Each year, the Dayton Literary Peace Prize honors writers whose works foster peace, social justice, and global understanding. In this seminar, we will read and discuss four of the 2025 award selections: A Map of Future Ruins by Lauren Markham (nonfiction runner-up), The Burning Earth by Sunil Amrith (nonfiction winner), Black Butterflies by Priscilla Morris (fiction runner-up), and Martyr by Kaveh Akbar (fiction winner). Together, these works invite us to explore powerful stories of resilience, conflict, and hope from across the globe. Our sessions will provide space for thoughtful dialogue about literature’s role in shaping empathy and perspective. If scheduling allows, we may also host a special Zoom conversation with one of the featured authors. Reading these works in advance is strongly encouraged to make the most of our discussions.

This seminar examines the background, causes, conduct, and consequences of the Vietnam War, 1945-1975. This is not a military history of the conflict but an overview of the war centering on the political, cultural and social forces and a general examination of the military developments that shaped the war. The purpose of the seminar is to understand its profound and lasting impact on various aspects of American society, foreign policy, and military strategy, as well as its influence on Vietnam and Southeast Asia. The use of short film clips, interviews and suggested readings will also be included.

Over the course of 357,000 miles of cycling—including 100,000 miles on tour—I’ve pedaled through 47 of the 48 continental states, as well as England and New Zealand. Along the way, I kept a nightly journal, capturing not only the miles but also the stories, encounters, and reflections that came with the journey. In this seminar, I’ll share highlights from my travels, photographs from the road, and insights on what it means to take on such adventures in my 60s. Building on last year’s seminar, this expanded version includes new stories, fresh perspectives, and more time for participant questions and conversation.

Discover the rich history and artistry of African-Indian quilts while learning the techniques that bring these unique designs to life. In this hands-on seminar, participants will create their own quilt, exploring both tradition and creativity. No prior quilting experience is required—just a willingness to learn and enjoy the process.

Please note: attendance at the first class is essential, so only register if you are able to participate in the opening session. Also participants should bring fabric scissors.

The first two decades of the 20th century witnessed a remarkable period of social and political reform known as Progressivism. Examples included regulation of corporations and breakup of monopolies, political primaries and direct election of U.S. Senators, consumer protections, national prohibition of alcohol, and woman suffrage. We will look at the people and events of this dynamic time, including Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Jane Addams, Eugene Debs, Alice Paul, Robert LaFollette, and many others.

This seminar will look at the status of “the American Experiment” as we approach the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America in 2026. The USA has survived a civil war, two world wars and numerous international conflicts to emerge as the world’s longest lasting democracy. Internal and external stresses continue to challenge the USA – how are we doing as a nation?

The seminar will discuss the origin of the United States, the quest for “a more perfect Union”, the attempts to undermine American democracy, the concept of Servant Leadership, the effectiveness of Constitutional checks and balances; the role of government in overall society; elected officials’ roles; strengths and weaknesses of our representative democracy and what the future holds as the United States of America turns 250 years old.

This seminar introduces a theory of ethics based on two ethics, the Unevolved and the Evolved Ethics, and how these ethics motivate all acts and behaviors. The seminar begins by recognizing the component parts that come together to form each ethic and discussion of the whole ethic. The seminar then looks at several related subjects, such as the impact of ethics on needs and wants, and the impact of the two ethics on relationships. It also covers developmental stages of the two ethics. Finally, it closes with a discussion of the impact of ethics on leadership.

Required Text: The Unevolved and Evolved Ethics.

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.

Join Angie as she takes you on a journey through Brisbane, Australia, which she visited in July 2025 while accompanying her husband to a conference. Known as both a World’s Fair and Olympic city, Brisbane offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and modern vitality. Angie will share highlights of her travels, from well-known tourist attractions to hidden gems, monuments, and historical markers that reveal the city’s unique character. This seminar offers not only a travelogue but also an invitation to see Brisbane through the eyes of a curious explorer, blending personal experiences with cultural insight.

Regardless of your age or circumstances, people want to live a satisfying, fulfilling life. Yet how do we build such a life throughout the years given all the unique experiences and circumstances that we face? The answer lies in the reality that we create our lives by the Power of Our Minds. This course examines how that is accomplished. We will explore how our mind can create an ongoing sense of wellbeing, and what steps we need to take to ensure we are living life to its fullest potential, given our circumstances. We will examine how we can use our mind to shape our thoughts and actions to create a life that is satisfying, fulfilling, enriching, and meaningful.

Using ENDGAME scenarios this class will instruct the students on learning how the pieces move as well as develop basic strategy using fundamental concepts. The ENDGAME is the final stage of every chess game where there are less pieces on the board, but a strong understanding of how to play decides possible victory or forced draws with your opponent. I will be using examples from my recent games as well as from classical American and Russian textbooks. We will also look at the history of chess as well as introduce famous players throughout the ages.

