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FALL CLASSES START SEPTEMBER 2 — Registration & drop/add available through September 15
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This class has been added since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
This course explores a new way to experience art, particularly in museums. Instead of relying on a wall label or joining a guided tour, we discuss what a work of art means to us. We look slowly and share an inquiry into how each of us relates to a work, exploring and sharing our personal connections and individual points of view. All that is needed is your time and attention. Each week, we look at different works of art. The final class is a field trip to the Delaware Art Museum.
Taught by: Carol Griffin, Danielle Battaglia
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 12:30 PM
For those with little experience with acrylics or painting to explore painting with acrylics. Step-by-step demonstrations and instruction of a painting each week, with support and assistance to the class as needed. Discussions about materials, brushstrokes, basic techniques, color theory basics, composition and textural techniques applicable to acrylic paints.
Taught by: Katherine Kelk, Patti Morse, Yvette Drazich
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
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): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Learn the fundamentals of watercolor in this step-by-step introductory class. From brushstrokes, color blending and watercolor washes, students create transparent art in this fluid medium. This is a progressive process, so regular attendance is beneficial.
Taught by: Isabelle Fugedy, Patricia Scarpitti
This class location has changed since catalog publication.
Wilmington (off site, 310 Kiamenski Road): September 2, 2025 to September 30, 2025
Tuesday at 10:30 AM
Students learn a variety of watercolor techniques and how to apply them to a painting. Techniques include washes, wet-on-wet brushwork, dry brushwork, glazing and color mixing. Students practice techniques during each class completing a small example of each, then take what they learned to create a complete painting. A supply list is provided for students to purchase before class starts. Offered in partnership with The Art Studio, the arts education center of New Castle County’s Department of Community Services.
Please note that this course requires an additional fee of $49. Participants receive a payment link from OLLI prior to the first class.
This class meets at The Art Studio, the arts education center of New Castle County’s Department of Community Services, located at 310 Kiamenski Road, Wilmington.
Taught by: Karen Berstler, Nicole Sexton
Fee information has been added to this course since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
No experience is necessary for students. The OLLI studio has two pottery wheels, a slab roller, an extruder as well as all tools necessary to enable hand building and throwing ceramics. Our three instructors work individually with students to provide instruction needed for successful learning experiences.
Additional fee: $40 to cover supplies like clay, glaze, paint, etc. and the cost of firing clay projects.
Taught by: John Demsey, Linda Simon, Rolf Eriksen
Wilmington (off site, 310 Kiamenski Road): September 2, 2025 to November 4, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
We explore the many ways of creating art and functional pieces with fabric and other fibers. Students make hand-dyed fabric using different dyeing methods, framed silk paintings and small weavings and learn different ways to felt wool. Open to all levels. Class is offered in partnership with The Art Studio, the arts education center of New Castle County’s Department of Community Services, located at 310 Kiamensi Road, Wilmington, DE 19804. Class meets 10 weeks only and runs for two hours.
Additional Fees: Please note that this course requires an additional fee of $95. Participants receive a payment link from OLLI prior to the first class. There is also an additional $70 material fee due to the instructor at the first class.
Taught by: Nicole Sexton, Sarah Dressler
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 12:30 PM
Prerequisite: Previous watercolor experience. This is a workshop for students with previous experience with watercolor. The instructors are available for critique or assistance.
Taught by: Anthony Rosowski, Isabelle Fugedy, Richard Litwin, Susan Hayman
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 12:45 PM
This is a chance to work on painting personal projects and assignments from your other classes. No instruction provided. Drop in when you feel the need to be creative.
Taught by: Rick Wellons
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
Both absolute beginners and skilled artists learn how to make keepsake-quality greeting cards using various media. Learn techniques for producing and coloring images and backgrounds; find out what kinds of cardstock, inks, and tools work best; share handmade kindness with friends and relatives. Most tools and supplies are provided.
Additional fee: $10 fee to cover the cost of materials.
Taught by: Ann Rule, Karen Foster
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 2:30 PM
Sogetsu ikebana, taught in this course, is a modern form of the formal Japanese art of flower arrangement and values discipline, which uses unconventional materials such as iron, stones, driftwood, plastic, etc. in its freestyle arrangements.
Additional fees: The beginner students must purchase a basic package of supplies, including the required textbook, special scissors, containers and kenzan from the instructor for $160. Students purchase their own flowers and branches for each class. Required Text: Sogetsu, textbook 1 &2.
Taught by: Sima Sariaslani
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
Prerequisite: Prior card making experience. An opportunity for current and former card making class members to practice skills in a supportive environment with tools and supplies available, to ask questions and seek solutions to problems, and to be inspired by the instructors and fellow class members.
Taught by: Karen Foster
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
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): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 10:45 AM
Participants learn the basics of drawing faces, heads, bodies, hands, feet, expressions and more. Class also explores cartoon history, the use of color and idea sources. No experience is necessary! Bring a willingness to learn, experiment and laugh. This course can be repeated.
Taught by: Becky Varlas
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
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
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
After reviewing polymer clay basics, this class explores a variety of techniques. The focuses on creating canes and veneers that may be used to make jewelry or cover objects.
Taught by: Harrietann Litwin
This class has been added since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
Students learn the initial steps of smocking, which includes preparing the fabric to pleat either by hand or through a pleater and pleating and smocking a sampler with basic stitches.
Taught by: Amparo Sanchez-Sarmiento
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 12:30 PM
This is an open studio/workshop with a focus on acrylic painting. It provides an opportunity to relax and spend time creating around other artistic friends. Participants with any previous painting experience (especially those that have already taken Acrylic Painting Made Simple with Kathy Kelk), work independently on their own art projects. No formal instruction is provided, but guidance is available if requested. Students work independently on projects/ subjects of their own choosing. Prerequisite: Some previous experience painting with acrylics.
Taught by: Susan Peo
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
Use interesting photographic techniques in a hands-on workshop. Work with polarizing filters, water drops, soap bubbles, close-up optics, high-speed flash, panorama, near infrared and thermal infrared, birefringence, flatbed scans and oil on water. We discuss results and share our images. Participants need to download images from their camera or phone to SD card or memory stick (thumb drive) for sharing.
Taught by: Karl Leck
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 12:30 PM
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.
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.
Taught by: Susan Peo
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to October 1, 2025
Wednesday at 12:45 PM
Prerequisite: Completion of Mandala Dot Painting course (B903).
Break free from the traditional circular mandala and explore new creative possibilities using dot painting tools. This class pushes beyond the expected, using the same dotting tools that created your radial symmetry mandalas, to design stunning compositions. Student can create works that feature flowers, animals, landscapes, fish, butterflies, bugs, trees or even bold abstracts!
Paint is provided, but students must have their own substrate and tools.
Taught by: Gabrielle Bradley
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Beginners and experienced students 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.
Additional fee: $40 materials fee, payable to instructor.
Taught by: Joseph Germano, Lynne Seligman, Svetlana Lisanti
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 9:00 AM
Co-requisite: Participation in Creative Fun with Clay (B218). This workshop is an opportunity for students to do additional work on any projects from Thursday’s Creative Fun with Clay (B218).
Taught by: Joseph Germano, Svetlana Lisanti, Lynne Seligman
Fee information has been added to this course since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 12:00 PM
This workshop is for students taking Ceramic Techniques for All (B215) who can work on their own.
Additional fee: $40 to cover supplies like clay, glaze, paint, etc. and the cost of firing clay projects.
Taught by: Rolf Eriksen
Fee information has been added to this course since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 12:00 PM
Workshop provides additional work time for various clay projects in progress from class. Class website (olliuodcta.art) supports in-class instruction, self-study and information for prospective students.
Additional fee: $40 to cover supplies like clay, glaze, paint, etc. and the cost of firing clay projects.
Taught by: Jeffrey Chambers, John Demsey, Rolf Eriksen
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to October 1, 2025
Wednesday at 12:30 PM
Join this workshop to explore the fun and versatile world of monoprinting! Learn the basics, or simply use the time and materials provided to create unique, layered prints using gel plates, acrylic paints and various textures. Perfect for beginners and those experienced with gel printing.
Taught by: Rebecca Daniels
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
Join us to create personal journal and memory keepers using recycled craft items, mail, papers and cardboard. Participants can keep their creations as personal treasures or give them as thoughtful gifts. Bring your imagination!
