Wednesdays, January 14 - February 18, 2026
4:00 - 5:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Mike Agron

Born in LA’s entertainment scene, Mike is a former high-tech exec and entrepreneur who now creates and delivers dynamic, story-driven seminars on music and entertainment. With a storyteller’s eye and a DJ’s ear, he’s led 15 acclaimed seminar series, each spotlighting a different facet of music and entertainment, for the Sacramento Renaissance Society and national lifelong learning groups including OLLI, Osher Online, Encore Learning, and more.

Saturdays, January 17 - February 21, 2026
12:00 - 1:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Rick Bell, PhD

Richard Bell, PhD, is Professor of History at the University of Maryland and author of Stolen, a finalist for the George Washington and Harriet Tubman Prizes. A National Endowment for the Humanities Public Scholar and Carnegie Fellow, he has held fellowships at Yale and Cambridge. His latest book, The American Revolution and the Fate of the World, was published in 2025.

Thursdays, January 15 - February 19, 2026
4:00 - 5:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Eliot Bethke

Eliot Bethke is a PhD candidate in computational bioengineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He previously worked in research and development at several Midwest start-ups, focusing on product design and manufacturing. After running a summer internship program, he shifted his focus to education and now shares his expertise in hardware and software development with future engineers.

Mondays, January 26 - March 02, 2026
2:00 - 3:30PM Central 

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. 

Speaker: Jonathan Duncan

Jonathan Duncan is a photojournalist, writer, teacher, and public speaker with more than 25 years of experience. His work has been published in National Geographic, The Himalayan Journal, Sailing, Rock and Ice, and by the University of Utah Press. He has taught at the Art Institute of Portland, Western Washington University, Westminster University, and the University of Utah’s Osher Institute. His work explores humanity’s complex relationship with the natural world, often in remote landscapes and cultures.

Thursdays, January 29 - March 5, 2026
12:00 - 1:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Jeremy Fackenthal, PhD

Jeremy Fackenthal, PhD, is an independent filmmaker and nonprofit director. He led the Common Good International Film Festival from 2019 to 2023 and holds a PhD in Philosophy of Religion and Theology from Claremont Graduate University. His work uses film to explore philosophical questions, including a short documentary on spoken word poetry and an upcoming feature-length film. He sees film as art, expression, and entertainment.

Tuesdays, January 27 - March 3, 2026
4:00 - 5:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Andrew Fraknoi 

Andrew Fraknoi is the former chair of the astronomy department at Foothill College and now teaches noncredit astronomy courses at San Francisco State and the University of San Francisco. He is lead author of OpenStax Astronomy, the most widely used free introductory astronomy textbook in North America. Named California Professor of the Year in 2007, he frequently explains astronomy in everyday language on national radio programs. The International Astronomical Union named Asteroid 4859 Fraknoi in his honor as a recognition of his contributions to the public understanding of science.  Learn more at http://fraknoi.com.

Thursdays, January 22 - February 26, 2026
2:00 - 3:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Johnnie Hendrickson, PhD

Johnnie Hendrickson, PhD, is a Teaching Professor in the School of Molecular Sciences at Arizona State University. He holds a PhD in chemistry and is the author of the textbook Chemistry in the World. His academic work centers on science communication and the reciprocal relationship between science and society.

Wednesdays, January 14 - February 18
10:00 - 11:30AM Central 

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.

Speaker: Gordon Josephson, MD, MPH

Gordon Josephson, MD, MPH, is a retired emergency physician and former Chief Operating Officer of Baystate Medical Practices in Springfield, Massachusetts. He holds a Master of Public Health from Harvard University and a medical degree from the State University of New York. Dr. Josephson remains active in the lifelong learning community and currently serves as president of the OLLI Board of Directors.

Tuesdays, January 20 - February 24, 2026
10:00 - 11:30AM Central 

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.

Speaker: Peter Kaye, PhD

Peter Kaye, PhD, is a retired faculty member from Northwestern University, where he combined administrative and teaching roles. He earned his doctorate in English literature and humanities from Stanford University, and his research led to the publication of Dostoevsky and English Modernism by Cambridge University Press. Over nearly 40 years in higher education, he taught a wide range of literature and interdisciplinary courses, with a focus on 19th- and 20th-century fiction. Now teaching online, he remains committed to lively, engaging instruction.

