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Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Art workshop in any medium. No instruction, but help if needed. A time to paint, relax and hang out with art friends.
Taught by: Dot Owens-Davis
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 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.
Taught by: Isabelle Fugedy, Patricia Scarpitti
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
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, Svetlana Lisanti
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 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.
Taught by: Tricia Watson, Ann Walker, Donni Louise
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 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!
Taught by: Gabrielle Bradley, Rebecca Daniels, Milbrey Jacobs
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 12:00 PM
This is a workshop for students who are registered or wait-listed in Ceramic Techniques for All (B215) who can work on their own. For additional information see the course information for B215. Additional fee: A $40 fee for clay, glazes and low firing is payable to instructors. Other fees may be charged for mid-range and high firing. Sign up for either the Wednesday or Thursday section.
Taught by: Rolf Eriksen, Linda Simon
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: Some experience using polymer clay. A polymer clay class for anyone who has worked previously with the medium. We will experiment with techniques that are different or slightly more complex than the beginner level. For fun, we will look at creative way to use polymer clay.
Taught by: Harrietann Litwin
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Opera has existed for several hundred years. Perhaps you delayed learning about it or had a difficult first attempt at it. Maybe you just haven’t had an opportunity to learn in an open environment where questions, comments and reactions are encouraged and various types of operas are explained. This class is your opportunity! There’s a lot to introduce you to in this “complete art” form.
Taught by: Robert Violette
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
Prerequisite: Some flute playing experience. 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): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 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.
Taught by: Don Von Schriltz, Helene Furlong
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 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 will offer 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): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 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
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
Prerequisite: Skills equal to completion of Violin Instruction: Beginner. Required text: Introducing the Positions for Violin, Vol 1, Harvey S. Whistler. A fun learning experience featuring interesting pieces and duets with growing skill and confidence. Continuing study of violin playing including scales, bowing and exercises, advancing to study of positions and solo pieces. Four to six hours of weekly practice time is recommended.
Taught by: Eleanor Dooley
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Let’s get together and play the blues! The primary focus of this class is playing the blues; both new and experienced players are welcome. Novices will learn blues scales and progressions. We’ll play music from B.B. King to Eric Clapton.
Taught by: Rick Memmel
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: Ability to hike four to five miles on flat and hilly terrain. Additional fee: A $10 fee is required and includes membership in the Wilmington Trail Club for the spring 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.
Taught by: Eric Sallee
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to April 23, 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.
Taught by: Reg Herzog
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to April 23, 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): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
This course examines the treatment of dissenters in time of war or national emergency, beginning with the Tories in the American Revolution, followed by Lincoln’s suspensions of civil liberties during the Civil War, Wilson’s campaign to crush socialism and anti-war sentiment during WWI, Franklin Roosevelt’s treatment of Japanese Americans and German agents during WWII, the Cold War and McCarthyism, and use of extraordinary executive power to accomplish political ends in the 21st century.
Taught by: Thomas Reed
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Published by the Great Courses, Part 2 starts with the CIA’s involvement in Vietnam and continues through 2020 and the CIA’s use of renditions, interrogations and drones. The class consists of 30-minute prerecorded lectures by Hugh Wilford, Ph.D., professor of history at California State University, followed by the instructor’s 30-40 minute presentation of added information and context. As a reminder, Part 1 started with George Washington’s use of spies during the Revolutionary War and ended with the Cuban Missile Crisis. You can enjoy Part 2 without having taken Part 1.
Taught by: Martin Cohen
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to March 5, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Why did Harvard evolve from a small college to a major research university? Within 60 years, the oldest college in America transformed itself. So did many other colleges, but Harvard was the pacesetter, the model others emulated. What emerged by 1930 stayed in place, but as recent headlines reveal, research universities are not invulnerable.
Taught by: Robert Hampel
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Explore topics like the historical roots of gender inequality while defining terms such as feminist theory, intersectionality, the “manosphere,” patriarchy, and how the whole of society is affected by each. Several relevant films will be viewed in class, and open discussion is encouraged. All genders are welcome!
Taught by:
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
For spring, the novels course returns to its original format with a pastiche of mysteries, historical novels and an occasional literary opus. Among this potpourri of novels, we’ll revisit the traditional murder mystery, browse among art lovers and thieves, explore the ground-breaking research of a woman scientist, and walk back into the history of another culture. Plus a couple of others. For details, please visit the course website at: https://sites.google.com/udel.edu/novels-potpourri/. Sign up for either the online section meeting on Wednesdays, or the in-person section meeting in Wilmington on Thursdays.
Taught by: Rebecca Worley
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 19, 2026 to May 7, 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.
Taught by: Steven Dombchik, A. Hays Butler, Claude Faulkner
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 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. When registering, sign up for either the section using an OLLI computer, or the section for those bringing their own laptops.
Taught by: Lewis Martin Jr., Anita Sterling, Karen Brugh
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
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.
Taught by: Karen Brugh
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Prerequisite: Three semesters of OLLI Spanish or equivalent. Required text: The Complete Ultimate Spanish, Ronni L. Gordon, et. al., 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 will strengthen fluency, expand vocabulary and gain confidence in speaking Spanish in a relaxed and fun learning environment.
Taught by: Jeanne Hanson
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 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 will strengthen fluency, expand vocabulary and gain confidence in speaking Spanish in a relaxed and fun learning environment.
Taught by: Jeanne Hanson
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
This course touches on why, when and where to bird. Topics include equipment, reference materials, internet support, identification techniques, listing and bird songs. Practical experience takes place with 8 a.m. bird walks on campus before class, and field trips. Delaware is a prime birding site, get to know it!
Taught by: Lloyd Maier, Bonnie McDonald, Patti Parziale
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 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): February 5, 2026 to March 5, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
We share our neighborhoods with all kinds of mammal, bird and reptile species. Learn about how the common species live, feed, and raise their young in urban and suburban habitats. We’ll discuss ways to peacefully co-exist and ways we can help these animals that benefit the environment.
Taught by: Jenny Caldwell
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 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): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 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): February 5, 2026 to March 5, 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): February 5, 2026 to May 7, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
Prerequisite: International Folk Dance: Wilmington (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.
Taught by: Martin Cohn
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to April 23, 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, Nancy Hannigan, Jeff Ostroff
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): February 5, 2026 to March 5, 2026
Thursday at 2:30 PM
This course is about the historic development of money by world civilizations. It covers the evolution of the U.S. dollar bill, coins, and gold and silver reserves as well as the creation of the U.S. central bank (the Federal Reserve) and its relation to the Treasury and Congress. The instructor describes the process by which the U.S. government spends money and leads a discussion about government deficits and debt.
Taught by: Kurt Augenblick
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