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Lifelong Learning Experiences for the Curious Mind

Social Sciences   

  • 039 | The Life & Times of Nikola Tesla | Osher Online | Zoom
  • Day of Week: M
    Dates: Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27 & Nov. 3, 10
    Times: 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
    Sessions: 6
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Dr. Marc Seifer

    REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. This class is already in session.

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

 

  • 043 | The African American Military Experience: From Revolution to Civil Rights | Osher Online | Zoom
  • Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28 & Nov. 4, 11
    Times: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
    Sessions: 6
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: John Langellier

    REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. This class is already in session.

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

 

  • 050 | Public Health in Action: Addressing Stress, Equity, & Solutions | Osher Online | Zoom
  • Day of Week: W
    Dates: Oct. 15, 22, 29 & Nov. 5, 12, 19
    Times: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
    Sessions: 6
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Faith Ogungbe

    REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. This class is already in session.

    In this course, participants will explore the social determinants of health, the physiological mechanisms of stress, and the effects of stress on health and well-being. They will also examine stress- and health-related theoretical frameworks. Through this course, participants will gain an understanding of the factors that influence health and engage in discussions on the importance of equitably promoting health and well-being across populations. Please note that you will need to create a free account with NRC to access the meeting link and any course materials.

 

  • 053 | S’edav Va’aki’s Connections Through Time: Archaeology of the Phoenix Basin | In-Person
  • Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Oct. 16, 23
    Times: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: S'edav Va'aki Museum
    Room: Community Room
    Instructor: Christopher Schwartz, Nicole Armstrong-Best

    REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. This class is already in session.

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

 

  • 057 | Exploring Morocco: Ancient Kingdom at the Crossroads of Africa, the Middle East, & Europe | In-Person
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Oct. 20, 27
    Times: 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Tempe Public Library
    Room: Connections Program Room
    Instructor: Dr. Mary Jane Parmentier

    THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.

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

 

  • 058 | Graceful Exits: Exploring the Economics, Ethics, & Ethos of Death with Dignity | Osher Online | Zoom
  • Fee: $95.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Oct. 20, 27 & Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24
    Times: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
    Sessions: 6
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Dr. Aleen Bayard

    THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.

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

 

  • 063 | Language Matters: What Linguistics Is & Does  | In-Person
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Oct. 23, 30
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Chandler Innovation Center
    Room: 102
    Instructor: Dr. Kathryn Sheffield

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

 

  • 066 | Polar Odysseys: Adventure & Tragedy at the World’s Edges  | In-Person
  • Fee: $14.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Oct. 27
    Times: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: ASU Health Futures Center
    Room: Conference Center - 173B
    Instructor: Dr. Richard Carlson

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

 

  • 069 | The Magic of Motown | Osher Online | Zoom
  • Fee: $95.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Oct. 28 & Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25 & Dec. 2
    Times: 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
    Sessions: 6
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Michael Agron

    THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.

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

 

  • 071 | Missing & Murdered: Domestic Violence Homicides Disguised as Missing Persons Cases  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Oct. 29
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: ASU Health Futures Center
    Room: Conference Center - 173B
    Instructor: Stuart Somershoe

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

 

  • 074 | Ethics in Local Goverment: Lessons from a Case Study in Corruption  | In-Person
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Oct. 30 & Nov. 6
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Tempe Public Library
    Room: Connections Program Room
    Instructor: Dr. Thom Reilly

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

 

  • 075 | Scandals & Controversies in Rock & Pop Music  | Zoom
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Oct. 30 & Nov. 6
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Emanuel Abramovits

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

 

  • 077 | 100 Years Grand: The Story of Arizona Highways Magazine  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Oct. 30
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Glendale Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center
    Room: Bobcat 204
    Instructor: Win Holden

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

 

  • 078 | Religions of Our Neighbors: A Look at Islam & Sikhism  | In-Person
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Nov. 3 (class)
    Nov. 10 (field study)
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: ASU Health Futures Center
    Room: Conference Center - 173B
    Instructor: Chris O'Brien

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

 

  • 080 | Native 101: Understanding the Basic Elements of Indigenous America  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Nov. 4
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Chandler Innovation Center
    Room: 101
    Instructor: Greg Hansen

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

 

