfare and discusses specific cases, including Russia’s weaponization of food and energy, U.S. weaponization of international financial systems, and China’s weaponization of import and export markets. Lastly, it explores how we think about protecting key industries while balancing cost and efficiency imperatives with contemporary security needs. Note: No knowledge of economics is expected or required to understand the subject matter in this class.
Spring 2025 Semester
Jan. 6 – May 16
Instructor: Dr. Timiebi Aganaba
1 session: Monday, Jan. 13 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library
Cost $19
In this new era of space, proponents and advocates are focused on the promotion of a "New Space" economy and are heralding the age of "Space Democratization." This increasing “commercialization of space” introduces exciting new possibilities: new actors may foster peace and security, welcome new entrants, and drive new societal applications such as "spin-off" technologies. That said, there is still a lack of comprehensive understandings of true "Global" and "Local" benefit. Led by Dr. Timiebi Aganaba – ASU Assistant Professor of Space & Society –this lecture takes the audience on a journey to understand what is truly meant by "Space for All" and how thinking global and acting locally, or "GLOCAL," may be the perspective that offers the most benefits for us all.
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Instructor: Chef Larry Canepa
3 sessions: Tuesdays, Jan. 14, 21, 28 10:00 a.m. – noon | Peoria Sports Complex
Cost $72
Unlike many other ethnic cuisines, Mediterranean cuisine is not the product of a specific ethnic group or culture. Rather, it is a label referring to the culinary trends shared by a diverse array of peoples that live in the region around the Mediterranean Sea. While Mediterranean cuisine is understood to be a unified culinary tradition in Greece, there is instead a vast amount of cultural variance in the cooking found in this geographic region.
Instructor: Dr. Peter Busek
Cost $19 1 session: Wednesday, Jan. 15 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
Join Dr. Peter Busek as he guides us through the science and history of diamonds. We will learn about the primary sources of diamonds around the globe, including the reasons behind the recovery sites and the methods used to extract these precious stones. We will cover the relationship between diamonds and water, including their presence in ocean beaches, stream sands, and beneath tundra lakes, as well as the discovery of individual diamonds in the soils of northern states like Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, and Idaho. Additionally, the legacy of Cecil Rhodes will be examined, highlighting his impact on the diamond mining industry.
Instructor: Allen Reamer
Cost $95
5 sessions: Wednesdays, Jan. 15, 22, 29 & Feb. 5, 12 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library
This course is for those who have used watercolors or gouache before. If you are a beginner, the instructor will assist you. Watercolors are transparent and gouache is opaque. Both are handled the same way. As an intermediate level class, we will add specific composition and color schemes to each painting. You will learn how to express different emotions using different compositions and color schemes. Each painting will have step by step instructions. The class will begin with a review of terms, tools, tips, and techniques. The instructor can assist you with drawing the still life objects.
Instructor: Robert Smoldt
1 session: Wednesday, Jan. 15 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center
Cost $19
Reducing high healthcare costs has proved elusive for years. Do we really understand why U.S. healthcare spending is so high? If not, we could be looking for answers in the wrong place. During this informative and interactive class with Robert Smoldt, Emeritus CAO Mayo Clinic and Associate Director of ASU’s Center for Healthcare Delivery, we will gain an understanding of the level of U.S. healthcare spending compared to other highincome countries and the two main strategies that might be used to address this. As a group, we will generate thoughts on these core questions: (1) What should the US goal be for healthcare spending? (2) What strategy or strategies would be best to effectively address issues of cost?
Instructor: Dr. Jennifer Gray
2 sessions: Wednesdays, Jan. 15, 22
2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | Taliesin West
Cost $65
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West is a UNESCO World Heritage site and National Historic Landmark nestled in the desert foothills of the McDowell Mountains in Scottsdale, Arizona. Wright’s beloved winter home, studio, and desert laboratory was established in 1937 and constructed over many years by Wright and his apprentices in the Taliesin Fellowship. In this OLLImember exclusive experience, Dr. Jennifer Gray (VicePresident and Director of the Taliesin Institute) invites members to learn about Taliesin West, a remarkable example of Wright’s principles of organic architecture that responds to the unique conditions of the Sonoran Desert in its design, materials, and structure. The course also situates Taliesin West in the context of Wright’s broader architectural practice, which included famed masterpieces such as Fallingwater and the Guggenheim Museum. In addition to the seminar, this course includes a private tour of Taliesin West led by Dr. Gray. The cost of this experience includes the price of a special OLLI discount for entry and tour tickets.
Instructor: Dan Gruber
1 session: Thursday, Jan. 16 10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library
Cost $19
Have you ever been startled by an animal on the trail or around your house and wondered why you didn’t see it at all until perhaps it moved? We’ll explore animal camouflage – what it is, how it’s used, and why it’s effective – using actual examples including some from the Sonoran Desert. Come and test your ability to spot hidden animals.
Instructor: Dr. Jared Day
3 sessions: Fridays, Jan. 17, 24, 31 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom
Cost $57
This set of three lectures examines America’s relationship with guns and gun violence from colonial times to the present. Special focus is given to the emergence of a uniquely American gun culture, a powerful gun lobby, and the social and political challenges that states, communities and lawmakers have faced over time. We will also look at how gun technology and gun accessibility have emerged as deeply polarizing issues in 21st century America. The course will also look at the issues of crime statistics and gun control using international comparisons as points of reference.
2024-2025 OLLI Annual Members
023 | Coffeehouses: The First 'Social Media' in History | Tempe
048 | Wild or Domesticated? Animal Management in the Ancient Southwest | Chandler
094 | Radical Endurance: Growing Old in an Age of Longevity | Zoom
121 | Finding Your Resilience | HFC
Spring Semester Membership:
121 | Finding Your Resilience | HFC
Annual Zoom Membership:
094 | Radical Endurance: Growing Old in an Age of Longevity | Zoom
Instructor: Dr. Ken Sweat
1 session: Tuesday, Jan. 21
10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Downtown Campus
Cost $19
Modern medical science has made incredible strides, from organ transplants to gene therapy. Yet some researchers are turning to the very compounds that evolved to harm us to develop new medical interventions. This class explores the uses of venom from different creatures to treat and cure various conditions and sicknesses found in humans.
Instructor: Dr. Douglas Lake
1 session: Wednesday, Jan. 22
10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
Cost $19
Join Dr. Douglas Lake, tumor immunologist and professor ASU, for this lecture that covers the latest immunotherapies for cancer. Dr. Lake will discuss innovations and techniques ranging from anti-cancer antibodies that suppress the growth of tumors to checkpoint inhibitor antibodies and even CAR T-cell therapies.
Instructor: Dr. Stephen Meyer
1 session: Wednesday, Jan. 22
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Mesa Arts Center
Cost $19
Did you ever wonder why you love some pieces on a concert and dislike others? Have you ever wondered why the conductor chose to perform certain pieces or how you can learn to listen to music differently? In this session, Dr. Stephen Meyer, director of bands at Northern Arizona University and director of the Tempe Winds, will guide you through different aspects of music from all genres. How is written music today similar to the masterworks of Beethoven, Bach, and Mozart and what new innovations have made classical music more exciting? Participants will also receive a free ticket to the Tempe Winds concert on Tuesday, January 28 at 7:30 p.m. at Tempe High School.
Spring 2022 Semester Jan. 24 – May 19
Instructor: Dr. Ettie Zilber
Cost $19 1 session: Wednesday, Jan. 22 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center
While the term ‘liberation’ conjures up celebrations and champagne glasses, it was nothing like that for those who were barely alive in 1945. The prisoners woke up one morning and suddenly discovered that their Nazi guards were gone, and they watched with worry as their liberators appeared. After 5 years of terror and abuse, what did the next five years have in store for Ettie Zilber’s family and hundreds of thousands of other Jewish displaced persons? Without social media or telecommunications, how did they reunite with the ‘surviving remnants?’ How did they deal with their liberators, rehabilitate, and navigate the new dangers of war-torn and divided Europe and then find a new home?
Instructor: Richard McCann
3 sessions: Thursdays, Jan. 23, 30 & Feb. 6
10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | Zoom
Cost $57
This class will provide a concise overview of U.S. immigration history from the earliest migrants to America to 1965, including a detailed discussion of the impact of slavery, the effect of Western European immigration on urban America, the Civil War, the post-Civil War industrial expansion of the American economy, the Labor movement, the Chinese Exclusion Act, the Southern and Eastern European migrations of the 1880s, calls for an end to unrestricted immigration and the imposition of literacy, intelligence testing, and quotas. Also included will be a discussion of the origins of American Nativism, antiimmigrant Xenophobia and anti-immigrant Nationalism. The course will wrap-up with a look at contemporary immigration issues and America’s Southern border.
Instructor: Dr. Marco Janssen
1 session: Thursday, Jan. 23
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library
Cost $19
When people share resources, which we call commons, how can overuse be avoided? We observe the depletion of fish in oceans, the rapid increase of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere leading to climate change, the overuse of the water from the Colorado River, and the increasing antibiotic resistance that impacts our public health. Are people unable to work together to solve those problems as the phrase “the tragedy of the commons” suggests? Empirical research comparing many cases has demonstrated that communities can create effective rules and practices to sustain the commons. What are the conditions for success? In this lecture, we discuss the principles that lead to successful solutions as identified by 2009 Nobel Laureate Elinor Ostrom. Dr. Marco Janssen, ASU Professor in Sustainability, will provide an overview of the past, present, and future of the study of the commons.
Friday
Instructor: Brett Kennedy Cost $35
1 session: Friday, Jan. 24
10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | ASU Chandler Innovation Center
Learn how to use the laser cutter to design your own leather embossing stamp and create a keychain. These machines take on a variety of computer graphics to cut and engrave woods, plastics, papers, fabrics, and foams. During the session, you will think of a name, word, or phrase to be engraved on embossing plastic. After the engraving, everyone will take their stamp and press it in a pre-cut leather keychain template. All participants will leave with their own keychain and embossing stamp.
Instructor: Patricia Barnhart Cost $38
2 sessions: Mondays, Jan. 27 & Feb. 3
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Downtown Campus
Dive into the complex world of correctional policy with ASU Watts instructor, Patricia Barnhart! We’ll unravel the intricate questions of who, what, where, when, why, and how this critical field operates. While it may seem straightforward, the reality is far more nuanced. In this two-session class, we’ll examine the benefits and challenges of existing policies and even have the opportunity to craft our own policies.
A flash class is an exciting opportunity that was added after the catalog was sent to print. You can register for these on the website in “Browse Current Classes. You will find them listed after the membership options.
Instructor: Dr. Kacey Douglas
3 sessions: Mondays, Jan. 27 & Feb. 3, 10 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library
Instructor: Dr. Stephen Davis
1 session: Tuesday, Jan. 28
10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library
*FREE to Annual Members
Cost $19
Cost $57
OLLI welcomes ASU economics professor Dr. Kacey Douglas with a timely class on the government and its role in the economy. In the first of 3 sessions, Dr. Douglas will provide an overview of Fiscal Policy and the effects of government spending and taxes on the economy, including a brief lesson on business cycles. Next will be a discussion of the national debt, including lessons on budget surpluses/deficits and debt ceilings. Finally, Dr. Douglas will provide an overview of the Federal Reserve and its tools of Monetary Policy, including a breakdown of interest rate determination.
Coffeehouses, or cafés, have been players in the histories of politics, religions, society at large, and the arts ever since coffee was first exported from Ethiopia to Yemen in the 1400s CE—and later from Yemen to North Africa and Southwest Asia. Long before Parisian street cafés, there were thriving coffeehouses in Arabia and Persia. Wary religious and political authorities sent spies or closed them outright out of concern over mind-altering substances, but more often from a desire to control political speech. Coffeehouses became “social media” centers for communication, education, and, occasionally, rebellion. As one London patron wrote in the 1600s: “Here Men do talk of every Thing,/ With large and liberal Lungs,/ Like Women at a Gossiping,/ With double tyre of Tongues;/ …With Stories that, you'll wonder at,/ Which they will swear are true.”
Instructor: Dr. Duane Roen
1 session: Tuesday, Jan. 28
Cost $19
10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Chandler Innovation Center
Have you inherited rusty, unusable hand tools that your parents or grandparents used in their workshops? Would you like to bring them back to life so that you can display and/or use them? In this session, Dr. Duane Roen will show you hand tools – some dating back to the 1800s – that he has conserved or restored. He will describe the methods that he has used to remove rust (while preserving the patina as much as possible) and to make the tools functional again. He will discuss the history and uses of some of the tools. Duane has been using hand tools for seven decades as a hobbyist while working on their conservation and restoration for more than a decade. We encourage you to bring any vintage tools you may have; at the end of class, Duane will offer suggestions for restoring or conserving them.