The Frontier Experience has been an important part of American Culture. This seminar will focus on the turbulent evolution of the Western United States. The Conquistadors, Explorers, Fur Traders, and Missionaries were followed by the Emigrant Wagon Trains and the Gold and Silver Miners. Native conflicts soon developed with the indigenous peoples. Conflicts also arose between the new settlers. Bleeding Kansas resulted in Civil War and the forgotten battlefields of the western frontier will be examined. The Frontier Experience resulted in the uniquely American characteristics of opportunity, individualism, and democracy.

The seminar will explore the history, sociology, economics, and -- of course -- the music of one of America's most distinctive and influential cultural phenomena. Starting with sources in white and black traditions on both sides of the Atlantic, we will cover early radio, phonograph, and performance venues; the most influential performers of the 1920s through the 1970s; growth in audiences in the U.S. and worldwide; influences of technology; and such branches of the country music tree as honky-tonk, western swing, bluegrass, and rockabilly.

"It is the photographer, not the camera, that is the instrument." — Eve Arnold

Let your photography blossom. Let your subjects open up in new ways. Using our unique and collective interests, skills and inclinations, together we will each explore the possibilities and potential of our own photography. We will deepen our perception, interrogate photographs, and refine our intent. With guidance from the work and writings of professional photographers from around the world and our own Miami Valley, we'll make images authentic to each of us.

Join us. Have fun. And surprise yourself!

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.

Dayton has played an active role in the brewing business for a long time. This seminar covers stories of the early brewers, some brewing philosophies, and we'll tour some local craft brewers to hear about their ideas of the craft brewing business. We'll even brew some beer for ourselves.

In this program, we'll explore seven of Dayton’s National Register Historic Neighborhoods: Grafton Hill, Grafton-Rockwood-Wroe/Kenilworth, McPherson Town, Oregon District, Paul Laurence Dunbar, and South Park. 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.

From pulp origins to mainstream dominance, science fiction has evolved into a powerful storytelling form that explores new worlds, ideas, and ways of thinking. This course traces the genre’s growth over two centuries, distinguishing it from fantasy and myth, and highlighting key authors who shaped its direction. We will discover how science fiction reflects cultural change and reimagines the future.

Do you wish you understood those from other cultures better? This seminar will introduce you to key skills to decode differences in national culture, as well as individual preferences. Both of these reduce a group's ability to live and work well together. Come ready to expand your CQ (cultural intelligence)!

Edgar Allan Poe was more than a writer of scary stories—though he did that really, really well. In addition to writing those macabre tales, he helped create detective fiction and science fiction, and his literary criticism helped define the short story for future American writers. This seminar will sample the wide range of Poe’s fiction, poetry, and criticism, some of it familiar, some not. It also will look at his legacy in the visual arts, music, and film. BOOK: Students will need to obtain a collection of Poe’s works, which are readily available from online sources such as Amazon and ABE Books, from local bookstores, or from local libraries. Texts likely to be less readily available will be emailed in advance of session.

Explore the fascinating world of Albert Einstein’s theories—no math or science background required. This course introduces key ideas like time travel, warped space, black holes, and gravitational waves, all in accessible terms. We will discover how modern science continues to confirm Einstein’s predictions and why his work remains a source of wonder for both scientists and science fiction fans.

Have you ever wanted to go into the back of beyond just to see what was there, making your own path in the wilderness? If some people did not do this, humans would not have spread out of Africa and over the world. Starting in the 10th century CE various men and women were adventurous enough to sail beyond the known boundaries and discovered new continents - the Americas. This seminar will look at the lives of the people who pioneered the exploration of the northern part of the Americas, meeting the people who had settled it in prehistory, discovering what was there, cataloging it, and encouraging others to follow in their footsteps footsteps. Some of the names you will be familiar with and other you may not know. Come explore North America with them.

The Intertestamental Period, spanning roughly 400 years before Jesus, bridges the Old and New Testaments. It is a blank page in many Bibles and often overlooked as the "silent years" or deuterocanonical era. This time shaped the world of Jesus and the early Church. This seminar explores the period's historical, cultural, religious, and political developments, diving into key figures, events, and movements that influenced the Second Temple Period and continue to resonate today. Students will experience a concise yet deep dive into this transformative era.

We live in a very complex world that changes rapidly, especially technology. People are holding on to their original beliefs. The only one who can cope with this world is someone who updates and changes his views. Adam Grant has written a book called “Think Again “ which gives a method to reinvent ourselves at a personal, interpersonal and group level. This book is written specifically for people who are interested in Lifelong Learning.

This seminar will explore key insights from Grant’s book, compare them with the Socratic method, and engage participants in interactive group discussions and activities to deepen understanding through active learning.

