In honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States, participants will read and discuss fictional works that explore three strands of the American Revolution: the British perspective, the Patriot position, and the contributions of enslaved African Americans to the cause. Discussion will focus on the artistic merit of each work, as well as the message it presents. Participants will engage in open conversation, written reflection, and personal evaluation. Novels include Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes, My Brother Sam Is Dead by James Lincoln Collier and Christopher Collier, The Fighting Ground by Avi, Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson, and The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing by M.T. Anderson.

Additional Fee(s)/Information: Attendees may wish to purchase personal copies of the novels but are not required to do so. Books may be requested from libraries. Additionally, participants are encouraged to read Johnny Tremain before the seminar begins.

Designed for players who already know the basics of Mahjongg, this seminar will focus on advanced strategies to strengthen play and build confidence at the table. Participants will explore decision-making, defensive play, hand development, reading the board, and ways to adapt strategy as the game unfolds. Through guided discussion and practice, players will deepen their understanding of the game and sharpen their competitive skills.

Additional Fee(s): Participants will need to purchase the 2026 National Mah Jongg League Card, approximately $15.

This seminar presents a look at already published obituaries and how lives were celebrated with the written word.  We’ll explore how people used humor or a quirky habit or an attention grabbing line in their life stories.  What are some features of an obituary that grabs your attention?   Given a snippet of an obituary of a famous person, could you name that person? We know that you are just dying to get in this class.

In Ohio, more than 236,200 people are living with Alzheimer’s and 452,000 caregivers dedicate 679 million hours of unpaid care. Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a symptom of Alzheimer's or another form of dementia. Alzheimer's is a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. This program will explain dementia, Alzheimer’s and key warning signs and symptoms of the disease.  Learn about risk factors and how to care for yourself or care for a loved one. This program has been developed by the Alzheimer’s Association.

This seminar will introduce participants to a selection of excellent Western films that may not be as familiar as the classics. Each session will include an introduction before the film and a discussion afterward, with attention to story, character, themes, film-making, and the lasting appeal of the Western genre.

The works of three men dominated speculative writing from the 1940s through the 1960s.  Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, and Robert Heinlein produced most of their great works during this time.  All have had at least one story turned into a film.  In this course we will take a look at the lives and works of these men, spending time on plots, viewpoints and themes of their work.

This updated seminar goes beyond the aircraft to the stories of the people that made history. This updated seminar will include recently added items in space. The format will include a short classroom presentation followed by a tour of the galleries.

In the first session, we will look at today's complex food landscape, deciphering nutrition labels and marketing claims, and how they can be overwhelming. In the second session, we will go beyond food and look at the products we use on our bodies daily and how they significantly impact our health and well-being.

This seminar will compare George Orwell’s 1984 and Yuval Noah Harari’s Nexus to explore how power operates through information. Participants will consider how surveillance, technology, communication, and control shape both fictional worlds and modern society. The class will invite discussion about what these works can teach us about freedom, truth, and life in the age of big data.

Awareness of common and predictable tendencies in how the human brain works can help individuals be more resilient. Topics to be reviewed in this seminar include: common thought tendencies, negative emotions, factors that support good relationships, self-control, contributors to happiness and life satisfaction, and perspectives on stress. Seminar content is based on data from behavioral science research, including attention to what is known about how to effectively manage/utilize this information. Each session will begin with several thought-provoking questions for participants to privately consider, as one of the goals of the seminar is to highlight what can be counter-intuitive.

During WWII, the Germans used two machines for encrypting secret messages. Most have heard part of the story of breaking the Enigma machine at Bletchley Park in Britain, but not many know that three Polish mathematicians broke the Enigma code seven years before the British and finally they taught the British how to do it. The Lorenz SZ cypher machine was an attachment to a teletype machine. It was used by Hitler to communicate with his top commanders. Its existence was not publicly known before 2000. The COLOSSUS was the world's first programmable digital computer used to break the Lorenz SZ code.

Experience first-hand the value of community "musicking" (Small, 1998) in this hands-on course. Moderators (retired music therapy professors) will engage participants in a variety of basic rhythm-based activities using standing and handheld drums, small percussion instruments, and the voice. Examples include structured drumming, free instrumental play, and singing chants with rhythmic accompaniment. Moderators will include brief presentations on topics related to health benefits of active music-making. Participants are welcome to bring their own percussion; instruments will be provided for those who need them. Note: No prior musical training or experience is required!

The visual arts have long been a means for connecting the spiritual with the physical world.  Painting and sculpture provide a conduit for the divine to the material world of color, form and substance.  We will explore how these two worlds mesh through lecture, discussion and our own experiences of examining and making art.

During this seminar, you will learn techniques to make holiday cards to send to family and friends. A different stamping/paper crafting technique will be taught each week. Participants will make 4 cards of the same design each week, so that at the end of the seminar you will have 24 handmade holiday cards. All materials needed for card making, including all cardstock, printed papers and envelopes will be in a kit for each participant. In addition, table coverings, sanitizing wipes and other accessories will be provided.

