Register for Current Classes & Membership   

The Spring Semester Membership gives members access to all in-person and Zoom classes and events offered by OLLI at ASU for one semester.

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

The Phoenix Art Museum presents more than 30 examples of painting, sculpture, and decorative arts drawn from the most important Florentine Baroque art collection outside of Italy, assembled over more than 40 years by Houston-based art collector and co-founder of the Medici Archive Project, Sir Mark Fehrs Haukohl. Featured artworks by local Florentine artists and artists across Europe reflect Florence’s flourishing art industry, as well as the cultural and intellectual legacy of the Medici Grand Dukes on the Renaissance and Baroque movements. Led by Phoenix Art Museum docents, join us as we explore these themes and more through a lecture-style presentation and in-gallery exploration.

Explore how digital technologies and artificial intelligence affect the brain, behavior, and mental health. This course examines the impact of modern devices on attention, memory, emotions, and decision-making, while addressing ethical concerns like privacy and tech-based addictions. We will learn how neuroscience and psychology offer tools to support well-being in a rapidly evolving digital world.

*Please Note: Date in printed catalog is incorrect. Date has changed to Tuesday, April 28*

Step onto the home turf of the Arizona Diamondbacks and experience Chase Field like never before! This exclusive guided tour for OLLI members offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Major League Baseball’s most unique ballparks – complete with a retractable roof, poolside areas, and air-conditioned comfort in the heart of downtown Phoenix. During this 90-minute experience, participants will walk through the main concourse, dugout, and suite level, visit the luxury suites and Diamondbacks Hall of Fame exhibits, and tour the premium season ticket locations where Advantage Members sit. The experience also includes a Q&A session with members of the Diamondbacks ticket sales staff (TBD). Bring your curiosity, comfortable walking shoes, and your love of baseball – or simply a love of seeing how things work behind the scenes! Parking will be free at the Chase Field Parking Garage.

Join OLLI Intergenerational Scholar Allie Thurgood, ASU School of Art MA candidate, for a two-part, hands-on, heart-centered workshop where creativity and connection meet. This intergenerational class introduces participants to the basics of tile making with clay – including slab building, carving, and relief – while exploring how to tell stories through visual art. In the first session, each participant will create a personal story or memory as a tile mosaic. Then, partnered with another participant, they’ll co-create a second tile reflecting their shared conversation and emerging themes. In the second part of the workshop, participants will explore the basics of color mixing and painting on clay, bringing their tiles from the first session to life with color and detail. Rooted in community building and intergenerational exchange, this workshop emphasizes both the technical fundamentals of ceramics and the power of shared experiences. No prior clay experience is necessary – just bring your hands, your stories, and your curiosity!

Let’s delve into the lives and loves of history’s most legendary couples – from the mythic romance of Antony and Cleopatra to the passionate entanglement of Napoleon and Josephine. We’ll spotlight iconic literary figures like the Brownings, as well as famous royal duos, musical geniuses, and pioneering partners in science. And, of course, no tale of love would be complete without revisiting the grandparent of them all – Romeo and Juliet.

This class will explore how and why the press became a protected “business” and examine the early relationship between the Founders and the media. We will discuss Presidents and the media in wartime – how presidents have “used” the press, from party newspapers to radio, television, and now digital platforms. The class will also cover the rise of right-wing media in the 1980s and how the repeal of the Fairness Doctrine enabled Rush Limbaugh and his acolytes to dominate the airwaves. Additionally, we will investigate how Twitter (now X) and other online platforms have influenced presidential communication. Finally, we will examine current threats to press protections and how the courts are responding.

Join Amy Dolan from the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation to learn about bumble bee biology and conservation, and how community science volunteers across the U.S. are helping to map and protect these important native pollinators. Amy is an Endangered Species Conservation Biologist with the Xerces Society and the coordinator of the Mountain States Bumble Bee Atlas, which covers Colorado, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming. She is based in Grand Junction, CO.

Join McDowell Sonoran Conservancy docent and former executive director of the MSC, Mike Nolan, as he explains, through the eyes of a geologist, the “deep” history of the Valley of the Sun. The rocks and landscape around Phoenix reflect a long and complex geological history dating back more than 1.5 billion years. From ancient continental collisions to more recent volcanic activity, the physical world around us is the result of our geological past. This lecture will explore how geological forces acting on a continental scale created the present-day landscape and shaped the rocks exposed in the mountains and landforms of the region.

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.

The First Amendment’s speech and press freedoms are cornerstones of American democracy. Their presence – or absence – affects who we are as individuals, as a nation, as a culture, and as a species. A common question arises: Do we stand for principles that encourage or limit these freedoms? Just as journalists ask “Who? What? When? Where? Why? How?” to evaluate a story, we’ll do the same with this topic. Finding answers will take us into the realms of law, history, philosophy, journalism, and politics. As the title suggests, this two-session course will examine the origins of free expression as a value – how it developed in the United States – and the current realities of speech and press freedom in contemporary America.