  • 081 | Arizona Stories: Hidden Histories  | In-Person
  • Fee: $0.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Nov. 4
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Scottsdale - Civic Center Library
    Room: Auditorium
    Instructor: Dr. Eduardo Pagán

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

 

  • 087 | Imprisoned Minds: Lost Boys, Trapped Men & Solutions from Within the Prison  | Zoom
  • Fee: $30.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Nov. 12
    Times: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Dr. Kevin Wright, Erik Maloney

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

 

  • 088 | Pompeii's Buried Voices  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Nov. 12
    Times: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Sun Health - The Colonnade
    Room: La Vita
    Instructor: Dr. Sarah Bolmarcich

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

 

  • 090 | Inside Arcosanti: Architecture, Archives, & Ecological Vision | In-Person
  • Fee: $75.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Nov. 13
    Times: 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Arcosanti
    Room:
    Instructor: Sue Kirsch

    THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.

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

 

  • 096 | Mate Choice: What is Beauty?  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Nov. 18
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Tempe Public Library
    Room: Connections Program Room
    Instructor: Dr. David Pearson

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

 

  • 098 | The Witches of Greece & Rome: Magic in Antiquity | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Dec. 9
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Tempe Public Library
    Room: Connections Program Room
    Instructor: Dr. Sarah Bolmarcich

    THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.

    CLASS DATE HAS CHANGED! PRINTED CATALOG IS INCORRECT. DATES ONLINE ARE CORRECT

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

     

 

  • 099 | The Administrative State: Key Frameworks to Make Sense of the News  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Nov. 20
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: ASU Health Futures Center
    Room: Conference Center Auditorium
    Instructor: Dr. Mary Feeney

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

 

  • 107 | Great Leaders of Native America  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Dec. 2
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Sun City Fairway Recreation Center
    Room: AZ Room 4
    Instructor: Greg Hansen

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

 

  • 108 | The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair & the Birth of Modern American Culture  | In-Person
  • Fee: $38.00
    Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Dec. 2, 9
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 2
    Building: Mesa Arts Center
    Room: Dobson Lecture Hall
    Instructor: Dr. Stephen Siek

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

 

  • 110 | French & English: Two Languages with a Shared History  | In-Person
  • Fee: $0.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Dec. 3
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Glendale Foothills Library
    Room: Roadrunner Room
    Instructor: Dr. Markus Cruse

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

 

  • 115 | Creationism & Science: Why Do So Many Americans Not Accept Evolution?  | In-Person
  • Fee: $19.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Dec. 8
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Chandler Innovation Center
    Room: 102
    Instructor: Dr. David Pearson

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

 

  • OLLI Share 03 | Arts of Zen Buddhism | Zoom
  • Day of Week: Th
    Dates: Sep. 11, 18, 25, Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 9
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Chico State OLLI, Dr. Katherine Harper

    REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. This class is already in session.

    This class examines the precepts of Buddhism in general and of the Chan/Zen branch of Buddhism specifically. We will explore major examples of art and architecture related to Zen. A primary goal of the class is to examine the historical context for the development of the Zen arts; therefore, an examination of the social, religious, political, and cultural influences on the production of art and architecture will be important. In addition, we will consider the fundamental teachings of Buddhism and meditation as a means for developing thoughtful and humane interactions in contemporary life. Please take care of time zone changes towards the end of this course due to shifts in Daylight Saving time as this class meets from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. in PST.

 

  • OLLI Share 05 | Chico State Faculty Lecture Series | Zoom
  • Day of Week: W
    Dates: Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12
    Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    Sessions: 6
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Chico State OLLI, Dr. Sandra Flake

    REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. This class is already in session.

    Chico State's tradition of academic excellence goes back more than 130 years. With over 850 faculty members and 13,000 students, the University's teaching and learning community is thriving. Discover the imagination, cutting-edge research, and expertise that flourishes in our own backyard! Please take care of time zone changes towards the end of this course due to shifts in Daylight Saving time as this class meets from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. in PST.

 

  • OLLI Share 09 | Political & Economic Foundations of Capitalism & Socialism: The Moral Debate Between Locke & Marx, Part 1 | Zoom
  • Day of Week: W
    Dates: Sep. 17, 24 & Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 & Nov. 5, 12, 19 & Dec. 3, 10
    Times: 8:15 AM - 9:45 AM
    Sessions: 12
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Dr. Walt Soffer

    REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. This class is already in session.