Additional Fee(s): $30 (paid to Moderator at the first meeting)

In this 2-part seminar, the instructor will share his experience planning, orchestrating, and pulling off a very successful family reunion, a four-day set of events honoring his ancestor’s journeys and their personal sacrifices coming to America to make a better life ‘fur die Kinder’.  We’ll describe how you can create a similar weekend of celebration, commemoration, collaboration, chowing down, and chuckling.  The approach can be used as the template for your get-together - there is no need for previous experience, only bring your enthusiasm, imagination…and the unique knowledge of your family’s journey.  You’re sure to be motivated to jumpstart the creative process for organizing your next extended family reunion!

We'll also share interesting experiences about seemingly random coincidences in meeting people with information about his family, or insights he’s uncovered seemingly by happenstance in the course of his decades of research, and what you can do to 'create your coincidences' to advance your knowledge of your family's story.

Cultivating a Sustainable Campus offers a first-hand look at sustainability at the University of Dayton. The first hour features a presentation highlighting the Office of Energy & Sustainability, including how the office manages energy and utilities, native landscapes, urban agriculture, waste and materials, and campus sustainability goals. The second hour is a guided tour of Flyer Farm, UD’s urban agriculture site, where participants see sustainable practices in action. Attendees will explore both campus-wide initiatives and on-the-ground projects that promote ecological stewardship, energy efficiency, food security, and community engagement.

This seminar will cover a variety of topics including Elder Fraud and Scams, Identity Theft and The Dark Web, AI technology, and many other topics that pose a risk to our Cyber Safety. This is a fun, dynamic course with ample opportunity for open discussions, Q&A, and group participation. There will be live demonstrations, information handouts, how-to's, and useful tools intended to help attendees become aware, informed and prepared to thrive in today's cyber world.

The American bald eagle returned to Dayton, Ohio in 2008, ending a 70-year absence. In this seminar we will discuss bald eagle history, anatomy, habitat, hunting, breeding, eaglet development and ongoing survival challenges in our expanding urban environment. Greater understanding leads to a greater appreciation and admiration of our National Symbol.

In this program, we'll explore seven of Dayton’s National Register Historic Neighborhoods: Oregon, Grafton Hill, South Park, Paul Laurence Dunbar, McPherson Town, Grafton-Rockwood-Wroe, and Kenilworth. You’ll learn about the cultural significance of each neighborhood, the architectural styles of selected houses, and the men and women who lived in them.

The seminar will focus on lesser-known Dayton inventors.  For example, Vincent G. Apple has 745 patents credited to his name.  Charles Francis Jenkins had 400 patents, and Thomas Midgley, Jr., was granted over 100 patents over his career.  In addition to these individuals, many more ingenious inventions that came out of Dayton.  The course will also refer to Dayton's more famous inventors.

This revised seminar will discuss the upcoming midterm elections as they may be the most important in the 21st century.  The American political landscape has been transformed from one where tradition, norms and institutions are respected and supported, to one where it seems nothing is off limits - political victory, score settling and personal enrichment are the new "norms."  This seminar will examine where the world's longest running democracy stands, and discuss how, and if, it can continue to stand.

This revised seminar will cover basic photography skills for those who want to feel more confident with their camera. Topics will include camera operation, manual exposure controls, white balance, depth of field, lens options, transferring image files to a computer, and basic photo editing. The class is designed as a back-to-basics introduction for photographers who want to strengthen their foundation.

This six-week seminar will cover nutrition requirements as we age, including easy-to-prepare recipes with demonstrations; exercises to build and maintain muscle strength from the core out to major muscle groups,  balance training, brain and cognitive health, and the importance of recovery and sleep.  Learn how the rhythm of eat-move-sleep-repeat leads to greater quality of health and longevity.  Find support for your journey and answers to your questions with trusted resources.

Ireland is a land bursting with natural beauty, legends, folklore, music, dance, literature, language and dramatic history. Many Americans have visited the country, thanks to deep family connections or interest. Let’s explore what makes the Emerald Isle such a fascinating place to see and enjoy.

An opportunity for people who have an interest in—but little to no knowledge of—the incredible marine fossils found in this region. This will not be an in-depth geologic study full of terms and jargon, it will be basic information in laymen terms presented by a long-time amateur collector who has learned along the way. During each session, there will be numerous actual fossils to examine and some to take home.

Fall is a great time to get out and explore the parks and the incredible beauty in them.  We will visit five parks and discover the wonderful features which appear only at this time of year.  Put on your hiking shoes and bring a camera or phone to capture the sights.

This seminar will focus on six documentaries made by the Seventh Art company in Great Britain. Each will be shown in class and allow some time for discussion or questions. The first two films will be on Michelangelo and Constable and Turner, with additional artists selected for later sessions.

