OLLI at Duke Spring 2025 Course Catalog

Welcome!

Dear OLLI at Duke Members,

Welcome to the Spring 2025 term at Duke!

This season marks a new beginning, with my first full term as the newest director of OLLI at Duke, and I am thrilled to embark on this journey with you. Whether you’re exploring a new topic or reconnecting with familiar interests, we invite you to join us for a course or event. Together, we’ll continue to build a dynamic, inclusive and enriching environment that inspires lifelong learning and connection.

Our spring catalog is brimming with exciting courses and enriching experiences designed to inspire, educate and connect. From thought-provoking lectures to hands-on workshops, each offering is crafted to expand your horizons.

As you peruse the catalog, we hope you feel the same excitement and anticipation that we do. Let us celebrate this new beginning, embrace the opportunities ahead and make this term one of the most memorable yet. Welcome back to school, and here’s to a fantastic Spring 2025!

Warm regards,

Rhonda, Jenny, Betina and Kathy The OLLI at Duke Team

Our Mission

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Duke University seeks to engage the minds, elevate the spirits and foster the well-being of its members through numerous educational programs and opportunities for volunteer service and social activity.

Our Vision

We seek to provide a premier, quality, cost-effective noncredit curriculum with courses that cover a wide range of interests in history, literature, the natural and social sciences, the fine arts and current events.

Our History

OLLI at Duke is one of the oldest and largest institutes within the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute network. Established in 1977 as the Duke Institute for Learning in Retirement (DILR), the program was renamed the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Duke in 2006 in honor of the Bernard Osher Foundation. Membership has grown from the original 42 to one of the largest OLLI programs in the country. Current membership is 1,913 and growing.

Front cover: Sunrise and Cheery Allée in bloom, Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Photograph by Bill Snead, Duke University © Duke University, all rights reserved

Photograph by Blythe Tyrone

From left: Betina Huntwork, Jenny Levine and Kathy Parrish

Rhonda Parker Director, OLLI at Duke

Spring 2025 Registration

Registration for the Spring 2025 term opens on Tuesday, January 7, at 9 a.m. ET for Monday and Tuesday courses and on Wednesday, January 8, at 9 a.m. ET for Wednesday and Thursday courses.

To become an OLLI member and create an account, go to learnmore.duke.edu/olli and click “Join OLLI.” We recommend joining in advance of registration. This login information is also used to access your online class sessions.

 This helpful video provides tips and strategies for successful online registration.

In-Person Learning

Our in-person courses are hosted at the Education Building at Judea Reform Congregation (JRC), located at 1933 W. Cornwallis Road in Durham, and at a few off-site locations. These courses are marked with the school icon shown above. If you plan to enroll in an in-person course, please see the In-Person Guidelines before registering.

Online Learning

Taking courses online is both convenient and accessible. No need to worry about parking or traffic. With Zoom, you have a front-row seat for all your courses. These courses are marked with the online icon shown above. Check out our Online Guide for more information about online courses.

Many online courses are recorded for enrollees to watch later. You can even enroll in a course to only watch recordings. These are marked with the recording icon.

Find Your Course Links

The Zoom links for your online courses can be found in your Student Portal. Go to learnmore.duke.edu/olli and click “Student Login.” You will need to log in to access your course every week for class.

Technology Needed for Zoom Courses

Here is the basic technology you’ll need to take an OLLI online course via Zoom:

• Laptop, desktop computer, tablet or smartphone

• Speakers or headphones

• Microphone (if speaking in class)

• Webcam (if showing your own video)

• Reliable internet connection (minimum 20 Mbps download speed recommended; connection speed can be checked at www.speedtest.net)

Join us for Zoom Basics & Refresher session on Thursday, January 9, at 10 a.m. ET. The link will be provided in a member newsletter closer to the event.

OLLI Advisory Council

2024-2025 Officers (one-year term)

Chair: Ellen Luken

Vice Chair: Diane Hundley

Recording Secretary: Donna West

Advisors at Large (two-year term)

To 2025: Ben Edwards, Carol Hamilton

To 2026: Greg Jacobs, Sylvia Robinson

Committee Chairs (one-year appointed term)

Community Engagement: Diane Hundley

Curriculum: Frank Brown

Instructor Relations: Alan Teasley

Member Engagement: Sue Dennison, Donna West

Nominating Committee: Open Position

Other Questions?

We have much more information about OLLI at Duke on our website! You can find out about our policies, FAQs, how to get involved and more. Visit learnmore.duke.edu/olli.

About OLLI at Duke

We are a learning community. OLLI members have wide ranging interests in history, literature, the natural and social sciences, wellness, the fine arts and current events. Most of our course offerings are based on members’ requests and the expertise and interests of our instructors. Our curriculum is developed by the Curriculum Committee, which is composed of 12 member volunteers who recruit instructors and carefully curate courses.

We embrace “learning for the love of it.” Both our members and our instructors appreciate that OLLI courses have no tests or grades. While our courses rarely require homework, active participation is encouraged.

Our instructors teach for the love of learning. No tests or grades means that instructors can focus on what is most important to them — teaching. If you find a course inspiring or meaningful, please share your gratitude directly with the instructor.

Access & Accommodation

Duke University has policies in place to ensure people with a wide range of abilities have equal access to its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the access provided at any course location, please contact the OLLI office by email before your course begins at olli@duke.edu.

Scholarship Support

We want OLLI at Duke courses to be accessible to all who have a passion for lifelong learning. Thanks to the generosity of Lynne Blake, a former OLLI president, scholarship support is available to those who may not otherwise be able to attend. For information, please email Kathy.Parrish@duke.edu and ask about our Community Membership. All requests are confidential.

Join OLLI at Duke

Becoming a member is easy. Our annual membership fee of $60 entitles members to enroll in courses and workshops, participate in special interest groups and attend social events. To join, go to learnmore.duke.edu/olli. Information on scholarship support is on page 4.

Get More Involved

OLLI at Duke is a cooperative venture. Dozens of volunteers are involved in making the magic happen for OLLI members. Getting involved is a great way to make new connections and build community. Members serve as course moderators or class assistants, lead small group discussions and serve on the Advisory Council to ensure the excellence of OLLI at Duke.

Academics

Instructors are passionate about their course topics and enjoy sharing their knowledge and experience with their peers.

Course Moderators support online courses and their instructors, and ensure a positive, inclusive and respectful online learning environment for all participants.

Class Assistants support in-person courses by helping instructors, taking attendance and making necessary announcements.

Members interested in getting more involved can reach out via email to olli@duke.edu

Leadership

Contact Information

To join, learn more or register for a course: learnmore.duke.edu/olli

General and member support: olli@duke.edu or (919) 660-8552

Director: Rhonda.Parker@duke.edu

Curriculum: Jenny.Levine@duke.edu

In-person operations and administration: Kathy.Parrish@duke.edu

Virtual programs and instructor relations: Betina.Huntwork@duke.edu

Registration inquiries: learnmore@duke.edu

Team Representatives

Jonathan Bitner, Beth Bowling, Alease Davis, Annette Gooch, Jay Starks, Annie Taft, Mary Thompson, Beverly Thorpe

The Advisory Council consists of the chair, vice chair, immediate past chair, recording secretary, chairs of the standing committees and at-large advisors. This council provides guidance and insight to support program growth and development and ensure a positive member experience. Committees are made up of current and active OLLI members who provide guidance and support in specific program areas. Current committees are: Community Engagement, Curriculum, Instructor Relations, Member Engagement and Nominating Committee. Members interested in pursuing a leadership position can reach out via email to olli@duke.edu

Special Interest Groups

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) provide opportunities for members to connect with their peers outside the classroom based on their common interests. Members guide the SIGs, and new groups may start at any time. For the most up to date information and a complete list of OLLI’s SIGs visit learnmore.duke.edu/olli/special-interest-groups.

Important Dates

Tuesday & Wednesday, January 7 & 8

9 a.m. ET — Registration opens for spring courses

Wednesday, January 8

11 a.m. ET — Vivo Information Session

Thursday, January 9

10 a.m. ET —

Zoom Basics & Refresher session

Thursday, January 23

10 a.m. ET —

In-person new member Meet & Mingle event

Monday, January 27

Spring courses begin

Thursday, April 3

Last day of spring term

Monday-Thursday, April 7-10

Makeup week

Saturday, May 3

Last day to view spring course recordings

Code of Conduct

Curiosity + Connection + Kindness + Compassion = Community

OLLI at Duke endeavors to create a positive and affirming environment that fosters learning and social connection. Members, instructors and staff are expected to demonstrate mutual respect, personal and academic integrity, kindness and a commitment to civil discourse. Ensuring OLLI at Duke is a welcoming, inclusive and affirming learning community is a responsibility we all share. These principles apply to all OLLI courses, whether they are in person or online.

We welcome a lively and passionate exchange of ideas and perspectives. Opposing viewpoints are welcomed and appreciated. Instructors are responsible for leading and moderating classroom discussions. Instructors have the prerogative of inviting/allowing questions throughout the class or asking members to hold their questions until the end of the class or another designated time.

Members, instructors and staff of the OLLI at Duke community are encouraged to contact OLLI staff (olli@duke.edu) if they observe behavior that is a significant violation of this code of conduct. The director will investigate, and, if there is a problem, the director will address it with the alleged violator and determine the consequences. Violations of the code of conduct may result in the suspension or termination of membership/teaching privileges for a member or instructor, or a disciplinary warning/termination of employment for a staff member.

OLLI on YouTube

Did you know OLLI at Duke has a YouTube Channel? We’ve captured numerous special speakers and events, Community Reads discussions and historical moments from over 45 years of OLLI at Duke. Check out the channel, and join the community by liking or commenting on a video. You can even subscribe to the channel and click the bell to be notified when the next video is released.

Special Events

Free Information Session January 8 • 11 a.m. ET

Through a partnership between OLLI at Duke and Vivo, OLLI members have the opportunity to participate in interactive virtual exercise classes led by certified personal trainers who have extensive experience with older adults.

See the course description on page 10 Four sections are offered; each meets twice a week for eight weeks. To learn more about Vivo, visit www.teamvivo.com.

Join us for the Vivo Information Session • January 8, 11 a.m. ET The Zoom link will be shared in the OLLI member newsletter.

New Member Meet & Mingle

Thursday, January 23 In person at JRC, 10-11 a.m. ET

New to OLLI at Duke? We invite you to join us for an in-person Meet & Mingle event hosted by the OLLI leadership team. New members will have an opportunity to meet other new members, OLLI Advisory Council members and OLLI staff. More information will be available in an upcoming member newsletter.

Courses by Location

Bridge Academy (BA)

2634 Durham-Chapel Hill Road, Suite 102, Durham

Introduction to Bridge W, 9-11 (9) 47

Croasdaile Village (CV)

2600 Croasdaile Farm Parkway, Durham

Symposia .................................. T, 1:30-3 (10) ......... 42

Erwin Mill (EM)

2024 W. Main Street, Bay A, A103, Durham

Steven Spielberg T, 1:30-3 (6) 31

Stay Put or Move On.................. T, 9-1 (10) ...............11

Judea Reform Congregation (JRC)

Education Building, 1933 W. Cornwallis Road, Durham

Japan & Western Modern Art M, 9-10:30 (10) 13

Steady on Your Feet .................. M, 9-10:30 (9) ........ 49

Tax-Smart Retire. Strategies M, 9-10:30 (6) 15

Beyond Cable! M, 11-12:30 (5) 37

History & Future of Telescopes .. M, 11-12:30 (4) ....... 38

Animals in Colored Pencil M, 11-1 (10) 20

The History of Country Music ... M, 1:30-3 (10) ........ 24

The Winds of War? M, 1:30-3 (8) 16

Yoga for Everyday Living M, 1:30-3 (10) 50

The Urban Design Process ....... M, 3:30-5 (10)........ 14

Interior Design T, 9-10:30 (10) 15

Chinese Brush Painting ............. T, 11-12:30 (10) ...... 19

Human Evolution & Migrations T, 11-12:30 (8) 25

London T, 11-12:30 (8) 23

Marian Studies .......................... T, 11-12:30 (6) ........ 35

European Art / Avant-Garde T, 1:30-3 (10) 12

Intro to iPhone Photography ..... T, 1:30-3 (8) ........... 32

Making a Mosaic Heart T, 1:30-3:30 (5) 19

Jewish Art and Artists ............... T, 3:30-5 (8) ........... 13

Writing the Personal Essay T, 3:30-5 (10) 53

Fun & Games W, 9-10:30 (8) 45

Growing Creatively at 55-Plus ... W, 9-10:30 (6) ........ 46

History of the Concept of Race W, 9-10:30 (10) 22

Amazing Beauty of Numbers .... W, 11-12:30 (10) ..... 36

Light W, 11-12:30 (10) 40

Lincoln in American History W, 11-12:30 (8) 24

Rethinking U.S. Grand Strategy .. W, 11-12:30 (9) ...... 26

Doing Photographic Projects W, 1:30-3 (6) 33

Reading Ron Rash’s “Serena” ... W, 1:30-3 (8).......... 28

The Music Never Stopped W, 1:30-3 (9) 30

The Wines of France, Sec 1 ...... W, 1:30-3 (4) .......... 42

The Wines of France, Sec 2 W, 3:30-5 (4) 42

Beginning Your Memoir Th, 9-10:30 (7) 51

Breathwork ................................ Th, 9-10:30 (7) ....... 45

National Security’s Soft Power Th, 11-12:30 (8) 18

Personal Narratives Th, 11-12:30 (8) 52

Red, Purple and Blue ................ Th, 11-12:30 (10) .... 23

End of Life Th, 1:30-3 (6) 46

Finding Your Way Into Writing ... Th, 1:30-3 (8)......... 52

The Films of Greta Garbo Th, 1:30 -3:30 (10) 40

Nasher Museum (NM)

2001 Campus Drive, Duke University, Durham

Nasher Museum T, 3:15-4:45 (5) 14

The Forest at Duke (TFAD)

2701 Pickett Road, Durham

Abstract Painting and Collage W, 10-12 (8) 18

Online (Zoom)

Understand. Bob Dylan, or Not.. M, 11-12:15 (10) ..... 30

Black-and-White Photography M, 1:30-3:30 (6) 33

Birthstones ................................ M, 3:30-4:45 (3)..... 37

Build Strength w/ Vivo, Sec 1 M/W, 9-10 (8) 10

Build Strength w/ Vivo, Sec 2 M/W, 10-10:45 (8) 10

Physical & Applied Geology ...... T, 9-10:15 (10) ........ 39

White Supremacy as a Theory T, 9-10:15 (4) 26

Climate Change Solutions......... T, 11-12:15 (6) ........ 36

Philosophies of Human Nature T, 11-12:15 (10) 34

Elements of Short Prose ........... T, 11-12:30 (8) ........ 51

Pet Portraits / Colored Pencils T, 11-1 (10) 21

Holocaust in Context T, 1:30-2:45 (10) 34

The ’60s at Duke ....................... T, 1:30-2:45 (10) .... 25

The Air We Breathe T, 6-7:15 (6) 38

Build Strength w/ Vivo, Sec 3 ... T/Th, 9-9:45 (8) ..... 10

Build Strength w/ Vivo, Sec 4 T/Th, 10-10:45 (8) 10

Conversational Spanish T/Th, 1:302:45 (16) ............ 27

30 Years Without a Paycheck W, 9-10:15 (10) 17

Great. Movie Songs of All Time... W, 9-10:30 (6) ........ 32

Peace Movements in Israel W, 11-12:15 (6) 22

The World Today ....................... W, 11-12:30 (10) ..... 16

Foundations of Governing W, 1:30-2:45 (10) 21

Hemingway, Faulkner & Joyce W, 1:30-2:45 (10) 28

Musicals 101 ............................. Th, 9-10:15 (8) ....... 31

T’ai Chi in Moonlight Th, 9-10:15 (10) 49

Cosmic Curiosity ....................... Th, 11-12:15 (9) ...... 37

Humanities of China & Japan Th, 11-12:15 (10) 41

Writing Thematic Poems Th, 11-12:30 (8) 53

Meditative Drawing ................... Th, 11-1 (10) .......... 20

La Gloire de mon père Th, 1:30-2:45 (10) 29

NC’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail ..... Th, 1:30-2:45 (4) .... 48

