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UD OLLI Summer Selections: June 22 – July 25, 2026
Five weeks of fun topics, short courses and field trips — Registration reopens June 8
Use the dropdowns below to view available offerings by day of the week, category, or other filters.
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Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 30, 2026 to July 21, 2026
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
These four weeks focus on fascinating artists at the Delaware Art Museum, beginning with Howard Pyle, John Schoonover and friends in the Golden Age of Illustration. We also explore the art of John Sloan, whose story and art are as intriguing as the fabulous glass of Dale Chihuly and other 20th-century favorites. The grand finale is the fantastic Pre-Raphaelites. Take a break, enjoy the view!
Taught by: Judy Filipkowski
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 30, 2026 to July 7, 2026
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
Once essential to promoting travel and transportation, posters have outlived their original purpose becoming lasting historical artifacts. In vivid colors and creative design, they reveal how transportation evolved; how art, fashion, society, politics, and technology influenced the way the world was marketed to travelers. This course explores the remarkable journey of travel posters from everyday advertising to museum-worthy art and profiles some of the genre’s most talented and prolific artists.
Taught by: Thomas Powderly
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 24, 2026 to July 22, 2026
Wednesday at 10:00 AM
This course is an open workshop for all art students who would like studio time during the summer. No instruction, just bring a project to work on with friends! Sign up for the Monday 9 a.m.-noon section led by Rebecca Daniels or the Wednesday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. section led by Gabrielle Bradley.
Taught by: Gabrielle Bradley, Rebecca Daniels
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 23, 2026 to July 21, 2026
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
Learn a new fiber craft! Kumihimo is a straightforward, colorful method of braiding which produces round, flat or hollow decorative cords depending on the pattern. Participants learn the thread setup using the kumihimo disc with three patterns of cord making, as well as design principles to create original patterns. Kumihimo cords can be used as bookmarks, eyeglass holders, bracelets, necklaces, piping, shoelaces or tie cords.
Taught by: Patricia Pines
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 25, 2026 to July 23, 2026
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Why do some color mixes turn muddy, but others glow? Watercolor artists need good tools and techniques, but the powerful punch is knowing your pigments and how they play together. Find the essential science that explains it all, in a way that any artist will be able to grasp and use immediately. Chase light from Newton’s original color circle to modern digital analysis, and explore the magic of light interacting with pigments. Hands-on painting will reinforce weekly color and harmony themes.
Taught by: Patti Morse, Tricia Watson
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 24, 2026 to July 22, 2026
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
A polymer clay workshop for all levels of participants. Instruction will be 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): June 24, 2026 to July 22, 2026
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
Are you into fiber craft? Bring your WIP (Work-in-Progress) to OLLI and work among friends! Whether you crochet, knit, spin, weave, felt, cross stitch, embroider, or other kind of fiber craft, join a group that supports each other in making progress on your current project. This is a workshop, no instruction will be provided. Participants must bring their own materials and tools for their fiber craft.
Taught by: Caitlin McGeever
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 22, 2026 to July 20, 2026
Monday 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. The movie schedule is distributed prior to session start.
Taught by: Jenna Cole
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 6, 2026 to July 16, 2026
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: Previous experience playing a stringed instrument. Required Text: Essential Elements for Strings Books 1 and 2. This is an 8 session (2 weeks Monday through Thursday) course for students who already play a string instrument (violin, viola, cello, bass, ukulele, guitar, bass guitar) and wish to learn an additional, orchestral string instrument. Students who do not have access to this second instrument will be assisted by the teacher before classes start in arranging to rent or borrow an instrument locally for a fee lower than the usual rent-to-own arrangement.
Taught by: Carl Van Valkenburg
Course added since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 22, 2026 to July 20, 2026
Monday at 12:45 PM
Drumming is an ancient musical tradition that energizes, builds unity, provides relaxation, heightens creativity, heals the spirit and is great fun! We cover a range of rhythms and patterns from around the world. Bring a drum (djembe preferred) or other percussion instrument; some are provided. No musical experience necessary. This is an informal gathering with no lessons, just a chance to share songs and play together.