Taught by: Isabelle Fugedy, Patricia Scarpitti, Jude Serge
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to October 6, 2025
Monday at 9:00 AM
What to draw? How to draw it? If you have these questions, then this class may be for you. Learn basic drawing skills, from choosing the paper and tools to making confidential marks. Start drawing without fear!
Taught by: Elena Kingsbury
The day and dates of this class have changed since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 9:30 AM
Focusing on ways to improve your paintings, this intermediate acrylics course includes discussions, demos and videos on brushes/brushstrokes, color theory, mediums and more. Students work on class paintings as well as their own choice of works with help. This is not a beginner class.
Taught by: Emily Spadafora, Linda Simon
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 9:00 AM
This is a workshop for students with previous drawing experience. No formal instruction is offered, but students are encouraged to share ideas, techniques and critiques. Instructors are available for assistance. Students work from their own reference photos or found objects. Drawing mediums are limited to graphite, Micron pens, water-soluble graphite and color pencils. No pastels, charcoal or liquid ink.
Taught by: Anthony Rosowski, Susan Hayman, Michael Carunchio
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 14, 2025 to November 11, 2025
Tuesday at 2:30 PM
Participants learn to hand-weave a cane chair seat. Chairs and starting materials are provided. Classes meet weekly for instructions and progress evaluations. An additional two-three working hours per week outside of class may be necessary.
Taught by: Jim Hainer, Arun Loptes
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: Drawing experience. Drawing is the foundation for all of the visual arts. This course is designed to help students who’ve had previous drawing experience refine their skills and deepen their understanding of composition, shading, perspective and texture. We explore media such as graphite, pen and ink, and water-soluble colored pencils, among others. No pastels, charcoal or liquid ink.
Taught by: Anthony Rosowski, Susan Hayman, Michael Carunchio
Wilmington (off site, 310 Kiamenski Road): September 16, 2025 to September 16, 2025
Tuesday at 10:00 AM
Learn to cut, grind, foil and solder your stained glass suncatcher using the Tiffany Style of stained glass (foil and solder method). No experience necessary. This workshop is perfect for beginners. Offered in partnership with The Art Studio, the arts education center of New Castle County’s Department of Community Services.
Additional fee: Please note that this course requires an additional fee of $40. Participants receive a payment link from OLLI prior to the first class. There is also an additional $25 material fee due to the instructor.
Taught by: Karen Berstler, Nicole Sexton
Wilmington (off site, 310 Kiamenski Road): October 21, 2025 to October 21, 2025
Tuesday at 10:00 AM
Learn to cut, grind, foil and solder your stained glass suncatcher using the “Tiffany” style of stained glass (foil and solder method). No experience necessary. This workshop is perfect for beginners. Offered in partnership with The Art Studio, the arts education center of New Castle County’s Department of Community Services.
Additional fee: Please note that this course requires an additional fee of $40. Participants receive a payment link from OLLI prior to the first class. There is also an additional $30 material fee due to the instructor.
Taught by: Karen Berstler, Nicole Sexton
Wilmington (off site, 310 Kiamenski Road): December 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:00 AM
Learn to cut, grind, foil and solder your stained glass suncatcher using the “Tiffany” style of stained glass (foil and solder method). No experience necessary. This workshop is perfect for beginners. Offered in partnership with The Art Studio, the arts education center of New Castle County’s Department of Community Services.
Additional fee: Please note that this course requires an additional fee of $40. Participants receive a payment link from OLLI prior to the first class. There is also an additional $30 material fee due to the instructor.
Taught by: Karen Berstler, Nicole Sexton
This class location has changed since catalog publication.
Wilmington (off site, 310 Kiamenski Road): October 14, 2025 to November 11, 2025
Tuesday at 10:30 AM
This class is for students who have experience in watercolor or have taken the beginner and beyond beginner or Beyond Beginner classes at The Art Studio. We take the study of value in composition further, learn basic drawing methods and focus on painting simple still lifes from life. Participants provide their own supplies.
Offered in partnership with The Art Studio, the arts education center of New Castle County’s Department of Community Services.
Additional fee: Requires a fee of $49. Participants receive a payment link from OLLI prior to the first class.
This class meets at The Art Studio, the arts education center of New Castle County’s Department of Community Services, located at 310 Kiamenski Road, Wilmington.
Taught by: Karen Berstler, Nicole Sexton
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 10:45 AM
Join a fellowship of knitting/crocheting enthusiasts to work on projects, share techniques and socialize in an atmosphere that is relaxed and supportive. All skill levels are welcome, from beginners to experienced students. Work on personal projects, collaborate on charitable knitting initiatives and exchange patterns and tips. The group provides a sense of community and creativity while fostering friendships through the shared love of the craft.
Taught by: Rebecca Daniels
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 12:45 PM
This course features movies from 1930 to 1959. Some films may last up to three hours.
Taught by: George Jester
This class has an updated schedule since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 11, 2025 to October 9, 2025
Thursday at 2:30 PM
Dean Martin – The King of Cool – Martin & Lewis – The Rat Pack – Superstar! The class will cover his remarkable life and incredible careers in television, movies, stage performances and recordings. Lecture and discussion will be supplemented with videos, CD recordings and book biographies. Find out how Dino became one of the world’s favorite entertainers! New videos!
Taught by: Michael Walsh
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 2:30 PM
We will watch 21st century films from around the world, (with subtitles,) and discuss the subjects, cultures, and values portrayed.
Taught by: Gloria Acquaviva
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 2:30 PM
This continuing series highlights a different orchestra each week. A selection of orchestral and choral masterpieces will be presented by use of high-definition video programs.
Taught by: Ted Wilks
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 2:30 PM
The Beatles’ appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show in February 1964 ignited a U.S. cultural phenomenon known as the British Invasion, opening the door for dozens of U.K. pop and rock music groups to barrel through. In this class we look at the Fab Four and their accomplices including The Animals, The Searchers, The Zombies, The Dave Clark Five, The Rolling Stones, The Yardbirds, The Kinks, The Who and many more, plus solo performers like Dusty Springfield, Sandie Shaw, Cilla Black, Donovan and Tom Jones.
Taught by: Jerry Grant
This class has an updated schedule since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 12, 2025 to October 10, 2025
Friday at 10:45 AM
Relive your childhood with The Three Stooges! There were actually six, and three were brothers. Their movies were shaped by a depression and world war, and The Three Stooges provided relief and laughter to a weary public. Lecture and discussion will be supplemented with videos and book biographies. It wasn’t all eye pokes and face slaps, but it sure was fun!
Taught by: Michael Walsh
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
Many of the truly wonderful opera performances are found away from the Metropolitan Opera. Many countries celebrate the traditions of grand opera and help to secure opera’s future. In this class, the instructor focuses on opera houses in Italy. These houses bring wonderful artists from a wide variety of countries to a place that claims opera as a national art, a prized part of their culture. As operas don’t tend to fit into a 75-minute class, each session is recorded and shared with participants.
Taught by: Robert Violette
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Beyond the Metropolitan Opera there are some highly praised companies in the U.S. Internationally known singers as well as young, emerging artists bring operatic performances to local communities. Besides mainstage productions, these companies offer community outreach concerts and opera programs in schools, community centers, houses of worship and even private homes. Participants view videos of mainstage productions from around the country.
Taught by: Robert Violette
This course was updated since catalog publication to reflect the correct class meeting day of Wednesday.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 15, 2025 to November 12, 2025
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
Whether a Noel Coward comedy, a Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical or Richard Burton in Shakespeare, creative artists from across the pond have brightened New York’s stages even before we had a “Great White Way.” Using bright graphics and video clips, this class examines the many British contributions to the American stage and cultural life.
Taught by: Thomas Powderly
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
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): September 3, 2025 to October 1, 2025
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
The opportunities for cultural enrichment available in Delaware far exceed what one might expect in one of the nation’s smallest states. Centered in Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley, the Delaware professional arts scene encompasses a wide range of cultural opportunities from world-class museums and galleries to every segment of the performing arts world. Learn about Delaware’s statewide professional companies and the opportunities to experience the fine arts in this six-week course.