You don’t need to be Betty Crocker or a professional pastry chef to whip up desserts that look and taste amazing. Impressive sweets aren’t reserved for TV kitchens or high-end bakeries. With just a few simple techniques, a dash of creativity, and some basic ingredients, anyone can create stunning treats right at home. A swirl of whipped cream, a scattering of fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of chocolate can completely transform a simple dessert into something eye-catching and elegant. All it takes is a willingness to try, a sense of fun, and maybe a sweet tooth or two to share. So, roll up your sleeves, open your pantry, and remember – the best desserts come from the heart, not a textbook.

Join Dr. Billie Enz, ASU Emerita professor, in this interactive session. We will discuss our intertwined memory systems, including sensory, working- and long-term memory. We will also review factors that enhance and inhibit memory and review practical ways to strengthen our memory throughout our lives. Finally, we will clarify the differences between age-related memory loss and dementia.

Why do some movies fill your entire TV screen while others leave black bars? Why are filmmakers like Christopher Nolan embracing IMAX – a format once reserved for natural history museums? And whatever happened to 3D – was it a fad, or a future that never quite arrived? This lively, visually rich class traces how the “shape” of movies has evolved from early Hollywood to the present day. We’ll explore why studios pushed widescreen technologies in the 1950s, how letterboxing and pan-and-scan transformed home viewing, and why directors like Quentin Tarantino and Paul Thomas Anderson are reviving vintage formats such as 70mm and VistaVision. By the end, you’ll see movies with new eyes, understanding the artistic, technological, and even economic choices behind what fills, or doesn't fill, the frame.

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

This class is being offered twice, one in the morning (Class 078) and one in the afternoon (Class 079).

Join Dr. Matthew Peeples, an Associate Professor in the School of Human Evolution and Social Change, for a one-of-a-kind class designed by an OLLI at ASU Intergenerational Learning Service Scholarship recipient. You will be introduced to the fascinating world of archaeology and discover how modern technology is transforming the way we study the past. Throughout this course, you will learn how archaeologists use new technologies to record and collect data from rock markings left behind by prehistoric Indigenous peoples. By the end of the class, you’ll be able to use your smartphone as a powerful tool to document and interpret rock markings and understand the valuable role of technology in advancing archaeological knowledge.
 

This class is being offered twice, one in the morning (Class 078) and one in the afternoon (Class 079).

Join Dr. Matthew Peeples, an Associate Professor in the School of Human Evolution and Social Change, for a one-of-a-kind class designed by an OLLI at ASU Intergenerational Learning Service Scholarship recipient. You will be introduced to the fascinating world of archaeology and discover how modern technology is transforming the way we study the past. Throughout this course, you will learn how archaeologists use new technologies to record and collect data from rock markings left behind by prehistoric Indigenous peoples. By the end of the class, you’ll be able to use your smartphone as a powerful tool to document and interpret rock markings and understand the valuable role of technology in advancing archaeological knowledge.
 

"Steve Bergsman Presents Fabulous Female Singers of the Fifties" is a 90-minute multimedia presentation that combines discussion of the songs and singers of the 1950s with on-screen visuals and, of course, audio of the era’s greatest tunes. The show is based on two books Bergsman wrote: "All I Want Is Lovin’ You" (about white female singers of the era) and "What a Difference a Day Makes" (about Black female singers of the era). The program moves chronologically. With the recent passing of Connie Francis, Bergsman has updated the presentation to highlight her contributions. It begins with songs like Teresa Brewer’s "Music! Music! Music!" and Patti Page’s "Tennessee Waltz" from 1950 and concludes with Connie Francis’s "Where the Boys Are," which is actually from the 1960s.

Join Randy Otto for a one-hour class and a 90-minute performance portraying Winston Churchill. The class runs from 2:00–3:00 p.m., followed by the show from 4:00–5:30 p.m. Whether delivering Churchill’s iconic speeches or engaging in one-on-one dialogues during “Ask Winston,” Otto conveys the essence of quick Churchillian wit, fierce tenacity, and the “never give in” resolve that inspired not only the British people but also rallied the free world in defense of liberty and freedom. Through his dedication, research, and passion for storytelling, Otto brings to life the complexities of this remarkable leader, highlighting the enduring relevance of Churchill’s legacy and the lessons it offers for future generations. During the class, Randy will discuss the history behind Churchill and explain how he prepares and recreates the character. The session also includes his renowned “Ask Winston Anything” segment.

In 1888, Bertha Benz made history as the first person to undertake a long-distance journey by automobile, showcasing the potential of her husband Carl Benz’s groundbreaking invention. Her daring 65-mile trip not only proved the practicality of the automobile but also ignited a global transformation in transportation. Join German historian Anette Isaacs as she brings to life the remarkable story of Bertha Benz – a courageous and visionary woman who helped drive the world into the modern age.

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

Join Chef Larry Canepa for a flavorful journey into the quirky, colorful world of food idioms! From “bringing home the bacon” to “spilling the beans,” many of the expressions we use every day have surprisingly rich – and sometimes downright bizarre – histories. These idioms often trace back to historical events, cultural traditions, and legendary figures, revealing how food has shaped not just our meals but our language and storytelling. You will discover the origins and meanings behind some of the most curious and creative food-related phrases in English. Along the way, we’ll enjoy tastings of a few delicious favorites that tie into the idioms we explore. Come hungry for knowledge and snacks as we mix language, history, and a pinch of humor in this one-of-a-kind culinary adventure!