Mondays, January 26 - March 2, 2026
12:00 - 1:30PM Central 

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.”

Speaker: Douglas Kenning, PhD

Douglas Kenning, PhD (University of Edinburgh), is a writer, lecturer, and former professor of literature and history. He has taught in the U.S., Tunisia, Japan, and Italy. Now based in the San Francisco Bay Area and Sicily, he offers dynamic lectures on Mediterranean civilizations and leads small-group tours exploring history, myth, and culture.

Wednesdays, January 14 - February 18, 2026
2:00 - 3:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Howard Kerner

Howard Kerner, BA, MA (SUNY Albany), is a retired English professor who spent 47 years teaching and publishing over 100 scholarly articles, primarily on the Holocaust. In retirement, he researches and shares the powerful stories of little-known Holocaust rescuers. Through his talks at lifelong learning programs, he highlights acts of extraordinary bravery and altruism—offering timely reminders of human goodness.

Wednesdays, January 21 - February 25, 2026
6:00 - 7:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Chelsea King

Chelsea King is a learning and development specialist with more than a decade of experience in teaching and training. She began her career as a high school English teacher and now focuses on adult learners, especially in professional development and technology integration. Her approach emphasizes practical, collaborative learning experiences that reflect her commitment to accessible, tech-forward instruction in both educational and corporate settings.

Mondays, January 26 - March 2, 2026
10:00 - 11:30AM Central 

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.

Speaker: Elena Labkovsky, PhD

Elena Labkovsky, PhD, is a neuroscientist and clinical neuropsychologist with over 30 years of experience in cognitive psychology and psychophysiology. She specializes in neurobehavioral modulation, integrating psychological, neuropsychological, and physiological approaches to support emotional and cognitive well-being. Her work focuses on how brain function shapes behavior and on developing innovative, research-based treatments for mental health challenges.

Tuesdays, January 20 - February 24, 2026
12:00 - 1:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Fraser Livingston, PhD

Fraser Livingston is an environmental historian with a PhD in American history from Mississippi State University. His research focuses on the history of science, technology, and agriculture. He received the 2023 Gilbert C. Fite Award for Best Dissertation on Agricultural History and currently works on a book about conservationist George Bird Grinnell. He also serves as book review editor for Environmental History.

Tuesdays January 20 - February 24, 2026
6:00 - 7:30PM Central 

Inspired by the 2024 FX mini-series Shogun, 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.

Speaker: Megan McClory

Megan McClory is a doctoral candidate in history at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her research explores sword restrictions in early modern Japan and their role in shaping peace and power. A Global Research Fellow at Kokugakuin University, she has spent years living and studying in Japan and holds a BA from Brandeis University.

Mondays, January 26 - March 2, 2026
2:00 - 3:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Jim (James) McKairnes

Jim McKairnes is a former CBS Television executive who writes and teaches about television history. He has taught at DePaul, Temple, and Middle Tennessee State universities, and is the author of All in the Decade, a book on 1970s television. Since 2020, he has taught regularly for OLLI programs across the country and currently lives in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Thursdays, January 22 - February 26, 2026
10:00 - 11:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Eric Simon, PhD

Eric Simon, PhD, is a professor of Biology at New England College and holds a PhD in biochemistry from Harvard University. An avid traveler and award-winning nature photographer, he leads educational trips to destinations such as Belize, the Galapagos, Tanzania, Cuba, the Amazon River, and Patagonia. Simon is also the author of a best-selling series of college biology textbooks—used in over 40 countries—with more than 2 million copies in print.

Wednesdays, January 14 - February 18, 2026
12:00 - 1:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: David Smith, PhD

David Smith, PhD, is a scholar of religion and philosophy who was raised in a fundamentalist tradition and later became a progressive skeptic. He holds graduate degrees in philosophy of religion and religious studies from Temple University. A former professor at Central Washington University, he now teaches independent seminars and has published widely. His work empowers others to think critically about life’s big questions.

Fridays, January 16 - February 20, 2026
10:00 - 11:30AM Central 

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.

Speaker: Michele Waslin, PhD

Michele Waslin, PhD, is Assistant Director of the Immigration History Research Center at the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities. She develops research initiatives, educational resources, and public programs focused on global migration, race, and ethnicity. Waslin brings extensive experience in immigration policy and public scholarship, helping connect academic research with broader conversations on migration in the United States and beyond.