Instructor: Dr. Vince Waldron
Cost $19 1 session: Tuesday, Jan. 28 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Chandler Innovation Center
Since ancient times, philosophers and theologians have wrestled with the complicated concept of forgiveness. When is forgiveness justified? Why should we forgive (or not)? How is forgiveness related to justice, reconciliation, and hope? We will consider these conundrums of forgiveness as well as contemporary social science research on its practice in our personal relationships and communities. Forgiveness can be a constructive alternative to bitterness, alienation, and revenge.
Instructors: Dr. Max Leung & Dr. Ken Sweat Cost $19
1 session: Wednesday, Jan. 29
10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
Explore the multifaceted identities of Cannabis sativa, the most widely cultivated and abused illicit drug, with an estimated 147 million global users. As the push for legalization grows, particularly in the U.S., thin regulation of medical cannabis can pose potential health risks from environmental contaminants like pesticides and metals. Conversely, industrial hemp, a low-THC variant, can help remove pollutants from the environment. In this class with Dr. Max Leung and Dr. Ken Sweat, discuss how a One Health approach can enhance cannabis safety through collaboration among stakeholders, and learn from companion dogs about the effects of cannabidiol. Additionally, compare industrial hemp's ability to remediate heavy metals with that of other plants. This approach will deepen our understanding of the implications of cannabis and hemp production on health and the environment.
Instructor: Dr. Richard Carlson Cost $14
1 session: Wednesday, Jan. 29
1:00 – 2:00 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center
Please join us with retired physician and professor, Dr. Richard Carlson in an exploration of the remarkable figures of the past who inspired countless individuals through their extraordinary accomplishments. These heroes – Including Richard Byrd, Martin and Osa Johnson, Jack London, and Hiram Bingham – traversed diverse terrain, from jungles to polar regions, unearthing treasures of the ancient world. Their daring exploits not only captivated the public imagination but also served as prototypes for fictional characters such as Indiana Jones. Together, let us rediscover their legacies and the profound impact they have had on our cultural narrative.
Instructor: Dan Steininger
1 session: Wednesday, Jan. 29
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Friendship Village
Instructor: Dr. Nika Gueci
Jan. 24 – May 19
Cost $19
Cost $19
The speed of technological change has disrupted virtually every facet of our lives: how we communicate, listen to music, take pictures, purchase products, and even how we seek healthcare. This pace of these changes is unprecedented. In this class, you will join Daniel Steininger — business leader, author on innovative leadership, and professional speaker — who will aid us in tapping into the “secret sauce of creativity” and whose expertise can help you navigate this flood of changes in our lives. We will cover the basic tools of innovation required of business leaders today that help businesses survive, prosper, and avoid disruption from competitive innovation. We will also focus on key takeaways from contemporary scientific insights highlighting neuroplasticity and how creativity can play a vital role in the “aging brain” as a buffer against loss of cognitive ability.
1 session: Thursday, Jan. 30 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Desert Foothills Library
The experience of loneliness is a profoundly personal and nuanced, yet undeniably social phenomenon. Participants will begin by exploring the essence of loneliness and its role as a call to action, urging us to forge deeper connection with ourselves and others. We will examine our vulnerabilities and how embracing them strengthens our resilience and shared humanity. The class emphasizes practical mindful self-compassion practices by Dr. Nika Gueci, executive director at ASU's Center for Mindfulness, Compassion and Resilience, to transform our relationship with solitude and loneliness, enhancing our connections with others. Through reflective exercises and guided practices, participants will learn to transform loneliness by nurturing compassion for themselves and forging meaningful relationships in their communities. Please note: Dr. Gueci would like members to please bring a journal and a pen, and a yoga mat if possible.
Instructors: Dr. Sara El-Sayed & Christina Sullivan 2 sessions: Mondays, Feb. 3, 10 Cost $38 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | ASU Biomimicry Center
Back this semester by popular demand! Biomimicry is the study of learning from Nature's genius and emulating those strategies into sustainable designs for a regenerative planet with applications in a vast array of fields. How can you hone your observation and naturalist skills to understand how the natural world works and how organisms have evolved strategies to adapt to their environments? We will tackle these questions and more in this two-part series hosted by the Biomimicry Center and NatureSpace at the ASU Hayden Library. In week one, we will join Dr. Sara Aly El Sayed (ASU’s Director of the Biomimicry Center and Assistant Research Professor at the Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems) to learn more about the emerging field of biomimicry. In week two, we will visit the NatureSpace with ASU’s Christina Sullivan. Together, we will learn how scientists and inventors look to nature for answers and pressing solutions in fields as varied as medicine, engineering, agriculture, and social innovation. This is a unique opportunity to visit some of ASU’s cutting-edge research centers up close!
Instructor: Dr. Ken Sweat
1 session: Monday, Feb. 3
1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Desert Botanical Garden
Cost $42
Living in a desert presents a unique set of challenges for plants, and many of these challenges are shared by the Indigenous cultures that lived in the desert and used those plants for food and other materials. In this course, OLLI members, along with ASU’s Dr. Ken Sweat, will explore the Sonoran Desert Nature Loop Trail and the Plants & People of the Sonoran Desert Loop Trail at the Desert Botanical Garden. Ken will discuss the adaptations our desert flora has used for survival, along with strategies Indigenous cultures developed to use those plants to thrive in a harsh environment. You may come early or stay after class to enjoy the gardens with your OLLI ticket. Please note that this is a walking lecture class! Sturdy walking shoes and a light jacket are recommended. There is a slight elevation change on the first trail, but the path is smooth and paved.
Discover inspiring stories and connect with fellow OLLI learners! Navigate to the OLLI website, then the 'Get Involved' page and click 'Community-Led Blog' to read current blog posts.
Instructors: Esther Groves & Jesse Haviland
1 session: Tuesday, Feb. 4
Cost $35 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Arizona Science Center
Take a further dive into the world of 3D printing with Arizona Science Center in this limited capacity workshop. Ignite your creativity and learn how to add basic articulation to animal models. In pairs, engage in hands-on design to create a personalized item to take home. This course is perfect for advanced beginners and hobbyists eager to further explore the exciting realm of 3D printing. You do NOT need to have taken 3D printing 101 to attend, but you should have some basic understanding of a 3D printer.
Instructor: Dr. Kjir Hendrickson
2 sessions: Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Friendship Village
Cost $38
There is unprecedented consensus in the scientific community that our planet is warming as a direct result of human activity, but how have scientists come to that understanding, and what does it mean for us? Exactly what does the science show regarding global climate trends, how is global climate change already impacting the planet, and what does the coming century hold? What of questions regarding inaccurate past climate predictions, climate “skeptics,” or the potential for life to adapt? This course will address many aspects of the reality of global climate change from a non-technical perspective.
Instructor: Dr. Andrew Nelson
Cost $54 1 session: Tuesday, Feb. 4 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Scottsdale Western Spirit Museum
Join Dr. Andrew Nelson, Chief Curator at the Western Spirit Museum, for an engaging introduction to the art of the American West. From its roots in early 1800s landscape and ethnographic painting, Western Art evolved by the turn of the last century into a distinct genre epitomized by the work of Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell. In the ensuing decades, artists like Maynard Dixon pioneered innovative modern interpretations of the American West, even as others endeavored to uphold the romantic tradition exemplified by Russell and Remington. Through visual examples and historical commentary, you will gain a deeper appreciation of this celebrated artistic tradition and learn how Western artists have shaped popular perceptions of the American West. The lecture will be followed by a docent-led tour of the museum where participants will see original artwork by each of the artists discussed in the lecture.
Instructor: Doug Bradley
Cost $57 3 sessions: Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
In their 2015 award-winning book, “We Gotta Get Out of This Place: The Soundtrack of the Vietnam War,” Doug Bradley and Craig Werner placed popular music at the heart of the American experience in Vietnam. Over the next three years, they made more than 150 presentations coast-to-coast, witnessing honest, respectful exchanges among audience members. That journey prompted Bradley, a Vietnam veteran himself, to write “Who’ll Stop the Rain: Respect, Remembrance, and Reconciliation in Post-Vietnam America“ and to further explore how the music of the era, shared by those who served and those who stayed, helped create safe, nonjudgmental environments for listening, sharing, and understanding. This presentation covers insights from his journey.
Instructor: Bob McWhirter
Cost $38 2 sessions: Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center
America is “freedom” and “rights” – or so most of us say. If pressed, we say we have “civil rights,” a ubiquitous category of entitlements going back to the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, or even the Magna Carta. The 14th Amendment gives this discussion its constitutional foundation. It expresses Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence that “all men are created equal” and Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address that “this nation was conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.” The broadest and longest Civil War Amendment, the Fourteenth is the platform of many of today’s culture wars, as its framers intended. Bob McWhirter will guide us through this defining amendment.
037 | Shakespeare & Spirituality: The Tragic Hero's Journey
Instructor: Dr. Cristiane Smith Cost $38
2 sessions: Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Chandler Innovation Center
This class delves into the intersection of Shakespeare’s tragedies and spirituality. It will focus on how Hamlet, Macbeth and King Lear embark on spiritual journeys that mirror the classic archetype of the hero’s journey. We will explore how their struggles with fate, free will, and moral dilemmas lead to spiritual awakenings – or downfalls.
038 | If You Can’t Stand the Heat, Stay Out of the Kitchen!
Instructor: Chef Larry Canepa Cost $19
1 session: Wednesday, Feb. 5 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. | Foothills Aquatics Center
Summer is beyond hot, but you still need to feed your family. Fortunately, there’s good news: summer cooking can be cool and easy with a little creativity and planning. Join Chef Larry to learn how to enjoy cooking during the long, hot summer with alternative cooking techniques that don’t require an oven or hot kitchen. We’ll explore quick BBQ ideas, poaching, stir fry, braising, steaming and cold meal delights. Come learn about quick delicious meals without having to sacrifice flavor or your sanity!
Instructor: Ray Sol
4 sessions: Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19 & Mar. 5
Cost $76
1:30 – 3:00 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 recommended.
Spring 2022 Semester Jan. 24 – May 19
Instructor: Dr. Keith Brown Cost $38
2 sessions: Thursdays, Feb. 6, 13 10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library
As President Putin wields military power against Russia's neighbors and China extends its economic influence westward, their ambitions converge in the Central Asian heartland. This region—larger than Western Europe, and with rich oil, gas and critical mineral reserves—for centuries stood as the main land connection between Europe and Asia. The geopolitical pressures from outside the region have raised awareness within Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan of their own traditions, including nomadism and Islam, and their history of foreign colonization. This course seeks to give an introduction to this culturally complex and geopolitically pivotal region. It will include special attention to the legacies of Russian imperialism and Soviet industrialization, and the re-emergence of ties with Turkey, Iran and the wider Muslim world.
Instructor: Richard DiMarzio Cost $19
1 session: Thursday, Feb. 6 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Phoenix Raceway
Phoenix Raceway is thrilled to host OLLI members for an exclusive experience that dives into the rich history and excitement of NASCAR racing. This event will include a behind-the-scenes look at Phoenix Raceway, where we will learn about the evolution of NASCAR, its impact on motorsports, and Phoenix raceway’s pivotal role in the NASCAR Cup Series. We will have an opportunity to engage directly with a key team member of the Raceway to ask questions and hear insider stories from the world of professional racing. Phoenix Raceway will also offer attending members a special discount for the Spring Cup Series Race, taking place on Sunday March 9, 2025. Please note that this is a walking tour – escalators and elevators will be utilized for the most part, but there are some (minimal) stairs, and a fair amount of walking is involved. Please wear comfortable clothes, walking shoes, and bring a jacket.
Instructor: Ken Sorensen Cost $14
1 session: Thursday, Feb. 6
10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | ASU Chandler Innovation Center
Explore the history of the Olympic Games, from their origins in ancient Greece as a tribute to Zeus, to their decline under Roman rule, and their revival in 1896 through the efforts of Pierre de Coubertin. Learn how the Games have evolved over the centuries, growing into the global event we know today. We will dive into the challenges and transformations that shaped the Olympics, including the addition and removal of sports. This class will cover the early history of the Olympics and their modern rebirth, culminating with the 1960 Games in Rome.