From the top of Mt. Denali to the Arctic Coastal Plain, Alaska is a place of raw natural beauty and power, home to glaciers, tundra, caribou, and both polar and grizzly bears. Alaska also has a colorful political history that began as Seward’s Folly, progressed to a front line of the 20th-century Cold War, and today serves as a stage where the entire climate change debate plays out on a landscape rapidly experiencing the warming effects of fossil fuel combustion – while also being developed for the extraction of those same fuels. This class will explore both the marvels of nature and the foibles of our own species as they have shaped the largest and northernmost state in the union.

Come experience Indigenous creativity at the Heard Museum! Dan Hagerty, Chief Advancement Officer, will welcome you with a 30-minute presentation about the museum. Following the welcome, enjoy a guided tour with Heard Museum Assistant Registrar Roshii Montaño (Diné) of Kay WalkingStick / Hudson River School, which showcases landscape paintings by the renowned contemporary Cherokee artist Kay WalkingStick in conversation with classic works from The New-York Historical Society’s 19th-century Hudson River School collection. The exhibition examines contemporary Indigenous art within the changing discourse of American art history while also sparking critical discussions on land dispossession. After your tour, stay for lunch at the Heard Museum Courtyard Café and visit the newly remodeled Heard Museum Shop.

This class will cover the basic tools of literary memoir, with a focus on micro and flash memoir – memoirs in the 250–1,000-word range. We'll read, discuss, and write micro-memoirs, which we'll share in class and with your permission, publish on the ASU OLLI Community Blog. No prior writing experience is required.

We live in a society that values youth more than the elderly. As a result, older Americans may feel discounted and are likely to experience age discrimination. Mature individuals can be their own worst enemies by buying into the false notion that they have less to offer society. Join Dr. Jack Gilbert, a Clinical Professor in the College of Health Solutions at ASU, to explore ways to challenge these assumptions and learn about pathways for contribution and purpose according to your own wishes. We will focus on valuable research and gain a first-hand appreciation of the challenges faced through Dr. Gilbert’s lived experience as a working 79-year-old.

Grand narratives of global history often emphasize human movement across the Atlantic – when they consider oceans at all. Yet the Pacific Ocean has long been a vital arena of human activity, rich in stories of migration, cultural exchange, and ecological transformation. In this engaging talk, Dr. Toby Harper presents the Pacific not merely as a backdrop but as a central force in shaping global history. Together, we’ll explore how the Pacific has connected peoples, plants, animals, ideas, and artistic traditions across vast distances – revealing a world history that is deeper, broader, and more interconnected than the familiar Atlantic-centered view.

Dr. Eduardo Pagán, Bob Stump Endowed Professor of History at Arizona State University, will delve into the nature of Violence and Order in Territorial Arizona. Taking 1874 as a case study, he explores what essentially was a low‑intensity warfare amid weak civil institutions, which illustrates how violence enforced territorial settlement and mirrored wider Western trends of high per capita homicide rates in sparsely populated frontiers. He also examines spatial patterns to determine where violence is most likely to occur, under what circumstances, and with what means. Finally, by examining the per capita death rates, he will also investigate which populations were most affected by frontier justice.

Sports and politics have always been connected, even when athletes and fans claim they’re separate. From the original Olympics to Jesse Owens competing in Nazi Germany in 1936, to Muhammad Ali’s resistance to the Vietnam War draft, the two have been intertwined – whether we like it or not. This course explores the historical relationship between sports and political movements, as well as how politics has shaped the world of sports. We’ll examine how teams, leagues, and athletes have navigated race, gender, law, and nationalism in a seminar setting that encourages discussion and participation.

This four-week series explores the music of America and how it both shaped – and was shaped by – the nation’s identity from its infancy to the present day. We’ll begin by examining what America inherited musically from the European roots of its colonists and how the people and the land they encountered influenced and expanded that musical language. How did different approaches to religious life shape the music used in rituals and ceremonies? Regional influences also played a major role in the development of American music, and we’ll explore those contributions. Along the way, we’ll ask: “Is there an American sound, and if so, what might it be?” Audio, video, and visual art examples will illustrate this journey, covering the creation of popular music, jazz, country, American concert music, theatre music, rock and roll, and contemporary sounds.

In 1935, with the breakthrough of the Benny Goodman Orchestra, jazz became the most popular music in the United States. Big bands existed before Goodman, and today we have around 100 years of this music to explore, dating back to the 1920s with early exemplars such as Fletcher Henderson and Duke Ellington, and continuing to modern masters like Maria Schneider. This class is intended for jazz aficionados and those who want to learn more about jazz – no instruments required! The class will consist primarily of active listening to exemplary recordings, interspersed with guided discussion.

FRIENDSHIP VILLAGE RESIDENTS SHOULD CONTACT THEIR ACTIVITIES DEPARTMENT DIRECTLY TO REGISTER. PLEASE DO NOT REGISTER IN OLLI SYSTEM.