Family History Discovery Th, 3:30-4:45 (10) 41

Selec. Poetry of Wendell Berry Th, 3:30-5 (10) 27

Courses by Instructor ●

Instructor Name, Course Title, Page [linked to course description]

Abramovits, Emanuel Greatest Movie Songs 32

Anderson, Margaret Personal Narratives 52

Ayoub, Shawna ....... Beginning Your Memoir .......... 51

* Baker, Annette Holocaust in Context 34

Bauernfeind, Rob Human Evolution/Migrations 25

* Berenbaum, Ari ....... Breathwork ............................. 45

Blinder, Henry The World Today 16

Boyles, James ......... European Art / Avant-Garde ... 12

Boytos, Cathy Meditative Drawing 20 Pet Portraits/Colored Pencils 21

Brems, Susan.......... National Security’s Soft Power . 18

* Bresler, Lynne NC’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail 48

Brill, Margaret London 23

Brown, Frank ........... Amazing Beauty of Numbers . 36

Brown, Harry Selected Poetry of Wendell Berry ..................... 27

Burkley, John Hemingway, Faulkner, Joyce 28

Caccavale, Ruth Nasher Museum 14

* Coleman, Charisse .. Finding Your Way Into Writing .. 52

Cox, Edwin Symposia 42

Darer, Stanley .......... Steven Spielberg .................... 31

Darrell, Warren Climate Change Solutions 36

Dawson, Rae Stay Put or Move On 11

Davidshofer, Claire... La Gloire de mon père ........... 29

Davidshofer, William ................ Foundations of Governing ...... 21

Dickerson, Doug The Winds of War? 16

Dunbar, Jay T’ai Chi in Moonlight 49

Ellison, Don ............. History & Future of Telescopes 38

Felder, Alonzo ......... Family History Discovery ........ 41 Fenner Brown, Cheryl Yoga for Everyday Living 50

* Flaharty, Ellen (Mif).. Japan & Western Modern Art .. 13

Fortner, Brand Cosmic Curiosity 37

Fynn, Carol .............. Fun & Games .......................... 45

Gabriel, Lisa Tax-Smart Retirement Strategies 15 Gray, Virginia ........... The World Today..................... 16

Ginnie

16 Harpham, Geoffrey .. History of Concept of Race .... 22 Hoffman, Erika Writing the Personal Essay 53 Horton, Alva Jewish Art and Artists 13

* Ingebretsen, Edward White Supremacy as Theory 26

* Jolly, Anju ................ Making

Mosaic Heart

Howard ...... Beyond Cable! ........................ 37 Lancaster, Marjorie Reading Rash’s “Serena” 28

Preston Poetry of Wendell Berry 27

Melissa ..... Symposia ................................ 42

Henry Introduction to Bridge 47

Richard .. Rethinking U.S. Grand Strategy 26 Meyer, Marvin The Music Never Stopped 30

Miglarese, Sam ....... Marian Studies........................ 35

Jay Hemingway, Faulkner, Joyce 28 Nordgren, Carl Growing Creatively at 55-Plus 46

Janet ....... End of Life............................... 46 Overgaard, Wade The World Today 16 Palmer, Chris ........... Physical & Applied Geology ... 39 Parker, Beatrice Conversational Spanish 27 Peterson, Brian The Urban Design Process 14 Phillips, Bill .............. Understanding Bob Dylan, or Not 30 Powell,

19 Kelly, Julie 30 Years Without a Paycheck 17 Klein, Steven Peace Movements in Israel 22 Koff, Bernice Abstract Painting & Collage 18

Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is the process of learning through experience, and is more narrowly defined as “learning through reflection on doing.” To augment our offerings, we are adding trips, excursions and other hands-on experiences beyond the classroom.

Build Your Strength With Vivo

ONLINE: Muscle strength and balance are critical to maintaining health and independence as we age. Without additional strength training, most older adults will suffer a loss of muscle mass that can negatively impact their balance and mobility. Vivo, a live, online, interactive strength-building course customized to your fitness level, helps you attain physical fitness. Vivo’s focus is on cognitive, balance, and strength exercises. Classes are small and instruction is individualized. Certified personal trainers, skilled at working with older adults, provide modified exercises to meet each student’s fitness needs. Classes meet twice a week for 45 minutes. You receive personal, one-on-one assessments before exercise classes begin to establish a baseline for your abilities. Following the conclusion of the exercise classes, a final assessment will be provided to measure your results. Whether you are new to exercise or exercise regularly, Vivo will help you meet your exercise goals. • Active Skill Learning.

Scheduling Notes:

Registration for this course will close on January 24. Upon registration, you will receive an email with steps to schedule your personal assessment and complete your Vivo registration.

Personal assessments: January 27-31

Exercise classes: February 3 to March 27; two classes weekly (45 minutes, 16 sessions)

Final personal assessments: March 31 to April 4

Certified personal trainers, skilled in working with older adults, provide modified exercises to meet each student’s fitness needs.

All sections are Online via Zoom

Section 1

• 8 Mon & Wed, Feb 3 - Mar 26 (16 sessions), 9-9:45 a.m.

• Max.: 10; Fee: $255; Course ID: 3634-017

Section 2

• 8 Mon & Wed, Feb 3 - Mar 26 (16 sessions), 10-10:45 a.m.

• Max.: 10; Fee: $255; Course ID: 3634-018

Section 3

• 8 Tue & Thur, Feb 4 - Mar 27 (16 sessions), 9-9:45 a.m.

• Max.: 10; Fee: $255; Course ID: 3634-019

Section 4

• 8 Tue & Thur, Feb 4 - Mar 27 (16 sessions), 10-10:45 a.m.

• Max.: 10; Fee: $255; Course ID: 3634-020

Free Vivo Information Session

See page 7

Experiential Learning 2

Stay Put or Move On (SPOMO)

IN PERSON: Did you know that continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) in the Triangle have waitlists that span from four to 15 years? With the influx of older adults into the area, the demand for CCRC spots has grown, leading to long wait times. Likewise, competition to hire competent in-home care for those who choose to age in place is fierce. Through expert speakers and class lectures, we will explore options for continued independence as aging progresses and life-care needs change. We'll consider the suitability of your home and your community for aging in place, and various options for home care services. Finally, we'll visit a number of CCRCs to learn about the services they provide, their contract models, their entrance and monthly fees, and the nature of their waiting lists. Please note the two different class schedules. • Lecture + Q&A.

Scheduling Note:

This course operates under two different schedules.

Weeks 1-4: January 28 to February 18, class will meet at Erwin Mill, 2024 W. Main Street, Durham NC 27705, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Weeks 5-10: February 25 to April 1, the class will visit various CCRCs to tour locations from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Addresses for meeting locations will be provided to enrollees.

Rae Dawson relocated from Silicon Valley to the Triangle in 2005. She retired from Cisco Systems Inc. in 2017. During her career, she held a variety of information technology management positions at several Fortune 500 companies, including IBM, Apple, Xerox and Cisco Systems Inc. She holds a B.A. in business administration from the University of North Texas. She has been teaching the OLLI Stay Put or Move On course since 2018.

After growing up in Washington, DC, graduating from UNC, and earning a Master’s and Ph.D. from Rice University, Andrée Reeves worked for the U.S. Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (ACIR). She then spent twenty-seven years as a faculty member in Political Science at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. She retired in 2019 and returned to the Triangle area in 2020. She has been happily taking OLLI classes ever since.

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1 (see scheduling note for times)

• In person at Erwin Mill, Durham, and CCRCs

• Maximum: 25; Fee: $170; Course ID: 0997

page 15.

OLLI Spring 2025

Art & Architecture

European Art and the Avant-Garde: “Post-Impressionism”

IN PERSON or ONLINE: The term “postimpressionism” was coined by Roger Fry in 1910 to identify art movements that emerged between the last impressionist exhibition in 1886 and the Salon d’Automne of 1905, in which Henri Matisse and Les Fauves ushered in the new art of the 20th century. The term encompasses a diverse group of artists, most of whom were inspired by the radical breaks and aesthetic challenges that the impressionists proposed, but, at the same time, rejected the naturalism of impressionism in favor of an art of symbolism and abstraction manifested through inventive techniques. We will start with two groups — the Pre-Raphaelites and followers of aestheticism — that originated before the impressionists but offered new approaches. We’ll then look at the challenges offered by artists such as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Georges Seurat, Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin and Paul Cézanne. • Lecture + Q&A.

This catalog is organized by course subject, with helpful indexes on pages 8-9. Throughout the catalog, each page number in the text or in an index is a link to that page. All course description pages include a “Return to Course Indexes” link at the bottom.

Tip: Course ID numbers make registering easy. Refer to them while registering online and when tracking course confirmations or the waitlist status of a course. Find a course even faster by typing the course ID number into “Advanced Search.”

James Boyles is a retired professor from NC State University, where he taught the history of art. He has an M.A. and a Ph.D. in art history. His teaching and research have focused on American, modern and contemporary art, with the occasional venture into the medieval period and the 18th century.

Section 1

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1, 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Max.: 50; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3896-001

Section 2

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1, 1:30-3 p.m.

• Livestream via Zoom (pilot program); Sessions are recorded

• Max.: 200; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3896-002

Art & Architecture

Jewish Art and Artists

IN PERSON: Judaism is considered the oldest monotheistic religion in the world. Jewish art history has often been reduced to simply the study of material objects used for worship: Torah crowns, menorahs, kiddush cups and the like, basically, “Judaica.” This course will delve deeper into the fine art of Jewish creators from the modern period (the late 19th century) to current times. We will examine the art’s common themes, explore individual artists’ oeuvres, discuss the influence of spiritual beliefs on the artists and how their cultural geography and antisemitism impacted their lives. Students will leave with an understanding of how to analyze both pictorial and abstract works as well as an appreciation for Judeo subject matter throughout all of Western art history. The recommended book is supplemental to the course material. • Lecture + Q&A.

Please note: There will be an additional (and optional) field trip to the North Carolina Museum of Art following the last class, organized by the instructor (date to be determined).

Recommended text:

• Edward van Voolen, “50 Jewish Artists You Should Know” (9783791345734)

Alva Horton received a classical education in studio art and interior design, and holds an M.A. in architectural history. She currently works as a marketer, promoting clients in the building, design and arts industries, while also maintaining her own interiors practice. Alva’s academic focus is on modernist art and architecture in France and Germany between the World Wars. She chairs Durham’s Historic Preservation Commission and runs a public gallery in the Orenge building in downtown Durham.

• 8 Tue, Jan 28 - Mar 25 (no class Feb 4), 3:30-5 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 50; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3906

Japan and Western Modern Art: The Wind From the East

IN PERSON: Here’s a contentious proposition: Without “the wind from the East” — the creative energy from Japan that swept into the West in the 19th century — we would not have had the great works of Monet, Degas, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Whistler, Toulouse-Lautrec and others. In sum, we would have missed out on the groundbreaking masterpieces that ushered in so-called “modern art” in the West. Did the Japanese-inspired elements actually profoundly and irrevocably revolutionize Western art? Or were the similarities merely coincidental? This lecture-based course will examine the connections between the themes, techniques and aesthetics of Japanese art and their influence on the West. It’s a complex and fascinating — albeit disturbing — part of art history. Let’s explore it together.

• Lecture + Q&A.

After careers in education and the securities business, Ellen (Mif) Flaharty retired to Hawaii in 2000 where, as a docent at the Honolulu Museum of Art, she developed a keen interest in Japanese art. She has taught OLLI courses focusing on Japanese aesthetics and on woodblock prints. Currently, she is a docent at the Ackland Art Museum.

• 10 Mon, Jan 27 - Mar 31, 9-10:30 a.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 25; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3704

Art & Architecture

Nasher Museum: Art of the Americas

IN PERSON: This course will take advantage of the current exhibitions at the Nasher Museum of Art to consider a variety of works created in North and South America. These include an exhibition of ancient art of the Andes, a contemporary indigenous art exhibition by the multidisciplinary artist Cannupa Hanska Luger and the art of the U.S. from the 19th to the 21st century. Classes will be held in the museum’s university classroom and the museum galleries. In the classroom, students will learn about the historical and cultural context of the art, while gallery sessions will offer in-depth time with selected works, allowing for close observation and reflection. • Facilitated discussion.

Please note: The Nasher parking lot is controlled by Duke parking. The current meter charge is $2 per hour. A Nasher Museum of Art membership is required for this course and is being offered at half price for OLLI members.

Ruth Caccavale has a passion for discussing art with people. In New York, she held a number of museum education positions including at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Cloisters. Since moving to North Carolina, she has taught over two dozen OLLI courses. She also works in the education department of Duke’s Nasher Museum of Art. For 10 years prior, she taught a variety of art history classes at Rutgers University. Ruth graduated from Duke in 1981 and received an M.A. from Rutgers in 1985.

• 5 Tue, Feb 11 - Mar 11, 3:15-4:45 p.m.

• In person at Nasher Museum of Art, Duke West Campus

• Maximum: 14; Fee: $75; Course ID: 3914

The Urban Design Process:

Building Our Cities

IN PERSON: This lecture-based course will reveal the complex processes behind the design, planning and construction of cities and towns, with the Town of Chapel Hill serving as a case study. Students will gain insights into how the built environment results from balancing various public and private sector interests, and how creative problem-solving plays a key role in integrating technical, functional and aesthetic concerns into urban design. Guest speakers will include people serving in leadership roles in Town of Chapel Hill departments — such as planning, stormwater, transportation, economic development, open space planning, affordable housing and town management — as well as professionals from the development and planning community. At least one field trip will take place during scheduled class time. • Lecture + Q&A.

Brian Peterson is a licensed architect with over 30 years of experience as a consulting design firm principal, project manager and design architect. He received a Master of Architecture degree at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Architecture and has taught as an adjunct professor of architecture and landscape architecture at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He currently serves as the urban designer for the Town of Chapel Hill.

• 10 Mon, Jan 27 - Mar 31, 3:30-5 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 50; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3932

If enrolling in a course that meets In person, please review the In-Person Guidelines before registering.

Art & Architecture

Interior Design: Behind the Scenes From Start to Finish

IN PERSON: Have you ever been curious about what goes into transforming a space from a blank canvas into a beautifully designed room? This course takes students on a journey through the world of interior design, exploring how designers work with clients to understand their vision, create concepts, source materials and coordinate every detail — right down to the final reveal. The instructor will share real-life project examples, highlighting their challenges and creative solutions along the way. Students will also pick up valuable tips for managing their own design projects, making it a fun and eye-opening experience for anyone interested in what it would be like to step into the shoes of a designer. • Lecture + Q&A.

Jill Rossi holds a B.S. in interior design from UNC-Greensboro and an MFA in furniture design from the Rhode Island School of Design. She has taught interior and furniture design at several universities, from introductory design classes to senior projects. She is currently a practicing interior designer and co-owner of Durham-based Dolce Design Co., designing both residential and commercial interior spaces.

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1, 9-10:30 a.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 50; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3905

Spring 2025 Registration

Registration opens on Tuesday, January 7, at 9 a.m. ET for Monday and Tuesday courses and on Wednesday, January 8, at 9 a.m. ET for Wednesday and Thursday courses.