Mondays, January 26 through March 2, 2026
4:00 - 5:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Lauren Weingarden

Lauren Weingarden is Professor Emerita of Art History at Florida State University. Her work explores the intersections of literature and visual art in 19th-century culture, focusing on figures like architect Louis Sullivan, Charles Baudelaire, and Édouard Manet. She has published widely and developed an embodied aesthetic model that helps viewers re-experience artists’ encounters with modernity and nature’s transience—an approach that informs her teaching on Impressionism.

Tuesdays, January 20 - February 24, 2026
2:00 - 3:30PM Central 

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.

Speaker: Gary Wolfe

Gary Wolfe is emeritus professor of humanities at Roosevelt University and a critic for Locus magazine. He is the author of Evaporating Genres and editor of American Science Fiction volumes for the Library of America. Wolfe has received multiple awards, including a Hugo and a Ditmar for The Coode Street Podcast, which he co-hosts with Jonathan Strahan.

Fridays, January 30 through March 6, 2026
2:00 - 3:30PM Central 

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.

Speakers: Osher Centers for Integrative Health

The Osher Collaborative for Integrative Health is a national network of academic health centers dedicated to advancing whole-person care. Through clinical innovation, research, and education, the Collaborative promotes evidence-based approaches that combine conventional and complementary therapies to support physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Wednesdays, October 15 - November 19
10:00 - 11:30AM Central 

More than any other invention of the past 150 years, the telephone has transformed how we communicate and conduct business. But how was it invented, and why did it have such a profound impact?

This course explores Alexander Graham Bell’s groundbreaking 1875 concept for transmitting sound over an electric wire, his struggles to commercialize the telephone with his father-in-law, Gardiner Hubbard, and his rivalry with inventors Elisha Gray and Thomas Edison. We will also examine the rise and fall of AT&T as a corporate giant and the evolution from wired networks to today’s cellular and smartphone technologies.

Speaker: Bernard (Bernie) Carlson 

Bernard (Bernie) Carlson is Vaughan Professor Emeritus of Humanities at the University of Virginia and an expert on invention, entrepreneurship, and the role of technology in society. He has received the Sally Hacker Prize from the Society for the History of Technology and the William Middleton Prize from the Institution of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Carlson has also filmed Understanding the Inventions that Changed the World. Now based in Ireland, he directs the MS program in AgInnovation at the University of Galway, where he trains adult learners in product development, startups, and sustainable farming.

Tuesdays, October 14 - November 18
4:00 - 5:30PM Central 

Whether you’re in Macon, Memphis, Muscle Shoals, or Massapequa, music matters, and our varied musical heritage is one of the best ways to understand crucial moments in American history. This course will explore Indigenous expressions, colonial invasion, forced African migration, and the cultural shifts of the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries. Through the interplay of genres and traditions, we’ll examine how music captures the evolving American experience.

Speaker: Matt Jennings

Matt Jennings, PhD is Professor of History at Middle Georgia State University. He has authored several books on Native American and local history, including New Worlds of Violence, The Flower Hunter and the People, and Ocmulgee National Monument: A Brief History with Field Notes (with poet Gordon Johnston). While he specializes in Native American history, he teaches in a variety of fields, including the history of music in America (perhaps as a way of compensating for his sporadic, and sophomoric efforts on the guitar, mandolin, and banjo).

Wednesdays, October 8 - November 12
4:00 - 5:30PM Central 

Become educated, entertained, and empowered to become more effective stewards of the natural world. Through real-life conservation stories—drawn from the instructor's personal experiences and her time as host of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom—we will highlight the impact of passionate individuals working together to address complex environmental challenges.

This course explores how diverse perspectives, and unique skills contribute to conservation efforts, offering participants practical ways to take meaningful action in protecting wildlife and ecosystems.
 

Speaker: Stephanie Arne 

Stephanie Arne is an international wildlife conservationist, expedition guide, and storyteller. She is the former host of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom and has appeared on Animal Planet, The Weather Channel, The Harry Connick Jr. Show, and The Drew Barrymore Show. Arne’s expertise in wildlife conservation has earned her a seat on the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Lion SAFE (Saving Animals from Extinction) committee and the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Education and Communication Commission.