Taught by: Robert Violette, Arlene Bowman, Thomas Powderly
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
Fernando J. Munez’s 2019 Spanish novel La cocinera de Castamar (The Cook of Castamar) tells the story of an 18th-century romance between a talented cook and a widowed duke. The drama deals effectively with racism, sexual harassment and coercion, sexism, injustice and homophobia — issues that still plague society today. The story, in Upstairs, Downstairs style, includes members of the Spanish nobility and their servants.
Taught by: Ted Wilks
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 2:30 PM
The modern instruments of European and North American orchestras comprise five groups: strings, winds, brass, keyboard and percussion. Each week we present examples of contemporary instruments, their antecedents and some equivalents from other regions (Asia, Middle East, South America and Africa). This class explores the virtuosic possibilities of many instruments.
Taught by: Jerry Goldman, Ted Wilks
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 10:45 AM
This is the third semester of a comprehensive, four-semester course covering the history of western music from ancient times to the present. Professor Robert Greenberg discusses how musical creativity has provided a means of expression for spiritual, intellectual, social and economic forces throughout history. Each 45-minute DVD lecture is followed by additional examples.
Taught by: Ted Wilks
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to October 1, 2025
Wednesday at 12:45 PM
John Huston has been called the master of cinematic storytelling and rugged authenticity. Class views five of his most memorable films in their entirety and explores the making of the movie, the director’s motivation, the actors involved and its critical reviews. There is time for questions and discussion afterward.
Taught by: Susan Klugerman
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 14, 2025 to November 18, 2025
Tuesday at 12:30 PM
The OLLI class, (Based on) True Story Movies, is taking a break. This semester, we watch a few of the instructor’s favorite fictional movies: Mona Lisa Smile, The Italian Job, Finding Forrester, The Kid and Shutter Island (thriller, not for the faint of heart). If watched with intention, these movies have things to consider as well. Come join us!
Taught by: Sondra Weidman
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 10:45 AM
For fun and real health benefits, start or restart learning a band instrument. Learn good habits and technique early. Gain eye/hand coordination, lung function improvement and brain stimulation and have a joyful experience with music and friends.
Please note that this course is for woodwinds, brass winds and percussion only.
Prerequisite: Ability to read music is highly desirable.
Taught by: Dennis Cherrin, Jerry Goldman, Thom Remington
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
Join the Intermediate Band to improve your musical skills in playing your instrument, reading music (rhythm and notes), interpreting music and playing in ensemble. A variety of band literature is performed within the capabilities of the musicians.
Taught by: Margaret Love
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 12:45 PM
Join a mixed vocal ensemble performing accompanied, contemporary choral music. Our repertoire has a broad range, from Broadway to jazz, classic pop and rock, and the Great American Songbook. Enjoy advancing your personal musicianship while musically interacting with other enthusiasts. Performance is typically scheduled at the end of the semester.
Music purchase required.
Prerequisite: Previous choral experience and ability to read SATB music.
Taught by: Brian Hanson, Dana Ulery, William Fellner
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 2:30 PM
Explore and enjoy quartet/quintet for strings and more. No instruction except phrasing and ensemble. Instruments other than strings by invitation through instructors.
Taught by: Steven Zimmerman, Carl Van Valkenburg
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 10:45 AM
Prerequisite: New members must meet with the instructor before registering.
An opportunity for experienced clarinet and bass clarinet players to perform in a small ensemble where both individual preparation and teamwork are essential.
Taught by: Joyce Hess
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 2:30 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.
Taught by: Sidney Datskow, Peter Popper
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 10:45 AM
Prerequisite: Beginner Guitar I & II or equivalent skills. This class does not emphasize new skills; rather, it reinforces skills already learned. Higher-skilled players are also invited to come for the fun of playing wonderful music together. Each week, we work on five new songs of different styles and tempo, which students receive online and print before each Friday class. Instructors may require mask-wearing in this class.
Taught by: Lynda Hastings, Mary Miller, Ann Meyer
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 2:30 PM
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 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 9:00 AM
Students need little or no experience playing the guitar. Learn in simple, doable steps so that the experience is pleasurable and low stress. Explore playing chords while singing familiar songs, and playing by ear. Experience the benefits of music; realize your innate ability to participate in creating music. Have fun! A course book, covering semesters I & II, will be available to students in class for less than $10. Instructors expect that masks will be required in this class.
Taught by: Lynda Hastings, Mary Miller, Ann Meyer
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 12:45 PM
Guitar players, let’s jam! Each weekly jam has a different theme, and participants are invited to lead a song of their choosing or just come and sing/play along. Songs are submitted via email and the playlist is distributed each week for everyone to print or download before Friday’s class. All skill levels and other instruments are welcome. No lessons, just a chance to share songs and play together.
Taught by: Amy Biddle, William Stanley, Glenn Rill
This course’s start date and number of sessions has been updated since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
Course focuses on madrigal and a cappella part-song styles. The class sings music by Gibbons, Dowland, Morley, Purcell, Stanford, Parry and others.
Prerequisite: Ability to read music and sing.
Taught by: Margaret Love
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 2:30 PM
With its unique, enchanting sound, the Native American flute has become increasingly popular as both a musical instrument and as a tool to enhance relaxation, meditation and healing. We will learn basic and advanced fingering and playing techniques that allow for the creation of beautiful songs from the heart. No prior musical experience is required.
Materials required: A six-hole Native American flute in the key of A minor (available from instructor)
Taught by: Kathy Owen
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
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, Andy Corbett, Helene Furlong
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 2:30 PM
We perform a variety of popular rock music, including blues, country rock, folk-rock and jazz-rock genres depending on student interest. Singers, guitar (including amplified acoustic), bass guitar, keyboardists, horn players, drummers—all are needed.
Taught by: Earl McMaster
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 2:30 PM
Performance of string ensemble music, light classics, show tunes and standards. Work on intonation, technique, phrasing, dynamics and listening to each other.
Recommended practice time: 3-4 hours per week.
Prerequisite: Two or more years’ playing experience.
Materials needed: Instrument and stand.
Taught by: Steven Zimmerman
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 12:45 PM
This course helps to develop your symphonic experience playing the classics. New players must interview with the instructors prior to enrollment.
Taught by: Steven Zimmerman
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Prerequisite: Experience singing in a musical ensemble. A large, mixed voice performing group for experienced singers who can read music and sing from a three-part (SAB) or four-part (SATB) score. This ensemble learns a wide variety of choral music, and this semester songs reflect on autumn and winter, along with a few holiday favorites. Performances are scheduled at the end of the semester (live or recorded). Excellent attendance is expected.
Taught by:
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 2:30 PM
Prerequisite: At least two-three years of previous study required.
Required text: Introducing the Positions for Violin Vol 2, Harvey S. Whistler
A fun learning experience that will develop 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): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 2:30 PM
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.
Prerequisite: At least one to two years of previous study required.
Required text: Introducing the Positions for Violin Vol 1, Harvey S. Whistler
Taught by: Eleanor Dooley
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 8:30 AM
Prerequisite: New students must meet with the instructor prior to registering.
The band prepares and performs wind band music including a variety of genres. Difficulty of the music is equivalent to a good high school or college band.
Taught by: Joyce Hess, Steve Breffitt
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
This course is designed to expose participants to basic acting concepts, stage conventions and theatre terminology. Through theatre games and script reading, participants develop a foundation for effectively communicating characters and their relationships to one another.
Taught by: Arlene Bowman
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: ability to play and read music. We practice and perform big band jazz from the 1940s to the present. The instrumentation for this ensemble consists of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, piano, bass, guitar and drum set.
Taught by: Len Defrank
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 10:45 AM
The Saxophone Ensemble practices and performs all styles of saxophone music. Open to all saxophones. Let’s have fun while making some great music!
Taught by: Len Defrank
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 10:45 AM
Welcome to The Real Book/Great American Songbook class. We play songs out of The Real Book — songs that you recognize and know. These are songs that have been around for more than 50 years. We play mostly standard jazz. Come learn a new aspect of music or re-experience one that you’ve already had. Hopefully, another aspect of the class is to learn some basic improvisation and a platform for you to experiment. All instruments and voices are welcome.
Taught by: Paul Sherin
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 17, 2025 to November 14, 2025
Friday at 10:45 AM
Explore and experience the music written for the trumpet by listening to recordings, performing music and enjoying guest artists present a master class/recital.
