Lectures and Mini-Series   

Enjoy great programs from our video library in our air-conditioned Lecture Hall. Here's the schedule:

Circlesinging is a form of improvisational singing which requires no vocal or musical training. Circlesongs, each of which may last for 5 or 10 minutes, are initially led by the instructor, who divides the group into 3 or 4 groups. Each group is taught a short musical phrase and the phrases work together to form a new song. As participants become comfortable, they can take turns at creating the songs.

This 8-session miniseries meets on Tuesdays, beginning July 8 and continuing through August 26.

You are invited to an engaging session where neuroscience graduate students from UNR will present their research. They are eager to share their latest findings and receive valuable feedback. The audience will evaluate the students after each three-minute thesis presentation, which includes one visual slide. Following the presentations, there will be a short brunch break. Dr. Monica Miller, Foundation Professor with the Criminal Justice Dept at UNR, will then discuss "The Role of Scientific Evidence in the Courtroom," focusing on how expert testimony, forensic science, and evolving evidentiary standards shape courtroom outcomes and justice policy. Join us for this special event!

REGISTRATION REQUIRED by Thursday, July 3rd. Brunch will be provided. Click Here for Registration Instructions.

"Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without." Confucius

Join Liza Chapen on the piano and Leah Davis leading the group for an hour of a singalong each week. Share the joy of a huge variety of songs, new and old. Words to the songs will be provided and requests taken for songs for the following week. No talent or ability required, just a desire to share the joy of singing.

The Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is visited by many species of birds, insects, reptiles, and mammals year-round, making it a great local attraction for nature lovers! This 90-minute nature walk will explore many different sections of the gardens. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, magnifying glasses, or any other gear they may find helpful as well as water. The Arboretum has limited pairs of binoculars/magnifying glasses available for checkout if needed. Most of the park is firm level ground, and routes can be adjusted to accommodated any mobility limitations. This walk will begin at the west entrance, near the museum parking lot.

Off-site location: 1595 N. Sierra Street, Reno, NV 89503. Location link for class: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rneUDH6h6MvBTnfAA

Circlesinging is a form of improvisational singing which requires no vocal or musical training. Circlesongs, each of which may last for 5 or 10 minutes, are initially led by the instructor, who divides the group into 3 or 4 groups. Each group is taught a short musical phrase and the phrases work together to form a new song. As participants become comfortable, they can take turns at creating the songs.

This 8-session miniseries meets on Tuesdays, beginning July 8 and continuing through August 26.

Idioms are the spice of life! Idioms are words or phrases that have a different meaning than the literal meaning of the words. Food expressions are colorful and descriptive. Some food- word origins are quirky and are based on historical events, legends, important figures and habits. Many English expressions are so unusual that it is impossible to guess their origin — unless you know the history. They are not only fun to use but are sure to get your point across in conversation. We’ll explore the origins of some of the most interesting food idioms and taste some of your favorites!

The presenter will be joining us via Zoom.

Join Colin Robertson, Charles N. Mathewson Senior Vice President of Education and Research at the Nevada Museum of Art, for an introduction to a new programmatic partnership between the Museum and OLLI. He’ll survey some about what’s to come programmatically, and how the partnership aims to increase lifelong learning opportunities in the community.

"Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without." Confucius

Join Liza Chapen on the piano and Leah Davis leading the group for an hour of a singalong each week. Share the joy of a huge variety of songs, new and old. Words to the songs will be provided and requests taken for songs for the following week. No talent or ability required, just a desire to share the joy of singing.

What is it like to wear the badge, patrol the streets, do criminal and undercover investigations, and cover crime scenes? From routine traffic stops to working undercover, Carl Caudill tells it all from an insider's viewpoint. His expertise will enlighten all of us to what "being on the job" entails. Be prepared to hear names like Chowchilla School Bus, Jack Scully, Ed Kemper and Patti Hearst. Time will be allotted for Q & A about law enforcement.

This is a two-part series held on Tuesdays, July 22 and July 29. 

Circlesinging is a form of improvisational singing which requires no vocal or musical training. Circlesongs, each of which may last for 5 or 10 minutes, are initially led by the instructor, who divides the group into 3 or 4 groups. Each group is taught a short musical phrase and the phrases work together to form a new song. As participants become comfortable, they can take turns at creating the songs.

