QUICK LINKS — OLLI home page | OLLI digital catalog home | Questions? Email olli-online@udel.edu
Fall classes start September 8 — Priority Registration available July 30-August 13, REGISTER NOW!
Use the dropdowns below to view available offerings by day of the week, category, or other filters.
View all updated or canceled courses | Clear form/view all courses
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Art workshop in any medium. No instruction, but help if needed. A time to quietly paint, relax and hang out with art friends.
Taught by: Dot Owens-Davis
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Learn the fundamentals of watercolor in this step-by-step introductory class. From brushstrokes to color blending and watercolor washes, create transparent art in this fluid medium. This is a progressive process. Regular attendance is beneficial.
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: Isabelle Fugedy, Patricia Scarpitti
This class has had a time change since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Additional fee: $40 materials fee, payable to instructor. Beginners and experienced students will enjoy sculpting and ceramic techniques. Beginners work with the instructor alongside experienced students using simple coils, slabs and hand sculpting of figures, bas relief and ceramics. Emphasis on form and textures. Be creative; try what appeals to you. Please note additional fee mentioned above.
Taught by: Joseph Germano, Lynne Seligman, Svetlana Lisanti
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Prerequisite: Pastel experience encouraged but not required. This workshop is an opportunity to further our experience and enjoyment of pastel painting with others who share this interest. No formal instruction is offered, so familiarity with pastels is encouraged (but not required). Both facilitators and participants identify topics for short instructional videos. Participants paint from personal or other reference photos, or imagination. A positive critique session each week offers support and advice, as well as sharing skills, techniques and ideas.
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: Ann Walker, Donni Louise, Tricia Watson
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Step into the vibrant realm where art knows no boundaries and diverse art mediums come together on the canvas of creativity. Students learn to use acrylic skins, texture paste, collage and paint to bring a vision to life. Prepare to get delightfully messy, rediscovering the joy of art! Ready to rewrite the “rules”of creativity and embark on the most thrilling artistic adventure of a lifetime? Let the mixed media begin! This class has a Monday and a Thursday section. This is the class that meets on Thursdays.
Taught by: Gabrielle Bradley
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: Previous experience working with ceramic clay. Additional fee: $40 fee to cover supplies like clay, glaze, paint, etc. and the cost of firing clay projects. This is an open studio workshop for students with previous experience working with ceramic clay. Students work independently on projects of their own choosing. No formal instruction is provided, but guidance is available if requested. The OLLI clay studio has two pottery wheels, a slab roller, an extruder and various tools used for hand building and throwing. Please note additional fee mentioned above.
Add: Please note that this class meets from 10:45-12:45 for the first 5-weeks. It begins meeting from 9:00-12:00 on October 13.
Taught by: Susan Peo
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to October 8, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
A polymer clay workshop for all levels of participants. Instruction is available for those brand new to using polymer clay. More experienced participants can use the time to create with previously tried techniques or experiment with new ideas (instructor will help with ideas!). If you have been curious but have never given it a try, here’s your chance. All polymer clay enthusiasts are welcome.
Taught by: HarrietAnn Litwin
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 12:30 PM
Explore the nostalgic world of 1980s and 1990s movies — feel-good classics, teen comedies, action hits and cult favorites. Bring your lunch to watch movies with your OLLI friends! Different movies are offered each session. This semester, class meets on 9/17, 10/22, 11/19 and 12/10. Movie schedule will be distributed prior to the start of classes.
Taught by: Jenna Cole
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
Prerequisite: Intermediate and above level of playing. The Osher Flute Choir enjoys playing a variety of musical styles from classical and popular to folk and baroque. This is a recurring class, but we welcome new members with prior playing experience. We share our expertise to improve tone, technique and intonation. The instructor is happy to answer any questions before registration.
Taught by: Pamela Finkelman, Margaret Love
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Prerequisite: Experience playing the recorder. Students continue their progress and increase their skill in playing the recorder. Course covers folk music as well as music of the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: Don von Schriltz, Helene Furlong
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 12:30 PM
The chorus is made up of singers with a variety of experience. There are two scheduled concerts (spring and autumn semesters) with the possibility of additional performances off campus. The chorus offers music from a variety of musical periods and styles. Extra rehearsals for specific sections may be called. Digital tools for music learning are frequently available for individual practice. Extra rehearsals are possible as necessary.
Taught by: Robert Violette
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Prerequisite: Completion of Violin Instruction: Intermediate or equivalent skills. Required text: Introducing the Positions: Volume 2, Harvey S. Whistler. A fun learning experience that develops stronger playing with advanced skills. Study and review of scales, positions, bowing and exercises for facility in playing violin solo repertoire and concerti pieces. Four to six hours of practice time a week is recommended.