What do your favorite poems or lyrics from songs say about you and what do they have in common? Probably more than you think. This class will examine how the two genres intersect in terms of rhyme, repetition, line structure, etc. and why and how they became your favorites. Some of my treasured poets/poems will be shared: Robert Frost, Mary Oliver, Sharon Olds, Walt Whitman, Galway Kinnell, Anne Sexton, and others. Some of my best-loved singers/songwriters will also be examined: Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Paul Simon, and others. This will be your chance to share with the class the power of words/lyrics/music that have resonated deeply within you. If you are not well versed (pun intended) in the favorite poetry category fear not because we will use Good Poems edited by Garrison Keillor as a reference and I will share my favorite poems/poets with the class.

Meet others who love to do crochet, knit, embroider, cross-stitch, and other fiber arts. Advanced beginners and beyond should bring a current project (with your tools and supplies) to work on in a supportive, social environment.

This seminar will explore financial issues facing seniors in 2026. Topics include pension strategies and changes, Ohio tax matters not typically covered in advice columns, house sale myths, Social Security traps, capital gains, planned gifting, inherited assets and what should be put in writing, as well as selected current financial articles.

Creative photography goes beyond the documentation of point and shoot photos.  It involves the photographer in designing a composition highlighting the elements--subject, light, and technique to create a fine art picture.  Participants will consider how the “magic” of photography comes alive when the photographer becomes not just an observer, but an artist.

In classes based on Feldenkrais Method®, Anat Baniel Method® (ABM) students get some theoretical knowledge of the breathing and The Feldenkrais Method®, ABM  and somatic education. Practical lessons done in sitting, standing and walking. It uses verbal guidance for gentle movement and directed attention to help people learn more effective ways of increasing ease and range of motion. It helps to improve flexibility and coordination. Students rediscover innate capacity for easier, efficient movement. These improvements will enhance ability to learn, self-image and emotional regulation. The Feldenkrais Method® is based on principles of physics, bio-mechanics, and an empirical understanding of learning and human development.

This seminar will take an in-depth look at espionage during the Revolutionary War and the role it played in the American victory. Participants will learn how American spies outmaneuvered British intelligence, uncovered plots, and helped protect George Washington. The class will explore spying in America, England, and France while showing how intelligence work shaped the outcome of the war.

This relaxed, hands-on workshop is specifically tailored for seniors looking to confidently master the "cloud." We move at a comfortable pace, stripping away the technical jargon to show you how Google Drive can simplify your digital life. Over two days, you’ll learn to securely store and organize cherished photos and important documents so they are always at your fingertips. We will cover how to safely share files with family, use the mobile scanner to digitize paper records, and search effortlessly when things go missing. Join us at OLLI to turn your computer into a stress-free, organized library.

Additional Information: Participants will need to bring devices that can access the internet during class, such as a phone, tablet, or laptop.

Few people will debate the fact that when the New Golden Age of TV started, it was led by three of the greatest writers in TV history who at HBO created three of the greatest series in TV history. David Chase created The Sopranos; David Simon created The Wire; David Milch created Deadwood. This seminar will explore these three celebrated creators and their groundbreaking series.

Participants will learn about the history and federal and state regulation of hemp cannabinoids available outside of a marijuana dispensary, as well as pharmacology, product formulations, quality concerns, clinical research, claimed uses, and potential drug/ cannabinoid interactions. The seminar is designed to help participants better understand a rapidly changing health and wellness topic.

Adults 50 and older are invited to discover Dayton’s trails while learning simple ways to share their adventures through YouTube videos and Facebook Reels. This seminar will include seasonal tips for safe and enjoyable walks, basic smartphone filming and editing guidance, and practical ideas for turning hikes into short stories worth sharing. No technology experience is needed, just curiosity and a comfortable pair of walking shoes.

Explore the fascinating history of medical folklore and the many ways people have tried to cure symptoms and diseases throughout time. From Ancient Egypt and Greece through the Renaissance and into Appalachia, this seminar will examine the use of herbs, magic, religion, astrology, and other unusual remedies. Together, we will consider what was fact, what was fiction, and what may have had some truth behind it.

Taxes are one of the most important topics facing United States citizens in today’s economy. However, taxes are also the least understood topic, as shown by the number of Americans who use tax software or go to a paid tax preparer to file their annual return. The purpose of this course is to expose students to terms and concepts that affect how the U.S. tax system originated, evolved, and operates today. Of special interest is the evolution of the Internal Revenue Code from a way to raise revenue to a device to shape behavior and direct social policy. The course explores various critical issues present today by tracing the development of those issues throughout the tax history of the U.S.

Take a musical journey through the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s with videos of major performances and events featuring Neil Diamond, ABBA, Elton John, Billy Joel, and many more. The Moderator will lead the class through these decades while also touching on major events in politics, sports, and popular culture. Participants will also have the opportunity to share and discuss their favorite songs from the era.

This seminar will introduce participants to the basics of 3D printing, including the hardware, software, materials, and design resources used to create printed objects. The class will include a brief history of 3D printing, examples of how it is used today, and hands-on demonstrations. No prior experience is required.