Undoubtedly, AI will become deeply integrated into medical education as well as clinical and research medicine. While there are many advantages, there are also challenges and details that remain to be refined. This talk will highlight controversies surrounding AI, including educational, ethical, and legal issues.

In 1993, a mysterious and deadly disease outbreak struck the Four Corners area, killing young Navajos. What came to be understood as a novel hantavirus represented a wave of newly emerging infectious diseases around the world. We will get an inside look into the life of an epidemiologist investigating notorious disease outbreaks – from hantavirus to West Nile, from Valley fever to plague, and from COVID to bird flu. We will go into the deep past to understand how pathogens have moved around the world, explore the threat of bioterrorism and man-made disease outbreaks, and learn what it might all mean for responding to future pandemics.

Italy's most populous and economically powerful regions, with a legacy rooted in a long history of independence, trade, and industry, tell a story of division and unification, shaped by Roman roads and papal influence. These regions are now powerhouses of culture, learning, and culinary excellence. The cuisine of Northern Italy is distinctly different from that of the South, often emphasizing butter, cream, rice, and polenta rather than the South’s olive oil- and tomato-based fare. Heartier flavors reflect the cooler climate and influences from neighboring countries. Northern Italy is considered the country’s “culinary capital” – home to balsamic vinegar, focaccia, pesto, Parmigiano–Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, truffles, and many of Italy’s finest wines.

Alfred Hitchcock’s Oscar-nominated 1944 drama Lifeboat is a masterfully composed allegory of the Allied forces during WWII and their need to unite to defeat the Nazi enemy. The film’s powerful interplay of suspense and emotion is all the more remarkable given that it is set entirely on a lifeboat and shot on the backlots of 20th Century Fox. This class explores the innovativeness of Lifeboat as well as its controversies: John Steinbeck, who wrote the original story, denounced the film as racist and anti-labor; the Production Code Administration navigated concerns over gruesomeness and vulgarity; and several prominent critics claimed it was anti-democratic.

Have you ever wondered who writes presidential speeches? This course traces the evolution of speechwriting from George Washington’s administration to today. Yes, Hamilton helped draft Washington’s Farewell Address, but no, Lincoln did not scribble the Gettysburg Address on an envelope. We will study the writing process presidents used and examine drafts from FDR, Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Carter, and George H.W. Bush. We will view clips from speeches and from former White House speechwriters describing the process.

In 2026, Route 66, America’s iconic “Mother Road,” celebrates its 100th anniversary. Join acclaimed author and travel writer Roger Naylor as he takes us on a lively and insightful journey through the history, culture, and enduring charm of this legendary highway. Discover how Arizona played a pivotal role in preserving Route 66, becoming its greatest champion and caretaker. Roger will share stories of the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant small towns, and quirky mom-and-pop eateries that still thrive along Arizona’s stretch of the road. Don’t miss this chance to rediscover the road that shaped a nation and continues to inspire wanderers today.

Throughout his 1000-day presidency, John Kennedy pursued peace through a broad spectrum of initiatives. He saw a connection between learning and leadership and sought to use military deterrence, diplomacy, and soft power in novel ways. In this course, we will explore how his character and life experiences were the origins of those efforts. We will evaluate his powers of persuasion by listening to key speeches, and we will assess his successes and failures and their relevance to today’s world.

Step behind the curtain and meet L. Frank Baum, the imaginative mind who brought "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" to life. We’ll explore Baum’s prolific storytelling career, with special attention to the theatrical adaptations that helped turn his fantasy world into a stage spectacle. From early stage productions and silent films to the beloved 1939 musical film, discover how Baum’s vision evolved in the limelight. We’ll also trace Oz’s enduring influence on pop culture – from Broadway hits and reimaginings to countless references in music, fashion, and film – proving that, more than a century later, the Yellow Brick Road still leads somewhere magical. Class: 10:30 - noon, Show: 2:00 - 4:30 p.m.

From poisoned cups to daggers in the dark, the ancient world was rife with rumor, suspicion, and political intrigue. Was Alexander the Great murdered by his generals? Did Nero set the Great Fire of Rome to build his Golden House? Were the Bacchic rites really a secret underground cult? Who mutilated the sacred herms of Athens, bringing on military disaster? This class explores famous conspiracies – real, imagined, and exaggerated – from Greece and Rome. Together we’ll sift fact from legend, see how ancient writers shaped stories of treason, and consider why conspiracy theories held such power then – and why they still capture imaginations today.

Nature journaling is a practice that blends observation, curiosity, reflection, and creativity to deepen our connection with the natural world. Spending time in nature offers numerous physical and psychological benefits, and journaling enhances these effects by encouraging mindfulness and intentional engagement. In this two-part class – Friday in the classroom and Saturday in the field – participants will learn what nature journaling is, its purpose, and the benefits it provides. You will explore a variety of observational techniques to record details about the natural environment, including plants, animals, geologic landscapes, and weather. Through hands-on exercises, you will test out different journaling methods, such as drawing, labeling, mapping, and descriptive writing, discovering which approaches resonate most with your own style. In addition to recording observations, you will reflect on personal experiences in nature, deepening your awareness and appreciation of the world around you. The goal is not to become an expert artist or naturalist, but to cultivate a sustained practice of curiosity and wonder. By the end of the course, you will have the tools to slow down, notice more, and create a meaningful, mindful connection with your environment. Nature walk will be at the McDowell Mountain Preserve, Bajada Nature Trail (starting at the Gateway Trailhead) 7:00 - 8:30 a.m.