Taught by: Eleanor Dooley, Richard Wellons, Pamela Wilson
This class has had a time change since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
This 13-week acting course introduces students to the core principles of theatrical performance, emphasizing the actor’s process: the series of repeatable, actionable steps actors use to prepare for and embody a role. Through physical and vocal training, script analysis, imaginative exploration and partnered scene work, students develop essential skills in physicality, vocal production, emotional truth, text interpretation and character development. The course combines practical exercises, reflective discussion and performance opportunities to help actors build confidence, clarity and presence on stage.
Taught by: Arlene Bowman, Barry Pines
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to October 15, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Additional fee: Class materials are $5. Want to speak eloquently, with confidence? This Toastmasters Speechcraft class is a learning program designed to provide optimal support for those interested in building their communication and public speaking skills. Tell better stories at reunions and family gatherings! Learn how to present ideas persuasively and with poise, focusing on speech preparation and delivery, body language, vocal variety and using constructive feedback. Done with fun, this is an enjoyable way to improve!
Taught by: Patricia Pines
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: Ability to hike 4-5 miles on flat and hilly terrain. Additional fee: A $10 fee is required and includes membership in the Wilmington Trail Club for the fall semester. Thirteen hikes with the Wilmington Trail Club at sites in northern Delaware, southeastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and eastern Maryland. Best not to schedule other classes until 2 p.m. Participants are emailed the list of hikes. Group lunch after hike is optional. Please note additional fee mentioned above.
This class is offered in partnership with the Wilmington Trail Club.
Taught by: Eric Sallee
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Prerequisite: Participants must have Family Tree Maker (FTM) software and basic computer skills. Unlock your family’s history with Family Tree Maker software in this engaging, hands-on course! Using computers, students learn how to organize family records, add photos and documents and generate charts and reports. Each session includes demonstrations, guided activities, and dedicated time for students to work on their own family trees. This course helps students build and preserve their family history with confidence, whether they are beginners or experienced. When registering, sign up for either the section using an OLLI computer, or the section for those bringing their own laptops.
Taught by: Reg Herzog
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Are you exploring your family history and need help navigating genealogy research tools? This open computer lab provides a supportive space to work on family trees, search historical records and organize findings with guidance from experienced facilitators. Participants can use the lab PCs or bring your own laptop. Get personalized assistance in searching census records, vital records, immigration documents and other resources to help uncover your ancestry.
Taught by: Reg Herzog
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Learn about some ordinary and some extraordinary people who went out of their way and risked their lives to help the Allies win the war against Nazi Germany. Class includes a weekly 30-minute Great Courses video featuring historian Lynne Olson, then a lecture to provide context and details and fill in any missing gaps. The instructor presents for approximately 40 minutes and allows time for Q&A.
Taught by: Martin Cohen
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Explore the turbulent world of medieval England from the Hundred Years’ War to the Wars of the Roses. This course reveals the actual history behind the characters and events dramatized in Shakespeare’s eight history plays, spanning the reigns of Richard II to Richard III. Topics include the events, dynastic rivalries, political intrigues, battles and power struggles that shaped these iconic plays and inspired George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones.
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: Joseph Olinchak
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 22, 2026 to November 19, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
As the global geopolitical order evolves from a single dominant hegemon (the U.S.) to a new polycentric world, the specter of enduring near-peer and regional rivalries challenges U.S. policy makers with new threats and new opportunities. How should the U.S. navigate the rivalry with China or other states? Do historic examples of such contests provide lessons for the future? Do theories of international relations or the principles of war provide guidance for U.S. strategic decision making?
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: William Lucas
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
The U.S. Navy played a significant role in the Civil War. This course examines major engagements e.g., the taking of New Orleans by Navy vessels, the river war on the Mississippi and its tributaries, the engagement between the Monitor and the Virginia, the conduct of the U.S. Navy blockade of all Confederate ports, and combined operations, e.g., the taking of Ft. Fisher. The course also examines naval preparation for combat and related topics.
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: Thomas Reed
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Over many terms, our novels course has discussed books about women’s accomplishments dismissed or forgotten by traditional history. So, this term, these women are our focus: in literature, the arts, science and history. We’ll also revisit some authors we’ve read to discuss why their books are literature rather than genre bestsellers, beginning with The Marriage Portrait, Maggie O’Farrell. For the list of books, see the course website at https://sites.google.com/udel.edu/celebratedwomen/home. When registering, sign up for the section meeting Thursdays, 10:45 a.m. at Arsht Hall, Wilmington; or Wednesdays, 10:45 a.m. online.