This introductory Tai Chi class will explore the history and theory of Tai Chi while guiding participants through gentle movement, stretching, and muscle toning. Often called “moving meditation,” Tai Chi uses flowing movements to support balance, strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. Casual, comfortable clothing and sneakers or flat-soled shoes are recommended, and movements can be adapted to each participant’s physical condition.

Join us for an engaging seminar as fourteen UDOLLI members each showcase notable inventors who have profoundly impacted our world across five centuries. This dynamic series will feature a diverse range of presentation styles and insights, illuminating the lives and inventions of pioneers from various fields.  Explore the contributions of Colonel Edward Deeds, a significant figure in the advancement of electrical engineering, and discover the brilliant mind of Grace Hopper, a trailblazer in computer science. Delve into the agricultural innovations of Jethro Tull and the mechanized wonders of Elisha Otis. Learn about the groundbreaking work of Philo Farnsworth in television technology and the transformative contributions of Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in personal computing. The seminar will also celebrate the inventive spirit of Thomas A. Edison, the scientific rigor of Rosalind Franklin, and the versatile genius of Leonardo Da Vinci, whose work blurred the lines between art and engineering. Additionally, we'll highlight Dr. Patricia Bath, an ophthalmologist who revolutionized cataract surgery, and Igor Sikorsky, the pioneer of helicopter design. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the inspiring stories and creative legacies of these remarkable individuals who have shaped our modern lives. Come prepared to be inspired by innovation and creativity!

This seminar will provide an update on recent events in Israel and Palestine, building on previous one-day and six-week seminars. The first portion of the session will review key developments, and the second portion will be dedicated to guided class discussion. Participants will have the opportunity to share their concerns, hopes, and questions about the current situation in a respectful learning environment.

This seminar will focus on Kurt Vonnegut’s Cat’s Cradle and Slaughterhouse-Five. Through reading and discussion, participants will examine how Vonnegut used humor, pathos, and absurdity to explore human folly, delusion, war, and meaning. The class will be discussion-based and limited to a small group to allow thoughtful conversation.

This seminar will be dedicated to those funny song lyrics we remember as teenagers. Remember "Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh" (Camp Granada) or "Charlie Brown" by the Coasters? These are just a couple of songs that will be featured. There will also be a number of interesting and unusual songs, like "American Pie" and "Louie Louie" by The Kingsmen. The Beatles will also be featured in 4 songs about stalking, pyromania and murder. This seminar promises to be a fun time for music lovers of all music.

Mah Jongg is a game played with tiles as you experience the thrill of ancient China where it began. It is a social game that allows for fun and conversation while presenting a challenge. Join us for a 5-week series of lessons. Learn, socialize, and have a great time!

There are moments in our lives that make us stop and think. Why did that happen? Was my decision an automatic reaction or did I think through my decision? Is there a lesson to be learned? You will discuss your experiences and share observations with classmates in small groups about how we deal with moments. This seminar will open your eyes to the many moments we encounter and how to take greater control of them in life. We will spend about half of the time on lecture and the other half on in-class exercises, reflection, and sharing of stories.

Technical Sergeant Joe Girz flew 57 combat missions during World War II, as a Radio Operator-Waist Gunner in B-26 Martin Marauder medium bombers.  Flying out of Sardinia, Corsica, and Dijon, France, between August 1944 and May 1945, he and his crewmates flew bombing missions to hit specific targets in Italy, France, and Germany.  During this time, TSgt Girz kept a personal log of each of his missions while serving in the 17th Bombardment Group.  His son Tom has compiled his father’s diaries, personal logs, and official mission records into a thrilling retrospective about true patriotism, courage, and survival – not uncommon traits in those we now refer to as The Greatest Generation.  Written in the first person, these memoirs become an interesting viewpoint to tell the story of this challenging time, by placing TSgt Girz’s personal story within the greater war effort – the air and ground operations of the Mediterranean and European conflicts.

This is a follow on to the last Recent History seminar with new topics!  Most Americans know Alistair Cooke as the popular host of the PBS series Masterpiece Theater.  But for over five decades Cooke was also a regular contributor to the BBC through his Letters from America radio broadcasts in which he describes daily life and current affairs in America.  In this seminar we’ll use Cooke’s Letters as an aperture for viewing late 20th century history.  Since the events all take place within our lifetimes, we’ll have the opportunity to see how “current affairs” morph into “history”, and reflect how our own views on these topics have evolved (or not) over time.

Nikola Tesla was one of history’s most imaginative inventors and electrical engineers. This seminar will explore Tesla’s remarkable life, his major inventions, and the ideas that helped shape the modern electrical world. Participants will learn about both his brilliance and the challenges that defined his legacy.

There’s a method to choosing wines to pair with a restaurant’s menu. We’ll hear from six people involved in that selection process. A fine wines distributor will present his part of the process. Then we’ll visit five local restaurants to hear their take on wine selection.