This seminar explores how pharmaceutical companies use direct-to-consumer (DTC) television advertising to promote prescription medications. We will examine the structure and strategies of these ads, using YouTube examples to highlight key techniques. Participants will also review the FDA’s 2024 guidelines for DTC television advertising and learn how to critically analyze ads for their impact on public perception, awareness of side effects, health behaviors, and overall health literacy. They will learn how to talk with their doctors about taking one of the advertised medications. Through discussion and case studies, we will consider how these ads shape both consumer choices and broader conversations about healthcare.

Approximately 32 million people in the United States have food allergies. Nearly 11 percent of people age 18 or older have food allergies, as well as 8 percent of children. Ingestion complications can range from mild to severe...to fatal. Unfortunately, the incidence of food allergies is rising. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention report that since 1997, food allergy prevalence among children has increased by 50 percent. About half of all adult food allergies emerge well into adulthood. Therefore, it is increasingly likely that you, your friends or family will be touched by food sensitivity/ intolerance at some point. Understanding dietary limitations and how to manage them is increasingly important.

Founded in 1977 by President Jimmy Carter and Wayne Smith, the Friendship Force is an international organization dedicated to building bridges of peace through cultural exchange and personal connection. Its mission is simple but powerful: to promote understanding across borders by encouraging people to experience one another’s lives directly. Through home-hosting and international travel, members are welcomed into each other’s communities, fostering friendships that transcend politics, language, and geography. In this seminar, we will explore the origins of the Friendship Force, its continuing role in promoting goodwill worldwide, and the ways in which local chapters connect travelers with hosts from around the globe. Participants will learn how cultural immersion—sharing meals, stories, and daily life—creates lasting friendships and promotes peace one relationship at a time.

Are you apprehensive of climate change, “the climate crisis,” or conflicting claims of urgency and solutions? Do you want to better understand the breadth, depth, and implications of climate change, and identify effective and productive ways to help promote a sustainable global environment? Let’s explore together. Some topics we may consider:

• What is climate? Why is a global perspective important?
• What part do terminology and semantics play in our perceptions of, and responses to, issues related to climate change?
• Climate perception, science, popular culture, and policies – sorting ‘em out.
• What can I do to make a difference?

We will not be advocating specific approaches or “solutions.” Through a conversational style and visual learning aids, the goal is a broad awareness to help you chart your personal course for positive climate action.

Greek mythology continues to inspire poets who use timeless stories to reflect on modern life, emotions, and challenges. In this seminar, we will read classic myths alongside contemporary poems that draw on their themes, exploring how ancient tales of gods, heroes, and struggles are reimagined to illuminate present-day experiences. Through discussion and close reading, participants will discover the enduring power of myth and the fresh insights it brings to today’s poetry.

This seminar will provide a basic description of the Marianist charism and then focus on the method of growing into the life in Christ with Mary through use of the Marianist virtues. Participants are asked to download the short book "Marianist Pillars for Young Adults" by Fr. Ted Cassidy from the North American Center for Marianist Studies (NMCMS) and purchase the book "Growing in the Virtues of Jesus" by Quentin Hakenwerth, SM from NACMS. Participants are asked to reflect and pray with these virtues and part of the class time will be spent in small groups reflecting on the virtues.

When we think of the Holocaust, we recall the horrors perpetrated by evildoers. Even in humanity’s darkest hours, courageous individuals risked everything to save lives. This course sheds light on these little-known rescuers—ordinary people who defied laws, resisted hate, and acted with moral clarity and compassion. Their uplifting stories are powerful reminders of resilience, morality, and hope.

Since 1927, the Academy Awards have celebrated the best in filmmaking, from groundbreaking silent films to modern blockbusters. In this seminar, we’ll trace the history of Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Director winners, watching memorable clips that showcase the artistry and cultural impact of cinema across the decades. From Wings (1927) to more recent winners, we’ll revisit great moments in film history while reflecting on what makes these works enduring classics. One session will be dedicated to Charlie Chaplin—his life, artistry, and lasting influence on world cinema. Participants will also be invited to share their favorite films, performances, and stars.

Sicily has been a mythic crossroads of heroes, conquerors, and culture for over 3,000 years. From Odysseus and the Arabo-Norman Golden Age to the Mafia and modern mythmakers like Garibaldi and Coppola, Sicily’s story is rich, complex, and central to Western history. This course explores its pivotal role in shaping civilization—and why Goethe famously said, “To have seen Italy without having seen Sicily is not to have seen Italy at all.

Immigration has always been a complex and emotional issue in US history. This course explores how the immigration system has evolved and how it works today. We will examine key questions about identity, belonging, and national responsibility while engaging in thoughtful, constructive conversations about the future of immigration policy in the United States.