    For Locke, competitive economic acquisitiveness is the core of justice and civic morality. For Marx, the moral society is "an association, in which the free development of each is the condition for the free development of all." We will address these, and more, questions: Are all human beings naturally equal? Can liberal government combine individual freedom and political authority? By what right does the majority govern? Can the rule of law and separation of powers secure individual rights? Can socialism be democratic? Required Text: Second Treatise of Government by John Locke, Ed. C.B. Macpherson, ISBN 091514493X and The Marx-Engels Reader, Second Edition, Ed. Robert C. Tucker, ISBN 039309040X. Please take care of time zone changes due to Daylight Saving.

 

  • OLLI Share 11 | The Colorado River: Storied Past, Contentious Present, & Uncertain Future | Zoom
  • Day of Week: Tu
    Dates: Sep. 16, 23, 30 & Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28, &. Nov. 4, 11, 18
    Times: 8:15 AM - 9:45 AM
    Sessions: 10
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Tom Jones & Tim McDonnell

    REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. This class is already in session.

    The Colorado River is neither the longest nor the largest of our rivers, but it flows through the most dramatic scenery in the USA. It is the very lifeblood of over 40 million people. A significant fraction of our country’s produce and animal products is grown with its waters and the power produced by its system of massive hydroelectric generators lights up the entire Southwest. Unfortunately, the waters of the Colorado are over-allocated. Now, after 25 years of serious drought with no end in sight, the River’s very well-being is in serious jeopardy. In this course, we will describe the River’s astonishing geology and geography, some early and modern history, its politics, and its very uncertain future. Please take care of time zone changes due to Daylight Saving.

 

  • OLLI Share 12 | The Evolution of Toilet Paper  | Zoom
  • Fee: $15.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Nov. 10
    Times: 9:15 AM - 10:45 AM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Sue Boardman

    The COVID pandemic made us appreciate things that we generally take for granted. One essential is toilet paper. This led to thinking about the evolution of toilet paper and the plumbing that supports its use. This class will follow the story from ancient Egypt through medieval Europe to the high tech of tomorrow.

 

  • OLLI Share 13 | The Great Financial Crisis of 2008: Its Causes & Economic Aftermath  | In-Person
  • Fee: $90.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Oct. 29 & Nov. 5, 12, 19 & Dec. 3, 10
    Times: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    Sessions: 6
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Glenn Barlis

    The Great Financial Crisis of 2008 revealed significant problems with the orthodox economic theory (neo-liberalism). This course will examine the economic history leading up to the crisis, the causes and effects of the crisis and the after effects of the crisis on economic, social and political discourse. Short readings will be provided. Please take care of time zone changes due to Daylight Saving.

 

  • OLLI Share 15 | Your Grandmother’s War: American Women’s Participation in World War I  | Zoom
  • Fee: $15.00
    Day of Week: M
    Dates: Nov. 3
    Times: 9:15 AM - 10:45 AM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Gary Mitchell

    American women played a dramatic and groundbreaking role in World War I. In this class we will examine these roles, focusing primarily on activities that involved military service (Yeomanettes, Marinettes, Hello Girls, and Nurses) as well as surveying welfare services and charitable endeavors. This class will give you a solid appreciation for the importance of these contributions. Be prepared to learn the amazing history behind “your grandmother’s war.”

 

  • OLLI Share 18 | American Education at the Crossroads: Challenges & Solutions  | Zoom
  • Fee: $75.00
    Day of Week: W
    Dates: Nov. 5, 12, 19 & Dec. 3, 10
    Times: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    Sessions: 1
    Building: Online
    Room: Zoom
    Instructor: Bill Symonds

    This class will build on my popular American Education class that was offered in the spring semester. We will tackle some of the most pressing issues facing our education system. The class will also include a field trip to PIMA JTED’s spectacular new health care campus in Tucson. The field trip will only be open to students enrolled in this class. The class will begin with an overview of the current state of American Education, including how we lost our world leadership. We will then examine ideas for improving K-12 education; take a careful look at the unprecedented challenges facing higher education, from Harvard to the University of Arizona; and invite outside leaders to offer their perspective. This will be a 5-session course, with one session devoted to the field trip.

 

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