This repeats and updates the seminar that was offered in the UDOLLI spring term of this year. In this class we’ll explore the development of the three strands of Christian nationalism (CN); a rapidly growing and disquieting movement that casts a dark cloud over America in our present hyper-polarized political moment. Adherents to these religio-political movements
have the goal of turning America into a theocracy: One nation under God; but their God and for their ends. Concerningly, they see themselves as preparing for what they contend to be the final battle between Good and Evil.
Scholars and social critics alike suggest that there are those among us who have one unshakeable goal: To establish in the United States the Kingdom of God, one ruled by the Elect, and premised on authoritarian and patriarchal principles. Their objective is to radically remake key aspects of American government and education so as to impose their version of Christianity and morality upon the rest of us.
This seminar will challenge participants to reflect on the rise of CN -- a movement that can only be viewed as a perversion of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. To set the stage we’ll look at some of the historical antecedents to today’s expression of CN going back to the 1920s and 1930s with the rapid rise of Christian fundamentalism. And we’ll also speak to the challenges that CN presents to the Constitutional principle of separation of church and state.

Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

---

 

Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

---

 

Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Osher Online is a national offering of the Osher NRC (National Resource Center). Zoom links, access instructions, and orientation information will be sent directly by the Osher NRC, not by UDOLLI.

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Planning a Good Death is a class designed to help normalize important conversations around living well, death, and dying. Together, we’ll explore what it means to die well—physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, and spiritually. Through guided discussion and compassionate reflection, we’ll begin to break the silence around death and replace it with clarity, courage, and care. Let’s start the conversation—because a good death begins with thoughtful living.

A poet lives inside all of us if given a chance to emerge.  This course offers the opportunity to express yourself using various forms, themes, and styles: from the ridiculous to the sublime, from free verse to rhyme and meter.  No experience necessary, but those with experience may raise their game or try something new.  The sharing of your writing will be encouraged–one on one, small group, whole class–but not required.  We will read and discuss models of published poets, using them as springboards for your own writing.  Feedback will be available from the moderator and perhaps from classmates, according to your wishes, with an emphasis on the positive. There will be new prompts and models compared to previous years.

This seminar will examine several ongoing challenges facing American democracy, including the Electoral College, the death penalty, federal courts, gerrymandering, qualified immunity, term limits, the filibuster, voting rights, immigration, gun control, and political polarization. Through discussion, participants will consider how these issues shape public trust, civic participation, and the future of democratic government.

Do you feel like you know Mary Tyler Moore, the girl next door who won America’s TV hearts with her cheerful smile and her regular spunk?  This two-day seminar will describe Mary’s difficult childhood, her early career as a dancer, her sudden rise to fame on the Dick Van Dyke Show and later The Mary Tyler Moore Show during the 1960s and ‘70s. You will also learn about the second half of Mary’s career and her struggles with family, marriage, alcohol, and diabetes.  Learn about the public image vs the private reality of Mary’s fascinating life and enjoy many clips of her best television moments.

Do you feel like you know Mary Tyler Moore, the girl next door who won America’s TV hearts with her cheerful smile and her regular spunk?  This two-day seminar will describe Mary’s difficult childhood, her early career as a dancer, her sudden rise to fame on the Dick Van Dyke Show and later The Mary Tyler Moore Show during the 1960s and ‘70s. You will also learn about the second half of Mary’s career and her struggles with family, marriage, alcohol, and diabetes.  Learn about the public image vs the private reality of Mary’s fascinating life and enjoy many clips of her best television moments.

Travel virtually to the Eternal City and discover its archaeological wonders. Our tour begins on the Palatine Hill where we’ll uncover evidence supporting its mythical creation. We’ll trace the first kings as they established foundations and constructed the Forum. During the Republic, elite patricians vied for power resulting in an expansion of temples, theaters, and public works. Civil unrest produced a new emperor who transformed a city of brick into one of marble. This class will prepare you to visit Rome and witness its legacy from the bedrock up.

This seminar will explore Samuel Beckett’s drama, including Waiting for Godot, and his novels, including the trilogy Molloy, Malone Dies, and The Unnamable. The class will also consider other absurdist writers, including Eugène Ionesco’s The Chairs and Edward Albee’s The Zoo Story.

A century ago, aircraft designer Jack Northrop began dreaming of an all-wing aircraft, a pure wing unencumbered by traditional fuselage and tail. Many thought his designs were too radical, and his giant Flying Wing bombers were canceled and then destroyed following World War II. In this one-night Zoom seminar, you’ll learn the truth about why Northrop’s flying wings were canceled, and how they came to be reborn in the form of today’s stealth bombers, the B-2 and B-21. The moderator, Dr. Bud Baker, has spent the last 45 years studying and working with Flying Wings, including his 5-year stint as an Air Force program manager for the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.

Have you wondered how you came to be? In this seminar we will explore the evolution of the universe and biological evolution through lenses of both science and (predominately Catholic Christian) religion.