The title of this class is a bit of a misnomer. It assumes that most of the participants may never serve on an actual jury, so the goal of the class is to discuss methodologies for improving small group decision making. A few of the Rules of Evidence will be used to enhance one’s ability to analyze the reliability of factual assertions. A side benefit is that after participating in the class, students will have a deeper understanding of news articles about trials and will enjoy critiquing TV shows and movies featuring trials. An extra bonus is that students will have the option to sit as jurors in a University of Dayton School of Law Mock Trial.

Many of us complain about geese droppings, but there is more interesting information to learn about geese. This short course will open your eyes to that information but you will still have to watch where you walk.

This interactive training will help participants understand where their implicit biases come from and what they can do to ensure they are looking at situations through an inclusive lens. The National Conference for Community and Justice of Greater Dayton (NCCJ) staff work hard to create a safe environment where participants feel heard, included, and safe. To assist with this, we start with a personal agreement and incorporate small and large group discussions.

This seminar is about major human innovations through history and how they significantly changed the course of civilization. The control of fire for heat and cooking nearly a million years ago was, perhaps, the first major development to make human lives better. Since then, developments in agriculture, energy, transportation, and government have changed the trajectory of human civilization.

An explosion of innovations beginning in 1850 led directly to the industrial revolution and to an explosion in human population. What were these events and why did that happen? And what about the future?

We will consider some current emerging technologies. We will speculate on how innovation will change humanity in future years.

An entry level seminar to acquaint new iPhone users with features such as Email, Photos, Siri, Calendar, alarms and reminders. Our goal is to increase your comfort in using your Apple iPhone.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) shapes our daily lives in subtle yet powerful ways. In this non-technical course, we will explore six case studies that reveal how AI systems work, the ethics behind machine decision-making, and the impact of these technologies on our world. We will gain a deeper understanding of AI’s current influence—and the possibilities ahead.

Inspired by the 2024 FX mini-series Shōgun, this course explores Japan’s transition from civil war to peace between the 15th and 18th centuries. We will examine the rise of key unifiers, the roles of diverse social groups (like merchants, peasants, women, and outcasts), and the era’s political, cultural, and artistic shifts. For fans of the series or those new to Japanese history, this course offers a rich, accessible introduction.

In 1884, John H. Patterson plunked down $6,500 to acquire a maker of cash registers. His first year, he sold 300 machines. By 1910, he sold a million. He gained 94 percent of the U.S. market through superior worksmanship, generous fringe benefits, and terrorizing his competition. He was the first person sentenced to prison for violating the Sherman Antitrust Act. Needing either a reversal on appeal or an act of God, he got the latter. With the 1913 Dayton flood, Patterson appointed NCR the savior of Dayton. His heroism led to his sentence being pitched out. Growth continued from there.

In the 1820s, John James Audubon set out to document every bird species in the US, resulting in The Birds of America, a landmark collection of 435 hand-painted prints. This course explores Audubon’s life, artistic methods, and legacy, highlighting how his work bridges art and science. We will examine selected prints and consider his lasting impact on American natural history.

Explore the rituals, beliefs, and writings of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam through a comparative lens. This course examines where these Abrahamic religions overlap and diverge, offering insights into their shared monotheistic roots and unique traditions. We will read key texts from each faith and gain a deeper understanding of how these religions shape meaning, practice, and identity.

Understand how having a “worthy” mindset can change your life for the better. Participants will learn how a “worthy” mindset can influence their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors though a mix of activities and discussions. Moderator Anna Jinja Mather will share how using a “worthy” mindset has transformed her personal and professional journeys as an adoptee, non-profit professional, and writer/podcaster.

Participants will gain:

• Greater ability to recognize and appreciate their self-worth.
• Develop greater understanding of how cultivating a worthy mindset can lead to positive changes.
• Strategies for connecting with a worthy mindset.

In this seminar, we will read and discuss three of Kurt Vonnegut’s most influential novels: Cat’s Cradle, Sirens of Titan, and Slaughterhouse-Five. Through Vonnegut’s blend of satire, humor, and pathos, we will examine the absurdities of human behavior, the fragility of belief systems, and the enduring search for meaning in chaotic times. The seminar will be conducted in a discussion-based format, encouraging thoughtful engagement and exchange of ideas. Enrollment is limited to 12 participants to ensure a lively and interactive conversation.

This workshop will introduce participants to the skills and techniques used to create professional quality images of their adventures in the natural world. Topics will include controlling exposure, using depth of field, motion effects, the principles of visual communication, and the qualities of natural light. The course will incorporate slide-illustrated lectures, group discussions, and ample time for student feedback.