Economics & Public Policy

Tax-Smart Retirement Strategies

IN PERSON: Are you making the most of your financial resources in retirement? Are taxes cramping your retirement lifestyle? Is a Roth IRA conversion “tax smart” for you? Are you paying unnecessary taxes? Are you aware that individual tax rates are set to increase on January 1, 2026, and the estate exemption amount is set to decrease? Are you prepared? Do you know how to position your money, structure your income flow and minimize your taxes to stretch your financial resources? Are you using qualified charitable distributions to your advantage? Are you prepared for the “widow’s tax”? In this lecture format course, you will learn: ways to lessen “tax drag” on your investments and gain tax efficiency by managing your income flows; how your income impacts your Medicare premiums; why positioning investments strategically, managing required minimum distributions and using tax smart ways to withdraw money from your investment accounts can increase the years that your money lasts in retirement. • Lecture + Q&A.

Lisa Gabriel has over 35 years of investment experience designing integrated, strategic wealth management solutions for high-net-worth individuals and families, as well as institutional investors such as Duke Management Company. Lisa is a certified financial planner professional and also holds the chartered financial consultant (ChFC) designation.

• 6 Mon, Jan 27 - Mar 3, 9-10:30 a.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 25; Fee: $90; Course ID: 1057

Stay Put or Move On (SPOMO)

See listing on page 11

Economics & Public Policy

The World Today

ONLINE: Do you enjoy following and discussing current events? Each week, we will look at news and issues from around the world and at home. The instructor will provide an agenda with notes and links, and members of the class are encouraged to propose additional discussion topics. Active participation is encouraged, but not mandatory. Discussions are enriched by the diversity of class members’ backgrounds, expertise and viewpoints. Topics are discussed knowledgeably, respectfully and sometimes with passion, but we always end with humor. Students will gain a better understanding of the social and political issues of the world today. Each instructor is an avid news and politics junkie and has experience leading these types of discussions. Each brings his or her own distinctive style and background to the course, and, most importantly, each will encourage a wide selection of views from class members. Students who bring unique or underrepresented points of view are especially welcome. • Facilitated discussion.

Please note: We recommend that attendees use a device with the largest screen available in order to see everyone.

Henry Blinder served as city attorney for the City of Durham for many years prior to retirement. He is past president of the North Carolina Association of Municipal Attorneys and a former deputy attorney general for the State of New Jersey. He has a J.D. from Duke University Law School, and lived in Durham for more than 35 years. He now resides near Washington.

Ginnie Gruendel held senior-level positions in Fortune 100 companies as well as biotech startups as a human resource professional and change management leader. Later she started a career coaching practice to continue doing the work she loved, helping individuals find their best-fit career. Originally from Philadelphia, she lived in Wake Forest for many years and now resides in Northeast Pennsylvania.

Doug Longman spent 25 years in marketing management at Fortune 100 firms. He holds a Ph.D. in business administration and taught at the University of Texas and the University of Chicago. Over the past 20 years, he has taught more than 40 OLLI courses in international political economy, public policy, economics and politics/political science. Doug has led this course for over 20 years.

Virginia Gray, Ph.D., taught political science at the universities of Kentucky, Minnesota and North Carolina. She participated in election night survey analysis for NBC News in the 1980s. She is an expert on state politics; public policy, including health care reform and criminal justice; and interest groups. Gray has published widely on these and other topics and is a fellow of the Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Wade Overgaard worked as a senior-level actuary for a Fortune 500 insurer. He received a B.A. in economics and mathematics from Duke. A native Chicagoan, he has lived in the Hartford, Connecticut, area since the early 1980s.

• 10 Wed, Jan 29 - Apr 2, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• Online via Zoom

• Maximum: 30; Fee: $110; Course ID: 0393

The Winds of War?

The U.S. and the Looming Threat of Global Conflict

IN PERSON: The threats the United States face today are the most serious and challenging it has encountered since 1945, and they include the potential for near-term major war. The U.S. last fought a global conflict during World War II, which ended nearly 80 years ago. The nation was last prepared for such a fight during the Cold War, which ended 35 years ago. It is not prepared today. According to a 2024 bipartisan congressional commission report, “The U.S. public are largely unaware of the dangers the United States faces or the costs (financial and otherwise) required to adequately prepare.”

Economics & Public Policy

This course will: 1) examine the likelihood of simultaneous major conflicts in multiple theaters and the effects on daily life if a conflict were to erupt; 2) assess the U.S.’s current capacity to shape, deter and respond to a major conflict; 3) consider the proposed changes to the U.S.’s grand national strategy, public policy and fiscal policy the new administration and Congress are most likely to enact. • Lecture + Q&A, Facilitated discussion.

Guest Speakers:

• LtCol Brenda Armstrong, former director USNORTHCOM Commander’s Action Group and director of strategy, US Space Command. Other speakers TBD.

Recommended text:

• David E. Sanger, “New Cold Wars” (9780593443590)

Doug Dickerson is a retired Air Force officer, former commander of the U.S.’s largest logistics squadron, director of strategy for USAF in Japan, defense policy adviser to the U.S. ambassador to NATO, senior adviser to the Afghan minister of interior. He was the HQ Air Force director for central European countries and a Bronze Star recipient. He holds an M.A. in international relations from Boston University (Brussels) and an MBA from Duke. He is the father of a Duke ’26 student.

• 8 Mon, Jan 27 - Mar 31 (no class Mar 3 & 10), 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 40; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3933

30 Years Without a Paycheck: Navigating Your Way Through Retirement

ONLINE: Each individual’s retirement requires many financial steps. The decisions you face can be overwhelming, but they are extremely important as you plan for 30 years without

a paycheck. It starts when you leave your employer, and it culminates with your legacy. This online course will take you through the major stages of retirement, providing clear guidance on the investments and strategies needed to create a financially successful retirement. We will explore topics that focus on portfolio management, including how to position your portfolio for various economic environments and how to build a tax efficient retirement income strategy that weathers full economic cycles. We’ll dive into other financial decisions you face throughout retirement, such as: stress testing your plan for challenging markets, protecting yourself against rising health care costs, filing for social security, charitable giving strategies, and how to position your estate in a tax efficient manner for future generations. • Lecture + Q&A.

Guest Speaker:

• Doris Dixon of Southpoint Estate Planning is an adjunct associate professor of law at the University of North Carolina School of Law where she teaches elder law, estate planning and special needs planning. She served as president of the North Carolina Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and chair of the Elder and Special Needs Law Section of the North Carolina Bar Association.

Edward Jones principal Julie Kelly is a financial adviser in the Raleigh-Durham area. Julie began her career with Edward Jones as a financial adviser in 2010. A native of Massachusetts, Julie graduated from Colgate University with a bachelor’s degree in international relations and a minor in German. She holds the CRPC and CFP professional designations. Before joining Edward Jones, she worked as a vice president, regional manager for AllianceBernstein and Lord Abbett.

• 10 Wed, Jan 29 - Apr 2, 9-10:15 a.m.

• Online via Zoom

• Maximum: 200; Fee: $110; Course ID: 0547

Economics & Public Policy

National Security’s Soft Power

IN PERSON: How does the U.S. employ soft power — diplomacy and development — around the world? This course offers an in-depth look at how the U.S. promotes its interests overseas beyond military power. Focusing on diplomacy and development, the course explores how foreign service officers in U.S. embassies protect American citizens and partner with developing countries to increase prosperity and improve quality of life. Special attention is given to U.S. development assistance — foreign aid — and the work of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Drawing on the instructor’s experiences in Latin America, Africa, Asia and the Pacific, lectures highlight the empowerment of women and youth in achieving major results in humanitarian assistance, economic development, health, education, democracy and the environment. The course also outlines how this work strengthens the U.S. economy, promotes peace, prevents the spread of disease and combats global warming. • Lecture + Q&A.

Susan Brems retired after a 40-year career in global development, 25 of which were in the foreign service of the U.S. Agency for International Development, known as USAID. As a foreign service officer, she lived long term in seven developing countries and managed development programs in many more. Her experience spans Latin America, Africa, Asia and the Pacific. She earned a double Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University and its School of Advanced International Studies.

• 8 Thu, Jan 30 - Mar 20, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 30; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3915

Climate Change Solutions

See listing on page 36

Hands-On Art

Abstract Painting and Collage: Finding Your Unique Style

IN PERSON: This course is designed for intermediate-level students looking to build their skills in abstract art and collage techniques. Class sessions will focus on personal projects, critiques and learning uncommon processes such as monoprinting and paper-altering to create distinctive patterns and backgrounds. Discussions about modern art and artists will be encouraged. Beginning students open to abstraction will feel comfortable, as the course emphasizes one-on-one interaction with the instructor. Students should bring their own art supplies, though the instructor will share many unique papers and collage materials from her own inventory. Throughout the course, students will be challenged and supported in discovering their own artistic style. • Facilitated discussion, Active Skill Learning.

Required supplies/fee: Students will purchase materials independently for an estimated cost of $75. For additional information on supplies, please see the course details at learnmore.duke.edu/olli.

Bernice Koff signed up for a watercolor class nearly 30 years ago. Rediscovering her dormant passion for painting, she enrolled in art school, studied privately, attended workshops and quickly began exhibiting her work. Moving to the Triangle area led to membership in the Orange County Artists Guild and teaching art through the OLLI program and Durham Arts Council.

• 8 Wed, Jan 29 - Mar 19, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

• In person at The Forest at Duke, Durham

• Maximum: 12; Fee: $120; Course ID: 3888

Hands-On Art

Making a Mosaic Heart

IN PERSON: In this hands-on course, participants will make a mosaic art piece from beginning to end using the direct method. The instructor will provide a 10-inch heartshaped wooden piece, sealed, and with a pattern. The mosaic will be made using glass tiles, beads, stones and found objects. The knowledge and skills provided are as follows: various types of mosaic substrates and how to prepare them; safety measures related to types of glue; shaping glass tesserae with a wheeled glass-cutting tool to create the design; gluing tesserae, keeping in mind the spaces for the grout and the edges of the substrate; filling negative spaces by following the movement and flow of the curves; considering dark and light grouts to enhance the appearance of the mosaic. The completed piece will look something like the image shown here. • Active Skill Learning.

Required supplies/fee: There is a fee of $40 payable to the instructor at the first class. For additional information on supplies, please see the course details at learnmore.duke.edu/olli.

Anju Jolly, Ph.D. (Indiana University of Pennsylvania ’98), is a retired teaching professor of educa-

tion from Penn State, Harrisburg. She is a professional mosaic artist who has done mosaics for the last 20 years. Her work includes many large commissions, art shows and international projects in Jamaica and Costa Rica. For the last 12 years, Anju has taught mosaic art to adults, high school students and children with projects such as murals, birdbaths, mirrors and picture frames.

• 5 Tue, Jan 28 - Feb 25, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 10; Fee: $85; Course ID: 3910

Chinese Brush Painting: Landscapes

IN PERSON: Chinese brush painting attempts to capture the essence or spirit of its subject. In this hands-on art course, we will focus on landscapes. Students will learn how to paint various aspects of landscapes including mountains, rivers, trees and figures. Each person will complete a beautiful painting in one or two classes, while practicing basic brush painting techniques. This course is for both experienced and beginning students. • Active Skill Learning.

Required supplies/fee: Students will purchase materials from the instructor and/or independently for a total estimated cost of $35-$40. For additional information on supplies, please see the course details at learnmore.duke.edu/olli.

Jinxiu Zhao (Alice) is a professional brush painting artist who specializes in the teaching of Chinese brush painting and calligraphy to both children and adults. She has taught brush painting and calligraphy in North Carolina for 28 years in all levels of the public schools, teacher training programs and private classes.

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 12; Fee: $120; Course ID: 0440

Hands-On Art

Meditative Drawing: The Zentangle Art Method

ONLINE: This course introduces students to the relaxing and mindful art of Zentangle, a method of drawing structured patterns, or tangles, on small tiles. Over 10 weeks, students will explore how Zentangle fosters relaxation, focus and inner peace through creative expression. The course begins with the Intro to Zentangle class, where participants will learn the history, philosophy and essential techniques, including how to draw eight tangles and do basic shading. Each following class will build on these skills by introducing new patterns and Zentangle projects, providing a comprehensive experience for both beginners and experienced students alike. • Active Skill Learning.

Required supplies/fee: Students will purchase materials independently for an estimated cost of $35-$45. For additional information on supplies, please see the course details at learnmore.duke.edu/olli.

Cathy Boytos is an artist, graphic designer, photographer and certified Zentangle teacher (CZT). She has taught Zentangle art classes in various places in the Triangle area. She is a patient and creative instructor. Her wish is to be your guide on a journey toward enjoying an art method that is easy to learn, simple to comprehend and fulfilling beyond expectations.

• 10 Thu, Jan 30 - Apr 3, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 50; Fee: $120; Course ID: 3912

Animals in Colored Pencil

IN PERSON: This is a hands-on, how-to course where students at all levels will create detailed animal drawings using colored pencils. Participants will have the opportunity to choose from photos of a variety of types of animals, including birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, butterflies and moths, as subjects for their artwork. Through a series of developmental stages, students will learn both the basics and advanced techniques of colored pencil drawing, gaining skills to bring their chosen animals to life on paper. • Active Skill Learning.

Required supplies/fee: Students will purchase materials independently for an estimated cost of $50. For additional information on supplies, please see the course details at learnmore.duke.edu/olli.

Following a 31-year career at the North Carolina Botanical Garden, Dot Wilbur-Brooks has taught many popular hands-on illustration courses at OLLI since 2006. She has been teaching for over 25 years and drawing illustrations of plants for over 50 years. She is an expert in using colored pencil, graphite, pen and ink, and watercolor.

• 10 Mon, Jan 27 - Mar 31, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 12; Fee: $120; Course ID: 3889

If enrolling in a course that meets In person, please review the In-Person Guidelines before registering.

Visit our Online Learning website for helpful hints and tips for Zoom.

Recorded

Hands-On Art

Pet Portraits in Colored Pencils

ONLINE: This course is designed to teach participants the art of drawing animals using colored pencils. Over 10 weeks, students will learn the skills necessary to create lifelike representations of two animals with a focus on realism and detail. The course is tailored for individuals with varying levels of experience with colored pencils. While an understanding of colored pencil basics might be beneficial, the course is structured to accommodate beginners as well as those with some prior experience in colored pencil art. It will cover the foundational skills needed to create colored pencil art, including blending techniques and layering. Special techniques specific to drawing animal fur will be emphasized. The course is divided into two sessions spanning five weeks each. Each session is focused on drawing one specific animal, allowing for an in-depth exploration of techniques specific to the animal’s fur texture and features. • Active Skill Learning.

Required supplies/fee: Students will purchase materials independently for an estimated cost of $65-$75. For additional information on supplies, please see the course details at learnmore.duke.edu/olli.

Cathy Boytos has spent years drawing botanical images and pet portraits with pen and ink as well as colored pencils. She has an extensive portfolio of colored pencil animal and floral illustrations and has won many awards for her colored pencil artwork. An award-winning graphic designer, a CZT (certified Zentangle teacher) and a very popular OLLI instructor, Cathy has spent her life in the art field.

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 50; Fee: $120; Course ID: 3919

History: Past & Present

Foundations of Governing: Human Nature and the Political Order

ONLINE: This lecture-based course delves into pressing political issues such as economic equity, educational preparation, cultural socialization and ideological identity. We will explore the moral and existential principles required for stable government within the framework of social justice. By studying the works of great historical political thinkers — like Plato of Athens and Leo Strauss of the University of Chicago — and their influence on contemporary political science, we will bring to light foundational ideas about governance and their relevance today. Students will gain a broader and deeper understanding of how political theory shapes everyday life and government rule.

• Lecture + Q&A.