The Best of Alfred Hitchcock
Instructor: Jay Sherwin
4 sessions: Thursdays, Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom
Cost $76
In his legendary career as a director, Alfred Hitchcock created dense, suspenseful films filled with flawed heroes, charming villains, and moral ambiguity. In this four-week online course, we will consider some of Hitchcock’s very best films, focusing on two films each week that share a common theme. Students should watch the films on their own; in class, we’ll look at brief film clips and discuss key elements. Whether you’ve enjoyed Hitchcock films for many years or just discovered them, this is a chance to go deeper into the mind of a brilliant, complicated man and the surprising, confounding, entertaining world he created on film.
Instructor: Marcella Alexander
2 sessions: Saturdays, Feb. 8, 15 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | ASU School of Art
Cost $20
Come join this two-part cogenerational workshop to learn the basics of creating art with fused glass alongside current ASU students! Led by OLLI Intergenerational Scholar Marcella Alexander, we will engage in contemplative brainstorming about how the pieces we set before us create different stepping-stones that help us persist in times of challenge. Learn how to hone your craft through collaborative artmaking with the chance to share and receive insightful imagination. Participants from the fall semester glass making workshop are welcome to join; previous experience with glass is not required! Your glass pieces will be fused separately for pickup and take home after the workshops are completed.
Instructor: Kathe Anderson
1 session: Monday, Feb. 10 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
Cost $19
With the influx of ducks, shorebirds and oddities, birding in the Phoenix area can be exceptionally rewarding. Everyone knows the Gilbert Water Ranch, but there are a host of other great sites in and around Phoenix worth exploring. The habitats range from riparian to urban ponds to desert jewels. To help guide members through these various sites, experienced birding teacher Kathe Anderson will share her favorite, must-visit spots in the winter, with tips about accessibility and probable species.
Instructor: Tina Miller
1 session: Monday, Feb. 10
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center
Cost $19
Discover the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in this interactive workshop designed to showcase its transformative power for lifelong learners. Participants will receive the latest updates on cutting-edge AI initiatives at ASU from Executive Director of Creative and Communications within the Enterprise Technology (IT) division, Tina Miller. Class will also cover the future of AI in higher education and generative AI. Additionally, attendees will delve into the technical aspects of generative AI with easy-to-understand explanations. By the end of class, you will leave with a wealth of knowledge on AI advancements and resources for further exploration. Please note: This class is being held at more than one OLLI location, check to make sure you are registering for the correct location. This class is the same class taught in Fall 2024 at other locations.
Instructor: Dr. Stephen Davis
1 session: Tuesday, Feb. 11 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library
Cost $19
Coffee became known for “stimulating the mind” as opposed to beer’s dulling effects – particularly when the latter was drunk for breakfast, lunch, and workbreaks. Thus, coffee may be one of the factors directly responsible for the Scientific Revolution. Seventeenthcentury coffeehouses were often called "penny universities" because for the price (two-pence) of a bowl of coffee, one could hear the latest news, attend the readings of treatises, and even witness debates among noted scientists and philosophers (though not all the “penny” knowledge of cafés was reputable nor worth the price of admission). Isaac Newton, Edmund Halley, Joseph Addison and many other globally renowned scholars frequented these loud “gentlemen’s clubs,” while other notable thinkers would drink dozens of cups a day. In this class, we trace the history of the intellectual world as it rapidly changed and became heavily caffeinated.
Wednesday
048 | Wild or Domesticated? Animal Management in the Ancient Southwest
Instructor: Dr. Karen Schollmeyer
1 session: Wednesday, Feb. 12
Cost $19
10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Chandler Innovation Center *FREE to Annual Members
Ancient people arrived in the New World with domesticated dogs, but their relationships with dogs and other animals were more complex than a simple “wild or domesticated” classification can convey. Turkeys were domesticated, but people also fed and managed wild turkeys —sometimes for meat, and other times as a source of feathers rather than food. People also kept other captive animals, including exotic macaws, parrots, and other species. Local animals were also managed, sometimes attracted to people’s fields and other times driven to more distant places. Archaeological examples from Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado give us insights into some of the many ways people kept, managed, and used animal species in the ancient Southwest.
049 | The Rabab & Afghan: North Indian Classical Music 101
Instructor: Qais Essar
Cost $45
2 sessions: Wednesday, Feb. 12 & Saturday, Feb. 22 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. | ASU Kerr Cultural Center
Take a journey through the rich musical traditions of Afghan and North Indian classical music, guided by award-winning rabab virtuoso Qais Essar. Students will explore the foundational elements of these traditions, focusing on their distinctive melodic and rhythmic frameworks. Learn about the significance of the rabab and other classical instruments, offering insights into their unique roles. Discover the historical evolution and contemporary relevance of these musical systems. You’ll get an introduction to the improvisational techniques that bring Afghan and Indian classical music to life. No previous musical experience is necessary. This course offers a welcoming introduction to these wonderful global musical forms! This class includes a ticket to the Qais Essar performance at Kerr Cultural Center, on Saturday, Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m.
Spring 2022 Semester Jan. 24 – May 19
Instructors: Dr. Jennifer Gray & Fred Prozzillo
2 sessions: Thursdays, Feb. 13, 20
Cost $65 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | Taliesin West
Fred Prozzillo, The Nord McClintock Family Vice President of Preservation and Collections and a Taliesin Fellowship member from 1997 to 2000, offers OLLI members a special lecture delving into the life of the apprentices at Taliesin West. The program provided a total learning environment integrating all aspects of the apprentices’ lives with the intent of educating responsible, creative, and cultured human beings. OLLI participants can follow up this lecture and participate in a 90-minute hike through the beautiful desert landscape of Taliesin West. Along the way, you’ll see some of the experimental shelters constructed by the apprentices, learn about Wright’s “learning by doing” philosophy, and feel the deep connection between architecture and nature.
Instructor: Emanuel Abramovits
2 sessions: Thursdays, Feb. 13, 20 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. | Zoom
Cost $38
Put some music fans in the same room and, sooner or later, they will ask about favorite songs. For rock fans, there will be mentions of “Smoke on the Water,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” some “Stairway to Heaven,” and many other incredible choices. Through audiovisuals, narrative, and anecdotes, this class discusses what makes these songs great, the context within which they became classics, the songwriters, the performers, and their cultural significance. We will discuss whether these songs have the ability to continue resonating across time.
Instructor: Dr. René Diaz-Lefebvre
2 sessions: Mondays, Feb. 17, 24 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
Cost $38
Back by popular demand! Myth and misinformation about the aging process, intelligence, and what it means to be “smart,” will all be explored in this interactive class with Dr. René Diaz-Lefebvre. He brings over 40 years of teaching and research experience to this session focusing on applicable takeaways about age and intelligence. Together we will debunk aging misconceptions and explore how learning in unique ways (Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences) challenges one to get out of their “comfort zones,” take risks, experience creativity & imagination, and have fun!
Arizona’s Water
Instructor: Jennifer Davidson
2 sessions: Mondays, Feb. 17, 24
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Downtown Campus
Cost $38
How are Arizona’s diverse, complex, and (in some instances) finite water resources managed, used, and protected? In this class, Jennifer Davidson – senior research analyst at ASU’s Kyl Center for Water Policy –covers the past, present, and future of Arizona’s water resources. Class will discuss policies governing water, how water is managed and used today, and what you can do to help protect the future of Arizona’s most essential resource.
Instructor: Dr. Mike Silvers
2 sessions: Mondays, Feb. 17, 24
1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Musical Instrument Museum
Cost $74
Water, like music, is vital. In this two-part class on music and nature, Dr. Mike Silvers, MIM’s curator of education, will discuss music’s entanglement with water in a variety of contexts around the world. In the first session, Water Music, we will explore various musical roles of water, from inspiring Baroque composer George Frideric Handel, to being played in traditional water drums in Vanuatu. In the second session, Rain Dancing, we will focus on music’s relationship to drought in various musical traditions including those in Pakistan, Brazil, and here in Arizona. Both sessions will include interactive musical activities and hands-on experiences with musical instruments. A guided tour of MIM’s galleries, with a focus on water and drought respectively, will follow each hour-long presentation. After the tour, participants will also be able to explore MIM’s galleries on their own.
Instructor: Dale Larsen
1 session: Tuesday, Feb. 18
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Desert Foothills Library
Cost $19
Join Dale Larsen, Professor at ASU’s School of Community Resources & Development, in an interactive discussion on the creative elements of leisure, play, and a sound “quality of life” culture. This class will address practices of well-being and whether leisure and play are undervalued. We will discuss relationships that exist between work and leisure, how leisure contributes to the concepts of work and time, and how leisure contributes to social, emotional, intellectual, and physical well-being. Come prepared to examine and celebrate your own quality of life profile.
We encourage members to share their time and passions. Click the 'Get Involved’ button on the OLLI website or email us at olli@asu.edu to join our team of dedicated volunteers.
Instructor: Dr. Kevin Sandler
1 session: Tuesday, Feb. 18
1:00 – 4:00 p.m. | Harkins Shea 14 Theater
Cost $30
Join us at the Harkins Shea 14 for a screening of the new documentary “Janis Ian: Breaking the Silence.” From a chicken farm in New Jersey to becoming one of the most recognizable music icons of the 1960’s, singer/songwriter Janis Ian made her mark over the decades as both a Civil Rights and a gay activist. She recorded her first song at 13. At 16, Ian’s legendary song “Society’s Child” about an interracial relationship broke the charts. This documentary includes interviews with singers, music professionals, and with Ian herself – as well as footage of many of her famous songs. ASU Film and Media Studies professor Dr. Kevin Sandler introduces the film and leads a 30-minute, post-screening discussion. The cost of class includes a specially discounted ticket to the screening!
Instructor: Dr. Arnett Duncan
Cost $38 2 sessions: Wednesdays, Feb. 19, 26 10:30 a.m. – noon | Foothills Aquatics Center
This two-part class will first explore the social psychology of how popular media representations have reinforced and perpetuated race as a cognitive illusion. A cognitive illusion is something that, in practice, we engage as if it were real and tangible, even though we know intellectually, empirically, and scientifically that it is not. Second, the class will trace how “racelessness” emerges in contemporary global media content including but not limited to: “Birth of a Nation” (1917), “Remember the Titans” (2000), “Lion” (2016), “Bridgerton” (2020), global hip hop culture, and multiethnic athletic representation at the 2024 Summer Olympics. Additionally, we will address recent data showing that Generations Z and Alpha favor diversity and deemphasize race as a factor in their relationships and reasoning. The potential for a raceless representation of humanity is considered.
| Travel & Pop Culture: Places
Featured in Your Favorite Movies & TV Shows
Instructor: Dan Fellner
1 session: Wednesday, Feb. 19 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Downtown Campus
Cost $19
From “Jaws” to the “The Graduate,” James Bond to “The Birds,” “Midnight Express” to “Breaking Bad,” take a journey with a leading travel journalist to see 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.
059 | Where Have All the Leaders Gone?
Instructor: Dale Larsen
1 session: Wednesday, Feb. 19 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Downtown Campus
Cost $19
Like the old folk song “Where Have All the Flowers Gone,” the study of leadership is ageless. Yet our cities continue to struggle with crises, communities are in turmoil, politics are rigged, and ethical violations are commonplace. This class presentation is based on the heartfelt belief that honest, capable, and ethical leadership is possible and achievable. Interactive class discussion, case study examples, and a pledge that leadership is within all of us will take place.
Instructor: Ken Sorensen
1 session: Thursday, Feb. 20 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Surprise Regional Library
Cost $14
During the autumn of 1945, the world finally was starting to catch its breath in the aftermath of WWII. Countries around the world were decimated, economies in ruin. How can we go forward? As part of the answer, Secretary of State (and former general) George Marshall produced a plan. It became known as the Marshall Plan. The plan was financed by America, and the plan rebuilt entire nations and their economies. Join former history teacher, Ken Sorensen, as he shares the story and impact General Douglas MacArthur and General Marshall had in helping bring about a sense of normality to the world.
2022 Semester Jan. 24 – May 19
Instructor: Dr. Lekelia Jenkins Cost $57
3 sessions: Mondays, Feb. 24 & Mar. 3, 10 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library
Our oceans were once considered an inexhaustible source of protein and mineral wealth capable of sustaining humankind into the distant future. Today, the oceans are a proving ground of whether humans are capable of a sustainable relationship with a planet showing increasing signs of stress. How do human values and interests shape our interactions with the marine environment? In this class led by award-winning Dr. Lekelia Jenkins, ASU faculty in the School for the Future of Innovation in Society, we look at fisheries and fisheries conservation, the plight of large marine species, including sea turtles, marine mammals, seabirds, and sharks, and examine the large-scale decline of marine megafauna.