Taught by: Rebecca Worley, Pamela Meitner
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
This beautifully written, deeply satisfying series reflects the evolution of the award-winning author’s ideas. It is a whole mythological world, neither past nor present, reflecting Le Guin’s knowledge of native American culture and Taoism. She seeks to achieve balance in the island societies of Earthsea where power, good and evil struggle for dominance, and where men and women seek kinder, fairer relationships. The Earthsea series is one of my very favorites!
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: Susan Shoemaker
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to November 19, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Each class features an introduction, followed by a video and class discussion. Topics include America and the world: Trump 2.0 foreign policy; Trump tariffs and the future of the world economy; U.S.-China relations; ruptured alliances and the risk of nuclear proliferation; Ukraine and the future of European security; multilateral institutions in a changing world order; U.S. engagement of Africa; future of human rights and international law. Purchase of the Great Decisions Briefing Book is recommended.
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: A. Hays Butler, Claude Faulkner, Steven Dombchik
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 22, 2026 to November 19, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
This is an interactive class, and it includes both writing and discussion. Participants share several types of short pieces — flash fiction, nonfiction, micro memoir and humor — all under 1,000 words. Class covers the variety and characteristics of each, along with helpful tips, examples and prompts designed to join one’s imagination with the kinds of stories they choose to create.
Taught by: Jean Youkers
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to October 8, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Prerequisite: Course on beginning AI, or equivalent experience.
This is a course for discussing AI, not for using it. This course covers foundational artificial intelligence (AI) concepts, technical infrastructure, practical applications and societal implications. Topics include: AI as industrial-scale upheaval (economics, energy, data centers, ecosystem and an AI taxonomy); large language models (LLMs); advanced prompting, reasoning models and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG); multimodal AI, agents, emergent behavior; and jobs, sector impacts, governance, artificial general intelligence (AGI) and guided reflection.
Taught by: Andrea Westerinen, Jeff Westerinen
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
Prerequisite: No prior AI experience is necessary, but basic computer skills and access to the ChatGPT app are recommended. Students can choose between the paid version ($20/month) and free version. Students can take the class without a paid subscription. This course introduces learners to Artificial Intelligence (AI), with a focus on understanding and using AI-powered tools like ChatGPT. The course combines lectures and hands-on activities, allowing students to engage with AI in a structured learning environment. This section meets on Thursdays at 2:30 p.m. When registering, sign up for either the section using an OLLI computer, or the section for those bringing their own laptops.
Taught by: Anita Sterling, Karen Brugh, Lewis Martin Jr
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Prerequisite: Know how to turn on your computer. Learn what you really need to know about your computer in today’s tech-savvy world. From turn-on to shut down and all the places you go in between, this class presents and discusses what you really need to know about your computer and how you use it. Learn some basic troubleshooting and better navigation, and be able to find your files, settings and preferences, shortcuts, security and know what to expect when you click on anything. Plus, learn some tech buzzwords that will let you confidently talk tech with your family and friends. Come with questions and things you want to learn.
When registering, sign up for the section meeting Thursdays at 12:45 p.m. or Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m.
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: Karen Brugh
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 22, 2026 to November 19, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Explore how artificial intelligence is shaping everyday life through chatbots, voice assistants, images, music, and more. This interactive, non-technical course will help participants understand how AI works, how to use it safely and effectively, and how to recognize misinformation and scams. No technical background required.
Taught by: Daniela Martin
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Prerequisite: Four semesters of OLLI Spanish or the equivalent. Required text: The Complete Ultimate Spanish, ISBN 978-1-264-25619-6. This interactive-intermediate Spanish course combines speaking activities, practical grammar exercises and singing Spanish songs. Students strengthen fluency, expand vocabulary and gain confidence in speaking Spanish in a relaxed learning environment.
Taught by: Jeanne Hanson
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: Five semesters of OLLI Spanish or the equivalent. Required text: The Complete Ultimate Spanish, Gordon, 978-1-264-25910-6. This interactive intermediate Spanish course combines lively speaking activities, practical grammar exercises and the joy of singing Spanish songs. Students strengthen fluency, expand vocabulary and gain confidence in speaking Spanish in a relaxed and fun learning environment.
Taught by: Jeanne Hanson
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Prerequisite: Advanced-intermediate level of Spanish. This course will be student-driven and led. Each student chooses a topic, such as art or music, a country, or an issue and lead the class in a discussion of the chosen theme. The student will suggest resources for class members to read or listen to in advance of class. The classes will be conducted in Spanish and emphasizes speaking Spanish. The co-instructors will function as coordinators and send out email messages as to the themes and resources to all class members.