In this popular writing seminar, you’ll learn craft techniques to write and revise the life stories you want to get into print for your family, friends, and maybe even the public! Part of our seminar is an evening where friends and family are invited to come and hear you read from your work. Craft lessons include story structure, description, dialogue, and revision. You’ll learn to give and receive constructive critique in a supportive and encouraging setting. Being in a room with other writers and hearing their stories will spark your creativity and give you more and more story ideas. This is for new and experienced writers. We’re in this together. If you’re new to writing, by the end of the seminar, you’ll be able to say, “I am a writer.” The proof will be in the digital collection of stories we publish at the seminar’s end. I’ve moderated this seminar more than ten times and am always delighted by the variety and quality of the stories. As an additional new challenge this year, we’ll try writing some 100-word stories.

Lesser-Known American Wars of the 19th Century’ will begin with the Barbary Wars of 1805-1815, and continue on with the War of 1812, the Mexican American War of 1846-48, and the Indian Wars running thru most of the century. We'll close with the Spanish-American War of 1898. We’ll skip the Civil War, well covered in other UDOLLI courses, and which would merit several whole courses on its own.

This will be a very different course from our previous ‘20th Century Wars’ offering, with heavy ethical undertones. Whereas 20th century American wars were largely—not totally—defensive in nature, wars of the 19th century clearly featured the US as the aggressor. Other nations had possessions that we coveted, and under the banner of ‘Manifest Destiny’ we set out to forcibly take them. The purpose of the 19th century wars was mainly conquest, and together the wars make for a morally dubious story.

"Life is a journey” may be the most common metaphor in our language, and it applies to all of us. It has to do with physical movement or relocation and also the search for identity and meaning as we wander inwards. In this course we will use literature as a vehicle to reflect on our own odysseys by reading and discussing two related novels. Mark Twain's "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" is one of the penultimate American novels of the 19th century, first published in 1885. It chronicles Huck's voyage down the Mississippi with the enslaved Jim, told in Huck's voice. "James," by Percival Everett and published in 2024, tells the story from Jim's viewpoint, along with various twists and turns that sometimes resemble the river itself. Our reading and discussion of these books will undoubtedly help us get in touch with our transformative experiences and travels to share with one another.

Lincoln & Slavery" examines Lincoln's lifelong opposition to slavery and his evolving attitude towards race during his formative, adult, and war years.

This 4-week course will explore the national and local literacy challenges depicted in the documentary Sentenced, and then will focus on Montgomery County, Ohio. The course will address the root causes of literacy issues, barriers to overcoming them, and actionable solutions that can make a tangible difference. Through the documentary and supplementary readings, students will gain a deeper understanding of the socio-economic, educational, and systemic issues related to literacy.

Wright Field in the Second World War

As the Second World War began President Roosevelt challenged the nation to produce 50,000 (later 60,000) airplanes per year, and the staff at Dayton’s Wright Field was remarkably successful in meeting and even exceeding this procurement goal. Despite the opportunities for corruption afforded by enormous sums of public money spent rapidly with little or no oversight, no evidence of corruption among senior Army Air Forces procurement officials exists – with one notable exception. Major General Bennett E. “Benny” Meyers, a career officer who eventually became commander of Wright Field’s Materiel Command, significantly enriched himself through a series of fraudulent and illegal dealings while simultaneously leading one of the nation’s most ambitious and critical defense projects. This is his story.

What might happen if we were more intentional about a few more moments each day? This seminar will review concepts around being more intention in moments in order to add fulfillment to your life and the life of others. Topics include: types of moments, the three major pillars of managing moments, ideas for being more aware of moments, and the numerous ways moments can make a difference. This seminar focuses on self-determination and building more agency in life, utilizing a combination of lecture, in-class exercises, reflection, sharing of stories, and questions for great discussion.

This course highlights transformative milestones in medicine from the 18th century to today, beginning with Jenner’s smallpox vaccine. We will explore key medical and public health advances, the innovators behind them, and the profound effects these breakthroughs have had on longevity and quality of life. The course offers a compelling look at how science and clinical care have worked together to reshape health outcomes over the past two centuries.

Explore the evolution of American conservation from the 19th century to today. This course goes beyond national parks to examine how urban reformers, scientists, women activists, and Native communities shaped the movement. Through diverse stories and landscapes, we will gain a deeper understanding of how Americans have fought to preserve—and define—the natural world.

Using the rock and pop music we'll take a trip, year by year, from 1974 thru 1979. We'll review the top songs and albums from each year and listen to many of them as we travel thru our memories. We'll also look back on some of the cultural happenings: of the time (e.g., Saturday Night Fever) and looking back in time (e.g., Grease).

This Zoom seminar covers five mystery novels, set in different countries: USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, and France. The books are: The Big Sleep, by Raymond Chandler, The Berry Pickers, by Amanda Peters, Death in Tokyo, by Keigo Higashino, Cocaine Blues by Kerry Greenwood, and The Chalk Circle Man, by Fred Vargas. We will explore universal themes involved in crime, and unique aspects of each culture. The moderator will present information about the authors, and lead a discussion of each book. 