At the beginning of the automobile era in America marketing and advertising focused on the need to convince consumers that these new-fangled conveyances were roadworthy. Print advertisements mostly emphasized the mechanicals of the motorcar as well as its  reliability. By the 1930s, particularly with the rise of General Motors and the ethos of planned obsolescence, keeping the customer wanting “the next new thing” was being aggressively pushed by marketing executives. Indeed, two of the most important individuals in the early marketing of the automobile had Dayton connections: Ned Jordan and Richard Grant and we’ll speak to their contributions. Within the advertising field its long been a given that consumerist behavior is highly influenced by desires for personal identification and social status. As such most automobile marketing over time has focused on cars as desirable objects but with important subthemes related to the family unit, class status, the desire for travel, economic success and upward mobility, celebrity, feminism, and sexuality. In this seminar we’ll illustrate all of these themes through the viewing of actual print and motion picture marketing placements.

William Shakespeare is considered by many to be the world’s most gifted writer. His plays are studied as literature in schools and universities, and they are performed in a multitude of languages around the globe. For theatre historians, there is much more to his story that his writing genius. Shakespeare appeared on the scene in London when amateur traveling troupes were transforming into professional theatre companies with permanent playhouses. In addition to being an actor and shareholder (co-owner) of his company, Shakespeare took on the job of writing plays so that his troupe had a repertoire of new plays to keep the London audience coming back for more. No one considered the plays as literature at the time; they were simply good stories—with lots of action and dramatic characters—that the actors could embrace and use to hold their audiences spellbound. We will explore the theatre history of Shakespeare’s era, including the playwrights, playhouses, actors, audiences, performance conventions, costumes, and business of theatre. And by doing so, we will create a window into a broader view of history, including the social, cultural, and political Elizabethan environment in which Shakespeare’s theatre thrived. We will time travel, too, looking at Shakespearean actors and performances in our own time. The class will be of interest to people who like Shakespeare, theatre, and/or history. We will do some in-class exercises in which we put on the historian’s hat, view lots of visual materials, and engage with a few Shakespearean monologues. Prior experience with his plays is not necessary.

Small, consistent changes can lead to big results. In this 6-week interactive course, you’ll learn how to build sustainable habits for health and energy using the “Six Spinning Plates” framework: nutrition, hydration, movement, sleep, stress, and supplements. We’ll explore the power of 1% improvements and practical tools like habit stacking. Each session blends discussion, activities, and take-home strategies to help you create a personalized plan for lasting vitality—one small step at a time.

Master the sourdough craft and unlock the secrets of wild yeast in this Sourdough 101 Seminar. This workshop shifts the focus from just bread to the incredible flexibility of a single starter. You will learn: How to maintain a healthy sourdough starter, how to use active starter and "discard" starter for pancakes, pizza dough, crackers, and pastries, along with understanding timing and temperature to fit baking into your schedule. You’ll leave with a vibrant active culture, a curated recipe collection, and the technical mastery to bake with confidence.

No prior experience is needed—this relaxed, friendly class welcomes beginners and experienced learners alike. Explore Spanish language and culture through interactive activities, stories, and cultural insights at a comfortable pace, building confidence, practicing conversation, and nourishing your mind and spirit—all while having fun!. On the last day, an optional visit to a local Hispanic restaurant will be held after class—just bring your love for learning!

Do you ever feel unsure of what to say when someone close to you is struggling with their mental health? Or find yourself emotionally drained trying to help? In today's fast-paced world, supporting others starts with caring for our own wellbeing. This interactive workshop offers practical, evidence-based strategies to help you support loved ones facing mental health challenges - while also building your own resilience. Together, we'll explore how to foster empathy, strengthen emotional wellness, and create a culture of compassion that uplifts us all.

Additional Information: Participants will need to print an 11-page resiliency workbook for use during the seminar.

This continuation class is designed for participants who have attended earlier Tai Chi sessions and are ready to move further through the form. The class will include gentle warm-ups, stretching, muscle toning, and continued practice of flowing movements that support balance, strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. Casual, comfortable clothing and sneakers or flat-soled shoes are recommended, and movements can be adapted to each participant’s physical condition.

This seminar will introduce the basics of tennis in a supportive, beginner-friendly setting. Participants will learn fundamental strokes, volleys, serves, scoring, and the basic rules of the game. The course is designed to help new or returning players build confidence and enjoy time on the court.

Special Equipment: Participants will need to bring a tennis racquet to each session.

Join Tim as he punches the clock for the tenth time and re-walks the six most popular walks from his first nine classes.  Walks will be between four and six miles in widely spread locations in Montgomery and Greene Counties.  These walks are not suitable for those using walking aids. Before registering, be sure that you have been approved by your medical advisor for such an undertaking.  This is a physically active class and is NOT a slow paced, historic walking tour.  Be prepared to meet and share the trail with others in the class.  NO earphones or ear buds are allowed in the class.

What became known as the Great American Songbook, the most popular and influential American popular songs, would eventually make up the canon of standards performed and recorded by countless musicians and singers. Most of these timeless compositions were written in the first half of the 20th century for musical theater or Hollywood films, while some were simply individual pop tunes.  We’ll explore the lives and music of over 50 of the top songwriters and lyricists, but most of our time will be spent listening to and discussing the music they created. There will be video and live piano performances, singalongs, contests, prizes, handouts, occasional food . . . and surprises. Join us for this brisk walk down Tin Pan Alley. The memories are waiting!