William Davidshofer holds a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Notre Dame. Since finishing a 42-year teaching career in the University of Maine system and retiring to Durham, he has taught numerous courses in the Duke OLLI program. He has two published works in the Duke library, the most recent being “Marxism and the Leninist Revolutionary Model.” He specializes in the philosophical foundations of political rule.

• 10 Wed, Jan 29 - Apr 2, 1:30-2:45 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 25; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3898

Amazing Beauty of Numbers: A History of Mathematics

See listing on page 36

History: Past & Present

History of the Concept of Race

IN PERSON: This course will examine the history of the concept of race from the late 18th century to the end of the 19th century. We will learn how this concept, which was initially considered vague and even dubious, gradually acquired the status of a natural fact and a legitimate object of scientific investigation, and how the concept became enmeshed in some of the most consequential philosophical, scientific, political and moral debates of the day. We will also see how, at the end of the 19th century, the most respected scientists in Europe came to believe that race was a phantasm and could not be discovered by science. Each class will focus on one key debate with a few central figures, with the instructor outlining the issues before class discussion. Readings will be taken from the online anthology “Theories of Race.” • Facilitated discussion.

Recommended text:

• Geoffrey Harpham - editor, “Theories of Race,” an online anthology of essays at TheoriesOfRace.com

Geoffrey Harpham has taught at the University of Pennsylvania, Tulane University and Duke. From 2003 to 2015 he was director of the National Humanities Center. His many books include “Scholarship and Freedom” (2020), “Citizenship on Catfish Row: Race and Nation in American Popular Culture” (2022) and “The Ends of Race: The Rise and Fall of a Concept, 1780-1900” (forthcoming). He is the editor-annotator of the online resource Theories of Race, from which the course readings will be drawn.

• 10 Wed, Jan 29 - Apr 2, 9-10:30 a.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 15; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3903

Peace Movements in Israel: A History

ONLINE: Embracing peace (“shalom”) has long been a value within Judaism that is rooted in its religious texts, from the biblical commandment to “love thy neighbor as thyself” through Rabbi Hillel’s injunction to engage in “loving peace and pursuing peace.” But the practical question of how to pursue peace as a nation in modern times only arose with the emerging conflict in Palestine and later Israel. This course surveys the various peace movements that have arisen in Israel from the 1920s through the 21st century. Some were only fleeting, but others have made their mark on Israeli society and continue to drive the country’s peace camp. Through primary sources, students will learn about the main movements, their goals and their impact, particularly since the 1980s. They will take from this a deeper understanding of the struggles these peace movements have faced in trying to realize their visions and become more familiar with the current state of peace movements in Israel. • Lecture + Q&A.

Steven Klein is an educator and journalist with a Ph.D. in conflict management and negotiation from Bar-Ilan University. An adjunct instructor at Tel Aviv University and a senior editor at Haaretz English Edition, he has contributed many articles on issues regarding Israeli society and social or political conflict. He has taught for the Brandeis OLLI, the Scolnic Adult Institute and Case Western Reserve University’s Siegal Lifelong Learning program. He lives with his beloved family in Israel.

• 6 Wed, Jan 29 - Mar 5, 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 24; Fee: $90; Course ID: 3917

History: Past & Present

Red, Purple and Blue: North Carolina’s Confounding Politics

IN PERSON: How can a state be represented by Jesse Helms and John Edwards at the same time? How can that state elect Donald Trump and Roy Cooper in the same year? How does it rank 43rd in K-12 education and first as a place to do business? And why is one street a city-maintained road while the next street over belongs to the state? In this course, we will address questions like these by delving into North Carolina’s political and governmental history. We will look at how the state’s political DNA makes it one of the nation’s foremost purple swing states. And we’ll look into our crystal balls to see where this growing, changing state is headed, especially after the historic 2024 election. The course will be presented in 10 lecture-style sessions, with plenty of opportunity for discussion and questions. • Lecture + Q&A.

Recommended texts:

• Paul Luebke, “Tar Heel Politics 2000” (9780807847565)

• Rob Christensen, “The Paradox of Tar Heel Politics” (9780807871515)

• Christopher A. Cooper, “Anatomy of a Purple State” (9781469681719)

Mike Woodard has been a student of and participant in North Carolina politics and government for 50 years, working for campaigns before he was a teenager. He served in the state Senate for 12 years and on the Durham City Council for seven years. He has held leadership roles on issues related to healthcare, transportation, energy and the environment, and was honored with Legislator of the Year awards by 15 different organizations. He holds degrees from Duke in economics and political science.

• 10 Thu, Jan 30 - Apr 3, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 50; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3922

London: A History From the Romans to the Stuarts

IN PERSON: This course invites students to explore the rich and complex history of one of the world’s greatest cities. From its iconic buildings like the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral to its figures such as Chaucer and Queen Elizabeth I to its landmarks along the River Thames, London has long been a focal point of historical events and cultural achievements. This lecturebased course delves into London’s evolution, including the vital contributions made by immigrants from across the globe and its enduring challenges of poverty and crime. Through these topics, students will gain a deeper appreciation for London’s role in shaping history, culture and society. As Samuel Johnson famously said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.”

• Lecture + Q&A.

Margaret Brill was the British history librarian at Duke. She was also head of reference, maps librarian and librarian for medieval and Renaissance studies. She grew up just outside London, and has a B.A. in history from the University of London, a master’s in library science from NC Central University and a master’s in liberal studies from Duke. Her primary interest is social history, especially women’s history. This is the 13th course she has taught for OLLI.

• 8 Tue, Feb 11 - Apr 1, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 30; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3310

History and Future of Telescopes

See listing on page 38.

History: Past & Present

Lincoln in American History: Character Is Destiny

IN PERSON: Abraham Lincoln’s moral certainty and prescient truths are woven into the democratic creed of the American experience: “We the People.” This course will explore how Lincoln’s unique and complex character made him one of the most revered figures in American history. His moral convictions, vision and determination to abolish slavery shaped his presidency and solidified his place in the nation’s democratic ideals. The course will trace Lincoln’s early life, the key factors that shaped his personality and his rise to political power. We will examine his moral stance during the Lincoln-Douglas debates and Southern secession, and his leadership during the Civil War that preserved the Union and fought for the freedom, citizenship and voting rights of all Americans.

• Lecture + Q&A, Facilitated discussion.

Recommended texts:

• Don E. Fehrenbacher, “Prelude to Greatness” (9780804701204)

• Eric Foner, “The Fiery Trial: Abraham Lincoln and American Slavery” (9780393066180)

Joe Simpson (B.A. history, UNC-Chapel Hill, ’73) has researched Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War era for over 30 years. Since 2019, he has taught a Lincoln course at the following OLLI and University Lifetime Learning programs: NC State University, Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill, Emory University, American University, University of Virginia, University of Michigan and UCLA. Joe is a member of The Lincoln Forum and The Abraham Lincoln Association.

• 8 Wed, Jan 29 - Mar 19, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 40; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3909

The History of Country Music

IN PERSON: This course will take you on a journey through the origins and evolution of one of America’s earliest music genres. From its 17th-century European roots, we’ll explore how diverse cultural influences shaped the early sounds of country music. Regional styles like Kentucky bluegrass, Virginia reels, deep Mississippi blues and Carolina interpretations will be examined, showing how local traditions created distinct musical variations. The course will include engaging video content, live entertainment and the possibility of Zoom conversations with renowned country artists, providing a rich and interactive experience. • Lecture + Q&A, Facilitated discussion.

Please note: The instructor will organize a field trip to a live country music show in one of the better night clubs within easy traveling distance from Durham.

Recommended texts:

• Jimmy Capps with Scot England, “The Man in Back” (9780998636733)

• Roy Clark, “My Life — In Spite of Myself!” (9780671864347)

Billy Yeargin holds a Master of Arts in liberal studies from Duke and a master’s certificate in European history, politics and society from the University of Oxford in the U.K. He has been a member of and has taught in the OLLI/DILR program since September 1995. He also teaches at various community colleges in eastern North Carolina.

• 10 Mon, Jan 27 - Mar 31, 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 30; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3930

History: Past & Present

The ’60s at Duke: Desegregation, Student Activism and the Fight for Racial Justice

ONLINE: This course is about the contested fight for racial justice at Duke University from the enrollment of the first Black undergraduates in 1963 to the takeover of part of the central administration building less than six years later. The course will look at the background of Duke’s first Black students, how racial attitudes shaped the way these students were received at the school and the immense challenges the university faced in comprehending — and responding to — their needs. We will explore the crucial role Black and white student activism played in Duke’s struggle for racial justice. Students will see that Duke could not pursue national prominence until it began to confront its Jim Crow past. Focusing on Duke, the course will expose the dynamics present at other historically white schools as they pursued racial change. Guest speakers will include key players from this period in Duke history.

• Lecture + Q&A.

Please note: A content-rich website featuring archival images, sound clips and documents will accompany the course. A PDF version of “Point of Reckoning” is available for free download online.

Recommended text:

• Theodore D. Segal, “Point of Reckoning: The Fight for Racial Justice at Duke University” (9781478011422)

Ted Segal is the author of “Point of Reckoning: The Fight for Racial Justice at Duke University,” published by Duke University Press in 2021. He first studied Black and white student activism in the 1960s at Duke when he was briefly in history graduate school in 1978, returning to the topic

upon retiring from law practice in 2016. A Duke alum (T ’77), Ted has been an adjunct professor at Georgetown Law School and is on the Library Advisory Board at Duke.

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1, 1:30-2:45 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 200; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3365

Human Evolution and Migrations

IN PERSON: In this lecture-based course, we study the evolution of Homo sapiens in Africa, and their subsequent migrations that populated the major continents of our planet. The course was inspired by the first several chapters of Yuval Noah Harari’s book “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind.” We cover the following topics: 1) Evolution and Its Mechanisms, 2) Early Hominins, 3) Evolution of Homo Sapiens, 4) Early Out of Africa — A Failed Expansion?, 5) Migrations Across Southern Asia, 6) Migrations to the Americas, 7) Migrations to Europe, and 8) The Lives of HunterGatherers. Students will gain a better understanding of and appreciation for the early history of our species. • Lecture + Q&A.

Please note: The purchase of Yuval Noah Harari’s book “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” is not required. Other reading options will be discussed in class.

Rob Bauernfeind is a retired cardiologist with lifelong interests in both biology and history. He has taught previous OLLI courses about the Ottoman Empire and the Republic of Turkey. He will be teaching the present course for the third time.

• 8 Tue, Feb 11 - Apr 1, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 30; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3543

History: Past & Present

White Supremacy as a Theory: Christian Nationalism and the 2020 Coup

ONLINE: This course examines the complex cultural practices that underpin “race” as a theory of history in the British colonies and, later, the United States. Grounded in Enlightenment-era colonial law and philosophy, theories of race construct a narrative of “Western” cultural progress, which links race superiority to geography and biology. This course explores how the shorthand use of “race” codifies a mixture of cultural, legal, social and economic practices rather than strict biology. The four sessions will analyze the political, religious and theoretical frameworks of this ideology, showing them grounded in folk-Christian messianic religion, and in occult and apocalyptic motifs of empire. How have these forces shaped the U.S. as a colonial slaver republic? By studying how “white” frames Christian nationalism, we can better understand the deeper historical roots of the 2020 U.S. Capitol coup.

• Lecture + Q&A.

Reverend Edward Ingebretsen, Ph.D., holds advanced degrees in theology and ethics and a doctorate in American studies; his publications (books and journals) consider the intersection of gender, race, theology and popular cultures. At present, he concentrates in animal ethics, and the histories of enslavement: “Maps of Heaven, Maps of Hell: Religious Terror as Memory from the Puritans to Stephen King” (1996), “At Stake: Monsters and the Rhetoric of Fear in Public Culture” (2001).

• 4 Tue, Jan 28 - Feb 18, 9-10:15 a.m.

• Online via Zoom

• Maximum: 40; Fee: $60; Course ID: 3936

Rethinking U.S. Grand Strategy

IN PERSON: What is grand strategy? What are its aims? What makes it “grand”? To answer these questions, we usually focus on diplomacy and warfare, but in doing so we tend to ignore factors such as race, global health, the environment and a wide range of other cultural, social, political and economic issues. This discussion class will analyze “traditional” American grand strategy past and present, but will expand our understanding of U.S. international behavior by examining many of these often overlooked dimensions. Students are expected to read approximately 25 pages of “Rethinking American Grand Strategy” each week and actively participate in facilitated class discussions. • Facilitated discussion.

Required text:

• Elizabeth Borgwardt - editor, “Rethinking American Grand Strategy” (9780190695675)

Richard Melanson enjoyed a 38-year academic career at UCLA, Kenyon College, Brown University and the National War College. He holds a Ph.D. in international relations from Johns Hopkins University and is the author of several books on postWorld War II American foreign policy. He has been an instructor at OLLI since 2016.

• 9 Wed, Jan 29 - Mar 26, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 15; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3923

If enrolling in a course that meets In person, please review the In-Person Guidelines before registering.

Literature & Languages

Selected Poetry of Wendell Berry

ONLINE: In this course, we will explore the breadth and depth of Wendell Berry’s work, focusing on his poetry. As a poet, novelist, essayist, farmer and environmentalist, Berry has developed a distinctive voice. His work addresses themes such as planting, harvesting and humanity’s relationship to nature and the earth. Students will be assigned reading of six to seven poems per week from Berry’s book “New Collected Poems.” Through facilitated discussions, we will read these poems closely, gaining insight into Berry’s values, his criticism of materialism and his desire to live in harmony with his Kentucky farm and community. Participants will gain an understanding of Berry’s life, philosophy and enduring commitment to living “at peace and in place.”

• Facilitated discussion.

Please note: Class members can purchase the edition of Berry’s book that they prefer: paperback, hardcover or e-book.

Required text:

• Wendell Berry, “New Collected Poems” (9781619020474)

Harry Brown holds degrees in English from Davidson College, Appalachian State University and Ohio University. After teaching for 43 years at Eastern Kentucky University, he returned to North Carolina and has taught/co-taught 16 literature courses for OLLI. He has published six poetry collections and co-edited an anthology of Kentucky writing.

Preston Martin received his undergraduate degree from Ohio University and a Master of Arts in teaching from the College of Charleston. He retired from both business and education and has published poems in numerous journals and anthologies. He has been a student or instructor at OLLI for over a dozen years.

• 10 Thu, Jan 30 - Apr 3, 3:30-5 p.m.

• Online via Zoom

• Maximum: 15; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3924

A Conversational

Spanish Course: ¡Vamos!

ONLINE: The focus of this beginning-level conversational Spanish course will be on listening to and speaking Spanish. To that end, students should expect to participate verbally. To facilitate language acquisition and retention, each lesson will be based on a theme, such as shopping, meeting strangers or taking transit, and will include instruction and student participation. The goals of this course are to offer opportunities for students to learn Spanish vocabulary and culture, to increase their confidence in speaking Spanish and to encourage them to use Spanish outside the classroom. The course is designed for students who have some beginning-level Spanish skills or exposure to spoken Spanish. The class will meet twice a week, which can be a more effective way for students to remember and practice the language. • Active Skill Learning.

Please note: If there is enough interest, the instructor will set up an in-person lunchtime meeting at the end of the term. We will speak the Spanish language at a local Hispanic eatery.

Beatrice Parker has a dual degree in political science and Spanish from UNC-Chapel Hill and has been awarded a Master of Social Work degree from UNC-Chapel Hill. She has spoken Spanish for more than 20 years. All her professional work experience has been in bilingual positions. She taught two terms of Spanish for OLLI. Her goals are to make learning Spanish accessible and for her students to become confident when speaking Spanish in their daily lives.