There has not been an execution in Ohio in over seven years and in 2024 only one person was sentenced to death. Meanwhile, innocent men have been released from death row and numerous recommendations for reform of Ohio's capital punishment system have yet to be implemented. Can Ohio live without the death penalty? The seminar will provide a history of Ohio's experiment with capital punishment and lay out the reasons for ending it now.

This course, presented in partnership with the Osher Collaborative for Integrative Health, features expert speakers from their upcoming national conference, Navigating Chronic Illness in a Complex Healthcare System. Through engaging presentations and discussions, participants will explore how integrative health approaches can address the challenges of living with chronic conditions and help individuals make informed choices within today’s increasingly complex healthcare environment. Topics will focus on whole-person care, patient empowerment, and practical strategies for managing long-term health concerns.

Some substances heal, others harm—and some do both. This chemistry-rich (but non-technical) course explores the fine line between pharmaceuticals and poisons. We will examine drug development, venom-inspired medicine, and the history of FDA regulation shaped by scandal and reform. From aspirin’s industrial roots to Gila monster hormones, participants will uncover the fascinating, sometimes unsettling chemistry behind what we choose to swallow.

Everyone dies, but too few of us talk about it. This class aspires to normalize important conversations around death and end-of-life decisions. Through careful planning, guided discussion, and compassionate reflection, we will explore what it means to die well physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, and spiritually.

This course explores Post-Impressionism’s bold departure from naturalistic light and color, focusing on the expressive use of form, symbolism, and vivid, often unnatural color. Through the work of Cézanne, van Gogh, Gauguin, Seurat, and Matisse, we will trace the movement’s challenge to artistic norms and social values—laying the foundation for modern art and redefining the artist’s role in society.

In a three-week seminar, we will discuss “real news” compared to “fake news,” and determine how to recognize and evaluate each. The first week’s content will introduce traditional concepts of “news” and trends in news content and delivery. In the second week, we'll examine current examples of real and fake news, and for the third-week seminar participants will be asked to submit their own examples of “real” or “fake” news for discussion. Based on the first two weeks’ observations, we’ll attempt to establish criteria so we can separate “real” from “fake” news.

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.

Whether you're planning a trip or just want to feel more confident speaking Spanish, this fun, interactive seminar helps you sharpen your pronunciation and learn essential survival phrases for real-life situations like hotels, restaurants, and shops. No boring memorization—just practical conversation, real-time practice, and even some fun Spanish songs. Each week, you’ll receive a PowerPoint with voice recordings to practice at your own pace. Whether you're a beginner or brushing up, you'll leave the seminar feeling more confident and energized.

A financial plan is vital for everyone, no matter the stage of life they are in. But are you overwhelmed by all the complex terms such as annuities, life insurance, long term care policies, etc.? Are you unaware of your different investment options and what is right for you? If so, come ready to learn how to take charge of your wealth!

"There is something so special about receiving a handmade card that always fills me with joy. I love the feeling that someone took time to think about me and create something special with me in mind.“ ---a recipient of a handmade card!

Learn to make beautiful, handcrafted cards to share with family and friends. In this course, participants will be learning paper crafting techniques to bring a personal touch to greeting cards. In each class, the participants will complete 1-2 cards, while learning a new technique. Possible techniques: using paper scraps to make beautiful designs, fancy or fun folds, easy foiling technique, one-sheet wonder, faux leather, blending and using stencils, shadow stamping .

Special Requirements:

• Students must have taken at least one previous seminar from us.
• Lab fee: $30
• Materials needed for card making, including all card-stock, printed papers, and envelopes will be in a kit for each student. Special Equipment such as die-cutting machines, heat-embossing tools, stamps, inks, etc. will be available during class. All students will need to bring a basic tool kit: paper snips, small ruler, adhesives, bone folder, paper trimmer and score board. (a detailed list will be provided after registration).

This Zoom seminar will present a different TED Talk each week and then allow for class discussion on the topic.  Participants will watch the talk during class, then break into small groups to discuss.  If you like to delve into new and interesting topics and share ideas with other UDOLLI members, this seminar is for you.  It will offer all new TED Talks from the previous seasons and will include topics such as:  Self-Aware Robots, Human Population Decline, Atheism 2.0, Talking Politics with Strangers, What Makes A Good College and others.

Ancient rainforests are critical to our own survival. Most of the 75% of over the counter drugs, and 30% of prescription drugs, have originated in the Amazon Rainforest. This seminar will explore plant- animal interactions, biodiversity of medicinal plants, and their use by Indigenous people of the rainforest. We will look at Shaman, the role of pharmaceutical companies, and new discoveries that are found in these healing forests. We will also discuss conservation and why the Amazon rainforest must be protected.