Taught by: Sheila Hochhauser, Susan Kaye
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
The mission of the OLLI Eco Team is to support green behavior in our homes, communities and the world through our actions and education. We are a results-oriented group that discusses our agenda for the year and forms small program teams to plan goals, tasks and timelines to achieve deliverables. Guest speakers present topics relevant to our sphere of influence. We take guidance from UD’s sustainability plans including Doug Tallamy’s Homegrown National Park, as well as zero waste principles.
Taught by: Mark Mendelson, Judy Winters
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Learn about yoga philosophy and lifestyle through instructor guided yoga practice (poses, breathing and relaxation). Explore basic postures, stretches, breath control, balances, relaxation and meditation. Practice between sessions is helpful, but not required. Those with physical disabilities are welcome to participate according to their ability.
Taught by: Brian Hanson, Lorie Tudor, William Tamblyn
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 1:00 PM
Chair yoga is offered as an option for those who wish to practice yoga and are uncomfortable transitioning between floor poses and standing poses. Options for stretches and yoga poses are offered, including sitting on a chair and standing using a chair for support.
Taught by: Carol Lovett
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 22, 2026 to November 19, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
By the end of the course, participants understand how allergies, asthma and skin conditions affect the body and can identify triggers, manage symptoms with confidence and better handle emergency situations like anaphylaxis. This course provides an engaging and supportive learning environment, empowering participants to take control of their health, enhance their quality of life and effectively communicate with healthcare providers.
Taught by: Robert Perin
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
Prerequisite: International Folk Dance on Tuesdays. Participating in recreational international folk dancing is a wonderful way to meet people in the U.S. and many other countries, as knowing other languages is not required. This mild to moderate form of exercise is a great way for seniors to maintain cardiac fitness, mobility, balance and brain health. The focus is to learn dances that are frequently done in circles, lines or couples by local community groups in DE, PA, NJ and NY. Best to wear low-heeled leather bottom shoes.
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: Lorraine Cohn, Martin Cohn
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
From the comfort and security of a chair, yogis derive all the benefits of standard floor-based yoga without having to move up and down from the floor. This is perfect for anyone with physical limitations. Participants work to improve strength, flexibility, balance and overall physical and mental health through the practice of gentle chair yoga postures, balances, breathing and meditation. When registering, sign up for either the section meeting Thursdays at 2:30 p.m. or Mondays at 12:45 p.m.
Taught by: William Tamblyn
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 3, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
What is trauma? Learn the encompassing conditions or circumstances that evolve into a traumatic memory. This course delves into identifying the multitude of areas in which a person’s life could be impacted by past experiences and a variety of recovery techniques designed to ease emotional distress. The biology of how a traumatic experience is perceived and stored will be explained. Event-based trauma, childhood trauma, family-based trauma and environmental trauma will be clarified and expounded.
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: Kathleen Szczerba
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to November 19, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
This course presents the latest photos and information on our planets, moons and exoplanets (planets around other stars). Pictures and videos from space missions showing stunning results: 100-mile-tall geysers, volcanoes galore with many active now. Even bitterly cold Pluto has frozen ice volcanoes! Bizarre new exoplanets, some in habitable zones, are being scanned for alien life. Photos of asteroids with moons and rings and many other oddities will be viewed.
Taught by: Craig Lewis
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to November 19, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Knowledgeable guest speakers present lectures on timely regional, national and international issues across a broad spectrum of topics, followed by a lively question and answer session.
Taught by: Peg Stanford, Jeff Ostroff, Nancy Hannigan
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to November 12, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
This course explores the evolution of money from early barter systems to modern digital currencies. Students examine how money developed as a response to economic needs, technological advances and societal trust. By the end of the course, students understand how monetary systems developed, why they changed and how today’s financial innovations may shape the future.
Taught by: Kurt Augenblick
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 10, 2026 to December 10, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Are you confident in your retirement investments? Do you know the right questions to ask a financial advisor? This class is for those who want to make informed financial decisions and protect retirement savings. Retired or planning ahead? Learn how investments work in plain English — without sales pressure or confusing jargon. By the end of the course, you will have the confidence to make smart financial decisions on your own or with a professional advisor. No prior financial knowledge is required.
Click here to view a course syllabus or additional information for this class.
Taught by: Henry Henkel
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Delaware
OLLI is an academic cooperative for adults 50 and over to enjoy classes, teach, exchange ideas and socialize together, with no exams or educational requirements for participation. OLLI welcomes you.
Kent/Sussex | Wilmington