• 8 Tue & Thu, Jan 28 - Mar 18 (16 sessions), 1:30-2:45 p.m.

• Online via Zoom

• Maximum: 15; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3887

Literature & Languages

Hemingway, Faulkner and Joyce: Short Stories by Three Giants

ONLINE: This course will engage students in an active discussion of selected short stories by Ernest Hemingway, William Faulkner and James Joyce, three acknowledged literary masters. The stories often rival in virtuosity the novels for which the authors might be better known. In addition to examining the stories themselves, we will look at where their styles align and where they differ. Each week we will read not more than three stories. As appropriate and as time permits, we will seek out important influences in the three authors’ lives that informed what they wrote. The ultimate goal is for students to gain a fuller appreciation for the authors’ artistry. We will discuss several stories that were discussed in the Winter 2024 course The Early Works of James Joyce, and students who took that course can be expected to fully benefit from this course. • Facilitated discussion.

Please note: Students will be expected to read in advance stories assigned for the upcoming week’s class. To participate effectively in class discussions (and because we may be reading selected passages in class), students should obtain the specified editions indicated below.

Required texts:

• Ernest Hemingway, “The Complete Short Stories of Ernest Hemingway” (9780020332008)

• James Joyce, “Dubliners” (9781853260483)

• William Faulkner, “Collected Stories” (9780679764038)

Jay Miller has taught three courses for OLLI at Duke, including one on Faulkner’s “Light in August.” He has also taught five courses on Faulkner novels for OLLI at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and two for OLLI at Emory University. He has read several Faulkner biographies and studied hislectures given at the University of Virginia, as well as attended a week-long seminar on Faulkner. A retired lawyer, Miller received his B.A. degree from Duke.

John Burkley has taught OLLI courses at Duke and NC State University on James Joyce and Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys. He has participated in seven weeklong Program of Liberal Studies Summer Symposia at the University of Notre Dame. He has also founded various reading groups, including a several-year reading of “Ulysses” along with Jay. He is a retired lawyer, and a graduate of the University of Michigan Law School.

• 10 Wed, Jan 29 - Apr 2, 1:30-2:45 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 24; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3901

Reading Ron Rash’s “Serena”: Lady Macbeth in Appalachia

IN PERSON: Ron Rash is one of our state’s literary treasures. “Serena,” his 2008 novel set in in western North Carolina in the early 1930s, can be appreciated on many levels. Its compelling plot, memorable characters and vivid writing contribute to its richness and readability. Southern Gothic elements, echoes of Greek and Shakespearean tragedy and the mingling of fiction and fact add more layers of narrative complexity. Far more than just a setting, Rash’s native Appalachia is a force that shapes his characters’ actions and lives. The struggle he depicts between preserving nature and profiting from its destruction contributes to the novel’s ten-

Literature & Languages

sion and adds a contemporary immediacy. We will explore 50 pages a week, looking closely at the artistic decisions Rash made and the book’s many ethical issues. We also will consider other fierce female literary characters who share some of the traits that the eponymous Serena has and discuss why this type of character holds such allure for readers. • Facilitated discussion.

Please note: “Serena” is the only required book. Throughout the course, the instructor will make references to other works of literature that have relevance to Rash’s novel; a list of these works will be provided during the first meeting of the class.

Required text:

• Ron Rash, “Serena” (9782702434024)

Marjorie Lancaster received an undergraduate degree in English from Duke and a master’s degree from Tulane University. Since 2016, she has taught 17 OLLI courses. She believes that readers’ willingness to engage creatively and intellectually with the text and the unique perspective they each bring to the class make for a lively and satisfying discussion.

• 8 Wed, Jan 29 - Mar 19, 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 12; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3921

La Gloire de mon père : Une famille début 20e siècle

ONLINE: Taught entirely in French, this course will transport students on a literary journey through Macel Pagnol’s evocative childhood memories in Marseille and Provence during the early 20th century. Based on Pagnol’s autobiography, “La

Gloire de mon père,” the course will delve into themes such as family dynamics, the contrasting views of Marcel’s anticlerical father and Catholic uncle, and his enchantment with the region. Students will experience the delights of the “real” Provence — the smells, animals and people — from the point of view of the young Marcel. Through reading and discussion, participants will gain insight into life in Provence during the Third Republic, exploring both its beauty and the cultural tensions of the time. Film clips from the movie adaptation of the book will be shown in class — helping to bring Pagnol’s vivid world to life. • Facilitated discussion.

Please note: A high-intermediate French level is a must to be able to participate in the course. A reliable computer with a camera and audio and a good internet connection are necessary to attend the Zoom classes and to view the material on the instructor’s website.

Required text:

• Marcel Pagnol, “La Gloire de mon père” (9782877065078)

Claire Davidshofer was born in Côte d’Ivoire. Back in France, she lived with her family in Toulon, and became well acquainted with Provence thanks to her father, who took her hiking to pick plants from the area. The novel evokes the luminosity of the sky, the smell of lavender, thyme and rosemary. She graduated from the Université of Aixen-Provence with a master’s degree in English and American literature. At the University of Maine at Presque Isle, she taught diverse French courses.

• 10 Thu, Jan 30 - Apr 3, 1:30-2:45 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 15; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3907

Performing Arts

The Music Never Stopped: Music Festivals Through the Decades

IN PERSON: This course invites you to explore the evolution of outdoor multiday music festivals, starting with iconic events like Woodstock in 1969 and spanning across decades to modern-day gatherings. We’ll take a journey through time to visit some of the most legendary festivals, including the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967, Woodstock and Altamont in 1969, and annual events such as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, the Isle of Wight Festival, Bonnaroo and MerleFest. Along the way, we’ll view epic performances by artists like Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Neil Young, Santana and Janis Joplin. This course will not only highlight the music and cultural significance of these festivals but also invite attendees who have experienced them firsthand to share their memories and insights. Whether you’re a long-time festival-goer or simply curious about their history, this course will provide you with an exciting look at the transformative power of live music across generations. • Lecture + Q&A.

Please note: The Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance will be held in nearby Pittsboro shortly after the last class session in April. If there is interest, the instructor will coordinate a field trip to attend.

Marv Meyer majored in chemical engineering in the 1960s while he minored in Fillmore East. That legendary concert venue was just a few blocks from Cooper Union, his alma mater, as was Greenwich Village. He’s since continued to attend many concerts and amassed a vast collection of vinyl and CDs in a relentless search for the lost chord.

• 9 Wed, Jan 29 - Apr 2 (no class Feb 19), 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 25; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3931

Understanding Bob Dylan, or Not

ONLINE: This course takes a deep dive into the enigmatic and influential life of Bob Dylan, from his early days performing Little Richard covers in high school to receiving the Nobel Prize in literature in 2016 and his albums after that. What’s “A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall” about anyway, nuclear fallout or just rain? He discusses this in an interview. Whether writing about big brass beds, war or racial injustice, he had a unique language set to singable tunes. We’ll explore his evolution, starting with his bar mitzvah in Minnesota and covering the hedonistic counterculture scene of 1960s New York, his surprising journey in Christianity and his continued songwriting into his 70s and 80s. Admittedly, Dylan’s singing is weak, but come prepared to talk about it. Love him or hate him, bring your thoughts. There are no wrong opinions. As he wrote: “If dogs run free, then why not me?” and “Don’t need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows.” • Facilitated discussion.

Recommended texts:

• Howard Sounes, “Down the Highway: The Life of Bob Dylan” (9780802138910)

• Philippe Margotin and Jean-Michel Guesdon, “Bob Dylan: All the Songs — The Story Behind Every Track” (9781579129859)

After graduating from Duke (B.A., 1967), Bill Phillips taught high school and administered a federal grant related to school integration. He promoted folk music in North Carolina schools under a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and at the same time did field research and folk music recordings now archived in the Southern Historical Collection at UNC. He has been listening to Bob Dylan ever since freshman year in college, always eagerly awaiting the release of the next album.

• 10 Mon, Jan 27 - Mar 31, 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 45; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3935

Performing Arts

Musicals 101: Jerome Kern and Jule Styne on Stage and Screen

ONLINE: The careers of composers Jerome Kern and Jule Styne spanned the 20th century. They created numerous groundbreaking and popular shows, with many of their songs considered part of the Great American Songbook. Each composer partnered with multiple lyricists and librettists, giving their scores great variety. In the 1910s and ’20s, the shows Kern created with Guy Bolton and P.G. Wodehouse defined the American musical. His masterpiece was “Show Boat” with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. Kern also wrote the scores of film musicals such as “Roberta” and “Swing Time” for Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Styne’s first successes were in Hollywood in the 1930s and ’40s, when he wrote songs with Sammy Cahn. In the 1950s and ‘60s he partnered with lyricists Stephen Sondheim, Bob Merrill and Betty Comden and Adolph Green on shows such as “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” “Gypsy” and “Peter Pan.” The course is lecture with video and audio clips; students can ask questions and make comments during class. • Lecture + Q&A.

Recommended text:

• Michael Kantor and Laurence Maslon, “Broadway: The American Musical” (9781493047673)

Alan Teasley began his career as a high school English and drama teacher. In addition to serving as an administrator in the Durham Public Schools for over 20 years, he taught in Duke’s Master of Arts in teaching program, serving as director of that program from 2012 to 2016. He is an avid theatergoer with a particular interest in American musicals. This will be his 16th course on musical theater for OLLI.

• 8 Thu, Jan 30 - Mar 27 (no class Feb 27), 9-10:15 a.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 200; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3913

Steven Spielberg: A Genius Filmmaker

IN PERSON: Steven Spielberg has been a Hollywood giant for half a century. He is considered one of the greatest movie directors in America. This course will take an in-depth look at Steven Spielberg’s life and the works that earned him that distinction. We will learn how his fascination with filmmaking started in his early childhood. Following a look at his first movies, we will then explore his iconic films. We will also learn about his legacy as a generous and prolific philanthropist. Participants are encouraged to watch the film “The Fabelmans” prior to class. • Lecture + Q&A.

Stan Darer earned a B.A. in economics from Lehman College in the Bronx. After a 38-year career in the electrical supply industry with Graybar Electric Company, Stan and Nadine moved to Raleigh to be near family. Stan serves on the Board of Trustees as vice president of membership at Temple Beth Or. He presently is an instructor for the OLLI programs at NC State and Duke. In 2017, Stan was awarded the Volunteer of the Year Award at OLLI at NC State. He makes presentations to many communities.

• 6 Tue, Jan 28 - Mar 4, 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Erwin Mill, Durham

• Maximum: 45; Fee: $90; Course ID: 3926

All OLLI at Duke classes and events are in Eastern Time

Performing Arts

Greatest Movie Songs of All Time: 50 of the Best

ONLINE: This course takes a deep dive into the most iconic songs that have enriched the history of cinema. From “Moon River” to “As Time Goes By,” “Mrs. Robinson” to “My Heart Will Go On,” the unforgettable songs this course explores have set moods, defined characters, advanced plots and expressed themes that elevate filmmaking to an art form. In each session, we will analyze a selection of these songs, examining their cultural significance, historical context, lyrics and lasting appeal. We’ll also learn about the artists and creators behind these masterpieces, uncovering how these songs have resonated with audiences and shaped America’s film heritage. Whether you’re a music lover or a film buff, there’s something for you in this course. It’s a celebration of the songs that have captured hearts and stood the test of time. • Lecture + Q&A.

Emanuel Abramovits has been a concert promoter since 2000, directly involved in many international artists’ events. He designed and staged many original orchestral events, including an Event of the Year winner, and several world premieres. He served as the cultural director at Union Israelita de Caracas from 2008 to 2019, releasing books and organizing concerts and art exhibits. He has been teaching online and in person across the U.S. since 2020, including teaching many classes on film music.

• 6 Wed, Jan 29 - Mar 5, 9-10:30 a.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 99; Fee: $90; Course ID: 3899

Photography

Intro to iPhone Photography

IN PERSON: The best camera is the one you have with you. That’s why the iPhone has become the predominant camera in use today. It may also have a lot do with the image quality and flexibility that the iPhone offers. This course will help iPhone users understand and master the use of their feature-rich iPhone camera and its associated apps. Course topics will include: accessing and using the builtin camera app; editing to improve images using Apple and third-party apps; storing image files through Apple and other cloud providers; sharing images on social media, including Instagram, email and messaging; and in-class practice using the iPhone for travel, portrait and abstract photography. In this course, students will have opportunities to make and share images in an open, noncritical environment. Whether you are new to iPhone photography or have attended a previous class, there will be lots to share. • Lecture + Q&A, Facilitated discussion, Active Skill Learning.

Please note: Participants should have an iPhone 12 or later with adequate storage available to add one or two apps. Familiarity with the use of the internet and email is required. Image sharing in class is not required but strongly encouraged as a way of developing skills and community. All skill levels are welcome.

Dennis Szerszen is a self-taught photographer in digital and analog photo media. He retired from a career in the software industry to focus on photography and volunteering. He is expanding his work through traditional photographic processes, including silver, cyanotype and platinum/palladium printing in conjunction with the iPhone. His work has been displayed widely. Dennis exhibits locally and is a member of the Orange County Artists Guild.

• 8 Tue, Jan 28 - Mar 18, 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 12; Fee: $110; Course ID: 2478

Photography

Black-and-White Photography

ONLINE: Have you ever found yourself spellbound by an ethereal black-and-white photograph, with something about it capturing your attention and compelling you to take it in? Did the image make you feel that way because it spoke clearly to you? Or did you feel an unconscious connection to it that drew you deeper into the frame, something familiar but without a name? It’s likely that you have had these emotional reactions to such photos, but you may never have considered what it takes to create this type of image. This discussion-based course will reveal the elements that come together to make powerful black-and-white photographs. We will explore the techniques required to translate emotional meaning into visual art. Students will learn to produce striking blackand-white images by either shooting in black and white or converting color images. Much of our time will be spent reviewing participants’ photos. • Facilitated discussion.

Please note: Students can work with their own previously saved images (either black and white or color) or photos taken during the course with a digital camera or a smartphone.

John Sehon is an accomplished amateur photographer and has been teaching photography at OLLI for over 20 years.

• 6 Mon, Feb 10 - Mar 17, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

• Online via Zoom

• Maximum: 12; Fee: $90; Course ID: 3588

Doing Photographic Projects

IN PERSON: This course will teach students how to start and complete a photographic project intended to result in an exhibit, magazine article, website or book. All students (at all levels) interested in exploring the fun and challenges of working in a project format are welcome. Students will learn how to choose a project, how to formulate a plan for completion, how to calculate a project budget, how to overcome obstacles and how to maintain motivation. We will also consider how to pitch a project to a prospective funding source, gallery and/or editor, for those who want to give this a try. Classes will be a mix of presentation and discussion, with one or two guest speakers over the six weeks of the course. Recommended readings will be available on the course website. • Facilitated discussion.

Recommended text:

• Sasha Wolf - editor, “Photo Work: Forty Photographers on Process and Practice” (9781597114592)

Michael Schwalbe is professor emeritus of sociology at NC State University. He is also a documentary photographer and has done projects on potters, craft artists, residents of family care homes, tobacco-control activists, public workers and grassroots repair enthusiasts. Before retiring in 2022, he taught courses on social psychology, social theory and qualitative research methods.

• 6 Wed, Jan 29 - Mar 5, 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 15; Fee: $90; Course ID: 3894

Spring 2025 Registration

Registration opens on Tuesday, January 7, at 9 a.m. ET for Monday and Tuesday courses and on Wednesday, January 8, at 9 a.m. ET for Wednesday and Thursday courses.