Taught by: Jerry Goldman, Jeff Phillips
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 2:30 PM
This course is focused on playing and exploring Dixieland music and includes a lobby concert. Sheet music or chord charts (lead sheets) are provided.
Taught by: Paul Sherin
This course has been added since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 15, 2025 to November 12, 2025
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
As songwriters, we can fall into a rut, making our songs sound repetitious and boring. Together, we will share our collective journeys to better songwriting while learning about various tools and inspirations to keep our song arrangements fresh and exciting. Bring your guitar, etc., to share your talents and progress.
Taught by: Terry Merriman
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 12:30 PM
Become a storyteller and performer through a poetry in motion performance. Participants write, rehearse and stage an original poetry in motion piece, which culminates in a performance at the end of the course. Participants also read an original one-act murder mystery, created by our head writer. Class creates character biographies, which they perform during auditions. We also establish a stage crew, which determines preliminary sound effects, music, set and lighting design, stagecraft, costuming and makeup. Participants rehearse, build sets, produce and perform the play at the end of the spring 2026 semester.
Prerequisite: Caught in the Act, Fractured Fairytales Come Alive in 2025 and/or Performance Poetry Workshop. Those with theatre experience who have not met the prerequisite above are considered at the discretion of the instructor.
Taught by: Arlene Bowman
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 2:30 PM
An informal gathering of players of the ukulele, including sopranos, tenors, baritones and basses. All skill levels are welcome, but some familiarity with basic chords and strumming is helpful. We take turns choosing songs to play and sing from The Daily Ukulele: Leap Year Edition and share tips and techniques with each other as the opportunity arises. The goal is to have fun!
Required text: The Daily Ukulele: Leap Year Edition by Liz and Jim Beloff, ISBN-13 978-1458482686.
Note: Baritone players need to get the baritone edition of the book.
Taught by: Eilene Cohen, Martha Rowland, Mary Miller
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Step into the spotlight and unleash your creativity. In this dynamic course, participants explore theatre skills, collaborate with fellow ensemble members and bring original performances to life in a safe space. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or stepping on stage for the first time, this class welcomes all experience levels. Join us to learn, laugh and create something unforgettable — the world is your stage!
Taught by: Charles Conway
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
Required text: Essential Elements for Strings, individual books for violin, viola, cello, double bass – book 1 – Hal-Leonard. This class includes violin, viola, cello and double bass and it provides a fun learning experience featuring easy pieces and duets. Study develops music sight-reading, left and right-hand position and playing technique. Four to six hours of practice time a week is recommended. Students should rent or purchase an instrument in a size appropriate to fit them.
Taught by: Carl Van Valkenburg, Eleanor Dooley
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
Based on TED Talks, a popular nonprofit radio and internet phenomenon, as well as possible podcasts, this class explores a series of short, dynamic talks covering a variety of topics. Join us as we view and discuss these fascinating, insightful and sometimes humorous presentations.
Taught by: Rose Greer
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 9:00 AM
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.
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 fall semester.
Taught by: Eric Sallee
The meeting day of this class has been updated to Thursday since publication of the catalog.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 11, 2025 to October 9, 2025
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Engage in an exploration of peace — its meaning, practice and impact. Through thought-provoking discussions, interactive activities and insightful guest speakers, we examine peace as a personal and societal ideal. We discuss community-driven initiatives in Delaware, the transformative role of art and culture and the intersection of peace and social justice. We learn practical steps for meaningful action. Community connections and interactive projects are offered as options to enrich learning.
Taught by: Christine Vitsorek, Julie Brewer
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to October 1, 2025
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
Enjoy several new TED Talks, plus some “golden oldies” and thought-provoking discussions. This class features general trivia fun each week with prizes and short general discussions on different topics. Please note that this is a four-week class and no class is held on September 10, 2025. Your participation is vital to the energy of this class.
Taught by: Carolyn Stankiewicz
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 9:00 AM
This class explores the National Parks of Southern California, the end of the Revolutionary War, a park that commemorates a monumental challenge to the 5th Amendment to the Constitution, and other various National Parks throughout the nation. We stray overseas for a unique, culturally based park and get an update on two parks previously reviewed.
Taught by: William Jones
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Unlock your family’s history with Family Tree Maker Software in this engaging, hands-on course! Using computers in the lab, 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 simply looking to enhance their existing genealogy research.
Prerequisite: Basic computer skills recommended.
Taught by: Reg Herzog
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
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 their own laptops or MacBooks. 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 12, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 12:30 PM
A writing group focused on compiling family histories in narrative form. Participants share works in progress and exchange ideas. Short, optional, writing assignments offer fresh opportunities to explore and research our families. Open to all, especially beginners.
Taught by: Susan Dion
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
With the help of the Great Courses, instructor lectures and photos, this class explores the science of archeology. Students learn the history of archeology, how archeological sites are unearthed and documented, and how archeology teaches us about ancient cultures. Lectures and photos introduce participants to more than 25 archeological sites.
Taught by: William Jones
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 12:45 PM
Explore the personal side of WWII from the perspective of a soldier and his family. The instructor, Suzanne Souder, shares the story of her father, John Souder, who spent most of his adult life in the Rehoboth Beach area. During WWII he was drafted, fought briefly in Italy and then became a German prisoner-of-war. Through more than 100 letters between John and his family, students learn about their experiences and love. Learn about many aspects of the war that you never knew.
Taught by: Suzanne Souder, Glenn Rill
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to October 13, 2025
Monday at 9:00 AM
We explore our country’s racial history beginning with the first arrival of kidnapped Africans in 1619 through the present day. Class focuses on the early years, slavery by another name, public policy, the Civil Rights Movement, mass incarceration, the war on drugs and voter suppression—then and now. Finally, we address where we go from here and what actions can we take to address the profound inequities that persist.
Taught by: Suzanne Linderman
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 10:45 AM
How does one teach about the Holocaust? One must begin with questions. Between 1941 and 1945, the German state led by Adolf Hitler murdered 6 million Jews and countless others. This course considers many questions in order to gain insight into how this monstrous occurrence happened.
Taught by: Iris Vinokur
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 2:30 PM
A review of the history of the Lincoln Assassination and the fate of John Wilkes Booth and his co-conspirators, as well as other attempts on the life of President Lincoln.
Taught by: Thomas Reed
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Based on the Great Courses series, this course begins with a historical review of American intelligence then follows the CIA from being a small collection of Office of Strategic Services (OSS) operators to being a key instrument of U.S. foreign policy. Class consists of prerecorded lectures by Hugh Wilford, Ph.D., professor of history at California State University, augmented by a 35-40 minute presentation by the instructor with added information and context. There is time for Q&A. This semester’s class follows the CIA through the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Taught by: Martin Cohen
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 14, 2025 to November 11, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
Using lecture, PowerPoint and the Ken Burns film “Lewis and Clark: The Journey of the Corps of Discovery” we look in depth at the epic journey that was the Lewis and Clark expedition. We discuss the reason for the Louisiana Purchase, the hardships the expedition endured, the incredible land that was explored, and what happened to these men afterwards. We also look in depth at Sacajawea, the incredible teenager without whom the Voyage of Discovery would have failed.
Taught by: William Jones
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to September 30, 2025
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
The world has been fascinated with the compelling characters and cataclysmic events surrounding the end of the 300-year Romanov dynasty. In this course, we discuss the mystical Grigori Rasputin’s power over the heir, Alexei, and his assassination; the four Romanov daughters, Olga, Tatiana, Maria and Anastasia; WWI and the Communist Revolution of 1917; and the greatest secret of the age, Tsarevich Alexei’s incurable hemophilia. Course presentation includes 100 colorized slides of the Romanov family and Rasputin.
Taught by: Greer Firestone
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 9:00 AM
This class is a simplified look at the principles of helicopter flight, construction and control and how helicopters have gone from military to civilian operations. We explore new rotor blade technology that reduces noise and provides a smoother ride. Anecdotal information along the way provides a deeper understanding of helicopter operations and capabilities.
Taught by: Craig Wheel
This class has been canceled since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Join us for a journey into architecture from Colonial, Victorian, Art Deco & Modern to Outrageous & the architects that made it so! There are many you may know like Frank Furness, Frank Lloyd Wright, Paul Cret, Louis Kahn & Zaha Hadid. You will be introduced to other innovative architects who think out of the box. Great buildings! Awesome architecture!