Mondays, October 20 - November 24
4:00 - 5:30PM Central 

This course explores the complex issue of Death with Dignity, also known as assisted suicide, through its historical development, ethical debates, legal frameworks, and cultural perspectives. The movement gained national attention through the advocacy of Dr. Jack Kevorkian, sparking widespread discussion on end-of-life choices.

Participants will critically examine evolving policies on physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia while engaging in thoughtful discussions on this sensitive and often controversial topic. Designed to educate and foster awareness, this course provides a comprehensive look at the ethical and legal dimensions of end-of-life decision-making.
 

Speaker: Aleen Bayard

Aleen Bayard, PhD is an adjunct faculty member at Northwestern University, teaching leadership and change management. She played a key role in Northwestern’s partnership with the Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership, developing the curriculum for the Certificate in Jewish Leadership and teaching in the program for several years. Bayard holds degrees from Stanford University, Columbia University, and Northwestern University and earned her doctorate from Benedictine University. Through her consulting practice, she develops programs on leadership, culture, employee engagement, and team performance.

Thursdays, October 9 - November 13
2:00 - 3:30PM Central 

Impressionist painters revolutionized art with a new style that emphasized changing atmospheric effects and luminous color harmonies. Their unblended brushstrokes of pure color and simple compositions broke dramatically with traditional pictorial techniques. Rejecting historical, mythological, and religious themes, they instead focused on the rapidly shifting aspects of modern life—capturing scenes from the countryside, the home, and the city.

This course examines the work of Monet, Renoir, Degas, Cassatt, and Morisot from the 1860s to the 1910s, exploring their stylistic and technical innovations, personal lives, and the cultural forces shaping their artistry. Participants will gain an enhanced ability to experience nature and artistic depictions of it with a newly developed sensory, coloristic, and immersive awareness.

Speaker: Lauren Weingarden

Lauren Weingarden is professor emerita of art history at Florida State University. Weingarden’s publications explore the interrelations between literature and visual arts in 19th century cultural contexts. She is the author of several scholarly books and articles on the American architect Louis Sullivan and on French art and literature, particularly Charles Baudelaire and Édouard Manet. Her interdisciplinary work includes developing an embodied aesthetic model through which art viewers re-experience artists’ immersive encounters with modernity’s fragmentation and nature’s transience—a perspective that deeply informs her teachings on Impressionism.

Thursdays, October 16 - November 20
10:00 - 11:30AM Central 

From 1831-1836, Charles Darwin circumnavigated the globe aboard the HMS Beagle. In the Galapagos Islands and elsewhere, Darwin collected data that, after decades of study and reflection, formed part of the basis for his publication On the Origin of Species. The ideas presented in that volume remain the foundation of all modern biological thought. Drawing upon original source materials and the instructor’s photos, this course will present the historical and cultural context of Darwin’s era, follow the five-year journey, discuss how Darwin came to his ideas, and explain his theories in detail.

Speaker: Eric Simon

Eric Simon, professor of Biology at New England College, received his PhD in biochemistry from Harvard University. An avid traveler and award-winning nature photographer, Eric leads educational international trips to destinations including Belize, the Galapagos, Tanzania, Cuba, the Amazon River, and Patagonia. Simon is the author of a widely used series of college biology textbooks with over 2 million books in print that help teach biology to students in over 40 countries.

Tuesdays, October 14 - November 18
12:00 - 1:30PM Central 

Economics plays a central role in every aspect of society. This course examines the causes and potential solutions to inequality in the US from an economic perspective. We will explore the history of different types of inequality, the underlying data and evidence, and the policy levers available to address these issues. Each lecture, led by a subject matter expert with a PhD in economics, will stand alone. Topics may include climate change, healthcare economics, economic inequality, economic mobility, discrimination in public policy, and the wealth gap.

Speaker: Geof Woglom

Geof Woglom, PhD is professor emeritus of economics at Amherst College, where he taught for over 40 years. He has held visiting positions at Cambridge, Harvard, and the London School of Economics, and was a Fulbright Scholar at the University of the Western Cape in Cape Town and at Nanjing University. He has served as an economic consultant for the International Monetary Fund, the Federal Reserve Board, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.

Thursdays, October 16 - November 20
12:00 - 1:30PM Central 

Explore the world’s linguistic diversity. With more than 7,000 languages spoken today, their variety offers insight into the evolution of human language, thought, and civilization.