Taught by: Sid Datskow
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 22, 2026 to July 13, 2026
Monday at 10:45 AM
This class covers barbecue meats, regional styles and flavorings, kinds of barbecue smokers and controlling fire. Students learn short-cook and long-cook techniques and barbecue specialties. The class concludes with information on barbecue competitions and resources.
Additional fee: $30 to cover cost of food and beverages.
Taught by: Jeffrey Chambers
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 24, 2026 to July 8, 2026
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
Several new and previously shown TED Talks are featured in this class, with discussion in small groups and the entire class. Active participation makes class more engaging and fun for everyone, and the trivia aspect sparks curiosity and connects the class. We especially invite both new and returning OLLI members to join the fun — we love growing connections when new people join us!
Taught by: Carolyn Stankiewicz
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 1, 2026 to July 22, 2026
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
The cruise industry has experienced incredible growth and diversification in recent years. For better or worse, today’s cruise vacation is vastly different from fifty years ago. Holidays at sea have evolved since the days of the ocean liners, in terms of ship size, accommodations, amenities, food, service and pricing. You will learn ways to differentiate one cruise ship from another. The impact of Covid on the cruise industry plus ongoing health and environmental issues will be discussed.
Taught by: Thomas Powderly
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 7, 2026 to July 21, 2026
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
Learn the history of this 75-year social experiment, now recognized as our nation’s first foster care system. This movement transported 250,000 homeless children from the streets of east coast cities to farming communities in the Midwest in search of homes. Each class will delve into a specific aspect of this era, including social reformers of the 19th century, placing agencies (their missions and practices), and first-person accounts of actual orphan train riders.
Taught by: Donna Nordmark Aviles
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 14, 2026 to July 21, 2026
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
Once a record breaking transatlantic ocean liner, the S.S. United States has recently begun her afterlife as the world’s largest artificial reef. Any other passenger ship of her day would have been scrapped decades ago, but preservationists tried for years to find a new role for her, without success. In this two part class, using videos and graphics, we will take a look at her glory days, her many idle years, and her two part final voyage which begins a new, but final chapter in her long saga.
Taught by: Thomas Powderly
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 23, 2026 to July 21, 2026
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
Step back into the salt-sprayed air of the late 19th century to discover Rehoboth City and its “pioneer” Captain Lewis Tredenick. This lecture series explores the origins of the town that became Dewey Beach, centered on the man who opened the area’s first hotel and transformed a rugged frontier into a year-round destination. From summer sun-seekers to winter sportsmen, Tredenick welcomed the first travelers to this unique stretch of coast. No sunblock required, just a curiosity for the “way of life” that started it all.
Taught by: Sarah Dougherty
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 1, 2026 to July 22, 2026
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
In the last half of the 19th century, Marx’s Communism had a rival in anarchism, causing dissension in the working class movements into the 20th century and the Spanish Civil War of the 1930s. Varieties and sects divided anarchism internally. This course studies the leading anarchists: Godwin, Proudhon, Bakunin, Kropotkin and the anarcho-unionists. American anarchists are mentioned.
Taught by: John Bullock
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 7, 2026 to July 21, 2026
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
Get a taste of young adult literature by reading and discussing three books published recently for adolescents. What makes this book young adult? What is the quality of the writing? Guided by the theme “The American Dream,” these books have all been written by hyphenated Americans. Required texts: Brownstone, Samuel Teer, 978-0358394747; Sisters in the Wind, Angeline Boulley, 978-1836430674; Everything We Never Had, Randy Ribay, 978-0593461426.
Taught by: Peggy Dillner
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 1, 2026 to July 22, 2026
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
An introduction to writing your family history in narrative form. The emphasis is on writing short drafts to share with class members using suggested topics to ignite the
process. Approaches include memoir or the remembered past, family stories, oral history, research-based analysis and creative nonfiction. Supportive and collaborative
efforts.
Taught by: Susan Dion
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 25, 2026 to July 23, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
This class is created collaboratively using five AI models, each with their own role and personality. Participants learn that AI isn’t a tool they use – it’s a cast of characters they create and direct. Learn to design personal AI assistants, explore creative image generation, and discover how AI can handle the technical friction while you focus entirely on the joy of creating. From playful storytelling to powerful real-world tools, this course follows one simple rule: the human is always in the driver’s seat.