Taught by: Judy Filipkowski
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to October 13, 2025
Monday at 9:00 AM
Hollywood movies, television shows and contemporary novels present the Vikings as bloodthirsty savages who raided and killed everywhere they went. But is this picture real? With the help of the Great Courses and Professor Jennifer Paxton of Catholic University, we explore what truth and myth exists about the culture, travels and life views of the Vikings. This is a six-week course and most of the lectures are approximately 80 minutes in length.
Taught by: William Jones
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday 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 3, 2025 to October 1, 2025
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
The themes remain consistent over 250 years: vision, integrity, compassion for workers, research and development, stewardship of land and philanthropy. No family has impacted a state more than the DuPont family and its DuPont company. This class explores the greatest Delaware story ever told, from visionary founder E.I. du Pont de Nemours in 1802 to three cousins buying the company in 1902 and from gunpowder to chemistry. DuPont transformed Delaware and its impact continues via the Nemours Children’s Hospital, Longwood Gardens, more than 82 high schools, the development of Routes 52 and 13 and more.
Taught by: Greer Firestone
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
Embark on a journey through an amazing modern-day historical phenomenon — the awakening of the Converso, direct descendants of the Jews of the brutal Spanish Inquisition (1480-1850). Also called Crypto-Jews, Anusim, Marranos, or Chuetas, Converso are Jews faced with expulsion, torture and/or death, converted to Roman Catholicism in Spain and or Portugal in the 14th and 15th centuries. Today they are rediscovering their “lost” Jewish heritage.
Taught by: Susan Warner
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
The course covers Prussian/German military history from Frederick the Great to the collapse of the Third Reich. Topics include German political and military strategies and tactics that impacted the world since the 18th century.
Taught by: Steven Serbu
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 2:30 PM
Spies, codes, Special Air Service (SAS), wonder weapons projects, secret negotiations, traitors, resistance and anti-colonialist movements — topics include all this and more. How did these things impact the course of the war and the world it produced?
Taught by: Susan Shoemaker
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
Immigration laws were first made by ports and states and later by the federal government. These laws were usually exclusionary until 1965. The 1986 law addressed undocumented immigrants. This course tells the stories of immigrant peoples: Irish, Germans, Jews, Italians, Chinese, Japanese, African Americans, Puerto Ricans and Mexicans.
Taught by: John Bullock
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday 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.
Taught by: Joseph Olinchak
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 12:45 PM
This course covers France’s contributions to science during the revolutionary era. Topics include: Antoine Lavoisier, founder of modern chemistry and acquaintance of the DuPonts; Antoine-Augustin Parmentier, potato advocate; efforts to address blight and food preservation; and the science of gunpowder and nitroglycerin. The course also explores: weather patterns, atmospheric layers, evolutionary theory, acquired characteristics, the metric system and more.
Taught by: John Bullock
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to November 11, 2025
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
This course leads people through the founding of New Orleans as a French colony into its Spanish-ruled years, and onto the last 220 years as an American territory and state and a confederate state. Discover the official laws and unofficial customs that define this unique city. Topics covered include architecture, creole and Cajun cultures and cuisines, music, sex, crime and carnival.
Taught by: Suzanne Stone
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 12:45 PM
Over the past few years, the U.S. Constitution has been challenged as to its structure, institutions and relevance. The writings of both the federalists and antifederalists founding fathers predicted some of the difficulties that the Constitution would face over its place as the foundation of America’s democracy. This course reviews the writings of the 18th century and looks at the challenges that have arisen in the 21st century.
Taught by: Claire Sullivan, Karen Brugh
New course added since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 20, 2025 to November 17, 2025
Monday at 12:45 PM
This course surveys Scottish history from the Protestant Reformation in the 1560s to the death of Scotland’s most beloved author, Walter Scott. Through primary source readings and discussion, we will learn how Scotland emerged from its reputation as England’s backwater neighbor to stand at the forefront of Enlightenment thought. Please join this exploration through Scotland’s unique historical landscape—lochs and glens included—to discover how Scotland’s capital became the “Athens of the North.”
This course is taught by a University of Delaware graduate student through the new UD OLLI Scholars program.
Taught by: Pamela Ahern
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
Fiction often uses culture to paint vivid portraits of the character of individual people. This course investigates various cultures through literature. Within each country, writers find new literary techniques, themes and styles to reveal that country’s or era’s values — artistic, moral and intellectual. Class examines texts from various time periods for each country in an effort to broaden perspectives. Stories are available online at no cost and are 60 pages or less.
Taught by: Leslie Healey
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
We read the acclaimed Ayn Rand tome Atlas Shrugged. During our readings, we consult her appointed heir Leonard Peikoff’s work on Rand’s writing. We investigate the meaning of Rand’s Objectivism philosophy as it shapes the novel’s events and characters.
Required text: Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand.
Taught by: Deborah Alvarez
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to October 2, 2025
Thursday at 10:45 AM
This class centers on books about our environment, and it is offered in two five-week sessions. The first focuses on non-fiction books about planet earth’s survival, while the second explores novels in which life forms, including animals, play the protagonists. The first session features Elizabeth Kolbert’s The Sixth Extinction, Pulitzer Prize winner. For more info, check the website at: https://sites.google.com/udel.edu/lifeonearth/home.
Taught by: Rebecca Worley
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 2:30 PM
Love has a dark side, too. Through Wuthering Heights, Anna Karenina and Rebecca, we will explore desperate, intense passion, obsession and their relationship to society and morality. This is NOT a “romance novel” class!
Required texts: Wuthering Heights, Emily Bronte; Anna Karenina, Leo Tolstoy; Rebecca, Daphne du Maurier.
Taught by: Susan Shoemaker
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 9, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 2:30 PM
Good books are meant for sharing. Join our collaborative monthly book group to share ideas about agreed-upon books in a relaxed atmosphere. Members propose and select books and take turns leading the discussion. During the first session on 9/9, instructors lead a discussion about Table for Two, by Amor Towles and select volunteers to lead future discussions, and the class selects books. Discussion volunteers should come to the first meeting with two books to propose for class vote. Meetings: 9/9, 10/7, 11/4 and 12/2.
Taught by: Judy Diner, Susan Shelley
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 16, 2025 to November 13, 2025
Thursday at 10:45 AM
This class centers on books about our environment, and it is offered in two five-week sessions. The first focuses on non-fiction books about planet earth’s survival, while the second explores novels in which life forms, including animals, play the protagonists. The first session features Elizabeth Kolbert’s The Sixth Extinction, Pulitzer Prize winner. For more info, check the website at: https://sites.google.com/udel.edu/lifeonearth/home.
Taught by: Rebecca Worley
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
In 1946 the American poet Robert Lowell published Lord Weary’s Castle. As his second (and first major) collection of verse, the book reflects an intense commitment to Catholicism, (which wouldn’t last), even as it deals with memories of Lowell’s family history, his reading of classical literature, and the morally complex identity of the United States during and in the years immediately after WWII. This book would also evince the theme of a lifelong fascination with the formal history of poetry, through the inclusion of a handful of works written in direct imitation of poets whose work had already profoundly influenced his own. The course will focus on the themes of Faith, Family and History in Robert Lowell’s early development, through a close reading of Lord Weary’s Castle and, (where necessary), poems of his later “Confessional” period.
Taught by: William Walsh
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to November 13, 2025
Thursday at 9:00 AM
Each class features an introduction followed by a video presentation and class discussion. Topics include Mideast realignment, climate technology and competition, science across borders, U.S.-China trade rivalry, NATO’s future, understanding Indonesia, High Seas Treaty, and pandemic preparedness. Purchase of the Great Decisions Briefing Book is recommended.
Taught by: Steven Dombchik, A. Hays Butler, Claude Faulkner
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
This class is designed for beginners interested in the basic teaching of the historical Buddha, and will include in each class time a seated meditation period of 20 to 30 minutes plus time for questions and answer at the end.
Taught by: Yvette Rudnitzky, Lucie Shader
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
Explore the New Testament from a historical perspective, bracketing questions of belief and theological truth to acquire a historically rich grounding for our understanding of the fundamental documents. This course addresses significant questions as to who wrote these books, under what circumstances, and for what audience; what they say, what they mean and their accuracy. This is a two-semester course.
