Our Members

UT OLLI NOVA members come to the program from a wide variety of backgrounds, with varied educational experiences and personal interests. Both longtime Texans and many of Austin’s newer residents are making UT OLLI NOVA part of their lives. Lifelong friendships are made here among a vibrant community of active, intellectually curious individuals. 

NOVA is shaped by the interests and ideas of its members. A dedicated group of member volunteers works alongside UT OLLI staff through seminar, lecture, social, and other committees to help develop programs and activities that reflect the interests and passions of the NOVA community. Members are welcome to participate in these activities as much or as little as they wish.

Curriculum

UT OLLI NOVA holds three six-week sessions each year in the fall, winter, and spring. Sessions are conducted on campus at the Thompson Conference Center (TCC), with free parking available for members.

Wednesday In-Person Schedule

• 9:30 a.m. – 10:40 a.m. — Seminars
• 11:00 a.m. – 12:10 p.m. — Seminars
• 12:10 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Lunch, with a café conveniently located in the building
• 1:00 p.m. – 2:10 p.m. — Lecture

Livestreamed Schedule

One of the Wednesday 11:00 a.m. seminars will be offered in a hybrid format, allowing members to attend either in person or remotely. These seminars are recorded and available to view at any time throughout the academic year.

Additional remote online sessions are offered on:

• Mondays: 11:00 a.m. – 12:10 p.m.
• Tuesdays: 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
• Fridays: 11:00 a.m. – 12:10 p.m.

Seminars and lectures cover a wide range of engaging topics. Choosing which to attend can sometimes be difficult, with so many relevant and thought-provoking offerings. Programs are taught by UT faculty and experts from Austin and beyond, bringing a broad range of perspectives and experiences to the classroom. Curriculum topics span the arts, architecture, business, history, and science, as well as areas of current interest such as water conservation, current affairs and civic life, and U.S. Supreme Court decisions. The breadth of the program is limited only by the curiosity of our members.

Extras

Although UT OLLI NOVA provides an extensive learning experience, it also provides the backdrop for a variety of social activities and opportunities for members to connect. We believe that social interaction and friendship are among the great benefits of this interactive program. Seminars and lectures are included in regular membership tuition. All activities are optional, and some extracurricular activities may require an additional, though nominal, cost, such as Spanish, Yoga, Pickleball, and Wine Tasting.

Field Trips

During each of the three sessions of the academic year, special field trips are planned to local and out-of-town sites. Many field trips are designed to enhance learning from lectures and seminars, while others explore the many historic sites in Central Texas, local museums, art galleries, and musical venues. There is something for every interest.

Special Interest Groups

UT OLLI NOVA has several special interest groups made up of members who share common interests. The range of possibilities is extensive.

Our robust UT OLLI NOVA book club meets each month to discuss both new books and classic reads. Several happy hour groups explore Austin’s local restaurants and gathering places, and another group attends local theater productions. 

Because some of these groups have limited capacities, NOVA also schedules monthly coffee meetups and happy hours that are open to all members. These gatherings are held in different parts of the city, making it easy to find an opportunity to connect with fellow NOVA members near you.

Speaker Recognition Socials

At least once a year, UT OLLI NOVA members gather at one of Austin’s many excellent restaurants to honor our volunteer presenters and enjoy time with NOVA friends.

Venues have ranged from barbecue at the County Line to upscale dining at The Headliner’s Club. We frequently offer luncheon gatherings to accommodate members who prefer not to drive in the evening while also keeping costs accessible. Past luncheons have been held at several Austin country clubs and historic venues, including the Austin Woman’s Club and Chateau Bellevue.ue.

Additional Information

UT OLLI NOVA tuition is paid annually and includes all regular program costs and assessments. Optional excursions and meetups may require an additional cost.