This 8-session miniseries meets on Tuesdays, beginning July 8 and continuing through August 26.

"Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without." Confucius

Join Liza Chapen on the piano and Leah Davis leading the group for an hour of a singalong each week. Share the joy of a huge variety of songs, new and old. Words to the songs will be provided and requests taken for songs for the following week. No talent or ability required, just a desire to share the joy of singing.

What is it like to wear the badge, patrol the streets, do criminal and undercover investigations, and cover crime scenes? From routine traffic stops to working undercover, Carl Caudill tells it all from an insider's viewpoint. His expertise will enlighten all of us to what "being on the job" entails. Be prepared to hear names like Chowchilla School Bus, Jack Scully, Ed Kemper and Patti Hearst. Time will be allotted for Q & A about law enforcement.

This is a two-part series held on Tuesdays, July 22 and July 29. 

Circlesinging is a form of improvisational singing which requires no vocal or musical training. Circlesongs, each of which may last for 5 or 10 minutes, are initially led by the instructor, who divides the group into 3 or 4 groups. Each group is taught a short musical phrase and the phrases work together to form a new song. As participants become comfortable, they can take turns at creating the songs.

This 8-session miniseries meets on Tuesdays, beginning July 8 and continuing through August 26.

"Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without." Confucius

Join Liza Chapen on the piano and Leah Davis leading the group for an hour of a singalong each week. Share the joy of a huge variety of songs, new and old. Words to the songs will be provided and requests taken for songs for the following week. No talent or ability required, just a desire to share the joy of singing.

The Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is visited by many species of birds, insects, reptiles, and mammals year-round, making it a great local attraction for nature lovers! This 90-minute nature walk will explore many different sections of the gardens. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, magnifying glasses, or any other gear they may find helpful as well as water. The Arboretum has limited pairs of binoculars/magnifying glasses available for checkout if needed. Most of the park is firm level ground, and routes can be adjusted to accommodated any mobility limitations. This walk will begin at the west entrance, near the museum parking lot.

Off-site location: 1595 N. Sierra Street, Reno, NV 89503. Location link for class: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rneUDH6h6MvBTnfAA

Circlesinging is a form of improvisational singing which requires no vocal or musical training. Circlesongs, each of which may last for 5 or 10 minutes, are initially led by the instructor, who divides the group into 3 or 4 groups. Each group is taught a short musical phrase and the phrases work together to form a new song. As participants become comfortable, they can take turns at creating the songs.

This 8-session miniseries meets on Tuesdays, beginning July 8 and continuing through August 26.

"Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without." Confucius

Join Liza Chapen on the piano and Leah Davis leading the group for an hour of a singalong each week. Share the joy of a huge variety of songs, new and old. Words to the songs will be provided and requests taken for songs for the following week. No talent or ability required, just a desire to share the joy of singing.

Circlesinging is a form of improvisational singing which requires no vocal or musical training. Circlesongs, each of which may last for 5 or 10 minutes, are initially led by the instructor, who divides the group into 3 or 4 groups. Each group is taught a short musical phrase and the phrases work together to form a new song. As participants become comfortable, they can take turns at creating the songs.

This 8-session miniseries meets on Tuesdays, beginning July 8 and continuing through August 26.

Across the globe, there is no country with food and wine that is more romanticized and sought after than Italy. It’s a place where good food and delicious wine are available at every turn. Italy is the home of 2,000 years of culinary history dating back to the Roman Empire. Italy consists of 20 regions that have lots of unique treasures and outstanding sights to explore. Each of the regions lends its own flavor to the dishes we know and love. No matter the region, you’ll find emphasis placed on fresh, high-quality, seasonal ingredients.

The presenter will be joining us via Zoom.

"Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without." Confucius

Join Liza Chapen on the piano and Leah Davis leading the group for an hour of a singalong each week. Share the joy of a huge variety of songs, new and old. Words to the songs will be provided and requests taken for songs for the following week. No talent or ability required, just a desire to share the joy of singing.