Instructor: Susan Roemer
Cost $19 1 session: Monday, Feb. 24 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. | Fairway Rec Center - Sun City
In post-revolutionary Mexico in the 1920’s, the Mexican government developed a conscious, specific strategy of using art to depict history and social change. Susan Roemer, a retired English and Spanish teacher, leads this class exploring this movement and the prominent works of that time period from “Los Tres Grandes” – Diego Rivera, Alfaro Siqueiros, and José Clemente Orozco – who were known as “guardians of the national soul.” Through their art’s reflection of the sociopolitical realities of the time, these great muralists raised a sense of nationalism in post-Revolution Mexico and helped promote specific political and social ideologies to the masses of the country.
Instructor: Dr. Aaron Guest
Cost $19 1 session: Tuesday, Feb. 25 10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library
Connecting with others is essential for health and wellness, especially for older adults. Led by ASU gerontologist and Assistant Professor of Aging Dr. Aaron Guest, this class will explore the science behind our social connections as we age: how things change and why they matter. We will discuss underlying trends and experiences of these changes, including early and recent research across the health sciences. We will also discuss building and strengthening relationships, staying socially active, and connecting with community resources. Lastly, we cover common challenges, feeling isolated or struggling to make new friends, and share insights from aging research on how to strengthen social bonds.
Instructor: Sierra Ochoa
3 sessions: Tuesdays, Feb. 25 & Mar. 4, 11 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | ASU Art Museum
Cost $72
Ever wondered what it's really like to work in a museum? Join ASU Art Museum on a three-session crash course on the museum field and what it takes to put up shows in a gallery space. With exclusive access to the behindthe-scenes workings for OLLI members, we’ll track an art piece from the beginning of its journey to its final display in a museum gallery all while learning about and from the people who make these shows happen. While the museum may seem like a place where objects go to sit in display cases, this course aims to show you the full life cycle of an object in a museum and get an inside look at the people behind the process of the innovative work happening at ASU Art Museum.
Instructor: Mike Boule
Cost $19
1 session: Wednesday, Feb. 26 10:00 a.m. – noon | Surprise Wastewater Treatment Facility
Join us along with Water Resource Management Director, Mike Boule, for this 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, wear close-toed shoes, and join us for breakfast before the tour.
Instructor: Dr. Morgan Anderson
1 session: Monday, Mar. 3 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | Tempe Public Library
Cost $19
Join ASU School of Art’s Dr. Morgan Anderson for a hands-on French bouquet, floral design workshop. To participate in the workshop, please bring your own 4-5” (width & height) clear glass vessel, botanical clippers/ snips, and 20-30 stems of cut botanicals (foliage and flowers) to design with. While designing, we will review trending Arizona grown botanical species in floral design and the importance of the Slow Flower Movement for consumers, growers, and botanical artists.
Instructors: Dan Gruber & Mike Nolan
2 sessions: Mondays, Mar. 3, 10 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
Cost $38
When most people think of an ecosystem, they think of the relationship between plants and animals in an area. But the most fundamental ecological relationship is between the environment and everything that lives there. Every environment presents challenges and opportunities so that anything that lives there successfully must have adapted to overcome and take advantage of, respectively. Virtually all the characteristics of an environment – the composition of its soil, its topography, even its climatic conditions – have been shaped by geologic processes over millions of years. This talk will explore and explain the deep relationship between geology and ecology. The second session of this class will be a field study on Monday, Mar. 10 from 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. held at McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, Fraesfield Trailhead, 13400 E Rio Verde Dr., Scottsdale, AZ 85262 - this is approximately 16 miles from the ASU Health Futures Center. The walk is approximately 3 miles of a gentle rolling trail.
Instructor: Dan Fellner Cost $19 1 session: Monday, Mar. 3 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center
Despite its tumultuous history, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is emerging as a popular destination in Southeast Asia for intrepid travelers. Vietnam offers visitors beautiful landscapes, friendly people, delectable cuisine, and a fascinating culture with a rich history. We’ll tour the country through the eyes of a travel journalist/ photographer and visit such places as Ho Chi Minh City (formerly called Saigon), Hanoi, Da Nang and the ancient port town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about how Vietnam has evolved from a war-torn country into a place worth considering for your next overseas trip.
Instructor: Allen Reamer Cost $19
1 session: Tuesday, Mar. 4 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Peoria Rio Vista
The influence of Greek art and architecture is all around us. Join us for this class, where art teacher Allen Reamer will challenge common perceptions about Greek sculpture and architecture. Class will cover the major pottery styles such as Geometric, Corinthian, Athenian and more. Allen will also discuss the three sculpture styles; Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic, and the three architectural styles; Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.
Instructor: Doug Bradley Cost $19
1 session: Tuesday, Mar. 4 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Desert Foothills Library
In this popular and entertaining session, Doug Bradley places popular music at the heart of the American experience in Vietnam. He explores how and why U.S. troops turned to music as a way of connecting to each other and the World back home and of coping with the complexities of the war they had been sent to fight. The vets’ testimonies tap into memories—individual and cultural—that capture a central if often overlooked component of the American war in Vietnam. Rolling Stone named “We Gotta Get Out of This Place,” the book upon which the session is based, the Best Music Book of 2015.
Instructor: Brett Kennedy
Cost $35
1 session: Wednesday, Mar. 5 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | ASU Chandler Innovation Center
Learn how to use the laser cutter to design your own leather embossing stamp and create a keychain. These machines take on a variety of computer graphics to cut and engrave woods, plastics, papers, fabrics, and foams. During the session, you will think of a name, word, or phrase to be engraved on embossing plastic. After the engraving, everyone will take their stamp and press it in a pre-cut leather keychain template. All participants will leave with their own keychain and embossing stamp.
Instructor: Dr. Ettie Zilber
1 session: Wednesday, Mar. 5 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center
Cost $19
Born in a Displaced Person’s camp in Landsberg, Germany, Ettie Zilber has spent her life hearing, learning about, and researching the details of her family’s Holocaust experiences-from their life in Lithuania to their immigration to America. As a “second generation” child of Holocaust Survivors, Ettie “absorbed” stories from childhood as she was raised by parents who survived unspeakable trauma. How did that trauma manifest itself in her parents’ behaviors, world view, idiosyncrasies, and parenting? When and how did she learn the details of their past and how did it impact her life, her thoughts, her career, and her own behavior? This presentation describes characteristics of survivors, impressions by other second-generation interviewees and her own reflections.
Instructor: Dr. Sarah Bolmarcich
1 session: Thursday, Mar. 6 10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library
Cost $19
Ancient Olympia was the birthplace of the Olympics, but it was so much more—a religious sanctuary honoring Zeus and his wife Hera, and a place where all Greeks could gather. This class takes a close look at ancient Olympia. You will get a virtual tour of the site, discuss its importance to the Greeks, and dive into the ancient Olympics.
Instructor: Dean Briere
1 session: Thursday, Mar. 6 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Arizona Science Center
Cost $25
With Arizona’s rapid growth in STEM industries—tech, aerospace, biomedical, and more—Arizona Science Center 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. For this program, participants *must* wear closed-toed, sturdy shoes. Steel-toed shoes are preferred as you will be at an active construction site.
October 8 - 18, 2025
2 spots left!
Rich history, rugged ruins, remarkable beauty—you can find it all in Greece. On this tour, you’ll experience the country’s wonders coming alive as the summer heat dies down and the locals return to their daily routines.
Featured
Featured
We value your input for future travel ideas. Complete the survey on the ‘Member Benefits, Events & Travel’ page listed as a Travel (TR) opportunity to have a say in where OLLI goes next! You can also put your name on the interest list for The “Italy - Food and Wine” trip or the “Vienna & PragueMusic and Arts trip”.
Featured
BEYOND
Instructor: Dr. Jennifer Gray
2 sessions: Wednesdays, Jan. 15, 22
2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | Taliesin West
See page 9 for full course description.
Instructors: Dr. Jennifer Gray & Fred Prozzillo
2 sessions: Thursdays, Feb. 13, 20
2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | Taliesin West
See page 16 for full course description
Cost $38
Cost $38
032 | 3D PRINTING 201: AN INTERMEDIATE EXPLORATION OF 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY
Instructors: Esther Groves & Jesse Haviland
1 session: Tuesday, Feb. 4
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Arizona Science Center
See page 13 for full course description
Cost: $35
074 | BEHIND THE SCENES: THE BUILDING OF THE DORRANCE PLANETARIUM
Instructor: Dean Briere
1 session: Thursday, Mar. 6 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Arizona Science Center
See page 19 for full course description
056 | JANIS IAN: BREAKING THE SILENCE
Instructor: Dr. Kevin Sandler
1 session: Tuesday, Feb. 18
Cost $30
1:00 – 4:00 p.m. | Harkins Theatres Shea 14 - Scottsdale
See page 17 for full course description.
Cost: $25
Instructors: Dan Gruber & Mike Nola
1 session: Monday, Mar. 3
Cost $19
10:30 a.m. – noon | McDowell Sonoran Conservancy
See page 19 for full course description.
Instructor: Dr. Ken Sweat
1 session: Monday, Feb. 3
1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Desert Botanical Gardens
See page 13 for full course description.
Instructor: Qais Essar
2 sessions: Wednesday, Feb. 12 & Saturday, Feb. 22
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. | ASU Kerr Cultural Center
See page 16 for full course description
Cost: $48
Instructor: Mike Silvers
2 sessions: Mondays, Feb. 17, 24
1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Musical Instrument Museum
See page 17 for full course description
Cost: $74
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Instructor: Sierra Ochoa
3 sessions: Feb. 25 & Mar. 4, 11
2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | ASU Art Museum
See page 19 for full course description.
Instructor: Stephen Hohendorf
2 sessions: Tuesday, Mar. 25 & Sunday, Mar. 30
Cost: $42
Cost: $72
Cost: $100
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. & noon – 2:30 p.m. | Arizona Broadway Theater
See page 28 for full course description.
EXPLORING
Instructor: Dr. Andrew Nelson
1 session: Tuesday, Feb. 4
1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Western Spirit Museum
See page 13 for full course description.
Cost: $54
Instructor: Dr. Andrew Nelson
2 sessions: Tuesdays, Mar. 11, 18
Noon – 3:30 p.m. | Western Spirit Museum
See page 25 for full course description
Cost: $108
075 | Pickleball for the Alzheimer's Association
Instructor: Jared Swerzenski
1 session: Friday, Mar. 7
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Chicken N Pickle
Cost $55
Please help ASU OLLI support The Longest Day by joining OLLI director Jared Swerzenski for pickle ball! We are determined to help end Alzheimer’s by raising funds and awareness for the care, support, and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. Even if you can't attend the event please consider donating. First time players are most welcome! See full details on page 33.
Instructor: Dr. Jared Day
4 sessions: Mondays, Mar. 10, 17, 24, 31 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom
Cost $76
Dr. Jared Day explores the rise of a modern industrial giant: the German empire of Kaiser Wilhelm II. In the wake of the Franco-Prussian War, Germany emerged as a great global power, one committed to imperial expansion and unprecedented economic growth, in a seemingly mad dash to become the most advanced, modern country in the world. Guided by the unsteady leadership of Kaiser Wilhelm II and propelled by the Krupp arms manufacturers, Germany’s dramatic growth upended the already tense relations between Europe’s great powers and planted volatile tripwires around the globe, laying the foundations for slaughter and conflict for the next 100 years and more.
Instructor: Dr. Andrew Nelson
Cost $74
2 sessions: Tuesdays, Mar. 11, 18 (Price decrease!) noon – 3:30 p.m. | Scottsdale Western Spirit Museum
Do you like Westerns? Then this is the course for you! Join Western Spirit Chief Curator and film historian Andrew Patrick Nelson for a two-part exploration of the history of the Western movie that compares the genre's past and present. We’ll ask how, and why, the Western changed over time, and what these changes might tell us about movies, audiences, and maybe even the state of American culture. To help us answer these questions we’ll screen two Westerns about attempts to rescue a kidnapped girl: “The Searchers” (1956), regarded as both the greatest Western and John Wayne’s best film, and “The Thicket” (2024) Rated R, an acclaimed indie film that stars Peter Dinklage and Juliette Lewis. You’ll see each film the way it was meant to be seen – on the big screen! Participants are welcome to explore the museum before or after class.