Taught by: Brian Medina
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 22, 2026 to July 20, 2026
Monday at 10:45 AM
This is a beginning course in which we will learn vocabulary, pronunciation, and the basic structure of the Italian language. An aria from an Italian opera will be enjoyed each week. Cultural information and simple phrases, useful when traveling, will be included as well. The required textbook, Italian is Fun by Concetta Giuliano and Heywood Wald, may be ordered from perfectionlearning.com or amazon.com.
Taught by: Annie Gilmour
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 25, 2026 to July 23, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
What really happens to our bodies as we age? Why do our joints creak, our memory blur, and our energy fade – and what does science say about it? This course is your invitation to explore aging from the inside out. Blending biology, genetics, and health science with a clear, engaging teaching style, The Physiology of Aging: From DNA to Organism takes participants on a journey through the human body as it moves. Together, we’ll uncover the processes behind everything, from gray hair and cataracts to metabolic shifts and neurodegeneration. By the end of the course, participants will not only understand what aging is, but also how new discoveries are reshaping our ideas of health and longevity.
Taught by: Krishna Thakkar
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 23, 2026 to July 21, 2026
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
In this course we will review the uniquely human anatomy related to walking. First, we will explore the evolutionary questions of when and why our ancestors became two-legged walkers. Next, we’ll talk about the consequences of this adaptation for our modern-day risks of injury such as lower back pain, knee problems, and more. Finally, we’ll talk about the value of walking for our health and well-being. The class will combine lecture, hands-on learning, and walking practice – as ability permits.
Taught by: Christie Rockwell
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 23, 2026 to June 30, 2026
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
A slow, focused mind/body approach to increased flexibility of the body. Please bring a floor yoga mat and a small pillow. Wear loose clothing, no belts and your curiosity.
Taught by: Yvette Rudnitzky
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 25, 2026 to July 2, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
A slow, focused mind/body approach to increased flexibility of the body. Please bring a floor yoga mat and a small pillow. Wear loose clothing, no belts and your curiosity.
Taught by: Yvette Rudnitzky
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 25, 2026 to July 23, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
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): June 23, 2026 to July 21, 2026
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
This class guides participants through common medical terms to help them become better informed in healthcare discussions and decision making. Each lecture explores one common medical term and its origin, meaning, history and impact on a person’s health.
Taught by: Hisham Sherif
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 24, 2026 to July 22, 2026
Wednesday at 1:00 PM
This class is designed specifically for older adults and focuses on promoting overall physical wellbeing in a safe, supportive and accessible environment. The class incorporates exercises that enhance mobility, flexibility, balance and functional strength, all adapted to meet the needs of seniors at varying ability levels. Participants engage in gentle, guided movements designed to support joint health, improve range of motion and encourage better posture and body awareness.
Taught by: Martha Davis
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 24, 2026 to July 22, 2026
Wednesday at 12:45 PM
The United States Supreme Court usually offers its annual decisions in June or July. The focus of this OLLI course will be the 2026 decisions; their background information; the decisions itself; and the possible political, social and cultural consequences. The class procedures will be based on studying the information, sharing ideas, discussing and debating future possibilities. There will be DVDs, short lectures and class discussions.
Taught by: Claire Sullivan
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 2, 2026 to July 2, 2026
Thursday at 12:00 PM
This is the compelling story of the USS Houston CA-30 and its struggles fighting in the Asia West Pacific, commencing with the outbreak of WWII. The story chronicles the prisoner of war experience for the modest number of survivors and directly correlates to the famous WWII war movie titled Bridge on the River Kwai. Learn the true story of what happened that is historically untold and unknown.
Taught by: John Schwarz
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 13, 2026 to July 13, 2026
Monday at 12:00 PM
This class covers barbecue meats, regional styles and flavorings, kinds of barbecue smokers and controlling fire. Students learn short-cook and long-cook techniques and barbecue specialties. The class concludes with information on barbecue competitions and resources.
Taught by: Jeffrey Chambers
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 13, 2026 to July 13, 2026
Monday at 9:00 AM
Learn how to grow vegetables organically with an emphasis on hand pollination, sun and insect protection and methods of dealing with problems caused by climate change.