Circlesinging is a form of improvisational singing which requires no vocal or musical training. Circlesongs, each of which may last for 5 or 10 minutes, are initially led by the instructor, who divides the group into 3 or 4 groups. Each group is taught a short musical phrase and the phrases work together to form a new song. As participants become comfortable, they can take turns at creating the songs.

This 8-session miniseries meets on Tuesdays, beginning July 8 and continuing through August 26.

In 1540 Spanish explorer Francisco Vazquez de Coronado led a large expedition through parts of the southwestern United States, hoping to find the mythical Seven Cities of Gold. An archeologist has now identified 13 different sites in southeastern Arizona where (a) the expedition camped, (b) they built the first European townsite, (c) the first Native American European battle occurred in the Southwest, and (d) the first successful Native American uprising occurred in the continental US creating an evidence-rich narrative about the expedition.

The presenter will be joining us via Zoom. This program will NOT be recorded.

The 1930s marked a pivotal period in the history of fashion. The Great Depression left a lasting impact on society and the fashion industry, alike. It was during this period that popular Hollywood stars became a major influence on fashion trends. Join us for a discussion with Megan Bellister, Nell J. Redfield Curator of Learning and Engagement at the Nevada Museum of Art, on why the Great Depression reshaped 1930s American fashion through practical necessity and Hollywood glamour.

"Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without." Confucius

Join Liza Chapen on the piano and Leah Davis leading the group for an hour of a singalong each week. Share the joy of a huge variety of songs, new and old. Words to the songs will be provided and requests taken for songs for the following week. No talent or ability required, just a desire to share the joy of singing.

Circlesinging is a form of improvisational singing which requires no vocal or musical training. Circlesongs, each of which may last for 5 or 10 minutes, are initially led by the instructor, who divides the group into 3 or 4 groups. Each group is taught a short musical phrase and the phrases work together to form a new song. As participants become comfortable, they can take turns at creating the songs.

This 8-session miniseries meets on Tuesdays, beginning July 8 and continuing through August 26.

"Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without." Confucius

Join Liza Chapen on the piano and Leah Davis leading the group for an hour of a singalong each week. Share the joy of a huge variety of songs, new and old. Words to the songs will be provided and requests taken for songs for the following week. No talent or ability required, just a desire to share the joy of singing.

Let's travel to the Borrego Badlands, a vast corrugated landscape of clay cliffs and channels, once filled with water and a site of animal and plant fossils. Strewn over the wide valley floor we find some notable surprises: over 100 giant sculptures of animals that once lived in the region: dinosaurs, mammoths, giant turtles, insects and other surprises. Desert wildflowers are just making their appearance after the winter, creating color spots among the cacti and the California fan palms. This photographic adventure will indeed be an "eye-opening experience."

The Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is visited by many species of birds, insects, reptiles, and mammals year-round, making it a great local attraction for nature lovers! This 90-minute nature walk will explore many different sections of the gardens. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, magnifying glasses, or any other gear they may find helpful as well as water. The Arboretum has limited pairs of binoculars/magnifying glasses available for checkout if needed. Most of the park is firm level ground, and routes can be adjusted to accommodated any mobility limitations. This walk will begin at the west entrance, near the museum parking lot.

Off-site location: 1595 N. Sierra Street, Reno, NV 89503. Location link for class: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rneUDH6h6MvBTnfAA

The AARP Smart Driver Course is based on driver safety research and insights. It teaches effective safe-driving practices; skills and strategies you can use on the road every day; defensive driving techniques to help you deal with aggressive drivers; local laws and traffic rules, including techniques for handling left turns; right-of-way and roundabouts; and proper maintenance of your vehicle so that it's safe before you drive. This course is approved by the Nevada DMV. Eligible participants receive a 3-year insurance discount as required by Nevada law. OLLI members are encouraged to bring a guest.

Fees are $20 for AARP members, $25 for others. Bring a check, avoid cash, no credit/debit cards. Class size is limited to 30. REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Please call 775-747-2019.

Take charge of your retirement future by mastering the ins and outs of Medicare. Gain essential knowledge to choose the right coverage with confidence. Unlock the secrets to eligibility, plan options, and costs while staying ahead of rising healthcare expenses. Learn the key differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans, and avoid the hidden pitfalls of Part D prescription coverage.