We are living through a moment of extraordinary transformation—one shaped by artificial intelligence, global connectivity, and rapid technological change. In this engaging keynote, ASU CIO Lev Gonick invites us to explore how we might navigate the opportunities and challenges of the AI era with curiosity, purpose, and wisdom. Drawing on decades of experience at the intersection of education, innovation, and public service, Lev will offer a big-picture perspective on where AI is taking us, why it matters, and how lifelong learners of all ages have a vital role to play. This talk sets the tone for a dynamic week of conversation and discovery.

Join us for an entire week of innovation and inspiration!

AI & Technology Week Bundle & Save! – $120 ($43 Savings) - This bundle is only available to the first 40 registrants! Package Includes:

• 108 | Navigating the AI Era: Wisdom, Wonder, & What Comes Next
• 109 | Life in a Sci-Fi Novel: Technology, Humanity, & Transformation
• 110 | The Human Element of War: Why Technology Can’t Eliminate Destruction
• 111 | The Paradox of GenAI: Smart, Drunk, Biased & Sycophantic
• 114 | Technology & the Changing Character of Irregular Warfare
• 115 | From Bookshelves to Breakthroughs: Inside Amazon's Innovation Engine
• 116 | Law & Governance of AI
• 117 | OLLI Celebration of Excellence & The Art of AI: Creativity, Storytelling, & the Human Touch

If you choose the bundle, please do not register for these courses individually.  This bundle does not include two workshops scheduled for the week (Class 112 and 113).  Please register for those separately if you want to attend them.  

Previous technology systems, such as the railroad and electrification, dramatically changed human, natural, and built systems at regional and global scales – but that’s nothing compared to what today’s rapid – and accelerating – evolution across the entire frontier of technology might do. Even today, AI writes music, novels, and Ph.D. dissertations, and creates fascinating paintings and videos from simple verbal commands. It is becoming impossible to know whether a picture, video, or voice is real or fake. That call from your mother might actually be from an AI, which could then use your voice to scam money from your friends and bank accounts. Meanwhile, many start-up companies are developing “brain chips” that could enable telepathy between humans, as well as metacognitive mixtures of AI and human cognition that may surpass the most gifted humans. Scientists are increasingly treating the human aging process as a curable disease, believing that our children may live healthy lives of 150 to 200 years – perhaps much longer. These are only a few examples in a future where our planet, and humans themselves, become design spaces subject to deliberate change in ways never before possible. The psychological, political, economic, and social implications are vast, but we are not helpless: there are ways to think about and prepare for this turbulent period of change.

As artificial intelligence and autonomous systems advance, many futurist technophiles predict a world where machines will fight wars for us, thereby reducing human suffering and political risk. Yet history and strategy suggest otherwise. Dr. Amos C. Fox argues that the increasing reliance on unmanned and autonomous systems may actually make future wars longer, more destructive, and less decisive. Drawing on his recent research on attrition and decision-making in war, Dr. Fox explains that when policymakers no longer bear the full political cost of losing soldiers, they may be less inclined to end conflicts quickly. Destroying a fleet of drones does not carry the same emotional or political weight as losing human lives. Thus, wars may extend into multiple “phases,” compounding destruction and exhausting national resources. This talk explores the limits of technology in changing human behavior and strategic decision-making. Ultimately, Dr. Fox contends that war remains a deeply human endeavor – shaped by will, emotion, and political purpose. Machines may characterize the battlefield, but much of what we know about war will remain.

Generative AI has entered our classrooms and conversations with remarkable speed – promising innovation, raising alarms, and sparking debates. But how should we make sense of tools that can be, as Dr. Punya Mishra puts it, smart, drunk, biased, and sycophantic all at once? In this thought-provoking session, Dr. Mishra explores the contradictions at the heart of GenAI in our daily lives. These tools dazzle us with intelligence yet stumble in unexpected and sometimes troubling ways. They generate brilliant insights alongside confident nonsense, amplify existing biases while claiming objectivity, and eagerly agree with us even when we’re wrong. Drawing on his deep expertise in educational technology, Dr. Mishra will unpack both the possibilities and pitfalls of working with these paradoxical systems. Through stories, insights, and provocations, this session invites participants to move beyond surface-level fascination or fear and develop a more nuanced understanding of AI’s role in our world. Whether you’re an educator, professional, lifelong learner, or simply curious about the AI revolution, you’ll explore what it means to navigate an age where AI is no longer science fiction but part of daily life – and how we can engage with these tools thoughtfully, critically, and creatively.