This course reframes the American Revolution as a global event shaped by imperial rivalries and geopolitical forces. Each session focuses on a different group—Germans, French, Spaniards, South Asians, and others—revealing how their experiences intersected with the collapse of British rule in North America. By viewing the Revolution through a global lens, participants will uncover new perspectives on its causes, course, and consequences.

Participants will learn some of the history, cultural significance, and evolution of the banjo in America, examining its roots in African culture and the instrument's journey to America. Rick will demonstrate various styles of playing on a variety of banjos and play audio samples featuring the banjo, ranging from the traditional to the experimental.

This engaging, video-rich course tells the story of American television—from its 1920s origins to today’s streaming era. We will explore decades of iconic shows, genres, and cultural moments that shaped the medium and its audiences. From sitcoms and dramas to news and sports, we will rediscover how TV evolved, adapted, and transformed American culture—one broadcast, cable channel, and streaming service at a time.

The comics date back to the mid-19th century in the U.S. We will look at the five distinct ages each with a particular style and focus. This seminar will also cover the trend away from daily newspaper readership to the continued popularity of comic books. Digital delivery of comics has also increased readership in the 21st century. I will describe the difference between comics and cartoons.

The seminar will explore the meaning of the ancient Greek epic poem, The Iliad. 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 translation used in class is by Richmond Lattimore. Students may use any translation of The Iliad 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.

Woodcraft has been part of the human story since ancient times, blending utility, creativity, and beauty. This seminar invites participants to explore the joy of working with wood while learning what different varieties offer and how they can be shaped, joined, and turned into works of art. We’ll introduce the essential tools of the trade, discuss design methods, and outline how to get started in woodworking. Throughout the seminar, local woodworking masters from the Dayton area will share their expertise, methods, and creations, offering inspiration and practical insight. As one craftsman put it, “Within every piece of wood there dwells a spirit, waiting to be released."

This seminar celebrates the music and legacy of Bob Dylan, whose songwriting has shaped generations. We will listen to his songs and explore the themes, lyrics, and artistry that earned him recognition as one of the most influential voices in American music. In 2016, Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature “for having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition.” While not formally a poet laureate, he has often been called the “poet laureate of rock ’n’ roll,” a title that reflects the profound literary and cultural impact of his work. 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.

Discover how film music enhances storytelling, sets mood and place, defines character, and blends styles—jazz, classical, pop—into powerful cinematic impressions. We will discuss how composers shape emotion across genres like drama, romance, comedy, sci-fi, and westerns. From The Jazz Singer to James Bond, we will trace the evolution of film scores, spotlighting legendary composers such as Bernard Herrmann, Ennio Morricone, and John Williams. Celebrate the artistry of film music and its lasting emotional impact.

Each presenter will tell their story of how they have lived their lives within the Marianist Family which is a global, diverse, and prayerful community of Catholic men and women who share a common charism and look to Mary as a model of faith and discipleship. It is made up of three primary branches: the Society of Mary (Marianist brothers and priests), the Daughters of Mary Immaculate (Marianist Sisters), and Lay Marianists, who are men and women committed to the Marianist charism and often form or join Marianist Lay Communities.

Explore the noir novel through Dashiell Hammett’s The Maltese Falcon, Raymond Chandler’s The Big Sleep, and Sara Paretsky’s Indemnity Only. From hardboiled detectives navigating gritty cityscapes to Paretsky’s feminist reimagining of the genre, this course traces the evolution of noir fiction. Film clips from classic adaptations will highlight the genre’s impact on both literature and cinema.

From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, great films often reflect the deepest truths about the human experience. In this seminar, we will watch and analyze carefully selected clips from some of the most acclaimed movies of all time, using them as springboards for exploring universal themes. Together, we will consider questions of heroism and villainy, love and meaning, and the paradoxes that shape our lives. Each session will feature 40–45 minutes of film excerpts, followed by engaging discussion designed to draw out connections between cinema and our own journeys.

A review of the original seven Articles of the Constitution and its twenty-seven Amendments. The 7,495 words of these documents have provided the foundation for the oldest and most successful republic in history.

Virtue theory asks not just how to do good, but how to be good. This course explores timeless questions of character through the lens of thinkers like Aristotle, Jesus, the Buddha, and Confucius. We will reflect on key virtues—such as honesty, courage, compassion, and respect—and consider practical ways to cultivate them in daily life. The full series may be taught as two separate courses.

Take a visual journey through some of the most celebrated masterpieces in art history. This seminar explores the stories, techniques, and historical contexts behind iconic paintings that have shaped cultures and inspired generations—from the Renaissance to modern art. Participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the artists’ creative processes, the symbolism within their works, and the evolution of artistic styles across centuries.