Taught by: Ann Hapka
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 23, 2026 to June 23, 2026
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
Perhaps the most iconic game show in history, Jeopardy first hit the daytime airwaves in 1964. As a 2007 five-time champion and Tournament of Champions quarterfinalist in the Alex Trebek era, I’ll discuss the history of this popular show and how it has become part of popular culture. Then I’ll talk about the full contestant experience, from the initial online test to Final Jeopardy. I’ll leave plenty of time for comments, but please be sure they’re in the form of a question!
Taught by: Cathy Lanctot
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 15, 2026 to July 15, 2026
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
Join us for a lively 90-minute OLLI presentation exploring today’s cruise options, from choosing the right ship and cabin to understanding pricing and itineraries. Will use a short Power Point to see what major cruise lines sail from various ports in the eastern United States. Learn practical, money saving strategies for booking, on board spending and the all important beverage package! Perfect for first time cruisers and experienced travelers who want to sail smarter/stretch travel budget.
Taught by: Carolyn Stankiewicz
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 23, 2026 to July 23, 2026
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Join us for an immersive sensory tasting exploration of wines of the Mid-Atlantic’s most celebrated vineyards. This course bridges the gap between the coastal plains of Delaware and the historic terroir of Chester County, Pennsylvania. Participants will learn the fundamentals of cool-climate viticulture, the art of “Old World” vs. “New World” styles, and the science of local food pairing.
Additional fee: $30 to cover cost of food and beverages.
Taught by: Arun Loptes, Karen Asenavage, Walter Makarucha
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 29, 2026 to June 29, 2026
Monday at 10:45 AM
This presentation is aimed at providing a framework and key concepts for assessing the quality of healthcare provided by hospitals and physicians. Credible sources of publicly available data regarding the quality of performance associated with area providers will be reviewed. A demonstration of how to make use of the information in selecting a provider will be included in the session.
Taught by: James Caldas
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 23, 2026 to June 23, 2026
Tuesday at 10:30 AM
Various historians have created theories of the rise and fall of civilizations, establishing the stages of civilizations. One such historian of contemporary significance is Carroll Quigley, who authored The Evolution of Civilizations and taught former President Bill Clinton and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Clinton described Quigley as having created his worldview. This is a preview for a fall 2026 course applying Quigley’s methodology to what he predicted 50 years ago would be today’s “age of conflict.”
Taught by: David McBride
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 6, 2026 to July 6, 2026
Monday at 12:00 PM
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with OLLI. Participants will hear the Declaration of Independence read aloud, just as Delaware residents heard it for the first time in 1776, and then engage in discussion about the implications and importance of this document in its historical context.
Taught by: Caitlin McGeever
Course added since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 23, 2026 to June 23, 2026
Tuesday at 9:30 AM
Gather to watch and discuss the 2012 documentary, “Miss Representation.” This documentary explores the use of media as a form of communication to convey messages about women in society.
Taught by: Yvette Rudnitzky
Course added since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): July 2, 2026 to July 2, 2026
Thursday at 9:30 AM
Gather to watch and discuss the 2004 film, “Iron Jawed Angels.” This film tells the story of activists in the women’s suffrage movement.
Taught by: Yvette Rudnitzky
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 25, 2026 to July 23, 2026
Thursday at 10:45 AM
The Bags2Mats for the Homeless initiative is dedicated to creating environmentally responsible sleeping mats for individuals experiencing homelessness. Through this program, single-use plastic bags and packaging materials are repurposed by volunteers into durable, hand-crafted mats. Each mat provides a water-resistant barrier from cold, hard outdoor surfaces, offering greater comfort and protection. Completed mats are distributed through Volunteer Delaware 50+ and its network of community partners, helping ensure they reach those in need. This course offers participants the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while learning practical recycling skills. Participants will learn how to transform plastic waste into reusable materials by cutting and preparing it into long strands, which are then crocheted or woven into mats. No prior experience is required—tools, materials, and guidance are all provided.
Taught by: Guadalupe Murphy
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): June 24, 2026 to July 22, 2026
Wednesday at 12:45 PM
Each week, we will focus on one chef. (The first will be Julia Child.) Students will choose something from any of that chef’s cookbooks to make and bring to class. During class, we’ll learn about the chef and students will share what they liked, learned, hated etc. about their chosen recipe. Then, it’s “bon appetit” as we enjoy what we have made.
Taught by: Janet Torsney
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