This seminar will include an overview of the history of our national park system after which we will take a visual tour of some of the most famous and iconic of our 63 national parks and along the way visit some of the known but equally beautiful and fascinating gems. We will touch upon the geology and stories behind the parks and offer some travel suggestions. The seminar will be enhanced with an extensive use of videos in our appreciation for “America’s Best Idea”.

Calvary Cemetery is one of the most peaceful and scenic sites in the Miami Valley, overlooking the Miami River, Carillon Park, and the Dayton skyline. This seminar will explore the history of St. Henry and Calvary Cemetery through a 50-minute chapel presentation followed by an approximately one-hour walking tour. Participants will learn about the people, stories, and setting that make this site an important part of Dayton’s history.

Regarded as Russia’s first great writer, Alexander Pushkin (1799-1837) was a master of poetry, drama, and fiction. Writing at the same time as Byron and Goethe, he produced work that was distinguished by its striking and seemingly contradictory blend of Romanticism and ironic detachment. This seminar will focus on his prose fiction. It will also examine the rigidly structured society those stories play out against.

Additional Fee(s)/Information: For this class, students should obtain a copy of Novels, Tales, Journeys: The Complete Prose translated by Richard Pevear and Larissa Volokhonsky (Knopf). New copies are available online for about $25.

At 63, Jill Chalsty did something extraordinary. After losing her husband to dementia and surviving breast and lung cancer, she set off alone on a 107-day journey around the world. At every port, she met with education leaders to share her nonprofit's free life skills curriculum, turning her grief into a mission that continues to change lives. Jill writes about this journey in her memoir, Packets of Hope, exploring healing, identity, and finding purpose after profound loss. Her talk offers an inspiring conversation about resilience and the small steps that help us rebuild.

This seminar celebrates the music and legacy of Bob Dylan, whose songwriting has shaped generations. We will listen to his songs from the 70's-90's including folk, folk rock, country, spirituals and classics from the past. We will also explore the themes, lyrics, and artistry that earned him recognition as one of the most influential voices in American music. Join us as we reflect on Dylan's music, his contribution to American song, and his enduring role as a poet in sound and spirit.

During World War II, the small town of North Platte, Nebraska, became the site of an extraordinary act of hospitality. Over four years, local volunteers welcomed and fed millions of traveling soldiers at a Union Pacific depot, often working up to 20 hours a day. This seminar will tell the inspiring story of the North Platte Canteen and the community spirit that helped sustain service members far from home.

From personalized gifts and home décor to artwork and keepsakes, the way we create everyday objects has changed dramatically in recent years. This course offers a guided, non-technical look at the modern tools that are reshaping crafts, hobbies, and small-scale making.

Through live demonstrations and discussion, participants will explore how today’s makers use tools such as laser cutters, 3D printers, digital cutting machines, and other creative technologies to turn ideas into physical objects. Along the way, we will connect these new methods to familiar materials—wood, paper, fabric, and photos—and highlight practical, artistic, and personal applications.

No prior technical experience is required. This demonstration-based course is designed for curious learners who enjoy understanding how things work and how creativity continues to evolve in the digital age.

This seminar will explore the meaning of the ancient Greek epic poem, The Odyssey. Lectures will place the content of the poem in its ancient context as well as the poem’s relevance to the modern world. We will explore the Homeric tradition, give the setting of the poem in the ancient world, and explore and explain the content chapter by chapter.

Attendees are expected to read four chapters (or Books as they are usually referenced) in preparation for each week’s discussion. The class will use Robert Fitzgerald’s translation. Students may use any translation of The Odyssey for their personal reading, though translations produced after the mid twentieth century should be preferred. The instructor will have prepared lectures based upon content, but student questions and observations will be encouraged.

This seminar will use film clips from great movies to explore universal themes about life, meaning, and human nature. Each session will include 40 to 45 minutes of selected clips followed by discussion of topics such as heroism and villainy, love and meaning, and the power of paradoxes. Participants will consider what memorable films can teach us about ourselves and the world around us.

This seminar will be a very humorous, interactive small group who enjoy sharing verbally. With only three weeks to "get down to work" let's find out what we're waiting for, how to begin and of course, WHERE to begin. Plan on weekly progress sharing & lots of tips. Your reluctance to begin coupled with your willingness to share as a group can be inspirational. Please join our group that will be limited to 12. Men Welcome!!!!

Samuel Pierpont Langley, a famous scientist, was the head of the Smithsonian Institution. In 1896, he built an unmanned airplane that flew almost a mile. In 1898, he was given a $50,000 government grant to develop the first manned airplane. He was the person that was supposed to invent the airplane. Little known outside their neighborhood, the Wright Brothers operated a small printing/bicycle business in Dayton, Ohio. They used their own money to develop and fly the first manned, powered, controllable airplane. This seminar will acquaint attendees with Langley, the Wrights and their helpers and followers.