Join us for an engaging session at Arizona State University’s Artificial Intelligence Cloud Innovation Center. See firsthand how ASU students are using Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud technology to solve real community challenges. In this session, you’ll hear from the bright minds behind innovative public service projects and learn how artificial intelligence is making a difference in our community. Experience real-world examples of cloud technology in action and chat directly with students and program leaders. Perfect for anyone curious about how today’s technology is improving our daily lives and how students are preparing to enter the workforce – no technical background needed! A lunch break with provided lunch thanks to the generosity of the ASU Cloud Innovation Center will be provided for participants!

Curious about artificial intelligence and how it might fit into your everyday life? In this interactive session, you will explore what AI is, how it works, and how it can help you approach everyday tasks with more confidence and creativity. Using tools like ChatGPT, you will practice real-world applications such as writing messages, planning trips, organizing information, and exploring creative ideas. The session will focus on simple, approachable ways to use AI thoughtfully and responsibly in daily life. Please bring a laptop or iPad for guided hands-on practice and exploration. Participants are encouraged to create a free ChatGPT account before class to maximize the benefits of the hands-on activities.

While most discussions of modern conflict focus on tanks, drones, and great-power competition, the majority of today’s wars are irregular – struggles waged by states and non-state actors for power, influence, and legitimacy among populations. This session explores how rapidly advancing technologies – artificial intelligence, social media, cyber operations, and autonomous systems – are transforming the way such contests are resourced, fought, and won. Drawing on recent lessons from across the globe, Dr. Gleiman examines how these tools and trends empower both governments and insurgent movements to mobilize supporters, manipulate narratives, and compete for control, sometimes without firing a shot. He will also discuss how the Department of Defense and allied nations are rethinking doctrine and education to adapt to this evolving landscape of conflict. Participants will come away with a deeper understanding of how technology is reshaping not just warfare, but the very nature of political struggle in the 21st century.

From its humble beginnings as a bookseller in 1994, Amazon has transformed into one of the world’s most innovative enterprises. In this session, an Amazon senior leader and certified Culture of Innovation expert will reveal the deliberate strategies behind this remarkable growth. Discover the core principles and organizational systems that drive Amazon’s continued success, including its Leadership Principles and Day 1 culture. Through compelling insights and firsthand experiences, learn how Amazon consistently fosters innovation across its global operations.

Artificial intelligence holds almost unlimited potential benefits for individuals and society, but it also presents many risks. These risks include threats to safety, security, privacy, fairness, inclusiveness, autonomy, and democracy. This presentation will briefly discuss these risks and the need for governance. However, due to factors such as the “pacing problem,” traditional government regulation is incapable of keeping pace with AI and managing its risks. Two other systems will be needed to supplement – or even stand in for – government regulation in managing AI risks. The first system is comprehensive AI risk management frameworks promulgated by standard-setting organizations such as ISO, IEEE, and NIST. The incentives and pressures needed to encourage companies to align with such private standards will be explored. The second system is criminal and civil liability, and the dimensions, opportunities, and challenges of holding AI companies accountable for harms they inflict will be discussed. The effectiveness of these two alternative systems of governance will be critical for achieving the safe and beneficial implementation of AI.

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 for their financial support. This combined support ensures the long-term sustainability of our enriching educational and social programming that touches so many lives.

This special event will also feature a presentation by Tina Miller, 'Catalysts of Creativity: ASU’s Human + AI Collaboration' exploring the intersection of technology, imagination, and human connection.

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Event Schedule

12:30 p.m.         OLLI Showcase 2026

1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Catalysts of Creativity: ASU’s Human + AI Collaboration |

Panel:

• Tina Miller, Executive Director - Creative x Communications, Enterprise Technology

• Lindsay Kinkade, Managing Director, Creative Strategy, Enterprise Brand Strategy and Management

• Kelly DeVos, Communications Specialist, School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence

• Carrie Peterson, Associate Director, EdPlus Voice Strategist, EDPLUS Strategic Communications

Artificial intelligence is redefining what’s possible. Rather than viewing AI as a challenge to education or creativity, ASU embraces it as a catalyst for innovation. This panel explores how university teams are using AI to expand imagination, design, and storytelling. Through collaboration, storytelling, and experimentation, these teams are redefining creation in the age of intelligent technology—where imagination and AI unite to shape the future of possibility.

2:00 - 2:30 p.m. OLLI at ASU Recognition & Year in Review Presentation

2:30 - 3:30 p.m. Reception

It has been 250 years since the Second Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, and it remains the best-known document in American history. Explore the Declaration as more than a founding document – discover it as a powerful work of language and revolutionary ideas. This course examines how Jefferson’s words on equality, liberty, and happiness have shaped American identity and inspired global movements. We’ll analyze its philosophical roots, rhetorical brilliance, and political arguments, asking what these ideals meant in 1776 – and what they mean today.

We can all probably recall our high school science classes, where a periodic table of the elements almost certainly hung on the wall. This simple chart represents the handful of discrete substances responsible for the makeup of everything in the universe. Each element has a unique set of properties – but each also has a story to tell. In this class, we will spend time with a few of these elements, exploring their place in our world – from those that have shaped human history to ones that make for spectacular parlor tricks!