Taught by: Chuck Miller
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
Introduction to the history, literature and religion of ancient Israel and early Judaism presented in the collection of texts called the Old Testament, the Hebrew Bible and the Tanakh. This is a two-semester course.
Taught by: Chuck Miller
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 20, 2025 to November 24, 2025
Monday at 10:45 AM
Participants learn and discuss what forgiveness is and is not, and the barriers involved. We explore how we benefit physically, emotionally and mentally from practicing forgiveness. Class participants are asked to read the book, Forgive for Good, by Dr. Fred Luskin. This book, stories, short videos and an article written by the instructor illustrate concepts and provide opportunities for reflection and class discussion.
Taught by: Eileen Donnelly
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
Required text: From Aging to Sage-ing: A Revolutionary Approach to Growing Older, Zalman Schachter-Shalomi and Ronald S. Miller, June 2014 edition. From Age-ing to Sage-ing reimagines aging as a time for reflection, learning and spiritual growth rather than loss. Through interactive classes, the instructors explore concepts such as life review, forgiveness and mortality, and challenge traditional views of aging. Participants begin crafting a personalized plan for “eldering,” designed to foster personal fulfillment, service to others and a meaningful legacy. Join us to transform the second half of life into a journey of purpose and wisdom.
Taught by: Stephen Sheehy, Georgianne Sheehy
This class has an updated schedule since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 16, 2025 to November 13, 2025
Thursday at 10:45 AM
People of all ages, religions, cultures and continents have reported having near-death experiences. New cases are reported every month. This class answers the following questions based on extensive, publicly available research: What are NDEs? What insights do they give us on what is important in everyday life? What are nine things we should know before we or a loved one face the transition we commonly call death? The class provides time for discussion and the opportunity for students to share experiences.
Taught by: Daniel Flynn
This course has been canceled since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 10:45 AM
By the end of the first century, the death of the apostles produced a leadership vacuum that was filled by the Apostolic Fathers. This course covers the writings of the Apostolic Fathers and the connection of these writings to the books of the Bible. We explore the leadership structure of the 2nd-century church; discuss the letters of Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, Polycarp of Smyrna and others; and examine the tremendous heresies and persecutions faced by the church.
Taught by: Salvatore Tremonte
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to October 1, 2025
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
Thomas Merton (1915-1968) has remained a popular writer on topics of spirituality. This class examines a string of controversies that marked his life, including conflicts with his abbot, a dalliance with a young nursing student discordant with his religious vows and his apparent movement toward Buddhism over the course of his monastic life. The class consists of readings (excerpts from his writings) provided by instructor, lectures and class discussion.
Taught by: Charles Lutz
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 12:45 PM
The study of Christianity through scientific and theological study.
Taught by: Raymond Troxler
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 14, 2025 to November 11, 2025
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
Participants watch and discuss short video clips that identify 12 truths, such as “it’s never too late to begin again.” Sessions consist of discussion among individual classmates and the entire group. Expect to learn from the clips as well as the experiences and examples presented by students and instructors.
Taught by: Jeff Ostroff, Susan Flook
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 14, 2025 to November 11, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: The desire to write and share writing. Students write in personal essay, creative nonfiction, and poem/prose forms, and at each class we free-write and workshop each other’s writing. Discussions focus on finding one’s voice; story arc; how to create a piece that educates and resonates with the reader; essential grammar; the importance of workshopping in a kind, positive and constructive manner; the value of multiple drafts and edits; and accepting helpful critiques as important feedback.
Taught by: Kathleen Sundt
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to September 30, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: The desire to write and share writing. Students write in personal essay, creative nonfiction, and poem/prose forms, and at each class we free-write and workshop each other’s writing. Discussions focus on finding one’s voice; story arc; how to create a piece that educates and resonates with the reader; essential grammar; the importance of workshopping in a kind, positive and constructive manner; the value of multiple drafts and edits; and accepting helpful critiques as important feedback.
Taught by: Kathleen Sundt
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to October 1, 2025
Wednesday at 12:45 PM
Required text: Identical Misfortune, Richard Zappa, ISBN: 979-8-697031-04-2. This course introduces participants to novel writing, covering the fundamentals of storytelling, genre, plot, characters, narration and dialogue. To facilitate discussion, participants are provided paperback copies of the crime drama novel, Identical Misfortune, by Richard Zappa, which is referenced, reviewed and critiqued during each session. The course is designed for anyone who has an interest in writing a novel or memoir.
Taught by: Richard Zappa
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 14, 2025 to November 11, 2025
Tuesday 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): October 15, 2025 to November 12, 2025
Wednesday at 2:30 PM
This course expands on students’ foundational understanding of AI, focusing on Large Language Models (LLMs), reasoning models, and multimodal AI. Students will explore the taxonomy of AI, including machine learning and chatbots, and delve into the detailed operation of generative AI systems. We will practice advanced prompting, explore multimodal capabilities, discuss ethical implications, and speculate on future AI developments including agents and artificial general intelligence (AGI).
Taught by: Andrea Westerinen, Jeff Westerinen
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of using the PC or MAC computer. This is an introductory Microsoft Excel course for people who know how to use the Windows or Mac operating system and possess Excel software. Students learn the basic concepts involved in spreadsheeting. Each week, students receive the lesson instructions to be used. Each class involves a short video previewing the lesson to be taught followed by a step-by-step, hands-on walk-through of the lesson.
Taught by: Phillip Weinberg, Reg Herzog
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
This course is designed for students who are skilled in the use of the Microsoft Windows operating system, but want to learn how Windows 10 and 11 have changed the game plan. Topics include security, maintenance, touchscreen navigation and how to access the cloud.
Taught by: Saul Reine
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
Create and present a slide show containing text, pictures, sound, and videos. The goal is to deliver ideas and accompanying media to a class, organization, friends, or relatives. The class is designed for OLLI instructors and students. The class will start with the basics of PowerPoint (first 6 weeks) then migrant to more advanced activities.
Prerequisite: Operating system navigating skills, basic word processing
Taught by: Anita Sterling, Karen Brugh, Lewis Martin Jr.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 2:30 PM
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.
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.
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 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 2:30 PM
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.
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.
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 2, 2025 to September 30, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: Experience using a Mac or Windows-based PC. The class provides an overview of the Microsoft Word interface and fundamental document operations, such as creating, saving and opening files. Students develop essential skills in text entry and formatting, line and paragraph spacing, creating headers and footers as well as page numbering. The class culminates in mastering page layout techniques to create professionally structured and printed documents.
Taught by: Phillip Weinberg, Reg Herzog
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 14, 2025 to November 18, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of Microsoft Word. This session builds on students’ foundational Word skills with practical applications for professional documents. Students learn how to use indents and tabs, create lists and insert hyperlinks, incorporate breaks and columns, insert pictures and text wrapping, and format pictures. Additional topics include how to document changes and use mail merge for personalized communications.
Taught by: Phillip Weinberg, Reg Herzog
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 13, 2025 to November 10, 2025
Monday at 12:45 PM
This class provides an overview of the Pages app for Mac computers via lectures and some video. Topics include how to set up document parameters such as font, font size, font colors, lists and other functions. Students learn the difference between a word processing document and a page layout document.
Taught by: Jerry Hapka
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 15, 2025 to November 12, 2025
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
This introductory course is designed to build confidence and competence using the Windows operating system. Students will learn how to navigate the desktop, manage files and folders, adjust computer settings, and safely browse the internet. Lessons will emphasize hands-on practice and clear, step-by-step guidance to ensure everyone is comfortable using essential features, from creating documents to troubleshooting common issues.
Taught by: Andrea Westerinen, Jeff Westerinen
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 2:30 PM
This course is tailored for students who are curious about how computer programs work but want a conceptual understanding, rather than learning to write code. The course goal is to gain a high-level understanding of the core ideas behind software creation and execution—such as what programming languages are, how computers interpret instructions, and what math techniques and structures are commonly used in coding. The focus is on clarity and accessibility, using everyday analogies and exercises to make complex topics understandable. Computers (other than our own brains) are not used.
Taught by: Andrea Westerinen
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 12:45 PM
This course introduces beginners to core Python programming concepts using ChatGPT as a learning companion. Students will gain experience with essential Python syntax, data types, control structures, functions, and basic problem-solving. We will practice generating and refining simple Python programs using ChatGPT. The course emphasizes practical application in an interactive environment where students can experiment and receive immediate AI-assisted feedback.