This course examines how languages develop, change, and interact over time. Through a journey across six mystery locations — one per week — we will uncover the historical relationships among languages and the migrations, splits, and connections that have shaped them. By studying the languages spoken in these regions, we will gain a deeper understanding of human history and what it means to be human.

Speaker: Asya Pereltsvaig

Asya Pereltsvaig, PhD earned her degree in English and history from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and a PhD in linguistics from McGill University. She has taught at Yale and Stanford. An expert in language, history, and their intersections, Pereltsvaig is the author of Languages of the World: An Introduction. 

Thursdays, October 9 - November 13
6:00 - 7:30PM Central 

Beneath the surface of the Great Lakes lie thousands of shipwrecks, each with a story to tell. This course brings these lost vessels back to life through vivid storytelling and historical exploration.

We’ll examine the tragic sinking of the Lady Elgin, the haunting legacy of the Eastland, the mystery of the Western Reserve, and the enduring legend of the Edmund Fitzgerald, along with other unforgettable wrecks that shaped Great Lakes history. More than just maritime history, this course uncovers the human stories behind these disasters, the forces that doomed them, and the myths that linger today.
 

Speaker: Anna Lardinois

Anna Lardinois is an author, storyteller, and history enthusiast with a passion for uncovering dramatic and often chilling tales from the past. She is the author of Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes: Tragedies and Legacies from the Inland Seas (2021) and more than a dozen books on history, folklore, and ghostly legends. Lardinois founded an award-winning tour company specializing in haunted history and previously served as the Pfister Hotel Narrator, chronicling stories from Milwaukee’s most historic hotel. She has hosted the radio show Haunted Heartland and currently leads an online publication focused on entrepreneurship in Wisconsin.

Tuesdays, October 14 - November 18
2:00 - 3:30PM Central 

Have you ever felt like scientists are constantly changing their minds? Do you wonder when research can be trusted to guide decisions about health, behavior, or the environment?

This course offers a behind-the-scenes look at the scientific process, exploring how modern science developed, what scientists actually do, and what makes research reliable. We will examine the strengths and weaknesses of scientific methodology, uncover common pitfalls, and identify red flags for pseudoscience and untrustworthy findings. Rather than relying on blind faith in science, we will learn how to evaluate research critically—and find trust in the process.

Speaker: Johnnie Hendrickson

Dr. Johnnie Hendrickson is a Teaching Professor in the School of Molecular Sciences at Arizona State University; he holds a PhD in chemistry and is the author of the textbook Chemistry in the World. His academic work focuses on science communication, the reciprocal relationship between science and society.

Wednesdays, October 15 - November 19
6:00 - 7:30PM Central 

In this course, participants will explore the social determinants of health, the physiological mechanisms of stress, and the effects of stress on health and well-being. They will also examine stress- and health-related theoretical frameworks. Through this course, participants will gain an understanding of the factors that influence health and engage in discussions on the importance of equitably promoting health and well-being across populations.

Speaker: Faith Ogungbe 

Faith Ogungbe is a doctoral candidate in Public Health at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northwestern University in anthropology and biotechnology. Ogungbe is deeply committed to health equity and passionate about addressing issues that promote the overall health and well-being of all individuals. Her research interests include maternal and child health, and female reproductive health.

Tuesdays, October 7 - November 11
6:00 - 7:30PM Central 

African Americans have served in every US military conflict, fighting for both their country and their own rights. From Black patriots in the Revolutionary War to the 180,000 African Americans who fought for the Union in the Civil War, their contributions have shaped American history. After the war, Black soldiers gained congressional approval to enlist in the peacetime Army, leading to the formation of the “Buffalo Soldiers.”

This course traces their service from the War of 1812 to World War II, highlighting their valor in conflicts abroad and their struggle against segregation and discrimination at home. It is the story of their resilience, sacrifice, and fight for equality in a nation that often failed to recognize their service.
 

Speaker: John Langellier

John Langellier has spent decades researching African Americans in the US military, beginning in the 1960s. His work includes articles and books such as More Work Than Glory: Buffalo Soldiers in the United States Army, 1866–1916 and Buffalo Soldiers in Arizona, and an extensive National Park Service study on Buffalo Soldiers from the Eastern Seaboard to Hawaii. He has consulted and produced documentaries on African Americans in the armed forces for A&E and PBS, curated museum exhibits, developed curricula, and delivered programs across the US and Europe.