"Superman" (1978) – the classic big-screen treatment of the Man of Steel – ushered in the modern superhero genre and made audiences believe a man could fly. ASU film professor Dr. Joe Fortunato will screen, discuss, and provide live commentary on this 1978 classic. The class will begin with a brief discussion about the background and making of the film. During the screening, live commentary will offer insights into the filmmaking process and guidance on how to read a film creatively. After the film, we’ll discuss what we’ve learned and debate whether it lives up to its reputation as one of the great superhero films and a landmark in American cinema.

The light visible to human eyes represents only a small portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. Infrared light has longer wavelengths than visible light – although we cannot see it, cameras equipped with special detectors can. In this class, we’ll explore electromagnetic energy and demonstrate an infrared camera in action. Infrared observations are invaluable for studying the Earth, as well as other planets, moons, and asteroids. We will also discuss their role in monitoring global warming and greenhouse gases on our planet.

In this talk, you will discover how the Sistine Chapel ceiling paintings are connected to unwashed socks. We will take a detailed look at the Sistine Chapel artworks, uncovering fascinating facts and sharing funny and informative stories about the people and scenes depicted on the ceiling. The session will also cover a brief history of the Sistine Chapel and explore Michelangelo’s thoughts and poetry regarding the painting of the ceiling.

This course will examine the cultural transformations in thinking and living that reshaped America and Western Europe between World War I and the Great Depression. Known as the Roaring Twenties, the Jazz Age, and the Lost Generation, this period redefined values and norms. We will explore the vibrant world of 1920s Paris through F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Babylon Revisited and Bernice Bobs Her Hair, Ernest Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises, and Gertrude Stein’s The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas, considering the lasting legacy of the era.

Musculoskeletal disease is the leading cause of disability in the United States. Osteoarthritis of the hip and knee, as well as degenerative disc disease, are the major conditions that result in musculoskeletal disability. Diagnosing these conditions often involves complex imaging modalities, including X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT). This class, led by Dr. Rebecca Wachs, Associate Professor in the School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, will explore how these imaging modalities work and how they are used alongside other information to make diagnoses. Current research into imaging will also be discussed, highlighting potential future modalities. Participants will gain a better understanding of how imaging is used to diagnose musculoskeletal diseases and what the future of imaging may hold.

Our life experiences leave lasting marks – not just in our memories, but deep within our biology. In this class, Dr. Candace Lewis, a neuroscientist at ASU, will explore how stress, connection, and even powerful therapeutic experiences can influence the brain and the tiny chemical tags on our DNA that help control how genes are expressed. This emerging field, known as epigenetics, reveals that our biology is not fixed – it is responsive, resilient, and capable of change throughout our lives. Dr. Lewis will also discuss her research on how new treatments, including psychedelic-assisted therapy, may help people heal from trauma and depression by promoting epigenome changes that underlie the brain’s ability to adapt. The talk will be uplifting, easy to understand, and focused on how science is uncovering the biological roots of renewal and emotional well-being.

This discussion examines the Rule of Law in American history. We will begin with concepts of Natural Law and the Rule of Law, trace its development through Greek and Roman courts, and explore its relationship with democracy. The course will also cover the Rule of Law and individual rights, concluding with a focus on the Rule of Law as a promise. This topic is as important now as ever.

Before she died in 1974, Felicia Bornstein Lubliner wrote about her internment in ghettos and concentration camps in Nazi-occupied Poland – powerful stories later published by her son. Irving Lubliner, professor emeritus at Southern Oregon University, will share excerpts from "Only Hope: A Survivor’s Stories of the Holocaust," shedding light on his mother’s fortitude and indomitable spirit, as well as his own experience as a child of Holocaust survivors. Participants will gain insight into the Holocaust through the eyes of a survivor and learn how the instructor, the child of two survivors, was shaped by his parents’ experiences.

The 1946 film "Notorious," set during World War II, features director Alfred Hitchcock and actors Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman at the height of their talents. In this twisted spy thriller and anguished love story, Hitchcock evokes darker shades of suspense and passion than in his previous works by casting two of Hollywood’s most beloved stars boldly against type. On one hand, "Notorious" tells the story of a man in love with a woman who must seduce and then marry another man as a spy for the U.S. government. On the other hand, the film is a tale of geopolitical intrigue that blends myth and reality, exploring themes of Nazism, the atomic bomb, and America’s Good Neighbor Policy.

Gardening in hot, arid regions presents unique challenges that differ significantly from those in other climates. This class – taught by horticulturist Noelle Johnson (“AZ Plant Lady”) – provides practical guidance on creating and maintaining a vibrant, sustainable desert landscape. Topics include avoiding common design and maintenance mistakes, selecting appropriate plant species, and implementing effective strategies to ensure a thriving garden in hot, dry environments.

The supplement industry thrives on promise – but how much of it is backed by science? In this course, we’ll examine the evidence behind some of the most popular products, from vitamin D to CBD (a best-seller that’s technically illegal to market as a supplement). Along the way, we’ll explore the regulatory gray areas, discuss why supplements remain largely unpoliced, and learn how smart consumers can separate hype from health – and spend their money where it matters.