Many of us think of Peanuts' Snoopy when we think of the Red Baron, but he was a real person who has inspired many myths and much misinformation. In this seminar we will do a deep dive into Baron Manfred von Richthofen, the top fighter pilot of World War I, using a well-researched biography by Richthofen expert Peter Kilduff, along with Richthofen’s autobiography, recent articles, and historical film footage and documentaries.

William McCulloch grew up in an all-white village; attended an all-white college; graduated from an all-white law school, but as a longstanding Ohio GOP congressman played a central role in the American civil rights movement. Attorney General Nicholas Katzenbach: ‘We would not have a Civil Rights Act of 1964 or a Voting Rights Act of 1965 were it not for William McCulloch. God knows what would have happened to this country if those bills had not become law.’The New York Times reporter Adam Clymer: ‘McCulloch was absolutely essential to the most important law of the 20th century, the 1964 Civil Rights Act.’ Fr. Theodore Hesburgh of Notre Dame: ‘To the growing number of Americans who declare they are losing faith in our system, my rebuttal is the civil rights stand of Congressman William McCulloch.’ In 1969 he co-led the House of Representatives in voting to abolish the Electoral College. That never repeated effort failed in the U.S. Senate.

Join fellow UDOLLI members as they share recent travel adventures through photography, stories, and practical observations. Participants will learn about the history, culture, and political circumstances of featured destinations, including Italy, Portugal, Norway, Switzerland, Seattle, Florida, Michigan, and Indiana. This seminar offers a chance to travel through the experiences of others and gather ideas for future journeys.

Come along on a virtual tour of the wildflower delights Ohio has to offer throughout the seasons. Discover some new places that might become your favorite locations and take a new look at some old places with a fresh eye. We will look at the common and the extraordinary that Mother Nature has to offer and learn the value of plants along the way.

Janet and her husband Todd traveled the famed Mother Road, Route 66, in May of 2025. It was something they had thought about and dreamed of for a long time. After much research and planning they took the plunge, driving the entire route, Chicago to LA. Hear their strategy for the trip, what they liked, what they would do differently, how much they spent and recommendations for anyone thinking of making the trip themselves. And see lots of pictures. This is a repeat presentation of February's seminar which ended up being a snow day and some people could not attend. It will be largely the same presentation with some new thoughts and photos as Janet has recently revisited parts of the route.

Polls tell us that between 75%—85% of Americans believe the federal government is broken and not capable of solving major problems. This course will review the major problems that have led to the ineffectiveness of government, and present innovative solutions to minimize divisiveness and strengthen our unity in governing.

Compare the conservative Project 2025 with a comparable progressive agenda. How is Project 2025 reflected in the philosophy and staffing of the current Trump administration? Compare how Project 2025 and “Project 2029” would address important economic, social, environmental and governance issues.

According to a recent AP-NORC poll, healthcare has become one of the top priorities for the government to address in 2026. This shift in issue priorities puts healthcare on center stage as voters head to the polls in the midterm elections. This seminar will shine a spotlight on several areas that fall under the category of healthcare policy and practice. You will hear from practitioners and policy makers from top rated medical centers along with medical specialists who influence policy across the country.  Issues to be examined will include but not be limited to the role of technology in medicine, healthcare insurance and how it can contribute to the high cost of healthcare, the erosion of trust in medicine, medical debt relief, medical research, and other issues that capture headlines in news reports. This three-week virtual class will help participants better analyze candidates' positions on legislative solutions related to the cost and quality of healthcare.

This fun and interactive class will present information on why people act the way they do.  Much of the seminar focuses on understanding the Myers-Briggs personality types and their motivations, strengths and pitfalls to improve your personal effectiveness and relationships. Understanding types makes life easier. Participants will receive an assessment to identify their individual type and learn to identify and interact better with other types.  Handouts, videos and activities to experience type in action will be included. With the moderator's 25 years of experience utilizing the Myers-Briggs, with individuals, couples and groups, participants reported improved communication and decreased conflict and stress.

Just imagine your next move being simple, certain, and stress-free. Whether you are curious about downsizing for a new lifestyle or helping a family member navigate their first purchase, this seminar provides the clarity you need. We explore strategies for selling your current home, modern financing options, and how to support the next generation in today’s market. How would you feel knowing you had a clear plan for every stage of life? Join us to turn your questions into a confident next step for you and your family.

Continue your Zentangle journey in this relaxing and creative six-week seminar, the third and final class in the three-part Zentangle series. Participants should have completed at least one previous Zentangle class before enrolling, as this seminar will build on basic Zentangle techniques. The class will introduce additional patterns and explore creative ways to use them in projects and Zentangle-inspired art.

Additional Fee(s)/Information: Basic Zentangle supplies will be provided by the moderator for a fee of $15 per participant.  During the course of the seminar, occasionally we might use colored pencils or markers which will not be provided, so participants will need to bring their own.