Religion & Philosophy

Holocaust in Context: How the Christian Churches Responded

ONLINE: June 6, 2024, marked 80 years since D-Day, the day the Allies invaded the beaches of Normandy, France. Their victory began the definitive final months of the Nazi regime and the end of the methodical murder of Jews that became known as the Holocaust. Starting in 1942, the world was informed that Jews were being systematically murdered by the Nazi regime. What was the response of Christian churches, and how did they lead during the four years of knowing this evil was happening? During this 10-week course, students will learn about the history of antisemitism and how the following entities responded to it: the Christian churches in Nazi Germany, the Christian churches in Europe and the Christian churches in North America. Classes will be in-person lectures, with time for questions. Learning tools will include videos and PowerPoint presentations. • Lecture + Q&A.

Please note: If students are interested, a day trip to visit the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia, could be scheduled.

Annette Baker, Ph.D., graduated from Duke in 1984, earning a B.A. in English and a certificate in women’s studies. At United States International University in San Diego (now known as Alliant International University), Baker earned an M.A. and a Doctor of Philosophy degree, both in psychology. Baker was raised in the Judeo-Christian tradition of the United Methodist Church, and has been a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Durham for over 30 years.

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1, 1:30-2:45 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 40; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3850

Philosophies of Human Nature

ONLINE: What do all humans have in common? What is our nature? This course offers a broad survey of what philosophers from various traditions and eras have taught about the nature of humanity. Students will explore perspectives from Ancient Indian thought in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions, as well as Greek thinkers like Plato and Aristotle, Chinese sages and more modern philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes, David Hume and Immanuel Kant. The course will also cover existentialists like Jean-Paul Sartre and Soren Kierkegaard. By engaging with these diverse philosophies, students will gain an understanding of the scope of ideas on human nature that have shaped history. Through conversations in class, participants will refine their understanding of these influential perspectives. We will address one philosopher per week. Anyone new to the study of philosophy is encouraged to join. • Facilitated discussion.

Required text:

• Joel J. Kupperman - editor, “Human Nature” (9781603847452)

Richard Prust taught philosophy at St. Andrews University in North Carolina. Having retired in 2010, he has written two books and is working to complete another, “Personal Meaning: How We Give Individual and Relational Significance, Relative Importance, Emotional Force, and Moral Value to Our Actions.” He holds a Duke Ph.D.

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1, 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 24; Fee: $110; Course ID: 1060

Visit our Online Learning website for helpful hints and tips for Zoom.

Religion and Philosophy

Marian Studies: Mary’s Journey

IN PERSON: This course will explore the central role of Mary in Catholic Christian theology and in ecumenical discussions. With little historical information about Mary, her story has had a powerful symbolic trajectory across cultures and eras. This course will examine diverse interpretations of Mary as prefigured in the Hebrew Scriptures, and later the Qur’an, but especially in the New Testament Scriptures. Some attention will be paid to her primary place in Christian art, architecture and feasts in her honor through the centuries as well as the development of a variety of devotional practices. Students will gain insight into how Mary has been venerated and symbolically appropriated as the ideal disciple of Jesus. Guest speakers will join us for deeper discussion across a variety of faith traditions. We will bring forward a rich perspective on Mary’s enduring significance in Christian faith and tradition. • Lecture + Q&A, Facilitated discussion.

Guest Speakers

:

• David Morgan, PhD., Professor of Religious Studies and chair of the Dept. of Religious Studies, Duke University

• Imam Abdul Hafeez Waheed, the first Muslim Chaplain at Duke University

Required text:

• Louis J, Cameli, “Mary’s Journey” (9780870612282)

Recommended text:

• Raymond E. Brown - editor, “Mary in the New Testament” (9780809121687)

Sam Miglarese has a licentiate from the Pontifical Gregorian University and a doctorate from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas, both in Rome. His theology specialty has been the Second Vatican Council. He co-edited “The Long Shadow of Vatican II” (UNC Press). The last course he taught for Duke’s Religious Studies Department was Duke in Venice: Theology in the Arts. He is currently a retired minister at large for the Presbytery of New Hope and an adjunct in Duke’s education program.

• 6 Tue, Jan 28 - Mar 4, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 15; Fee: $90; Course ID: 3911

Registration FAQs

To make your registration experience as smooth as possible, we have put together a frequently asked questions guide. At OLLI at Duke FAQs you will find answers to questions on membership, courses, Zoom and technology and registration.

Staying in Touch

When you join the OLLI at Duke mailing list, you’ll receive the OLLI Newsletter with up-to-date information on upcoming events, special activities and course registration details. Sign up here; you can unsubscribe at any time.

Science & Technology

Amazing Beauty of Numbers: A History

of Mathematics

IN PERSON: This course explores Euler’s identity — e^{iπ} + 1 = 0 — celebrated for uniting five constants — 0, 1, π, e and i — in a single equation. We will examine the significance of each constant, beginning with “1” and its role in counting. Next will be the invention of “0” and positional notation. We’ll delve into “π,” its relation to circles and methods for approximating it, and then we’ll explore the imaginary unit “i” and complex numbers. For “e,” we’ll consider its origins, calculation and links to calculus. Students will study Euler’s formula — e^{ix} = cos(x) + i sin(x) — and why setting “x” as “π” yields Euler’s identity. We will also touch on logic, proof and infinity. Designed for those with high school math, this course offers an accessible exploration of modern mathematics’ beauty and evolution. • Lecture + Q&A.

Please note: The course is structured to appeal to people with a wide range of mathematical ability. Historical content presumes little mathematical knowledge. A basic knowledge of high school algebra is assumed in the more technical portions of the material.

Frank Brown graduated from Duke with a B.S. in chemistry. He then obtained his Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the California Institute of Technology. He worked as a research chemist at a polyester plant and then transitioned into the world of computers where he spent most of his career. Following his retirement, he obtained an M.A. in mathematics from East Carolina University.

• 10 Wed, Jan 29 - Apr 2, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 20; Fee: $110; Course ID: 2098

Climate Change Solutions

ONLINE: In this course, we will explore the causes, effects and status of human-driven climate change, and the opportunities and challenges of potential solutions: the renewable energy sources solar, wind and geothermal; nuclear fission and fusion; low-emissions transportation; and innovations in energy efficiency, the electrical grid and energy storage. We will look at carbon removal using ecosystems and technology, as well as geoengineering carbon removal and solar radiation reflection. The course also examines adaptation, economics and public policy, and how each of us can help mitigate climate change. This science-based course is designed for students of all backgrounds; no prior expertise is required.

• Lecture + Q&A, Facilitated discussion.

Warren Darrell teaches for OLLI, mentors UNC Wilmington environmental science students and teaches English to Ukrainians. He volunteers with the Ecologic Development Fund, NC Coastal Reserve, NC Coastal Federation, Earthwatch and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. He is a registered professional engineer and earned an M.S. in environmental engineering from The University of Alabama and an M.S. in environmental science from Montana State University. He lives in Wilmington and is an avid sea kayaker.

• 6 Tue, Feb 11 - Mar 18, 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 200; Fee: $90; Course ID: 3892

Human Evolution and Migrations

See listing on page 25.

Science & Technology

Cosmic Curiosity: What Everyone Must Know

ONLINE: Curious about the latest cosmic discoveries? This course is your gateway to modern astronomy. Covering the night sky, Earth, our solar system, star formation and evolution, the Milky Way and the cosmos, we will explore what every educated person should know, with a focus on recent findings. No advanced background needed — just an interest in the cosmos. If you’re an astrophysicist, feel free to skip this class, but for everyone else, get ready to unlock the mysteries of the universe in an accessible, engaging way! • Lecture + Q&A.

Brand Fortner is a teaching professor at NC State University where he teaches astronomy, astrophysics and physics, and is adjunct professor of physics at UNC. He earned a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois in high-energy astrophysics. Brand founded two scientific software companies, and previously held positions at NASA and Johns Hopkins University. Brand has written books on color vision and technical data, and is in high demand for his public lectures on all things astronomical.

• 9 Thu, Jan 30 - Apr 3 (no class Feb 13), 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 200; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3893

Beyond Cable! Making Smart Streaming Choices

IN PERSON: This course, updated for 2025, helps students navigate the rapidly changing world of video streaming and make informed decisions about cable and streaming options, including how to “cut the cable cord.” Topics covered include over-the-air broadcasts, on-demand and live streaming services, and how to select, connect and use streaming devices (e.g., Roku) and platforms (e.g.,

Netflix). Participants will also learn how to find streaming content, track their viewing habits and create watch lists of shows. Lectures are augmented with demos of streaming services and devices, live use of search tools, class discussion of streaming content and ample time for questions. The goal is for each student to create a plan for more intentional, cost-effective and enjoyable viewing. • Lecture + Q&A.

Howard Koslow has over 30 years’ experience as a software developer at IBM. Now retired, he continues to explore technology for creative and productive uses as well as to teach others to embrace it. He has been teaching and updating this popular course since 2018.

• 5 Mon, Jan 27 - Feb 24, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 40; Fee: $75; Course ID: 3459

Birthstones: Their History and Significance

ONLINE: Since the turn of the last century, each month has had a birthstone associated with it. But this tradition began centuries ago, as people began to cherish precious and semiprecious stones. We will explore the 12 birthstones in their geological formation, locations, mining and marketing, and their significance to human lore and legend. Each week we will look at four birthstones.

• Lecture + Q&A.

Stephenie Slahor holds Ph.D. and J.D. degrees and is retired from her law practice and from university and law school teaching. She now creates informative and enjoyable OLLI courses for universities around the nation.

• 3 Mon, Jan 27 - Feb 10, 3:30-4:45 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 200; Fee: $45; Course ID: 3890

Science & Technology

The Air We Breathe

ONLINE: We breathe without thinking, navigating tides and rivers of air without noticing. So what particles are carried in the air we breathe? We examine this question about the air we breathe while on land, over water — and during an airplane flight. To start, we discuss a science fiction story that raises questions about atmospheric layers, how particles get transported, and how and what we breathe. Next is a look at the world’s blanket of air and its many layers as a conveyance and as a habitat. We can now classify the air particles in each breath and understand better what arrives from global, regional, local and indoor sources. This serves as a foundation for the current topics of epidemiology, air quality, national security, allergy season and indoor health. We close with best practices for how to live better in our humid temperate climate with its seasonal changes. This course is taught from the viewpoint of the atmosphere and its airborne particles, not that of health care. • Facilitated discussion.

Please note: The reading before the first class is the short story “Atmosphaera Incognita” by Neal Stephenson; it is available as an e-book. Optional readings will be sent along with lecture notes before each class.

Claire Williams Bridgwater is a research professor at American University. She holds a Ph.D. in forestry and a minor in genetics from NC State University and completed a global studies degree at UNC. She has worked in federal government, corporate research and development, and consulting. A tenured full professor at Texas A&M University in genetics, she has been visiting faculty at Duke and elsewhere. Her recent research projects include pollen allergens and modern desert dust storm content.

• 6 Tue, Jan 28 - Mar 4, 6-7:15 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 18; Fee: $90; Course ID: 3510

History and Future of Telescopes

IN PERSON: The knowledge of our vast universe beyond the few thousand stars we can see with the naked eye depends on telescopes. This course explores the transformative role of telescopes in expanding our knowledge of the cosmos. We’ll begin with the history of optical telescopes and the key discoveries they enabled. Moving beyond visible light, we will survey how modern telescopes allow us to see across the electromagnetic spectrum — from radio to gamma rays — revealing the universe’s most extreme phenomena. We will also discuss exotic telescopes that detect gravitational waves and neutrinos, providing insights on topics beyond traditional lightbased astronomy. Emphasis is on the scientific knowledge gained rather than technical aspects of building or using telescopes, providing students with a broad view of the cosmos. • Lecture + Q&A.

Please note: The course will not cover the building or amateur use of telescopes.

Don Ellison received his Ph.D. from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., in 1982. He then pursued postdoctoral positions in France, at the University of Maryland and at NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center before moving to NC State University in 1987. Besides teaching physics and astrophysics at NC State, his research has concentrated on the theory of cosmic ray origin, particle acceleration in high-energy astrophysics and the evolution of supernova remnants.

• 4 Mon, Feb 10 - Mar 3, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 40; Fee: $60; Course ID: 3902

Science & Technology

Physical and Applied Geology

ONLINE: Natural disasters like Hurricane Helene highlight the importance of geologic factors and infrastructure vulnerability. This course will cover basic geologic concepts and processes. Students will gain an understanding of the application of geologic systems in modern society. Real-world examples are selected from the instructor’s personal engineering geology and hydrogeology experience as well as published sources. Examples will include: siting rural and urban infrastructure; construction locations; and developing raw materials such as water, rare earth metals and energy resources. Topics we will cover are: active faults, landslides, induced seismicity, flooding, locating surface and groundwater contamination, mining and fluid extraction projects. Local, state and federal laws related to applied geologic project regulatory compliance will also be introduced. The required reading is available as a free downloadable PDF (or it can be read online). • Lecture + Q&A.

Please note: Knowledge or previous coursework in geology is helpful but not required. Suggested readings and reference sources for each class will be made available for further independent learning in and/ or after the course.

Recommended text:

• Ed Conway, “Material World” (9780753559161)

Chris Palmer has 40 years’ professional geological practice experience in general geology, engineering geology and hydrogeology in the western U.S. He has performed or supervised numerous surface and subsurface exploration investigations, well installations, active/potentially active fault and landslide studies, groundwater development and hydrogeology contaminant assessments. He is the author of “Principles of Contaminant Hydrogeology” (2024) and ”Outline of Chatham County Geology” (2021).

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1, 9-10:15 a.m.

• Online via Zoom

• Maximum: 50; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3920

Finding Course Links in the Student Portal

OLLI members who register for online courses will find the Zoom links for their courses in their Student Portal at learnmore.duke.edu/olli.

See Finding Course Links for step-by-step instructions and a demonstration video.

Spring 2025 Registration

Registration opens on Tuesday, January 7, at 9 a.m. ET for Monday and Tuesday courses and on Wednesday, January 8, at 9 a.m. ET for Wednesday and Thursday courses.

Science & Technology

Light: It’s All Around Us, But What Is It?

IN PERSON: Light. It’s all around us, but what is it? The universe is composed of stuff (matter) and light. Light, whether we’re bathed in it or in the dark, has many meanings for us. But what is light? Our class will talk about visible light and all the other radiations: radio waves and microwaves, infrared, X-rays and gamma rays. We will discuss where these radiations come from, their properties, how they act on the stuff in the universe, including us, and what happens when we get an X-ray, MRI or PET scan. We will talk most about visible light: how incandescent and LED light bulbs work, how lasers work, why too much sun can be dangerous and how nature’s wonderful light display (the rainbow) works. This course will be pitched to everyone — those with science backgrounds and those without. There will be lectures but with lots of class discussion. • Lecture + Q&A.

Bob Shaw studied chemistry at Williams College (B.A.) and the University of Washington (Ph.D.), has taught at several universities, was research chemist/physicist at the Environmental Protection Agency and was director of chemistry at the Army Research Office. He has published research in physical and analytical chemistry, nuclear physics and environmental science. He is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and was awarded the Silver Medal of the EPA.

• 10 Wed, Jan 29 - Apr 2, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 20; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3908

Society & Culture

The Films of Greta Garbo: Balancing Strong Women and Romance in 1930s Hollywood

IN PERSON: This course explores the cinematic legacy of Greta Garbo, focusing on how her films managed to portray strong, independent women while weaving in elements of romance. Through the study of five key films — “Anna Christie,” “Grand Hotel,” “Queen Christina,” “Camille” and “Ninotchka” — participants will analyze Garbo’s unique ability to embody complex female characters who navigate personal and societal challenges. The course will include film screenings, discussions and critical analyses to understand the cultural and historical contexts of these films and their impact on the portrayal of women in cinema.

• Facilitated discussion.

Please note: Films will be viewed in sessions 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9. Class discussion will take place in sessions 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10.