Who are your heroes? Why did they influence your life in nature and conservation? Come learn about famous conservationists and nature leaders who inspired others to become today’s ardent and passionate advocates. We will discuss why Teddy Roosevelt is considered the most powerful voice in the U.S. conservation movement and why Arizona is arguably the richest state in public lands. Together, we will explore these questions: Why are these individuals examples of leadership, and why is their impact important today? Where are the modern-day leaders that your children and grandchildren can recognize and celebrate as nature legacies?

Arizona-based artist Jana Peterson creates striking images that range from earthy abstractions and portraiture to futuristic galactic visions. Coming from a family of artists and teachers, she holds an M.A. in Art Education from A.S.U. and has been teaching and painting for over 30 years. Jana is a professional painter with the soul of Matisse – her work is dramatic, vivid, and bold, merging art and technology. Peterson is joining us to celebrate her works on display – and to have a little fun making art with us! We’ll be painting "Bryggen" (the dock), a historic harbor district in Bergen, one of Norway’s oldest port cities on the west coast and a center for Hanseatic trade. Bryggen has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979.

Stand up for your rights! Your high school civics teacher, Glenn Beck, and Bob Marley all urge you to stand up for your rights – but what are they? The original Constitution lists very few. Although the Bill of Rights adds several, many rights – such as the right to vote and public education – were never included by the framers. You might think of the Ninth Amendment: all those rights not listed, we still get to keep, right? The problem is, as Justice Robert H. Jackson quipped, “[T]he Ninth Amendment rights which are not to be disturbed by the Federal Government are still a mystery to me.” This presentation examines the “mystery” of what rights are, their origins, and how we balance them in law and society.

Discover what life was like in World War II–era Los Alamos, New Mexico – the secretive site where the world’s first atomic bomb was developed. Drawing from research for her historical novel Hill of Secrets, author Galina Vromen explores the key decisions behind the use of the bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki and examines how those choices shaped post-war nuclear policy and continue to influence global nuclear proliferation today. Through historical insight, Vromen brings this pivotal moment in history to life.

Water is Arizona’s lifeline; however, that lifeline is under strain. As Colorado River water supplies shrink, groundwater levels decline, and cities continue to expand, the question becomes urgent: Where will Arizona find its next bucket of water? This clear and engaging two-part presentation series examines the state’s current water supplies and highlights innovative strategies that experts and communities are developing to meet future demand. Topics include desalination, advanced water recycling, rainwater and stormwater harvesting, water importation, cloud seeding, and groundwater recharge. Participants need no scientific background – only curiosity and concern for Arizona’s future. Whether you have lived in Arizona for many years or recently arrived, you will gain insight into the challenges ahead and the critical choices that will determine Arizona’s water future.

Join Denny Kato, a third-generation Japanese American and retired U.S. Army lieutenant, for an exploration of the rich and varied artistic practices that emerged within the Japanese incarceration camps of World War II. From visual art and handmade crafts to vocational training and cottage industries, this course examines how creativity became both a form of resistance and a vital means of survival. Through a multidisciplinary lens, you’ll uncover the resilience and cultural expression that flourished under some of the darkest conditions in American history.

Drawing as a form of relaxation and meditation? Absolutely! This course helps you tap into the creative, reflective side of your brain and take a break from the constant input of modern life. You’ll learn several relaxing styles of abstract, non-representational drawing — no experience or artistic talent required! Please note that the very last session of class takes place after clocks change for DST. As such, the start time for class (March 12) will shift by an hour for participants joining from an AZ time zone. 

Towering above the desert sands for over 4,000 years, Egypt’s pyramids remain some of the most iconic and enduring symbols of human ingenuity. In this three-session study group, we’ll explore the story behind these massive monuments - from the earliest experiments in stone architecture to the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Our journey begins with the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the first of its kind, and continues through the reign of Snefru, the “Master Builder” pharaoh whose innovations laid the foundation for the Giza pyramids. We’ll take a close look at the engineering techniques used to build these colossal structures, the workers who labored to bring them to life, and the religious beliefs that gave them purpose. Along the way, we’ll explore enduring mysteries—including a still-unexplained void inside the Great Pyramid, uncovered by modern scanning technologies. We’ll discuss what we know, what we guess, and what still puzzles experts today. Whether you're fascinated by ancient engineering, intrigued by pharaohs and the afterlife, or just want to better understand one of the world’s greatest architectural traditions, this study group offers a window into a civilization that quite literally moved mountains.

Discover what current research in neuroscience is revealing about how the brain and mind work — and how that knowledge is transforming patient care. Topics include AI, brain imaging, immunology, and genetics, with selected discussions on health, medicine, and biotechnology. Please note that the last two sessions of class take place after clocks change for DST meaning that class start time (Mar. 11 & 18) shifts by an hour for participants joining from an AZ time zone.

Space junk, once consisting mainly of old satellites and booster rockets, is now dominated by small spacecraft from projects like Elon Musk’s Starlink. Each launch adds about 40 or more satellites to orbit, but one or two deorbit daily. While posing minimal safety risk, these satellites clutter low orbit and could make the region unusable — much to astronomers’ dismay.