Instructor: Jay Roth Cost $38 2 sessions: Mondays, Mar. 17, 24
10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
This class explores the complex history of Indigenous peoples in America, beginning in 1492 and spanning the diverse nations and tribes that existed then and today. Indigenous groups, numbering over 1,000 in 1492 and 574 today, have faced various challenges from European settlers, colonial powers, religious groups, and private settlers all claiming their lands. These groups did not act as a unified front but rather as distinct nations with their own struggles for survival and autonomy. The course will examine the history of this relationship and its ongoing impact, with two sessions in the spring and two in the fall.
Instructor: Dr. Bruce Rabin Cost $76
4 sessions: Mondays, Mar. 17, 24, 31 & Apr. 7
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center
An immune system that functions properly during aging is important for staying healthy as we continue to age. The primary purpose of the immune system is to prevent diseases caused by infections. Examples of infectious diseases that the immune system can prevent are influenza, covid, polio, tetanus, and pneumonia. Conversely, the immune system can also cause disease by looking at the body and reacting against one’s own body. When this occurs, diseases termed autoimmune disease result. Thus, the immune system can be our friend, but also our enemy. This class will teach you, in understandable terms, how the different parts of the immune system function to prevent disease and the health consequences of when they don’t work properly.
Instructor: Shawn Richcreek
Cost $114
6 sessions: Mondays, Mar. 17, 24 & Apr. 7, 14, 21, 28
7:00 – 9:00 p.m. | Zoom
Many people living in the West are very comfortable buying and ordering California wines, especially those from Napa Valley and Sonoma. However, there are more than 150 different officially recognized growing regions in California. In fact, the oldest grapevine in the state is in Los Angeles. In this class, we will explore some of the state’s less well-known wine growing regions (especially those of Southern California) with the same curiosity and excitement as we do some of the more famous northern appellations. An *optional* recommended wine list will be sent out before each class for any participants who wish to purchase any of the wines/grapes/styles we will be discussing that week.
Instructor: Dan Fellner
1 session: Tuesday, Mar. 18
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Desert Foothills Library
Cost $19
Take a virtual journey through the lens of leading travel journalist, Dan Fellner, to some of the most interesting and off-the-beaten path Jewish communities around the world. We will learn about Jewish life on five different continents in such fascinating places as Ukraine, Curacao, Greenland, Hong Long, Alaska, South Africa and Myanmar. We’ll also visit the oldest synagogue in the United States, located in Newport, Rhode Island. This highly visual presentation will explore the survival and resilience of Jewish life in places you might least expect to find it.
Instructor: Dr. Philip Christensen
2 sessions: Tuesdays, Mar. 18, 25 10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library
Cost $38
Our solar system is a complex place with planets, moons, asteroids, and comets. This class focuses on the small objects – the comets, asteroids, the distant Kuiper belt, and Pluto. We will discuss their origin and what they tell us about our solar system’s history. For decades space exploration focused on the planets and moons, but recently the small bodies have gained attention since these remnants provide important clues to what the early solar system was like. We will also discuss ASU’s long history of participation in planetary exploration – with many more discoveries to come.
Instructor: Dr. Keith Crudup
3 sessions: Tuesdays, Mar. 18, 25 & Apr. 1 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. | Tempe Public Library
Cost $57
What is Nirvana? Did you know there are at least three types of Nirvana? How about scientific truths now outweighing Buddhist teaching? In this brief investigation of Buddhism, we touch on interesting dimensions of this fascinating world religion. Buddhism has intrigued many Americans, from Transcendentalists to Richard Gere and Keanu Reeves. It has engaged many, from the 1970s Kung Fu series to recent fascinating (and sometimes controversial) statements of the Dalai Lama; from past popularity of the spare Zen tradition to the more present elaborate and esoteric Tibetan style of Buddhism. Three sessions cannot do justice to this very diverse religion, but taking brief snapshots may get lifelong learners started.
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Instructor: Steven Cooper
1 session: Wednesday, Mar. 19
10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
Cost $19
In recent years, the term “progressive” has been employed to describe and label policies that are antithetical to American values and institutions. This course will explore the origins of the progressive movement in the United States and how the movement morphed from a political philosophy in the late 19th century into policies that have shaped all aspects of our lives in the 20th and 21st century. We will also look at the major political figures who advocated “progressive” policies such as Theodore Roosevelt, Louis Brandeis, Woodrow Wilson, Robert LaFollette, Franklin Roosevelt, and Lyndon Johnson. The class will discuss progressive policies and the civil rights movement and how “progressive “rhetoric was often used in parts of the country to disenfranchise certain voters. Finally, we will examine why “progressive” has become a “dirty word” in the U.S. in recent years.
Instructor: Dr. Matt Peeples
1 session: Wednesday, Mar. 19
10:30 a.m. – noon | Deer Valley Petroglyph
Cost $26
The human history of the Sonoran Desert is a story marked by adaptation and resilience. This session covers a brief overview of the archaeological evidence relating to the diverse cultures who have called this region home from the earliest occupants all the way back in the Pleistocene to the Indigenous communities in the region today. Join Dr. Matt Peeples, Associate Professor and Director in the ASU Center for Archaeology and Society, to discuss how populations adapted to this arid landscape and the amazing achievements in water management, exchange, and social resilience. Come learn how Indigenous peoples survived and thrived across this arid landscape.
Instructor: Allen Reamer
3 sessions: Wednesdays, Mar. 19, 26 & Apr. 2 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center
Cost $57
Whether you have drawn flowers or not, this class will instruct you on how to produce beautiful colorful flowers using techniques and procedures that you will learn in this class. We will review terms, concepts, and types of brushes. Much of the rest of the course will be spent learning to draw and paint specific types of flowers using different techniques. You will be given step-by-step instruction and one-on-one help if you wish. Watercolor is transparent. Gouache is opaque. Both paints handle the same way. You may use watercolors, acrylics, gouache, colored pencils, soft pastels or ink and watercolor.
Instructor: Dr. Steven Semken
2 sessions: Wednesdays, Mar. 19, 26 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom
Cost $38
Join Dr. Steven Semken – professor at ASU’s School of Earth and Space Exploration – and delve into the world of volcanoes across Arizona. Through a comprehensive exploration, Dr. Semken will cover what volcanoes are, where and how they occur, what they produce, and how they have figured in the geological evolution of Arizona and adjoining areas of the Southwest.
Instructor: Belinda Ordoñez
2 sessions: Thursday, Mar. 20 & 27 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Downtown Campus
Cost FREE
Led by nurse practitioner Belinda Ordonez, this course provides an overview of the differences between normal memory changes and those that occur in dementia as well as the most common types of dementia. Participants will complete a dementia experience simulation to gain insight to what it may feel like for persons living with the condition, including sensory changes, memory impairment, as well as the emotional impact of these changes. With the completed experience, participants will develop a greater empathy for persons living with dementia and the perspective of feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. Participants will learn and explore best practices to optimize the environment of persons living with dementia, improve communication/engagement, make considerations for soft approach, and enhance day-to-day needs and care.
If your instructor has a slideshow presentation or additional materials to share with the class, you can find these linked on our website in your OLLI profile. Navigate to our website to 'My Class List’ located at the top menu bar. Be sure you are signed in to your account.
Instructor: Dr. Deborah Robin
2 sessions: Thursday, Mar. 20, 27 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom and SMoCA
Cost $45
Unravel the mysteries of contemporary art with this empowering course. In the first week, Dr. Robin will explain some of the techniques, concepts, and stories behind the acclaimed and sometimes baffling artworks. Then, in week two, we’ll meet at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art for an eye-opening tour of the latest exhibitions, guided by an expert curator. Witness the art up close, hear captivating narratives, and gain a newfound appreciation for this vibrant art form. Whether you're a novice or a connoisseur, join us to demystify contemporary art and make it accessible to all. Note: this course is based on the latest exhibitions at SMoCA, therefore it will be different each time it’s offered.
Instructor: Dr. Steven Sassaman
Cost $38 3 sessions: Thursdays, Mar. 20, 27 & Apr. 3 10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library
Join Dr. Steven Sassaman, ASU’s Outdoor Recreation Program Director, for a transformative three-part naturebased wellness workshop series designed to nurture your mind, body, and spirit through deep connection with the natural world. This series will feature a variety of experiential activities designed to deepen your mindfulness and enhance your overall well-being, all through direct engagement with the earth. We’ll introduce Nature Printing, an artful exploration where you’ll capture the textures and patterns of leaves, flowers, and other natural elements, allowing your creativity to flow while connecting with nature’s beauty. We will also meet outside of the classroom for an *optional* third session to experience the healing practice of Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku) at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix (entry tickets will need to be purchased separately). Under Professor Sassaman’s guidance, you'll immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest, using mindful walking and sensory awareness to reduce stress and rejuvenate your spirit.
Instructor: Dr. Bruce Rabin
2 sessions: Thursdays, Mar. 20, 27 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Surprise
Cost $38
This class is a journey that will teach you how to change the way your brain responds to stress. It will provide education so that you understand why stress can alter both mental and physical health and will teach you how to reduce the effect of stress on your mental and physical health and longevity. This class is intended for healthy individuals who will benefit from increased stress-coping skills, and for individuals with diseases where stress coping can promote an enhanced sense of wellbeing and possibly influence the course of disease.
Instructor: Dr. Kjir Hendrickson
1 session: Thursday, Mar. 20 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. | Mirabella
Cost $19
The age of technology has changed the way we access and process information. The challenge isn’t finding enough information about topics of curiosity; it’s sorting the good information from the bad. While there are many excellent sources on the web, there is also a great deal of misinformation, both intentional and not. 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 believe pseudoscience? How can we sort scientific reality from conspiracy theory and snake oil? Please note that parking is responsibility of the member.
Instructor: Jennifer Davidson
2 sessions: Fridays, Mar. 21, 28 10:30 a.m. – noon | Ottawa Surprise
Cost $38
Designing, installing, and maintaining beautiful waterefficient landscapes in the desert southwest can be tricky, yet very possible. Luckily, there are many resources available to help you achieve your landscaping and gardening goals. Whether you are at the beginning stages of planning, looking to better manage your existing landscapes and gardens, or somewhere between, this class is for you. Learn how to design your landscape to meet your needs, where to find resources for plant types, planting seasons, and watering needs, and tips for maintaining a beautiful, water-efficient yard. Our second session will be spent at the City of Surprise Xeriscape Demonstration Garden.
Instructor: Dr. Andrea Gilats Cost $19
1 session: Tuesday, Mar. 25 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom * FREE to Annual & Zoom Members
Why are so many of us afraid of growing old? Why has old age received such a bad rap? As educator Herbert Kohl says, “Old age is a time to contemplate and understand the contradictions and find a way to live in harmony with one’s spirit and conscience.” In this online lecture and conversation, we will enjoy some inspiring true stories about interesting old people, quiet our fears of losing our minds, our mobility, or our independence, and we will learn to resist ageism in our everyday lives. Join Dr. Andrea Gilats, a writer, educator, and author, to ask questions, share your stories, and get some nourishing food for thought.
Instructor: Stephen Hohendorf Cost $100
2 sessions: Tuesday, Mar. 25 & Sunday, Mar. 30 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. & noon – 5:00 p.m. | Arizona Broadway Theater
Phantom is a musical, with music and lyrics by Maury Yeston and a book by Arthur Kopit. Based on Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel The Phantom of the Opera, the musical was first performed in Houston, Texas in 1991. Phantom has appeared in over 1,000 productions worldwide, across America, Japan, Korea, the UK, Germany, Poland, Australia, Finland, Estonia, and the Philippines. Phantom tells of the heart-rending 19th century tale of Eric – disfigured from birth yet as beautiful on the inside as he is misshapen on the outside. Elisabeth Vincentelli of The New York Times declared “its closing song Home is among the most beautiful of the last 30 years - its ineffable melancholy is sublime.” Join ABT’s Education Director, Stephen Hohendorf, with special guest, for an indepth history of Phantom and a look inside Arizona Broadway Theatre’s hauntingly beautiful production. *Class price includes lecture class, lunch (choice between soup or salad, entree, coffee, tea and gratuity), and a matinee performance. Upgraded entrees, appetizers, desserts, and coctails are available for purchase as well. Class will be on Tuesday and the show on the following Sunday, 12:00 - 4:30 p.m.
Instructor: Dr. Abigail Henson
Cost $38 2 sessions: Wednesdays, Mar. 26 & Apr. 2
10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom
Led by Dr. Abigail Henson, Assistant Professor at ASU’s Watts College, this course addresses the unique communication challenges that arise in today’s diverse and fast-paced environments where misunderstandings can happen quickly. Participants will learn how to approach important conversations with empathy, understand different viewpoints, and improve their listening skills. Class will cover practical strategies for navigating difficult discussions, whether in personal relationships, community involvement, or other areas of life. We discuss these strategies especially in the context of intergenerational conversations and other challenging communication moments that are specifically relevant to older adults.