Recommended text:

• Robert Dance, “The Savvy Sphinx” (9781496833280)

Mark Spano is a prolific writer, filmmaker, television producer and lecturer. His documentary “Sicily: Land of Love and Strife” was released in the U.S. and Canada, was presented at the Toronto Italian Film Festival and aired in the U.S. and Europe. Mark is now developing a documentary about women cooking on the Aeolian island of Filicudi. Mark has been a visiting lecturer at East Carolina University and NC State University. He has lectured around the U.S. and Canada and for several OLLIs.

• 10 Thu, Jan 30 - Apr 3, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

All OLLI at Duke classes and events are in Eastern Time

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 40; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3928

Society & Culture

Family History

Discovery

ONLINE: Curious about your family’s history, but unsure where to start? This interactive course is designed for both beginners and those with some experience in family history research. Whether they have a little background or none at all, participants will gain the skills needed to uncover fascinating stories about their ancestors. Through engaging lectures and hands-on activities, students will learn where to find essential records and how to interpret the clues they offer. We will explore research tools, techniques and vocabulary that will empower students to navigate genealogical data with confidence. Plus, students will develop practical skills, such as how to conduct oral history interviews, locate public records, read old newspapers, preserve archival documents and leverage online resources to enhance their discoveries. Join us to embark on a journey through your family’s past and unlock the history waiting to be found! • Lecture + Q&A.

Please note: Basic computer skills are needed along with an understanding of how to search using search engines such as Google.

Recommended text:

• Alonzo Felder, “Discovering A. S. J. Allen: A Story of Skinfolk, Kinfolk, and Village Folk” (9781949810110)

Alonzo Felder is an author, historian, storyteller and retired information technology analyst versed in legal, historical and investigative research methods who has performed historical research and presented at numerous workshops/presentations. He is an online participant/contributor on a number of public genealogy-oriented forums, and he has produced historical art exhibits. His research work has been referenced in a number of genealogy books as well as in articles related to family history.

• 10 Thu, Jan 30 - Apr 3, 3:30-4:45 p.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 14; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3697

Humanities of China and Japan

ONLINE: Explore the rich and distinct cultures of China and Japan in this introductory course focused on the countries’ humanities — philosophies, religions, art and music — rather than their political conflicts. We’ll survey the highlights of each country’s history and compare their greatest cultural and technological achievements before the 20th century. This lecture-based class will include images and examples, with time for questions throughout. A course website will provide slide notes in a Word document for easy reference, so you can immerse yourself in the material without taking notes. Join us for a deeper appreciation of these two remarkable cultures. • Lecture + Q&A.

Sally Purath earned a B.A. in social sciences and an M.Ed. at Colorado State University. She taught history, religions and humanities for 26 years to 12th graders, specializing in the humanities of Europe, the U.S., India, China, Japan, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. She also taught Russian, world and U.S. histories as well as philosophy in the International Baccalaureate program. Sally has been teaching courses for OLLI yearly since 2009 at Colorado State and at Duke.

• 10 Thu, Jan 30 - Apr 3, 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

• Online via Zoom

• Maximum: 200; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3904

Society & Culture

The Wines of France

IN PERSON: Join us on a journey through the vineyards of France. We will explore some of the most famous wine regions of Burgundy, Bordeaux, and the Rhone and Loire valleys. We will taste four to five wines from the areas and discuss foods that pair well with each. We will get to know each region through an examination of the historical events that have impacted its wine production, how its climate affects the grapes, the styles of wine most common to the region and the varieties that are most frequently produced there. If you love French wine and want to deepen your knowledge, this is a great way to do it. Please join us.

• Lecture + Q&A.

Required supplies/fee: There is a tasting fee of $32 payable to the instructor at the first class by cash or check. This covers the cost of 16 wines over four weeks.

Thomas Thorne has been a professional sommelier for 30 years. He owns Wine Fifty Five, a local wine consulting company focused on education, sales and sommelier services. He has headed wine programs at the Fearrington House, Carolina Inn and Siena Hotel. He was the owner of Hope Valley Bottle Shop. He is accredited through the Court of Master Sommeliers.

Section 1

• 4 Wed, Jan 29 - Feb 19, 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 30; Fee: $60; Course ID: 3934-001

Section 2

• 4 Wed, Jan 29 - Feb 19, 3:30-5 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 30; Fee: $60; Course ID: 3934-002

Symposia: Mind-Expanding Excursions and Diversions

IN PERSON: Symposia returns with in-person presentations by people in our community who are making a positive impact. Each week, a different speaker will offer you valuable new insights into an important subject that may not have caught your attention otherwise. The opportunity to pose questions to these experts is a key feature of Symposia. • Lecture + Q&A.

Guest Speakers:

Jan 28 • Howard Koslow Cut the Clutter: Essential Email Tips

Howard Koslow has taught numerous OLLI courses on using technology. He will share practical tips to organize your email and deal with spam on popular email services like Gmail and Outlook. Learn general techniques to manage an overcrowded inbox, specific features to use on your email app, and online resources to learn more about using email effectively.

Feb 4 • Mark Dewhirst, DVM, PhD. Optimizing Cancer Treatment: Canine-Human Conjunction

Cancers in dogs and in humans share many parallels that have shed light on understanding and treatment of both species. Dewhirst’s research has been focused at the intersection of human and canine oncology. He will report on an initiative by the National Cancer Institute to create a partnership between colleges of veterinary medicine and NCI-designated cancer centers to coordinate clinical trial designs between species.

Society & Culture

Feb 11 • Lauren Smith Hong

Growing Forward: The Garden Gateway Project at Duke Gardens

Nestled in the heart of Durham on the Duke University campus lies Sarah P. Duke Gardens. In this 55-acre botanical wonderland where the hum of traffic disappears, birds serenade visitors from treetops and streams flow alongside pathways connecting people to more than 2,500 colorful plant species. Hong, Marketing and Communications Director of Duke Gardens, will discuss the Garden Gateway, the new renovation and expansion project that will update its welcoming entrance.

Feb

18

• Richard Katskee, JD, AM Of Monkeys and Man, Pandas and People

On the centennial anniversary of the Scopes Monkey Trial, fights about science education and religion rage on — the same dynamics play out in battles over public schooling and the contents of public and school libraries concerning race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and reproductive freedom. Katskee spent the past two decades leading litigation to preserve the separation of religion and government as a fundamental protection for sound science education, religious freedom, and the rights of women and minorities to be free from official discrimination.

Feb 25 • Carey Parker

How to Protect Your Data & Devices

In today’s hyper-connected world, privacy and security aren’t just personal — they’re collective concerns that affect us all. With the explosion of “smart” devices, we’ve greatly expanded our attack surface and opened the door to unprecedented levels

of surveillance. Our personal data is being mined, leaked, and stolen at an alarming rate. In this talk, Parker will break down the biggest threats to our privacy and security and share practical ways you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

Mar 4 • Heidi Hannapel and Jeff Masten, MCRP

Natural Burial at Bluestem

People of all cultural, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds are seeking a return to simpler, more environmentallyconscious forms of body disposition at death. Natural burial is a recent addition to the list of available options for a final resting place. Bluestem founders Masten and Hannapel will discuss how natural burial aligns with traditional values and respectful treatment of the deceased.

Mar 11 • Trey Gowdy

Electrification of Transportation

Transportation is now responsible for the largest percentage of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions of any economic sector. Reducing emissions from this contributor to climate change can be effectively accomplished by converting much of transportation to electricity as a major energy source, displacing use of petroleum fuels. Gowdy, Research Lead at Duke University’s Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment and Sustainability, will discuss the progress being made in this conversion, barriers to its implementation, and opportunities for expansion.

Mar 18 • Sherry Samuels

Restoring the Critically Endangered Red Wolf

Once a top predator throughout the southeastern United States, the Red Wolf is now

Society & Culture

categorized as critically endangered. Samuels — the NC Museum of Life and Science’s Senior Director of Animal Care and AZA’s Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) Red Wolf steering committee member — will describe the thrill of welcoming a new litter of pups at the Museum in 2024, how Red Wolves under human care are managed, as well as the challenges of reintroducing them to the wild.

Mar 25 • Don Ellison, PhD.

Einstein’s Incredible Year — 1905 —

That Changed the World

In 1905 Einstein published five scientific papers that profoundly changed our view of the universe. The 26-year-old Einstein did this while working as a patent clerk (third-class!) in Bern, Switzerland. Ellison will present some of the details of Einstein’s personal life leading up to 1905 and a taste of the science he published that year — much of which remains relevant today.

Apr 1 • Kelly Agan, MSLS

All Things North Carolina: Your Research Guide

Are you researching or interested in learning about an aspect of North Carolina but don’t know where to find resources? Agan, a librarian with the Orange County Public Library, will take you on a tour of the land-

scape of resources available for topics including state and local history, government information and records, genealogical research, and data and demographics. Online resources and digital collections that can be accessed from anywhere will be featured.

Ed Cox is a retired oncologist. His current interests include ecology, climate change, renewable energy, and the influence of food on health and longevity. He has taught OLLI courses on these subjects.

Mike Smith is a retired marketing executive. He organized the OLLI at Duke Wine Society and has been an OLLI instructor. He serves on the Duke Medical Institutional Review Board.

Melissa McLeod is a retired pediatric anesthesiologist. She has researched and presented on senior residential options, especially continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs).

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1, 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Croasdaile Village Retirement Community, Durham

• Maximum: 80; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3661

Spring 2025 Registration

Registration opens on Tuesday, January 7, at 9 a.m. ET for Monday and Tuesday courses and on Wednesday, January 8, at 9 a.m. ET for Wednesday and Thursday courses.

Registration FAQs

To make your registration experience as smooth as possible, we have put together a frequently asked questions guide. At OLLI at Duke FAQs you will find answers to questions on membership, courses, Zoom and technology and registration.

Wellness Activities

Breathwork

IN PERSON: Discover the transformative power of breathwork in this engaging seven-class series led by a somatic wellness coach. Rooted in ancient practices dating back to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (200 B.C.!), breathwork has seen a resurgence thanks to figures like Wim Hof and has become a foundational practice in many yoga studios today. In this course, you will learn various breathwork techniques that can enhance your focus, clarity and calm — benefits attested to by the instructor’s clients. Each session will equip you with practical tools to incorporate into your daily routine, allowing you to practice independently or with friends and family. Whether you are interested in mindfulness, holistic health or simply deepening your self-care routine, this course can provide you with invaluable insights and practices. Don’t miss this opportunity to harness the breath for greater well-being! • Active Skill Learning.

Recommended text:

• James Nestor, “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” (9780241289129)

Ari Berenbaum is a baker, a small business owner and a somatic wellness coach. Owner of Ninth Street Bakery in Durham, he began learning breathwork techniques from holistic health practitioner Julianne Trell, D.C., of Raleigh in 2022. He has trained numerous clients since then on how to get out of their heads and into their body’s natural forms of energy. He has also completed three trainings with Wim Hof method-certified instructors as well as a course in kundalini bodywork.

• 7 Thu, Jan 30 - Mar 13, 9-10:30 a.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 15; Fee: $100; Course ID: 3891

Fun & Games: Building Group Cohesion

IN PERSON: As you may have heard, stress relief from laughter is no joke! Fun, laughter and joyful group interactions have the biological effect of increasing endorphins, the neurotransmitters that help us cope with pain and stress. Participants will engage in group games, interactions and “hands-on” challenges that are designed to prompt cooperation, compromise, communication and laughter. Every meeting will be different from the last. Everyone is encouraged to take part in all the experiences, but participants can play the role of observer if they want a timeout. Some games may be familiar, but most are unique, creative situations designed to amuse participants and build friendships within the class. Sometimes we will be out of our seats and on our feet, so it’s a requirement that participants can walk unassisted. An additional requirement is a sense of humor. Let’s roll up our sleeves and play. • Active Skill Learning.

For 30 years, Carol Fynn was a consultant conducting adult workshops designed to build group cohesion. A master teacher, she has taught kindergarten through university students. Known for her humor and creativity, she was recognized by the Ashland Foundation as one of the 10 best teachers in a three-state area.

• 8 Wed, Jan 29 - Mar 19, 9-10:30 a.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 24; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3699

If enrolling in a course that meets In person, please review the In-Person Guidelines before registering.

Wellness Activities

End of Life: Options and Decisions

IN PERSON: Many wish to die peacefully at home but instead die in a hospital. This course will provide options for staying in control throughout the dying process, including medical aid in dying (legal in 10 states and D.C.), terminal sedation, voluntarily stopping eating and drinking, pain management, medical orders to ensure advance directives are followed when individuals are not in a health care facility, and hospice care. Participants will learn how to create a comprehensive advance directive — including provisions specific to dementia — that will provide sufficient guidance for family and physicians to make clinical decisions in many different situations. The course will also provide information about strategies for having effective conversations about one’s end-of-life wishes with physicians, family and surrogates. By the end of the course, participants will have the information needed to make decisions and take actions that will help ensure they or a loved one can have a peaceful death. • Lecture + Q&A.

Please note: Participants will need access to a printer. The course website includes several forms that will be reviewed in class. Participants are also required to read several articles on the course website before each session and to write and print a comprehensive advance directive.

Recommended texts:

• Atul Gawande, “Being Mortal” (9781250076229)

• Sherwin Nuland, “How We Die” (9780099476412)

Janet O’Keeffe, Dr.P.H., RN, has 30 years’ experience researching and analyzing health, aging, disability and long-term care policy for the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, AARP’s Public Policy Institute and the American Psychological Association’s public policy office. She was a senior researcher and policy analyst at RTI International for 15 years. She also has clinical experience as a registered nurse in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

• 6 Thu, Feb 13 - Mar 20, 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 35; Fee: $90; Course ID: 3811

Growing Creatively at 55-Plus

IN PERSON: Come discover ways to enhance your creative abilities, instincts and behaviors in a supportive and fun environment. In this course, we will delve into the biological changes that occur in our brains as we age, embracing the unique opportunities for creative renewal that come with this stage of life. Students will learn proven techniques to cultivate a creative mindset and build a personal creative toolbox, with the power to express themselves in new ways. We will craft both the most rational and the most optimistic stories about our futures filled with unknowable unknowns. As a group, we will identify a community need that we can creatively address, harnessing our collective talents to make a positive impact. Whether you are a seasoned artist or simply looking to explore your creative side, you are invited to rediscover the potential of creativity to enrich your life. Unleash your creative spirit and grow in ways you never imagined! • Faciltated discussion, Active Skill Learning.

Wellness Activities

Guest Speaker:

• Hugh Willard, Clinical Therapist, Author of “Finding Beauty in the Gray”

Recommended texts:

• Hugh J. Willard, “Finding Beauty in the Gray” (9781960146809)

• David Abram, “The Spell of the Sensuous” (9780679776390)

• Carl Nordgren, “Becoming a Creative Genius {again}” (9781611532166)

Carl Nordgren was a fishing guide, factory worker and foundry worker who then spent 40 years as an entrepreneur. His calling is to help others grow their creative capacities, instincts and behaviors. For 14 years, he taught courses in creativity and entrepreneurship at Duke. He is a novelist, lifelong learner, author of “Becoming a Creative Genius (Again)” and host of the radio show “Exploring Your Creative Genius.”

• 6 Wed, Jan 29 - Mar 5, 9-10:30 a.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 30; Fee: $90; Course ID: 3900

Introduction to Bridge

IN PERSON: Join us to dive into the world of bridge, the most exciting card game around! This course is perfect for newcomers and those who have dabbled in bridge before. Not only will you learn the game’s mechanics, you will also meet new friends and keep your mind sharp. We will cover essential topics like basic hand evaluation, trick-taking strategies, planning for no-trump and suit contracts, basic opening leads, and modern bidding techniques. Each class will include a minilecture and instructional videos, followed by hands-on practice. You’ll have the opportunity to practice playing bridge hands online, complete homework assignments

and take quizzes to reinforce your learning. Whether you are looking to sharpen your skills or start from scratch, this interactive course will provide a welcoming environment to enhance your bridge knowledge and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow players. Come and discover why bridge is a game for a lifetime! • Active Skill Learning.