This 5-part series meets Mondays at 10 a.m., October 6 through November 3.

Learn how to design your own meditation practice and how to adapt it for the changing needs in your life. We will explore the worlds of mindfulness, breathing, and mind/body connections. Learn how to use meditation for stress management, spirituality, health maintenance, and fun. Most of all it will be an exploration of self.

Plan to attend all four classes, in order to build upon the skills you learn in each session. The first class is mandatory to continue the series.

Take charge of your retirement future by mastering the ins and outs of Medicare. Gain essential knowledge to choose the right coverage with confidence. Unlock the secrets to eligibility, plan options, and costs while staying ahead of rising healthcare expenses. Learn the key differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans, and avoid the hidden pitfalls of Part D prescription coverage.

This 5-part series meets Mondays at 10 a.m., October 6 through November 3.

Every culture has at least one creation story and a flood myth; narratives with few people, complex symbolism, and the forces that separate the sky from the soil. One myth tells of a couple in a garden, but another shows the world emerging from a giant egg. Once troubles start, they grow and expand, and in many cultures, the gods grow angry and send water to cleanse the world. The survivors throw rocks, marry muskrats, and learn how to reboot humanity. Other cultures tell of gods who flood the world due to being extremely lazy hunters, and once the world floods truly by accident. We will explore these confounding and rewarding stories for their explanations of cultural norms, odd events, and unique perspectives.

NOTE: The presenter will join us via Zoom.  This program will NOT be recorded.

Take charge of your retirement future by mastering the ins and outs of Medicare. Gain essential knowledge to choose the right coverage with confidence. Unlock the secrets to eligibility, plan options, and costs while staying ahead of rising healthcare expenses. Learn the key differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans, and avoid the hidden pitfalls of Part D prescription coverage.

This 5-part series meets Mondays at 10 a.m., October 6 through November 3.

Take charge of your retirement future by mastering the ins and outs of Medicare. Gain essential knowledge to choose the right coverage with confidence. Unlock the secrets to eligibility, plan options, and costs while staying ahead of rising healthcare expenses. Learn the key differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans, and avoid the hidden pitfalls of Part D prescription coverage.

This 5-part series meets Mondays at 10 a.m., October 6 through November 3.

Take charge of your retirement future by mastering the ins and outs of Medicare. Gain essential knowledge to choose the right coverage with confidence. Unlock the secrets to eligibility, plan options, and costs while staying ahead of rising healthcare expenses. Learn the key differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans, and avoid the hidden pitfalls of Part D prescription coverage.

This 5-part series meets Mondays at 10 a.m., October 6 through November 3.

Based on the 2023 book, First Peoples of the Great Salt Lake: A Cultural Landscape from Nevada to Wyoming, this is a story of place. It is a story of language histories, the mingling of peoples, indigenes and immigrants, and the transformations that arise from interaction, both cooperation and conflict. It is a story of cultural resilience, persistence, and changing sense of place. An indigenous centered perspective tempers popular wisdoms about ancient Native American history. It is a story far deeper in time than any modern genealogy can trace.

NOTE: The presenter will be joining us via ZOOM.

Learn about Nevada's contributions to victory during World War II, including military bases, magnesium production, civilian sacrifices and efforts, notable individuals, Japanese balloon bombs, the gift to Admiral William "Bull" Halsey, Jr. of a saddle from the war bond buyers of Washoe County and more.

His book World War II and Nevada: The Silver State's Contribution to Victory will be available for sale after the program.

In 1989, Las Vegas proposed to pump almost three billion gallons of groundwater annually from thirty rural Great Basin valleys and pipe it 300 miles to the city. This water grab would have devastated wildlife and rural agriculture, if not for a small, determined group that fought for 31 years to a decisive 2020 victory that protected the Great Basin’s precious aquafers. In this sequel to his presentation at OLLI in March, Mike Branch will share the inspiring story of how a diverse alliance of high desert people resisted the water grab and protected sacred land.

***This program will NOT be recorded. ***