Instructor: Jan Krulick-Belin
1 session: Wednesday, Mar. 26 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
Cost $19
As the saying goes, “A thing of beauty is a joy forever,” and the desire to adorn oneself with beautiful things is as old as humankind. A magnificent jewel provides the perfect complement to the fashion of the day, but more importantly, reflects its owner’s taste, lifestyle, wealth, and status. This lecture will examine some of the great jewelry collections belonging to royals, aristocrats, divas, socialites, and Hollywood starlets—from the famous to the infamous. Learn how some jewels have been passed down through the centuries from one collection to the next, while others wound up on the auction block. Make sure to wear a favorite piece from your own collection!
The National Resource Center for Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (Osher NRC) 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 host “Osher Online,” offering 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. Space is limited. Times listed below are for Arizona residents.
102 | Bonsai, An Ancient Art in Modern Times
Instructor: Chris Baker
Mondays, Mar. 31 & Apr. 7, 14, 21, 28 & May 5 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. on Zoom
Cost $95
This course goes over all things bonsai, teaching horticulture, design, and technical skills to help you maintain healthy trees and develop your own style
See page 30 for full course description
105 | The Soundtrack of Rock & Pop in the 50s & 60s: The Magic of the Brill Building Era
Instructor: Michael Agron
Tuesdays, Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6
2:00 – 3:30 p m on Zoom
Cost $95
We will explore the vibrant music and influential personalities of the Brill Building era in New York City, focusing on iconic songwriters and their timeless hits from the late 1950s and 1960s
See page 31 for full course description
106 | Future Proofing Your Healthspan and Longevity
Instructor: Scott Fulton
Wednesdays, Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7
10:00 – 11:30 a.m. on Zoom
Cost $95
This course presents key strategies for extending healthspan through resilience and understanding societal changes, based on Fulton’s Whealthspan Masterclass, while distilling relevant age-related science
See page 31 for full course description
113 | Revealing the Wonders of Romanesque and Gothic
Architecture: An Expedition through Time, 1100-1500
Instructor: Dr. Ilya Dines
Tuesdays, Apr. 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. on Zoom
Cost $95
We will explore the evolution of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, focusing on their historical context, technological advancements, and cultural influences through engaging discussions and experiences
See page 32 for full course description.
117 | Car Crazy: 1950s Onward
Instructor: Pandora Paúl
Wednesdays, Apr. 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. on Zoom
Cost $95
In this course, we will examine key eras in automotive history to understand the cultural and societal impact of cars, exploring iconic designs, global car cultures, and how vehicles reflect creativity, status, and technological progress across different regions.
See page 34 for full course description
120 | Bella Napoli: Italy’s (Other) “Eternal City”
Instructors: Dr. Anthony Antonucci & Dr. Hilary Haakenson
Fridays, Apr. 11, 18, 25 & May 2, 9, 16
Cost $95 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. on Zoom
This six-week class offers a virtual tour of Naples, exploring its rich history and traditions through a dozen key monuments and historic sites, complemented by visits to the city's renowned pizzerias and cafes
See page 35 for full course description.
Instructor: Tina Miller Cost $19
1 session: Tuesday, Apr. 29 (DATE CHANGED) 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Friendship Village
Discover the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in this interactive workshop designed to showcase its transformative power for lifelong learners. Participants will receive the latest updates on cutting-edge AI initiatives at ASU from Executive Director of Creative and Communications within the Enterprise Technology (IT) division Tina Miller. Class will also cover the future of AI in higher education and generative AI. Additionally, attendees will delve into the technical aspects of generative AI with easy-to-understand explanations. By the end of class, you will leave with a wealth of knowledge on AI advancements and resources for further exploration. Please note: This class is being held at more than one OLLI location, check to make sure you are registering for the correct location. This class is the same class taught in Fall 2024 at other locations.
Instructor: Eric Heimbecker
1 session: Thursday, Mar. 27 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Downtown Campus
Cost $19
Explore creative ways to develop new ideas for a business or nonprofit in this fun and supportive workshop hosted by Eric Heimbecker from ASU’s J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship & Innovation Institute. We will examine the power of Design Thinking (an innovative approach that has produced some of the most iconic products and companies of the last 50 years) as well as get hands-on experience using its essential tools and processes. You will also learn about practical next steps to bring these ideas to life including resources available through ASU and local community partners. No previous experience with entrepreneurship is required—just bring your curiosity and collaboration!
Instructor: Suzanne Brayer Cost $19
1 session: Monday, Mar. 31 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom
The majority of us do 90% of our research online. Fortunately for us, thousands of digitized documents are being uploaded daily. The problem can be finding them. This presentation is geared to provide you with suggestions on how to make the most of your online research. Class will also discuss tips on how the internet can make you a better genealogist.
Instructor: Dr. Bill Terrill Cost $19 1 session: Monday, Mar. 31 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
This class will cover a number of policing strategies designed to prevent and control crime including: patrol (i.e., random preventative vehicle, foot, and hot spot/directed), community policing (i.e., community organizing, problemoriented, aggressive order maintenance/broken windows), focused deterrence, Compstat, intelligence-led policing, and predictive policing. We will review these strategies in terms of goals, operational dynamics, implementation challenges, potential concerns, and what we know about effectiveness from an evidence base.
Instructor: Chris Baker Cost $95 6 sessions: Mondays, Mar. 31 & Apr. 7, 14, 21, 28 & May 5 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. | NRC-Online Zoom
Bonsai is a centuries-old practice of training trees in containers to resemble those in nature. In this course, we will explore the key components of bonsai: horticulture, design, and technical skills. By the end of the course, you will understand how to maintain a healthy tree, develop your own design style, and apply essential techniques. Whether you are new to bonsai, have experience, or are simply curious, this course will guide you through the fundamentals of this fascinating art form.
Instructor: Dr. Eduardo Pagán
Cost $76 4 sessions: Tuesdays, Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22 10:30 a.m. – noon | Peoria Rio Vista
This course will be a sneak preview of a book manuscript in progress with Dr. Eduardo Pagán, an ASU professor of history and active public historian. The manuscript explores the dark underside of the American West from the 1840’s to the 1920’s. During this period, opium and opioids (specifically heroin and morphine), as well as cocaine, were commonly available and widely used. Dr. Pagán will bring to life the history of opium and opioids addiction and consequences related to their use, as well as treatments. Finally, we will discuss the ways in which an era of unrestricted narcotics helped shape the West.
Instructor: Dr. Kjir Hendrickson
4 sessions: Tuesdays, Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom
Cost $76
Have you ever felt like scientists are constantly changing their minds? Do you feel unsure about whether and when research can be trusted to help you make good decisions about health, behavior, or the environment? This class offers a deep, behind-the-scenes investigation of a world often inaccessible to those outside the scientific community. You will learn how modern science came to be, what scientists really do, and what makes findings reliable. Your tour guide won’t pull any punches when it comes to exposing weaknesses in the scientific process, and you will leave armed with a list of “red flags” that allow you to spot pseudoscience and untrustworthy research in the wild. Simply put, this course confronts the messy realities of scientific methodology, and—in so doing—forces us to abandon any sense of faith in science, and instead find trust.
Instructor: Michael Agron
Cost $95
6 sessions: Tuesdays, Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 & May 6 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | NRC-Online Zoom
The adventure begins in New York City, where the echoes of Tin Pan Alley's Great American Songbook still resound. We witness a new generation of talented songwriters, singers, and groups, who filled the airwaves and shaped the soundtrack of our lives. This course is a journey into the melodies, stories, and vibrant personalities behind the Brill Building era of the late 1950s and 1960s. We will discuss the music of legendary songwriters such as Carole King & Gerry Goffin, Neil Sedaka & Howard Greenfield, Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil, Phil Spector, Jerry Leiber & Mike Stoller, Ellie Greenwich & Jeff Barry, Burt Bacharach & Hal David, Neil Diamond, and others. Together we will rediscover the tunes from Elvis Presley, the Coasters, Dion and the Belmonts, the Drifters, Dionne Warwick, the Ronettes, the Shirelles, the Animals, the Monkees, Manfred Mann, Andy Williams, the unforgettable Righteous Brothers, and many others.
Instructor: Scott Fulton
Cost $95
6 sessions: Wednesdays, Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 & May 7 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | NRC-Online Zoom
Longevity comes down to one simple truth: our ability to weather the inevitable challenges life unexpectedly drops in our lap. Resilience is our ticket to extended healthspan. Western society is entering a phase of significant transformation that will change how we age. This course is a condensed version of Fulton’s Whealthspan Masterclass which focuses on the five foundations for extending healthspan and looks at societal changes that will impact all of us. We will distill the latest and most relevant age-related science for a general audience and explain the strategies for optimal outcomes that fit a wide range of cultures and values.
Instructor: Dr. Kenneth Urakawa
Cost $19 1 session: Wednesday, Apr. 2 10:30 a.m. – noon | Ottawa Surprise
Learn the science behind habit formation and discover practical strategies for building healthy habits with Dr. Kenneth Urakawa, associate professor at Ottawa college. We will explore how small, consistent actions can lead to meaningful changes in your well-being. Through selfassessment, goal setting activities, and group discussion, you will gain the tools to create sustainable wellness habits tailored to your lifestyle.
Instructor: Dr. Patrick Bixby
Cost $38 2 sessions: Wednesdays, Apr. 2, 9 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom
Narrow escapes and new starts, tearful departures and hopeful arrivals, unwanted scrutiny in the backrooms of officialdom – some of our most memorable experiences involve a passport. You’ve blessed, lamented, perhaps even cursed its existence, but have you ever stopped to ponder it? Join Professor Patrick Bixby as he traces the history of passports – from pharaonic Egypt and Han dynasty China all the way to modern-day refugee camps – by looking closely at the documents of artists and intellectuals, ancient messengers and modern migrants. Along the way, you’ll gain a deeper understanding (and perhaps reverence) for these seemingly humble documents — and how they implicate us in larger narratives about identity, mobility, citizenship, and state authority.
Instructor: Kurt Leuschner
Cost $19 1 session: Thursday, Apr. 3 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom
Imagine flying 8,000 miles nonstop for 11 days straight! Or finding your way to a remote forest wintering-site thousands of miles away that you have never been to, and with no one to guide you. Ornithologists have various ways to track these and other migrations that are occurring every spring and fall across our Sonoran Desert and beyond. We are fortunate to live along this Pacific Flyway – an avian freeway that stretches from Alaska all the way south to Patagonia. Soon our backyards will be filled with these colorful neotropical migrant bird species – some are just passing through while others will stay for the summer. Join Kurt Leuschner, Professor of Natural Resources, in this talk and discover the many ways that birds and other animals accomplish these incredible migrations.
Instructor: Dr. Rosemarie Dombrowski Cost $57
3 sessions: Mondays, Apr. 7, 14, 21 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library
In this class, we’ll explore both the verifiable and theorized medical conditions of the most famous American woman poet of the 19th Century, Emily Dickinson, as well as how those afflictions shaped her iconic verse. Per Dickinson’s own adage, “tell all the truth but tell it slant,” we’ll re-create some of our own afflictions/medical incidents – in verse and/or image – taking inspiration from Dickinson’s slanted, metaphorical style. No prior writing or poetry experience necessary! The class will culminate with a publication of our creative productions that will be presented and shared at an open community reading.
Instructor: Dr. Julie Stromberg
1 session: Tuesday, Apr. 8 9:00 a.m. – noon | South Mountain
Cost $19
Urban areas cover considerable land area. Urban gardeners have important roles to play in supporting wildlife, restoring Indigenous biota, mitigating the rising heat, producing food, providing ecotherapy, and building community. In this field class, we visit a re-wilded riparian garden in south Phoenix and discuss the benefits and challenges of tending such an irrigated green space. Students will deepen their understanding of ecological processes and ecosystem functions, meet plants, birds, and insects, learn how to harvest an Indigenous food (mesquite), and perhaps have their world view challenged. If you are interested in learning more about the riparian garden, you can read “Bringing Home the Wild: A Riparian Garden in a Southwest City,” written by the course instructor. For this class, please park across the street from 1200 W. South Mountain Avenue, along the edge of the road. Wear sturdy shoes, a hat, and field clothes such as long pants and an old shirt. Bring a water bottle, binoculars if you like, and packets to collect seeds if you wish. We will walk the trails of a 4-acre garden that is densely wooded in places.