The author of the Fourth Gospel was a gifted writer, who proclaimed his message to others by way of his engaging stories. In this series, we will begin by discussing the role of stories in our lives: the ways that they tell us who we are as a people and shape our vision of ourselves and others. Then we will explore six of John’s stories, taking note of John’s use of literary and dramatic devices such as setting, symbolism, dual-meaning, misunderstanding leading to further explanation, and staging to communicate his unique vision of God’s Good News in Jesus. Most Christian churches – Catholic, Protestant, and Anglican - will be including these stories in their worship services on the Sundays of this coming Lent and Easter.

In Fall of 2022 nearly seventy UDOLLI members chose to enroll in what some later described as an emotional yet intellectually and morally challenging seminar. Participants were asked to listen with intentionality to a range of stark, up-close, and personal interviews with the homeless, the mentally-ill living on the streets, prostitutes, the drug and alcohol addicted, victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse and childhood trauma; and those who have experienced generational trauma within dysfunctional families. This was not an easy seminar, yet nearly every participant stayed until the end of the six weeks and with all having been challenged to reflect upon the human condition through a different moral and philosophical lens.

While this class will reprise a few interviews from the 2022 seminar, 90% of the earlier seminar is refreshed with new interviews conducted in the last year. Each interview has the visual ability to draw us deeply into the shared personal stories. Seminar participants will be invited to grapple with and perhaps better understand the basic humanity and turning points in life that led to these individuals’ circumstances.

Let’s be honest, many well-intentioned people even within our own families are prone to immediate judgment toward “those people” living on the fringes of our society. Yet our Judeo-Christian traditions proclaim a God who radically loves all people; a God that meets people in their present conditions. New Testament narratives confront us with a radical preacher named Jesus who was drawn -- not to the rich and well-positioned -- but to those marginalized and made invisible by society. Moreover, Biblical scholars tell us that this Jesus confronted and challenged conventional attitudes toward the broken and the lost. Together, the critical questions we will ask in his seminar are: How do we make sense of the human condition where so many among us are marginalized, unseen, broken, and often on a path to self-destruction? Where is God in all of this, if at all? Does God really care and do we really care? And as the late rock star Tina Turner once sang “what’s love got to do with it?” Seminar will be limited to 50 participants so as to encourage class conversation.
 

Today, we honor the legacy of the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion—better known as the Triple Nickles. Formed during World War II, the Triple Nickles were the first all-Black airborne unit in the history of the United States Army. In a time when segregation and discrimination were still entrenched in the military, these men broke barriers by becoming some of the most elite soldiers in service, trained as paratroopers at Fort Benning, Georgia.

Join Turtle Up for an engaging seminar on sea turtle conservation and sustainability. Over two interactive sessions, learn about Turtle Up, explore the challenges of plastic pollution, and learn practical ways to take action. Activities include trivia, a plastic waste reduction challenge, and discussions on eco-tourism and volunteering, all designed to inspire change. Whether you're passionate about marine life or seeking ways to live more sustainably, this seminar offers valuable insights and opportunities to get involved in meaningful conservation efforts.

Taxes are the 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 expose students to terms and concepts that affect how the US tax systems originated, evolved, and operates currently. 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 US.

The emergence of more all-electric cars/trucks, and the unrelated exponential increase in AI-driven data centers, will dramatically increase future U.S. electric power demand in the next 5-10 years. Nuclear power offers an affordable, carbon free, and always available 24/7 base power source to complement non-continuous electric power provided by solar and wind turbines.

This seminar will dispel the MYTHS and unfounded fears that have suppressed new U.S. nuclear power plant development for over 40 years, examine the critical NEED for this cost-effective carbon-free electric power source, and highlight the PROMISE provided by a government encouraged nuclear power renaissance.

This beginner-friendly course introduces Google Workspace tools like Drive, Gmail, Calendar, Docs, Sheets, and Slides. We will learn core features, basic navigation, and practical applications for personal and professional use. With guided instruction and real-world examples, the course builds confidence and foundational skills to boost productivity and collaboration.

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.

Mr. Buffett is widely regarded as the greatest investor ever. Less known may be his business and management skills. His integrity has been stellar and wisdom in financial and Life matters profound. More than 99% of his net worth will eventually end up with charitable foundations and not with his family. His humor, clarity of thought are additional reasons why increasing tens of thousands of people make annual pilgrimage to Omaha for BRK annual meetings. Seminar hopes to bring alive these and other attributes of this fascinating man.

It isn't a "Man's World" in racing any more. In fact, racing was never just for the guys. We'll hear about several important female drivers, both current and historic. Then, we'll spend some time via internet connection, with members of today's Arrow McLaren Indy Race Team who will give us a view of where they are making a difference in Racing.