Taught by: Andrea Westerinen, Jeff Westerinen
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
Please join us to explore this beautiful language. Students learn through videos, lecture instruction and receptive practice. Each week we also learn about deaf culture. No previous experience necessary.
Taught by: Sondra Weidman, Carol Lovett
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Prerequisite: Two semesters of OLLI Spanish or the equivalent. Required text: The Complete Ultimate Spanish, Ronni L. Gordon, PhD. et. al., 978-1-264-25910-6. This is the third of a series of classes for beginners in Spanish. We follow the textbook and songs. Other materials may be used as needed.
Taught by: Jeanne Hanson
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
This course is for intermediate to advanced students wishing to tackle grammar challenges for use in real-life conversation. It covers tricky grammatical structures such as cual versus que, pronouns, probability, comparisons, preterite versus imperfect and more. Class incorporates videos, songs, and some grammar exercises. Conversation with be centered around reading material in a book group format.
Taught by: Sheila Hochhauser, Susan Kaye
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to November 21, 2025
Friday at 12:45 PM
Join our book group to refresh French-speaking skills and expand your knowledge through lively French book discussion of varied works in a relaxed, supportive setting. Our books are: 9/12 Vers le soleil, J. Sandrel; 10/3 La Place, Annie Ernaux; 10/31 Tous les hommes n’habitent pas le monde de la même façon, J-P.Dubois; 11/21 Les Dixenfants que Mme. Ming n’a jamais eus, E-E Schmitt. E-books, as of 3/3/25. Order: lireka.com, amazon.com. Questions? Contact jdiner1@aol.com.
Taught by: Judy Diner
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
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 class consists of small group discussions, textbook work and singing in Spanish.
Taught by: Jeanne Hanson
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to November 17, 2025
Monday at 9:00 AM
This course continues the textbook Le Nouveau Taxi 2!. Every thematic unit focuses on clearly identified communicative goals and socio-cultural awareness. Brief practical grammar lessons provide built-in opportunities for student interaction and pronunciation practice. The exercise book aids in developing accurate writing skills for effective communication. This semester starts at unit two or three of the book.
Prerequisite: At least a full academic year of French. Required texts: Le Nouveau Taxi 2!, Robert Menand (textbook); Cahier d’exercices Le Nouveau Taxi 2!, Laure Hutchings and Nathalie Hirschsprung, ISBN 978-2-01-155552-6 (exercise book).
Taught by: Charlotte Mulleman
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 2:30 PM
Prerequisite: Active participation. 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 group that discusses our agenda for the year and breaks into groups to accomplish goals. Our focus for the semester is to implement elements of the UD Sustainability Plan. We develop immediate goals and devise action plans.
Taught by: Judy Winters, Mark Mendelson
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
The OLLI Bird Watching Club is for birdwatchers with various levels of experience. Students go outside and watch birds. Club features speakers on various birding topics such as using e-bird, bird photography or bird feeding. The first meeting is an introductory session, and the group then decides on the weekly topics or walks.
Taught by: Paul Beckman, Andy Jenkins, Walt Blackwell
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 12:45 PM
Will we find life on Mars? On Europa? Why does sex exist? Why do we die? These are all great questions for discussion. Our answers today are incomplete, but also quite sophisticated. Nick Lane’s book, Life Ascending, is our guide. Class meetings involve discussion in small groups with subsequent reporting to the class as a whole. A background in science helps, but is not necessary. Nick Lane is a skilled storyteller and the collective backgrounds of class members are a rich resource.
Taught by: Robert Ketcham
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to September 30, 2025
Tuesday at 12:45 PM
Studying the history of advancements in medical knowledge helps us see the convoluted path to uncovering medical knowledge. In this class we will focus on our changing understanding of three diseases (syphilis, cholera, and beri-beri) alongside changes in scientific practice, world economics, and technological advances. You do not need a scientific or medical background to enjoy our exploration of this topic. The only prerequisite is a curious mind.
Taught by: Joan Lussky
New course added since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 15, 2025 to November 12, 2025
Wednesday at 2:30 PM
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, this course 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.
This course is taught by a University of Delaware graduate student through the new UD OLLI Scholars program.
Taught by: Krishna Thakkar
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 2:30 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
This course has been added since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 9:00 AM
An introduction to the popular Yang style forms of this slow-motion exercise. Tai Chi is a pattern of standing movements that may improve balance and provide other health benefits. No prior experience is needed.
Taught by: Angela Drooz
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
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
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
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): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 2:30 PM
Tai Chi Chih is very user friendly and easy-to-learn moving meditation. Through a series of slow and gentle movements, you will be able to create an inner stillness experience peace. Many people have reported various health benefits. All movements are performed in a standing position, or if needed, in a sitting position. Please wear comfortable clothing.
Taught by: Steve Long
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 12:45 PM
Prerequisite: Completion of Tai Chi: Yang Style 24-Form, Part 1 or equivalent. Tai chi is a slow-motion exercise, consisting of a set of continuous flowing movements that may help improve balance and flexibility. This is the second part of the two-semester 24-form class begun in the spring, which students must have completed to continue in this class. Practice outside of class is essential.
Taught by: Angela Drooz
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to November 17, 2025
Monday at 10:45 AM
Walk with leading experts through studies showing the value of a plant-based lifestyle for vitality and longevity. Lectures also include pertinent studies of chronic disease management. Discussion reveals food facts and fiction with tips for putting your knowledge into practice for tasty meal planning.
Taught by: Reid Kellogg, Linda Kellogg
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
Join us to practice what you’ve learned in the OLLI tai chi chih course. All movements are performed in a standing position, or if needed, in a sitting position. Please wear comfortable clothing.
Taught by: Steve Long
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
Required materials: A yoga mat, a yoga strap and two yoga blocks. Improve strength, flexibility and overall physical and mental health through the practice of gentle yoga poses, balances, breathing and meditation in a quiet, calm and interactive atmosphere. Beginners and experienced yogis can benefit. Practice between sessions and use of internet videos are strongly recommended. For anyone suffering knee pain, a yoga knee pad or rolled towel etc. is recommended.
Taught by: William Tamblyn
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 9:00 AM
Required materials: A yoga mat, a yoga strap and two yoga blocks. Improve strength, flexibility and overall physical and mental health through the practice of gentle yoga poses, balances, breathing and meditation in a quiet, calm and interactive atmosphere. Beginners and experienced yogis can benefit. Practice between sessions and use of internet videos are strongly recommended. For anyone suffering knee pain, a yoga knee pad or rolled towel etc. is recommended.
Taught by: William Tamblyn
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to October 23, 2025
Thursday at 10:45 AM
This class includes guest speakers with topics addressing our physical and mental wellbeing. Participants should bring water and come prepared to walk for half the class time. Walkers are divided into three different groups in accordance with their own walking style. Those who enjoy strolling, average paced and fast walkers. Routes are outlined by the instructors. Participants enjoy the camaraderie of chatting with classmates and the endorphin boost that results from walking. Nothing but fun!
Taught by: Liz Waters, Merrill Stein
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to October 1, 2025
Wednesday at 12:45 PM
This 11-week course discusses various topics in medicine and healthcare; including the history and evolution of medicine and surgery, professionalism, medical errors and patient safety, healthcare regulation, evidence-based practice and clinical guidelines, resilience and recovery in healthcare, patient-centered care, women’s health, evolution of cardiac surgery and more.
Taught by: Hisham Sherif
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to October 6, 2025
Monday at 2:30 PM
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): October 20, 2025 to November 17, 2025
Monday at 2:30 PM
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 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
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: Lorraine Cohn, Martin Cohn
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
International Folk Dance has been offered since the beginning of OLLI Wilmington. The class uses music, movement and memory to encourage the participants to maintain an active lifestyle. Dance has been shown to be an important form of exercise to improve cognition in seniors. There is a combination of circle, line and adapted partner dances from multiple countries. All levels of dance experience are welcome.
Taught by: Mary McLaughlin Koprowski, Harriet Ainbinder, Gail Husch
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to November 12, 2025
Wednesday at 10:45 AM
This course is intended for everyone interested to know more about the heart, vascular system and their diseases, providing an overview of the structure, function and diseases of the cardiovascular system. Students gain a better understanding of cardiovascular risk factors and how to assess them as well as common diseases and their management.