Instructor: Dr. Nika Gueci
1 session: Tuesday, Apr. 8 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom
Cost $19
When we feel exhausted, isolated, or lacking hope, caring for ourselves can seem like just another burden on an already full plate. How can we nurture our own well-being to regain strength and balance? This session delves into the connection between hope, mindfulness, and compassion, offering practical, evidence-based strategies to build personal resilience. Participants will leave with tools to enhance their capacity for self-care, foster inner strength, and cultivate a sense of renewal in their daily lives.
Instructor: Dr. Ilya Dines
Cost $95
6 sessions: Tuesdays, Apr. 8, 15, 22, 29 & May 6, 13 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. | NRC-Online Zoom
Embark on a captivating exploration of the architectural wonders of the Romanesque and Gothic periods. This course offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of architectural styles, from the sturdy simplicity of Romanesque structures to the soaring heights and intricate details of Gothic cathedrals. Uncover the historical context, technological innovations, and cultural influences that shaped these magnificent edifices. Engage in enriching discussions, immersive experiences, and insightful lectures that unveil the craftsmanship and symbolism inherent in these masterpieces of stone and glass. Whether you are an avid history buff, an art aficionado, or simply curious about the past, join us on this exhilarating journey through the architectural marvels of the medieval era.
Instructor: Chris O'Brien
3 sessions: Wednesdays, Apr. 9, 16, 26 10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center
Cost $57
An understanding and appreciation of the religions of our neighbors is essential in a civil society. In his three-session class, Chris O’Brien, Fulbright winner, Musical Instrument Museum docent, and extensively traveled world history teacher, will explore a basic and practical journey through the “Western” religions of Judaism and Christianity. Chris will focus on the beliefs, practices, and social aspects of each religion covering how each has evolved historically and spiritually. We will also explore some of the interactions that have taken place among the religions. Copies of student notes will be available to participants prior to class. This provides the option of previewing the materials, printing, and bringing to class the notes. An optional field trip to a Jewish synagogue and a Christian church is scheduled for Saturday, Apr. 26. (time TBD).
Friday, March 7th 10 AM - 1 PM
Join ASU OLLI in the fight to end Alzheimer’s by supporting vital care, support, and research efforts!
Free Style Pickleball Game Play
Court and equipment provided
On-Site Pickleball Pro
Receive tips and instruction!
Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages Included (Details coming soon)
REGISTER FOR CLASS 075 IF YOU WANT TO PARTICIPATE
Instructor: Dr. Thomas Just Cost $19
1 session: Wednesday, Apr. 9 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom
In this course, students will be introduced to the primary manifestations of antisemitism and a number of important developments in recent years. The rise of conspiracy theories such as QAnon, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, a global rise in populist nationalism, emerging technologies, and conflict in the Middle East have all contributed to a reframing of antisemitic rhetoric and myths that have made the problem increasingly difficult to combat. Consequently, antisemitic crime and violence have reached new highpoints in several countries. Students will learn about some of the actions that have been taken by governments and NGOs to respond to this problem and will have the opportunity to discuss some recommendations to better address these forms of hatred in the future.
Instructor: Dr. Rebecca Wachs Cost $57
3 sessions: Wednesdays, Apr. 9, 16, 23 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | ASU Health Futures Center
Musculoskeletal disease is the leading cause of disability in the United States. Osteoarthritis of the hip and knee, and degenerative disc disease are the major diseases that result in musculoskeletal disability. The ideal treatment for these diseases would regrow or rejuvenate the injured joint, however current treatments commonly replace the injured joint with a metal implant with a limited lifespan. The overarching goal of this course will be to explore treatments of osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease currently in the clinic, in FDA clinical trials, and in cutting edge research labs. Course participants will gain a better understanding of the theories underlying the treatment of musculoskeletal diseases and learn about future regenerative approaches to joint damage.
Instructor: Pandora Paúl Cost $95
6 sessions: Wednesdays, Apr. 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. | NRC-Online Zoom
In this course, we will explore key eras of automotive history, as a way of understanding the profound impact cars have on society and culture. We will discuss the role of influential designers, the creation of iconic vehicles like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Corvette, and the appeal of visionary concept cars like the Ford Nucleon – all of which highlight the creativity and innovation of each era. We will discuss how global car cultures, from America’s muscle cars to Japan’s futuristic designs, reflect the unique identities and values of their societies. These vehicles have become symbols of creativity, status, and technological progress. Whether it's Germany’s precisionengineered sports cars or Italy’s exquisitely crafted performance masterpieces, each region brings its own distinct flavor to the world of automotive design. Learn how the worldwide car scene showcases the diversity of human innovation and cultural expression, cementing automobiles as both a tool of progress and a reflection of societal evolution.
Instructor: Julia Inozemtseva
3 sessions: Thursdays, Apr. 10, 17, 24
Cost $57
10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Chandler Innovation Center
In this course, we will delve into engaging comparisons between various educational systems worldwide. Professor Inozemtseva explores the unique challenges faced by international students and faculty, drawing from personal experience as a Ukrainian Associate Teaching Professor who has studied and taught in three different countries: Ukraine, Hungary, and the USA. She covers the ways that many of the challenges students face often arise from instructors' teaching methods—ranging from overly complicated word problems to group work lacking sufficient support or cultural understanding. These and other factors contribute to students' feelings of isolation, Impostor Syndrome or even depression. Awareness of these issues helps create a supportive environment that promotes diversity and inclusion in our communities.
Instructor: Dr. Clark Miller
Cost $57 3 sessions: Thursdays, Apr. 10, 17, 24
10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library
Solar energy is the cheapest, most abundant, and fastest growing source of energy on Earth. So, what does it mean for Arizona’s future? In this fast-paced series of deep dives into different facets of solar energy, Dr. Clark Miller – Associate Director of ASU’s School for the Future of Innovation in Society – explores how solar is changing how we think about energy and what it means for people, cities, cars, the desert, the economy, even culture. We’ll talk technology and climate change but also social movements, like solarpunk, that are using art and science fiction to dream about different solar tomorrows. Bring your imagination – and your questions!
Instructors: Dr. Anthony Antonucci & Dr. Hilary Haakenson 6 sessions: Fridays, Apr. 11, 18, 25 & May 2, 9, 16 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | NRC-Online Zoom Cost $95
In this six-week class, we will examine la storia e tradizioni of bella Napoli—a city famously pieno di contradizione (“full of contradictions”). Aimed at students and travelers alike, the course offers a virtual “grand tour” of Naples through a close examination of a dozen Neapolitan monuments/historic sites reflective of milestones in the city’s historical development from its origins through today, including: Castel dell’ Ovo, Spaccanapoli, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II , Castel Nuovo, the Duomo, Santa Chiara, i musei Capodimonte e Archeologico Nazionale, Palazzo Reale, Teatro San Carlo, and the Galleria Umberto I among others (including “side visits” to the city’s best pizzerias, food stalls, pastry shops and cafes!)
Instructor: Dr. Cynthia Lietz
1 session: Friday, Apr. 11
Cost FREE
10:30 a.m. – noon | ASU Health Futures Center * FREE to Annual & Spring Members.
Have you ever wondered how some people are able to overcome a particularly high amount of stress and adversity? Resilience is a process of coping and adaptation that occurs over time. Protective factors are the internal and external strengths that can be activated to help ignite this coping process. In this presentation, you will learn about the 10 most important strengths identified through research that activate resilience. Considering loss and other challenges are a part of the human experience, this presentation has application for all of us.
Instructor: Dr. David Schildkret
3 sessions: Tuesdays, Apr. 15, 22, 29 10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library
Instructor: John Hornick
2 sessions: Tuesdays, Apr. 15, 22 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. | Zoom
Cost $38
Have you been yearning to know all about Japanese sake? Please join John Hornick, who holds several sake certifications and interned in the Daimon brewery near Osaka, Japan, to learn the types of premium sakes and what makes them "premium.” In addition, you will learn how premium sake ingredients affect taste, aroma, and regionality. We will go over the three main brewing methods and how they affect taste, the importance of rice polishing ratio, and sake terms you need to know. A list of recommended sakes will be provided after you sign up. John will lead a tasting of any sakes purchased by the course participants (but no purchase is necessary).
Instructor: Denny Kato
2 sessions: Wednesdays, Apr. 16, 23 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom
Cost $57
Dr. David Schildkret, ASU Professor Emeritus of Choral Music, explores three monuments of western music: Mozart’s “Requiem,” “A German Requiem” by Brahms, and the Verdi “Requiem.” Each composer approaches the subject of death in a unique, powerful and moving way. The three classes will explore the background, content, and attitudes of the works from Schildkret’s unique perspective as a scholar and conductor. He will conduct the Brahms at Dayspring UMC in Tempe on May 18 and at New York’s Carnegie Hall on May 24.
Cost $38
Is Anti-Asian violence a modern-day occurrence? Not at all. Fear, hatred, and racism toward the Chinese and Japanese began in the mid 1800’s culminating with the incarceration of over 125,000 Japanese at the beginning of WWII, two-thirds of whom were US citizens. Join Denny Kato, a third-generation Japanese American (Sansei) and former U.S. Army military intelligence to discuss the how, when, and why racism landed Americans in what is more accurately described as prison camps. We will cover what we can do to countermand the effect of anti-Asian violence and racism in America today. With the continuing immigration and border crisis, we will see how the incarceration of the Japanese in WWII can repeat itself today and why we should be ever vigilant that this never happens again.
Instructor: Dr. Manushag Powell
2 sessions: Thursdays, Apr. 17, 24 10:30 a.m. – noon | Zoom
Cost $38
Everyone has heard about Captain Hook and Long John Silver, but what happened when a real pirate lost a limb at sea? Join Dr. Manushag Powell, Professor and Chair of the ASU English Department, and learn about maritime prosthetics for real Golden Age sailors, the relationship of able seamen towards the disabled, and whether Lord Nelson wore an eyepatch. Pirates may have been remorseless criminals, but they were also forward thinking in that they offered accidental death and dismemberment insurance to their brethren. Come for stories about life at sea and the perils of battle, scurvy, and alcoholism—and what they can teach us about today's attitudes toward disability.
Instructor: Dr. Heather Dudley
2 sessions: Thursdays, Apr. 17, 24 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom
Cost $38
This class builds upon Dr. Dudley’s previous courses on some of the forgotten founders. We will explore the fascinating life of John Hancock, a figure famously known for his prominent signature on the Declaration of Independence. While many recognize his name, few are familiar with the complexities of his life beyond this iconic act. We will explore how the son of a modest preacher became the wealthiest man in America and why, despite his financial success within the British Empire, he emerged as one of the earliest advocates of independence. James Wilson’s true legacy is only well known to dedicated students of the Revolutionary era. He is primarily known today for how his character was portrayed in the musical 1776. He was depicted as a reluctant delegate, unwilling to take a stand on controversial issues. This course aims to correct this insulting misrepresentation.
Instructor: Ken Sorensen
1 session: Monday, Apr. 21 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. | Tempe Public Library
Cost $14
From humble Iowa beginnings, John Wayne came to personify for millions of Americans, the nation's frontier heritage. During much of the decade of the 1930s, he played leading roles in B Westerns, culminating with his big break in John Ford's “Stagecoach” in 1939. It made him a star. This affable, giant of a man, had early athletic accomplishments, life-changing injuries, an active personal and political life, besides making 200 films in his lifetime.
128 | Member-Led Discussion: GeniusThe “Gifted” Brain
Instructor: Robin Engel
2 sessions: Mondays, Apr. 21, 28 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom
Cost $38
Join Robin Engel, gifted specialist, as she explores the intricacies of the brilliant mind. Have you ever wondered whether you might possess exceptional intellectual gifts— or perhaps even genius? What of your grandchildren? For nearly two decades, Robin has dedicated her life to working with gifted students as both a teacher and specialist. In this two-session course, we will explore the profound depths of genius, examining not only the cognitive and emotional attributes that characterize the gifted brain, but also what the very notion of genius may come to signify in the context of the imminent Singularity— an era when human intellect and artificial intelligence merge.
Instructor: Dr. Cassandra Lyon
2 sessions: Mondays, Apr. 21, 28 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Zoom
Cost $38
While traditions of caring for our domestic companion animals have been created and refined over many years, things can get complicated with wild animals. One way we reflexively view other animals is through anthropomorphism. Anthropomorphism is when we think about or describe nonhuman things or beings with human traits. We do this all the time, such as when we talk about ‘Mother Nature’, or claim our dog is jealous, or that killer whales are taking down yachts for revenge. Though at times this may seem silly, the ways we interpret and understand other animals has impacts on their lives. Join Dr. Lyon, PhD in the Biology and Society program at ASU, to glean a better understanding of the ways we understand other animals and can therefore improve the ways we interact with or care for the animals in our lives.