Required supplies/fee: There is a fee of $25 payable to the instructor at the first class. The fee will cover access to online practice platform and handouts.

Required text:

• Jeff Bayonne, “A Taste of Bridge” (9781771400343)

Please note: Participants must purchase the book before class.

Henry Meguid is the past president of the American Bridge Teachers’ Association (ABTA) and the 2018 ABTA Teacher of the Year Award recipient. He holds the accredited master teacher credential, North America’s highest bridge teacher accreditation. He has been an OLLI instructor for the past five years.

• 9 Wed, Jan 29 - Apr 2 (no class Feb 5), 9-11 a.m.

• In person at Bridge Academy, Durham

• Maximum: 28; Fee: $110; Course ID: 2740

Meditative Drawing: The Zentangle Art Method

See listing on page 20

All OLLI at Duke classes and events are in Eastern Time

Wellness Activities

NC’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail: Exploring the Trail

ONLINE: Discover a local gem, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST), North Carolina’s 1,175-mile flagship state trail stretching from Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) to Jockey’s Ridge State Park. In 1977, Howard Lee, then the secretary of the North Carolina Department of Natural Resources and formerly the first black mayor of a majority-white Southern city (Chapel Hill), proposed a path from the mountains to the sea to showcase the diverse regional topography, natural beauty and cultural heritage of the state. The current route traverses mountains, forests, public lands, historic sites, towns, roadways and blueways. Learn the trail’s history from an unfunded government mandate to the largest recipient of the $30 million Complete the Trails Program. Explore how to hike, bike or paddle the trail, participate in crew days and make the trail more inclusive with the MST for All initiative. Guest speakers will share insights on the trail’s unique features, trail maintenance and future trail development. • Lecture + Q&A, Active Skill Learning. Guest Speakers:

• Jerry Barker, Associate Vice Chancellor Emeritus at NC State University, author and former board member and former president of Friends of the MST

• Andrew Sam and Bill Boyarsky, Trail Crew Leaders for Alamance and Orange counties

• Brent Laurenz and Jim Grode, Executive Director and Trail Resource Manager for Friends of the MST

Please note: There will be an optional hike on a trail section in the Piedmont, based on student interest.

Recommended texts:

• Jerry Barker, “Discovering North Carolina’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail: A Companion for Hikers and Armchair Explorers” (9781469670096)

• Jim Grode (Editor), “Great Day Hikes on North Carolina’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail” (9781469654850)

• Allen De Hart, “Hiking North Carolina’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail” (9780807848876)

Lynne Bresler is a long-time trail user, advocate and volunteer, and joined Friends of the MST board in 2018. She helped rewrite the trail crew leaders manual and enjoys participating in Alamance, Orange and Durham county trail workdays. Lynne earned a Bachelor of Science and an MBA from the University of Maryland. In 2017, as an MBA requirement, she led a project to improve operational efficiency for Elkin Valley Trails Association, an MST partner located along the Yadkin River in Surry County.

• 4 Thu, Feb 13 - Mar 6, 1:30-2:45 p.m.

• Online via Zoom

• Maximum: 40; Fee: $60; Course ID: 3916

Finding Course Links in the Student Portal

OLLI members who register for online courses will find the Zoom links for their courses in their Student Portal at learnmore.duke.edu/olli.

See Finding Course Links for step-by-step instructions and a demonstration video.

Wellness Activities

Steady on Your Feet

IN PERSON: Enhance your strength, balance and coordination in this dynamic course designed to improve mobility and confidence. This engaging course will guide you through a variety of playful, low-impact physical practices that make healthy movement enjoyable and accessible. Each session will feature mindful balance activities and movement exercises aimed at helping you develop new ways to enhance your gait. Students will experience increased ease and strength as they navigate their daily activities. The course is ideal for participants who are comfortable walking continuously for at least 20 minutes. Drawing from the Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention curriculum, rope flow and breath work, each class will follow a structured format of warmup, activity and cooldown. This course is suitable for all levels — no previous experience necessary! Cultivate stability and enjoy the benefits of a more active lifestyle. • Active Skill Learning.

Please note: Loose fitting exercise clothes are recommended. Please bring a water bottle. All participants are required to bring a yoga mat or blanket.

Danny Lightheart holds a master’s degree in occupational therapy. Danny has worked with individuals with a wide variety of mobility, balance and coordination challenges. He is an instructor of the evidence-based health promotion class Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention. In 2023, Danny completed the coaches course in rope flow through Way of the Rope. In addition, Danny has taught yoga, aerobics and juggling to older adults.

• 9 Mon, Jan 27 - Mar 31 (no class Mar 10), 9-10:30 a.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 12; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3925

T’ai Chi in Moonlight

ONLINE: T’ai chi (taijiquan/t’ai chi ch’uan) is a Chinese moving meditation, martial art and health exercise. Based on slow, continuous, whole-body movement, it results in increased energy, mindfulness, well-being and mental, emotional and physical balance. Research has verified its benefits, and medical professionals endorse it for numerous conditions including arthritis, osteoporosis, balance difficulties, Parkinson’s disease and fibromyalgia. The practice encourages a joyful, reflective approach to daily life. In this experiential course, you gain proficiency through the Moonlight routine: 30 movements drawn from traditional Wu Hao style Taiji. Beginners and experienced students are welcome. The instructor teaches with playful humor, clear descriptions and demonstrations with both front and rear views. He focuses on details as well as the big picture, and takes frequent breaks to answer questions. Students receive handouts via email, and video recordings assist practice between classes. • Active Skill Learning.

Recommended text:

• Tsung Hwa Jou, “The Dao of Taijiquan: Way to Rejuvenation” (9780692034057)

Jay Dunbar (M.A. English literature, Duke; Ph.D. education, UNC-Chapel Hill) is director of the Magic Tortoise Taijiquan School. An “indoor” student of Grandmaster Jou Tsung Hwa, he has studied taijiquan and qigong since 1975 and has taught in the Triangle since 1979. He has offered courses through OLLI each term since 2003.

• 10 Thu, Jan 30 - Apr 3, 9-10:15 a.m.

• Online via Zoom; Sessions are recorded

• Maximum: 200; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3927

Wellness Activities

Yoga for Everyday Living

IN PERSON: Yoga is more than just exercise — it’s a lifestyle that fosters ease and calm while nurturing kinder relationships with ourselves and others. Join the instructor, an integrative yoga therapist, for this transformative 10-week series, where we will explore how yoga can address the common “ailments” of daily life. Each week, students will learn yogic strategies to manage stress, insomnia, grief, depression, digestion issues, fatigue, low immunity, osteoporosis, arthritis and back pain. Class sessions will include movement, breathing techniques, intention, mudra (gesture), mindfulness, sound practices, visualization and yoga nidra. Each class will feature a brief discussion on that week’s focus ailment, followed by a comprehensive yoga practice. Printable protocols will be available on the course website for students’ continued practice at home. Embrace the holistic benefits of yoga, and cultivate resilience in your everyday life! • Active Skill Learning.

Please note: Participants should be able to get down to the floor and back up again independently. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat, two 4-inch yoga blocks, an 8-foot yoga strap, a blanket and a pillow.

Cheryl Fenner Brown is an integrative yoga therapist and master yoga teacher who discovered yoga in 2001 and became enchanted by its focus on the subtle connections between breath, body, mind and emotion. Students appreciate her educational approach and her knowledge of anatomy, philosophy, asana, mudra, chanting, pranayama and yoga nidra, delivered with compassion and humor. She specializes in working with people over 50, cancer patients and those with structural injuries and ailments.

• 10 Mon, Jan 27 - Mar 31, 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 20; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3939

Build Your Strength With Vivo

ONLINE: Muscle strength and balance are critical to maintaining health and independence as we age. Without additional strength training, most older adults will suffer a loss of muscle mass that can negatively impact their balance and mobility. For more details, see the course description in the Experiential Learning section on page 10. Details for the free information session are on page 7

New Member Meet & Mingle

Thursday, January 23

In person at JRC, 10-11 a.m. ET

New to OLLI at Duke? We invite you to join us for an in-person Meet & Mingle event hosted by the OLLI leadership team. New members will have an opportunity to meet other new members, OLLI Advisory Council members and OLLI staff. More information will be available in an upcoming member newsletter.

Writing

Beginning Your Memoir

IN PERSON: This course is designed to guide participants through the process of initiating their memoir-writing journey. Memoirs are powerful tools for self-expression, reflection and storytelling. Students will be provided with the foundational knowledge, skills and inspiration they need to start crafting their own compelling memoirs. The learning in this course happens through writing practice and in-class discussion. Students should be prepared to write during every class session and should prioritize time between sessions to complete the reading and writing assignments. By the end of the course, participants will have gained a deeper understanding of memoir writing as a genre, developed their writing skills and created a strong foundation for their personal memoir projects. They will leave the course with newfound confidence in their ability to tell their own stories and continue refining their work beyond the classroom. • Lecture + Q&A, Facilitated discussion.

Recommended texts:

• Brenda Ueland, “If You Want to Write” (9781614271352)

• Natalie Goldberg, “Writing Down the Bones” (9781611803082)

Shawna Ayoub is a brown, queer, Durham-based writer and instructor whose work prioritizes engaging with difficult topics. After recognizing the personal benefits of writing for release and recovery, she has made her practice public for the last 12 years, offering courses independently as well as through the Center for Creative Writing. Her work has appeared in Verywell Mind, Survivor Lit, Exit 7, [wherever], The Archipelago and The Manifest Station.

• 7 Thu, Jan 30 - Mar 13, 9-10:30 a.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 12; Fee: $110; Course ID: 3631

Elements of Short Prose: Presenting One Story, Two Ways!

ONLINE: This course invites students to explore the art of storytelling from multiple perspectives. Each two-week block will focus on writing a 500- to 750-word short story, followed by rewriting the same or a similar story from a different angle. For example, in the first week, students could write in the first-person perspective, then, in the second week, they could switch to third person. Stories could explore the same event — like a ballgame — from opposing viewpoints, or, more creatively, from a human’s perspective one week and from an animal’s the next. Students can experiment with fiction and nonfiction, finding new surprises in each retelling. Each piece will be submitted to the instructor a day and a half before class, then shared with the group for review and discussion. After each class, the instructor will provide written feedback on the stories. A computer and computer skills are required. Access to a printer will be helpful. • Facilitated discussion.

Jane Seitel has taught over 25 courses at OLLI. She is an expressive arts therapist, writer, teacher and award-winning poet. She received her Master of Education from Lesley University and her MFA from Drew University. She teaches poetry, prose craft and literature. She encourages curiosity and creativity, and delights in the diversity of expressive voices.

• 8 Tue, Jan 28 - Mar 25 (no class Mar 18), 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• Online via Zoom

• Maximum: 9; Fee: $120; Course ID: 3895

Writing

Finding Your Way Into Writing: Where the Wild Words Are

IN PERSON: You don’t need a perfect concept to start writing — just a way in. This course offers a wide array of prompts designed to spark creativity, from responding to music, memories and images of art to explorations in form, close observation, dialogue and description. Through writing freely and fully in an environment of creative camaraderie, letting ideas develop organically, and sharing pieces of their work along the way, participants will develop their own unique voices. By the end of the course, everyone will have a variety of tools to inspire and sustain their writing. Students should bring their favorite materials for writing by hand, even if they also bring a laptop or tablet. • Facilitated discussion, Active Skill Learning.

Charisse Coleman’s personal essays have appeared in numerous national literary magazines, The Raleigh News & Observer, the Independent Weekly and other publications. She has been awarded fellowships by the North Carolina Arts Council, and had her work nominated for a Pushcart Prize and listed as notable in “The Best American Essays.” She has led workshops privately and through Duke Continuing Studies.

• 8 Thu, Jan 30 - Mar 27 (no class Mar 13), 1:30-3 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 12; Fee: $120; Course ID: 3897

Personal Narratives: Turning Points

IN PERSON: This course invites students to reflect on momentous events in their lives and use them as the foundation for their narratives. We will explore the concept of turning points and how they can serve as jumping-off points for memoir writing. Students will focus on storytelling elements such as vivid description, scene creation and writing styles that engage readers. The course also emphasizes fostering a supportive environment where writers feel comfortable sharing their stories. Class sessions will include sharing work, providing and receiving feedback, and responding to in-class writing prompts. • Facilitated discussion. Margaret Anderson has an M.A. in creative writing from Hollins University and a B.A. in English literature from Guilford College. She has taught creative writing to both adults and children. She taught writing at NC State University and most recently in the OLLI program. She also taught writing workshops through the Durham Public Library. Margaret is always interested in and often fascinated by personal stories!

• 8 Thu, Jan 30 - Mar 27 (no class Mar 20), 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 10; Fee: $120; Course ID: 3918

Spring 2025 Registration

Registration opens on Tuesday, January 7, at 9 a.m. ET for Monday and Tuesday courses and on Wednesday, January 8, at 9 a.m. ET for Wednesday and Thursday courses.

Writing

Writing the Personal Essay

IN PERSON: In this course, students learn how to craft engaging personal essays that resonate with readers — whether through humor, through poignancy or by sparking curiosity — much like the stories in “Chicken Soup for the Soul.” Throughout the course, students explore how to transform everyday experiences into compelling narratives suitable for publication in venues such as newspapers, magazines, anthologies and newsletters. Each week, students write a 300-word nonfiction story based on an assigned theme. Class discussions focus on what works and what doesn’t in each narrative. Designed for aspiring writers, this course helps students hone their skills while teaching them how to tell a story that has a beginning, a middle and an end. Students need pen and paper for each class. • Facilitated discussion.

Please note: Students should bring a pen and a notebook to class.

Erika Hoffman is an alumna of Duke, where she received her undergraduate degree in English as well as her M.A.T. in English education. She taught high school English for 10 years. In the past 14 years, she’s been published 485 times. Her stories have appeared in the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series 17 times. Currently, she’s featured regularly in the Chatham News & Record.

• 10 Tue, Jan 28 - Apr 1, 3:30-5 p.m.

• In person at Judea Reform Congregation

• Maximum: 15; Fee: $120; Course ID: 3937

Writing Thematic Poems: Building a Chapbook

ONLINE: This course invites students to explore the challenges and rewards of writing thematically related poems, potentially leading to a chapbook. In the first class, participants will discuss their chosen poetic theme for the semester, with guidance in areas such as making historical figures and places come alive through research. Poems may range in subject matter — anything from history, science or current events to art, sports or belief systems — and can take any form such as psalms, odes, free verse or prose poems. Each week, students will submit one poem, which will be shared with the class for a discussion on craft and content. Feedback will focus on the poem’s strengths and potential improvements. Poems are emailed to the instructor a day and a half before class, compiled and distributed to the group for review. After each session, the instructor provides individualized written feedback on each poem. A computer and computer skills are required. Access to a printer is helpful.

• Facilitated discussion.

Jane Seitel has taught over 25 courses at OLLI. She is an expressive arts therapist, writer, teacher and award-winning poet. She received a Master of Education from Lesley University and an MFA from Drew University. She teaches poetry, prose craft and literature. She encourages curiosity and creativity, and delights in the diversity of expressive voices.

• 8 Thu, Jan 30 - Mar 27 (no class Mar 20), 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

• Online via Zoom

• Maximum: 11; Fee: $120; Course ID: 3938