Taught by: Hisham Sherif
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 10:45 AM
This course follows the life and career of Richard Feynman using his lectures, videos and documentaries. His genius enabled him to introduce us to fields of science and technology years before they became mainstream. Feynman’s diagrams simplified physics problems. He predicted the importance of nanotechnology, while scientists were still figuring out the macro world. His work on quantum electrodynamics earned him the Noble Prize. And, yes, he played the bongos!
Taught by: Saul Reine
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 9:00 AM
Each class will have a different lecturer addressing topics across a broad spectrum as diverse as renewables energy and solar power to old growth forests and teaching nature to preschool children. Our lecturers hail from UD, Technical University of Darmstadt and the Native Tree Society. All new lectures.
Taught by: Pam Meitner
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
This is the sixth installment in the Fun in FUNdamental Mathematics franchise, which is meant as a hop-on-hop-off opportunity with no prerequisites and brand-new material for veterans of earlier installments. The goal of this collaborative study is to explore interesting applications of mathematics using creative visuals and active engagement. With an eye to the historical backstory of key concepts, we explore tantalizing topics in probability theory.
Taught by: Jon Manon
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to December 1, 2025
Monday at 12:45 PM
Explore the nature and flow of time from both a scientific and philosophical prospective. The course explores latest research about time, its role in relativity and quantum mechanics, and its connection to cosmology. Topics include Richard Muller’s expanding time, the thermodynamic and psychological arrows of time, and possibilities of time travel. From ancient timekeeping to atomic clocks, learn how our understanding of time has evolved and what physics says about its fundamental nature.
Taught by: Charles Carter
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 10:45 AM
Required text: Raptor Red, Robert T. Bakker, ISBN 978-0-553–57561-3. In grade school we were taught that dinosaurs were dull-colored, unintelligent lizards. Some even thought that the largest of the dinosaurs had to have a separate brain in their tails. Discoveries have shown that dinosaurs had intelligence and emotions similar to animals today. With the help of the Great Courses, Paleontologist Kristi Curry Rodgers, and an intriguing novel, we investigate what has been discovered and hypothesized about dinosaurs in the past 60 years.
Taught by: William Jones
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 14, 2025 to November 11, 2025
Tuesday at 10:45 AM
Have you ever wondered about the origin and nature of your gemstones? This class will try to answer many of your questions. We will learn what common gemstones are to a mineralogist, and then delve into the occurrence and mining of natural gems. We will discuss the properties of gemstones and how those are used to identify them, and finish with how gems are polished and treated to enhance them,
Taught by: Dave Ellis, Myszka Ellis
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 2, 2025 to November 4, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
Dinosaurs arose after the largest mass extinction ever and only slowly moved across the continents to become top predators and titanic plant eaters. Shocking recent advances that upended 20th century thinking will be presented on topics like feathers, warm blood, coloration, DNA and more. (Without the boring bits, and some jokes added.)
Taught by: Craig Lewis
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
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): September 2, 2025 to December 2, 2025
Tuesday at 9:00 AM
America’s widely copied Constitution has had unusual success and longevity. We take a lawyer’s precise look at how it works, also looking at reform proposals and some denunciations. We discuss the founders and explore their process, and their reasoning from English, Roman and Greek history. We stress free elections, First Amendment and how the Constitution answers current issues, including racial ones.
Taught by: Mark Olson, Paul Welsh
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 3, 2025 to December 3, 2025
Wednesday at 2:30 PM
Topics include stock and bond analysis, exchange traded funds, behavioral finance, international investments and economic indicators and their relationship to the financial markets. Course also covers discussion of current trends in the world financial markets.
Taught by: Theodore Zak
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 13, 2025 to November 10, 2025
Monday at 9:00 AM
This course explores strategies for all your health insurance needs. We discuss Medicare options and what the letters mean, for example, the difference between the G and N plans. We also discuss avoiding possible penalties, important dates for Medicare enrollments, and taking the confusion out of Medicare choices.
Taught by: Joseph Cisco
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 16, 2025 to November 13, 2025
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
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 16, 2025 to November 13, 2025
Thursday at 12:45 PM
Required text: The Tyranny of Merit: Can we Find the Common Good?, Michael Sandel, ISBN#1250800064. This course examines the book The Tyranny of Merit: Can We Find the Common Good? by Harvard professor Michael Sandel. The premise of the book is that the inequality created by the myth of American meritocracy has caused polarization that is a danger to democracy.
Taught by: George Helton, Diane Senerth
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to October 6, 2025
Monday at 10:45 AM
This class provides a look at social services currently in Delaware and the history of social service Programs, concentrating on Delaware Health and Social Services and the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families. This course features guest speakers from relevant agencies and covers programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Medicaid, long-term care, child protective services, and Child Inc.
Taught by: Debbie Gonce
New course added since catalog publication.
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 20, 2025 to November 17, 2025
Monday at 9:00 AM
This course offers an engaging look at the U.S. criminal legal system with a focus on incarceration and punishment. Through readings, discussions, and a guest speaker, we’ll explore how the system operates and how it affects individuals and communities. Topics include prison conditions, aging inside, and the challenges of reentry. No background required, just curiosity and a willingness to explore tough but important questions. If you’ve ever wanted to learn about the system, join us!
This course is taught by a University of Delaware graduate student through the new UD OLLI Scholars program.
Taught by: Mackenzie Niness
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 5, 2025 to December 5, 2025
Friday at 12:45 PM
Tired of playing chess against a computer or person halfway across the world? Join the Chess Club and meet up with other chess enthusiasts to play face to face. The Chess Club is intended for individuals with experience or have a basic understanding of chess fundamentals. The first 20 to 30 minutes of the club are dedicated to working on our chess skills, openings, endgame, tactics, great games and other topics for interest. The balance of the time we pair up and play chess.
Taught by: Richard Glazik, Gary Szczarba
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 13, 2025 to November 10, 2025
Monday at 12:45 PM
Come play Mah Jongg with us! Instructions on how to play Mah Jongg are not provided during this class. Students need a 2025 Mah Jongg card. If you have a Mah Jongg set, please bring it to class. OLLI only has a limited number of sets available, and they will be given out on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Taught by: Gerri Sanchez, Sheila Weinberg, Nancy Herzog, Helen McMahon
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 4, 2025 to December 4, 2025
Thursday at 10:45 AM
Mexican Train Dominoes is easy to learn and lots of fun to play. We’ll teach you to play online. Try it with us and see for yourself. This class is for both new and experienced players.
Taught by: Mary McNeeley, Lisa Campbell
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 13, 2025 to November 10, 2025
Monday at 2:30 PM
The campus trees have been measured and identified. We continue to learn about the Wilmington campus, its trees, and arboreal practices. We have both indoor and outdoor activities to continue our tree stewardship. In addition to enjoying our trees, we enjoy spending time with others who enjoy trees.
Taught by: Jim Hainer
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to October 6, 2025
Monday at 10:45 AM
This is a class for beginners. Canasta is a card game that has been played around the world for decades. Instructors teach the rules of modern American Canasta and allow time to practice new skills in class. As this course builds on material from the previous weeks, please try to attend as many classes as possible. Join us and see why interest in this card game has swelled over the past ten years!
Taught by: Gerri Sanchez, Karen Jester, Al Sanchez
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): October 20, 2025 to November 17, 2025
Monday at 10:45 AM
Join us to play Canasta! We use the rules for modern American Canasta. No instruction is given on how to play the game. (Please see Canasta for Beginners, offered during the first session.) Beginners who learned the game during that class are encouraged to attend! Join us and see why interest in this game continues to grow each year!
Taught by: Gerri Sanchez, Karen Jester, Al Sanchez
Wilmington (Arsht Hall): September 8, 2025 to October 6, 2025
Monday at 12:45 PM
This is a class for beginners! We teach the basics of American Mah Jongg, and spend time practicing the game. As the class builds on knowledge from the previous week, participants should attend as many sessions as possible. Students must purchase a 2025 Mah Jongg card from the National Mah Jongg League (www.nationalmahjonggleague.org). We suggest also signing up for the second five-week session to practice what you’ve learned. Join us and see how much fun Mah Jongg is!
Taught by: Gerri Sanchez, Sheila Weinberg, Nancy Herzog, Helen McMahon
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