Fridays, October 10 - November 14
10:00 - 11:30AM Central 

This course explores the groundbreaking collaborations between John Cassavetes and Gena Rowlands, two of the most influential figures in independent cinema. Cassavetes revolutionized American filmmaking with his raw, character-driven storytelling, while Rowlands’ deeply expressive performances are among the most mesmerizing in film history.

We will examine Cassavetes’ unconventional filmmaking methods, including handheld cinematography, long takes, overlapping dialogue, and spontaneous performances. Rowlands’ emotionally intense acting style will be analyzed through her landmark roles in A Woman Under the Influence (1974), Opening Night (1977), and Gloria (1980).

We'll also explore the collaborative nature of Cassavetes’ productions, his rejection of Hollywood conventions, and his lasting impact on contemporary filmmaking. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how Cassavetes and Rowlands redefined cinematic storytelling with emotional depth and authenticity.

Speaker: Heather Brown

Heather Brown holds a PhD in English with a concentration in rhetoric and composition from the University of Maryland, an M.A. in English from the University of North Carolina–Wilmington. She has taught courses in academic writing, English literature, language and linguistics, women’s literature, feminist theory, and rhetorical criticism. Brown works as a learning designer, specializing in graduate and professional studies programs, including Northwestern University. She is also an adjunct associate professor of academic writing at the University of Maryland Global Campus.

Mondays, October 6 - November 10
2:00 - 3:30PM Central 

This course traces the life and innovations of Nikola Tesla, from his early years and university studies in Graz and Prague to his groundbreaking work in electricity and wireless technology. We will explore his collaborations and rivalries, including his work with Thomas Edison, the “War of the Currents” between AC and DC power, and his partnership with George Westinghouse, which led to the lighting of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.

Key topics include Tesla’s telautomaton invention, his wireless experiments, and his race against Marconi in the development of radio. We will examine the Wardenclyffe—Tesla’s ambitious wireless transmission tower, his work during World War I with Telefunken, and his interactions with Franklin Roosevelt. We will conclude with Tesla’s later-life invention of the particle beam weapon, his negotiations to sell it to the Allies during World War II, and the mystery surrounding his secret papers after his death.

Speaker: Marc Seifer

Marc Seifer, PhD is the author of more than 100 articles and a dozen books, including the acclaimed Wizard: The Life & Times of Nikola Tesla, Ozone Therapy for the Treatment of Viruses, and Tesla: Wizard at War.

A frequent speaker on Tesla and technological history, Seifer has lectured at every International Tesla Conference and has presented at institutions including the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, Lucasfilm’s Industrial Light & Magic, West Point Military Academy, and the United Nations. His work has been featured in many major publications and has appeared on the BBC, NPR, and in The Tesla Files, a five-part History Channel series which has aired in 40 countries.
 

Tuesdays, October 28 - December 2
10:00 - 11:30AM Central 

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

Speaker: Mike Agron

Mike Agron grew up in L.A., the heart of the recording and entertainment industry. He loved music so much he wanted to become a recording engineer. Fate had different plans, and he ended up with a successful career in hi-tech, including founding a webinar marketing agency. He has fulfilled his musical and entertainment passions by offering his varied and uniquely popular seminars to learners across the country.

Mondays, October 20 - November 24
12:00 - 1:30PM Central 

In Steven Spielberg’s Academy Award-winning Schindler’s List (1993), a character quotes from scripture: “He who saves a life saves the world entire.” Through scene-by-scene analysis, this course explores variations on this theme across a selection of Spielberg films.

With a focus on dialogue and action that reveal characters’ inner beliefs and moral choices, we will examine how the world is saved—or not. We will analyze the following films: Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Lincoln, Bridge of Spies, Saving Private Ryan, Munich, and Schindler’s List.
 

Speaker: Bernard Epps 

Bernard (Butch) Epps earned his undergraduate degree from Loyola Marymount University, graduating cum laude as an award-winning film production major. He received his MFA from the UCLA School of Film and Television’s graduate Producers Program, where he specialized in story development and working with screenwriters. At UCLA, he served as academic liaison to the MFA Producers Program faculty, including studio heads, development executives, and industry professionals. Epps has taught film appreciation courses with a strong emphasis on story analysis.