Instructor: Roger Naylor
1 session: Thursday, Apr. 24 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library
Cost $19
Discover the scenic wonders and cultural treasures of Arizona with Roger Naylor, an award-winning author. We will cover an extraordinary array of national park units (34 in all) that blanket Arizona from border to border. These parks range from the volcanic sprawl of stone hoodoos crowning Chiricahua National Monument to the badlands of Petrified Forest National Park, colored like blood and peaches. We will also discuss the miles of shoreline at Lake Mead National Recreation Area and the never- ending diversity of the Arizona National Scenic Trail traversing the length of the state. National monuments like Tonto, Wupatki, and Montezuma Castle hold on tight to our past. Others like Sonoran Desert and Vermilion Cliffs preserve our precious wide-open spaces. And all the parks reconnect us to nature. We hike, bike, kayak, ride mules, bounce down dirt roads, slither through slot canyons, and camp under skies dripping with stars. There is something here to pique everyone’s interest.
131 | Exploring the Masters of Jazz: Hard
Instructor: Dr. Jeffrey Libman
2 sessions: Fridays, Apr. 25 & May 2
10:30 a.m. – noon | Mesa Arts Center
Beginning Week of Apr. 28
Instructor: Darcy Kimball
1 session: Monday, Apr. 28 10:30 a.m. – noon | Tempe Public Library
Cost $38
This class will delve into the jazz styles that followed and extended the legacy of bebop into the 1950s and 60s, infusing bebop with elements of rhythm & blues and gospel music. Come learn about the music of Art Blakey, Horace Silver, Clifford Brown, and Jimmy Smith. This class is intended for jazz aficionados and those who would like to learn more about jazz! Instruments not required! The class will consist primarily of active listening to exemplary recordings with interspersed guided discussion.
Cost $19
The search for gold opened the American West in the mid19th century, but it was copper that sustained it for many decades thereafter. Copper is not as glamorous or alluring as the other coinage metals (silver and gold) but it is the most plentiful and perhaps, in the end, the most valuable. The procurement of copper has driven the history of many Western states, Arizona among them. Copper tells a rich story that weaves together threads of science, industry, and the settling of the West.
Instructor: li rothrock Cost $19 1 session: Monday, Apr. 28 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Tempe Public Library
Never before in history have we been so inundated by images, many of them doctored in a way as to sow mistrust, grab attention, and slant stories. This rise of AI in image generation affects us all: from grandchildren on Instagram to older adults paying attention to how our media circulates. As photographers (professional and amateur alike), AI introduces complex questions about authenticity, blurred boundaries between human and technology ownership, and ethical questions about strengths and limitations of AI use. Led by ASU graduate student li rothrock who studies photography, this course guides us through these conversations alongside a practical demonstration of AI image generation technologies (i.e. Midjourney) where participants will collectively use AI to generate/manipulate images.
Facilitator: Tammy Austin
Meeting: Friday, Mar 14 4:30 p m
SIG’s 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 will be listed online in the “Member Benefits, Events and Travel” tab and in the catalog of classes If you are interested you will register for a SIG the same way you do a regular OLLI class, by adding it to your cart. Each SIG is different, please read the description carefully The SIG facilitator will receive the list of registrants – name and email A welcome email will be sent out after you register, from the facilitator, with any needed details or information If you have any questions at that point, please email the facilitator for your SIG.
Please register for SIGs by Jan 13 Any registrations after this date, please email Kristi Schneider at Kschne20@asu edu directly
If you have ever wanted to learn the craft of mozzarella making and wine pairings, this night of food and fun is for you! We will spend our evening under the stars with Little Italy of Scottsdale’s mozzarella instructor Brandon Gioffre. Our mozzarella will be incorporated into our meal of Italian delights. Tanino Privitera, a Certified Sommelier will teach us i h h d h f ine pairing with the legendary Antinori wines Tanino spent this past summer i family in Tuscany Stephanie Mangoine comes from a long line of family cooks Italian cookie ending to our evening Your host Tammy Austin, a home chef d education. This is her second dinner of fun filled education. Her home is and Missouri.
Facilitator: Jim Stephens
Facilitator: Joanne Henning
Meeting: Starting Thursday, Jan. 9 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Join our delightful culinary journey designed for members ready to step out of their food “comfort zone ” Explore diverse cultures through their cuisine, in our unique classrooms, meeting for lunch at assorted ethnic restaurants around the valley. Savor authentic flavors, make new friends, and enrich your understanding of global traditions. Perfect for food lovers seeking adventure and connection! Our first food experience will be at a Persian/Middle Eastern restaurant Subsequent Thursday meeting dates will be determined by the group as a whole Details for our first meeting will be sent to registered members. This SIG will meet once monthly through April.
Meeting: Saturdays, Jan 25 & Feb 22 & Mar 22 & Apr 26 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This Special Interest Group will explore U.S. and Global Leadership issues. Topics are supported by current news articles and Great Decisions 2024 and 2025 booklets published by the Foreign Policy Association Members will share ideas in an open discussion format facilitated by Jim Stephens, Ph.D. The first session will be January 25 at 10:00 a.m. at the Tempe Public Library. Subsequent sessions will meet on the fourth Saturday of each month through April, at 10:00 a.m. Registered members will receive follow-up emails. The Great Decision booklets are highly recommended reading and can be purchased at www fpa org
OLLI at ASU members are invited to the
Upcoming OLLI Member Opportunity
Winter Conference on Applications of Computer Vision (WACV) in Tucson, on March 1-2, 2025
OLLI instructor YZ’ Yezhou Yang, Associate Professor, ASU School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence, is excited to invite OLLI at ASU members to this premier international computer vision event It is a great opportunity to connect with computer vision researchers and practitioners from around the world Witness the latest innovations these scientists are developing
This year's conference will be held at JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa. Member discount details and registration instructions will be located on the ‘Member Benefits, Events & Travel’ page under the Member Discount (MD) category. Watch for more detailed announcement and registration in late December.
Mondays, Apr. 7, 14, 21 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
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Classes listed in chronological order
PeoriaWest Campus
007 | The Mediterranean: A Geographic Region, Climate, & Cuisine
069 | Greek Art & Architecture
103 | The Dark Underside of the Old West
Tempe Public Library
006 | Space for All? A Conversation in Space Governance & Development
009 | Still Life with Watercolor & Gouache for Intermediate & Beginners
012 | Animal Mind Games
019 | Working Together: The Struggle to Govern the Commons
022 | Government & the Economy: An Introduction to Macroeconomic Policies
023 | Coffeehouses: The First 'Social Media' in History
040 | Central Asia & the New Silk Roads
044 | Fused Glass: Assembling Perseverance Piece by Piece
047 | The Coffee-Fueled Scientific Revolution
061 | Oceans & Society: Eat Fish while Saving Sea Turtles, Sharks & Whales
063 | The Social Side of Aging: Enhancing Social Bonds as We Age
066 | French Bouquet Workshop
073 | Ancient Olympia
082 | Asteroids, Comets, & the Kuiper Belt
083 | Snapshots & Highlights of Buddhism
090 | Nature & Wellness: Deep Connections
110 | Emily Dickinson & the Poetic Re-Creation of Medical Narratives
119 | The Future of Solar Energy
122 | Choral Masterworks: Three Great Requiems
127 | John Wayne: The Duke's Story
130 | Arizona National Parks & Monuments
132 | How Copper Grew the American West
133 | AI & Photography: The Good, the Bad, & the Uglyu
Friendship Village West Campus
028 | Creativity, Innovative Leadership, & the Aging Brain
033 | A Swiftly Warming Planet
098 | Embracing AI: Enhancing Lives & Communities
004 | Top 10 Things to Know About OLLI
013 | Gun Wars: The History of Gun Control & Violence in America
018 | U.S. Immigration: History, Perspectives & Challenges
043 | Danger, Suspense & Deception: The Best of Alfred Hitchcock
051 | The Best Rock Songs of All Time
076 | German Colossus: The Second Reich, 18701914
080 | Wines of California
087 | Volcanoes of Arizona?
089 | Art of the Now: Decoding Contemporary Art
094 | Radical Endurance: Growing Old in an Age of Longevity
096 | Navigating Difficult Conversations: Practical Strategies in Empathy
100 | Using the Internet Effectively in Genealogical Research
104 | Inside the Black Box: Beyond the Scientific Method
108 | A Cultural History of the Passport
109 | Bird Migration Through the Sonoran Desert
112 | Mindful Resilience: Strengthening Ourselves From the Inside Out
115 | Antisemitic Conspiracy Theories in the PostCOVID Era
123 | Japanese Sake 101
124 | Imprisoned Without Trial: Japanese Incarceration in WWII
125 | By Hook or By Crook: True Stories of Disabled Pirates
126 | John Hancock & James Wilson: Forgotten Founders
128 | Genius: The “Gifted” Brain
129 | Understanding the Animals Around You
060 | Marshall & MacArthur: Rebuilding Nations & Economies After WWII
091 | Coping With Stress for Mental & Physical Health
093 | Landscaping & Gardening in the Desert
107 | Building Habits for Lifetime Wellness
Classes listed in chronological order
Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center West Campus
038 | If You Can’t Stand the Heat, Stay Out of the Kitchen!
057 | Racelessness & New Representations of Humanity in Popular Media
005 | Contemporary Economic Warfare
008 | Diamonds: A Geologist's Perspective
010 | Unpacking High Healthcare Costs in the U.S.
015 | Immunotherapy for Cancer: Front-Line Treatment
017 | Reflections from the Holocaust: From Liberation & Loss to Love, Lemonade & Laughter
026 | Cannabis Sativa, the Environment & Your Health
027 | Amazing Tales of 20th Century Adventurers
035 | Who'll Stop the Rain: Respect, Remembrance, & Reconciliation in Post-Vietnam America
036 | The 14th Amendment: Defining A New Nation
039 | Tai Chi for Health & Wellness
045 | Winter Birding Hotspots in Phoenix
046 | Embracing AI: Enhancing Lives & Communities
052 | Age & IQ: Only a Number!
067 | Geology is Ecology’s Destiny
068 | Vietnam: Your Next Vacation Destination?
072 | A Second-Generation Memoir: Growing Up with Holocaust Survivor Parents
078 | History of the Native Peoples & Nations in the United States
079 | Stress, Your Immune System & Healthy Aging
084 | When Progressivism Wasn’t a Dirty Word
086 | Flowers, Flowers, Flowers: Various Mediums
097 | Collecting Bling: Fabulous Jewels & the Women Who Wore Them
101 | Policing Strategies
114 | Religions of Our Neighbors: Judaism & Christianity
116 | Can We Grow a New Joint?
121 | Finding Your Resilience
020 | Chandler Innovation Center Presents: Laser Cutting and Leather Embossing Workshop
024 | Conserving (or Restoring) & Using Vintage Hand Tools
025 | Forgiveness: An Ancient Concept, a Challenging Idea
037 | Shakespeare & Spirituality: The Tragic Hero's Journey
042 | The Olympics: Ancient & Modern
048 | Wild or Domesticated? Animal Management in the Ancient Southwest
071 | Chandler Innovation Center Presents: Laser Cutting and Leather Embossing Workshop
118 | International Education: The Life of International Students & Faculty in the US
016 | What to Listen for in Music: How to Fully Enjoy Your Concert Experience
131 | Exploring the Masters of Jazz: Hard Bop & Soul Jazz
014 | Medicine or Madness? The Use of Venom in Medicine
021 | Unraveling Correctional Policy: Insights & Innovations
053 | The Past, Present, & Future of Arizona’s Water
058 | Travel & Pop Culture: Places Featured in Your Favorite Movies & TV Shows
059 | Where Have All the Leaders Gone?
088 | Understanding Dementia 101: A Collaboration With Dementia Care & Education Campus
099 | Sparking Your Next Innovative Idea
029 | Transcending Loneliness
055 | Balancing Leisure & Quality of Life
070 | We Gotta Get Out of This Place: The Soundtrack of the Vietnam War
081 | Curry & Kreplach: A Unique Look at Jewish Communities Around the World
PO Box 37100, Phoenix, AZ 85069-7100
ASU Downtown Phoenix Campus 502 E Monroe St, Phoenix 85004
ASU Health Futures Campus 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
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
Surprise Regional Library 16089 N Bullard Ave, Surprise 85374
Tempe Public Library 3500 S Rural Rd, Tempe 85282