OLLI Fall 2024 Catalog by Western Michigan University

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

Phone:

Fax: (269)

wmich.edu/olli

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Western Michigan University 1903 W Michigan Ave Kalamazoo MI 49008-5230 USA

Fall 2024 Director’s Message

Asweenteranewprogramyear,weareexcitedtocelebrate10yearsofaccomplishments asanofficialOsherLifelongLearningInstituteatWesternMichiganUniversity!

Foundedupontheprinciple,“sothatallmaylearn,”WesternMichiganUniversityhas upheldlifelonglearningasacornerstoneofitsmissionsinceitsinception.Withthe establishmentoftheLifelongLearningAcademyin2011,WMUtookthiscommitment furtherbycreatingnewopportunitiesformatureadultstudentstocometogetherinthe pursuitofcontinuouslearningwithanemphasisonfosteringwell-beingandbroadening theirhorizonsthrougheducationalexperiences.

ThislaidthefoundationforWMUtotakethenecessarystepstobecomeanofficialOsher LifelongLearningInstitute(OLLI).VisionariessuchasformerWMUPresidentJohnDunn workedhardtomakeithappen,announcingin2015thattheBernardOsherFoundation hadawardedOLLIatWMUa$1millionendowment.Thisgenerousgiftempoweredus togrowintoapassionatecommunityoflifelonglearnersdedicatedtothepursuitof knowledge,servicethroughvolunteering,andforgingstrongsocialconnectionswithlikemindedpeers.

Incelebrationofour10thyearasanofficialOsherLifelongLearningInstitute,weare launchingaseriestitled“ALifeWellLived–Kalamazoo”tokickoffthe2024-2025 programyear.

The“ALifeWellLived–Kalamazoo”seriesincludes:

• A film screening of “Lives Well Lived” by the award-winning Sky Bergman

• A book read

• The OLLI at WMU Photovoice course

• Community conversations

• Opportunities for intergenerational dialogue

• An art exhibit centered around “A Life Well Lived – Kalamazoo”

• An exclusive end-of-program event featuring documentarian Sky Bergman

This collaborative series will be the first of its kind for OLLI at WMU—and there’s no better time than now to get involved! We look forward to you joining us as we celebrate a decade of being an official Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.

Here’s to ten more years and beyond!

Toni Woolfork-Barnes Director

OLLI From the Members

It was so interesting learning all of these new facts about non-venomous and venomous snakes and learning about the myths as well. Now I can share all of the information I learned with my friends! Snakes! with Adam Austin

McGuire is an excellent teacher. Students were intellectually challenged and very engaged. Close reading of text, great questions & discussions. I love to watch Mcguire’s mind work and love how he gets my mind working in his classes.

Introduction to Phenomenology with McGwire Hidden

Really liked the opportunity to learn basics of Tai Chi. Instructor did an excellent job of showing us how to do the moves, individualize them for our own bodies, and he had a fun sense of humor!

Tai Chi with Professor Cheng Tao

“

Max did a great job of explaining the perspective of a person who is neurodiverse and the challenges of living in a society that often views that as a negative. This class gave me a lot to think about!

Introduction to Neurodiversity with Max Hornick

“The four panelists told their childhood experiences very powerfully. The facilitator was a very respectful ally for them.”

The Truth About Indian Boarding Schools with Robert Weir

Photos by Johnathon Moulds, NHBP Photographer

WMU Civility Statement

Western Michigan University is committed to creating and sustaining an environment that honors the inherent dignity and worth of all members of the WMU community. Respectful behavior expressed verbally, textually, visually, and physically should be the norm in all university communications and venues including classrooms, meetings, offices, workplaces, forums, events, social media and residential communities.

As an institution of higher education, we welcome a diverse range of perspectives and opinions and uphold the importance of civil debate. We fully support the free exchange of ideas and beliefs, as well as the expression of provocative or unpopular ideas. It is through this process that we generate knowledge and deepen our understanding of humanity.

Freedom of thought and expression may create conflict, strong emotions, and divergent ideological positions. While these effects are expected and welcomed, all members of the community have a responsibility to behave in a manner that does not harm others nor creates a hostile environment. Behavior that attacks, humiliates, belittles, or conveys hatred towards others diminishes our thriving and safe university environment.

Each member of our academic community is encouraged to be thoughtful and sensitive in their choice of words and behaviors. We should be aware of how our behavior affects others. Furthermore, we carry a responsibility to challenge those who communicate intolerance, hatred and bigotry. Words and actions matter. Everyone is asked to do their part in creating a healthy and positive university community and a culture that truly values each member’s uniqueness experiences, and perspectives.

Membership Information

Why Become an OLLI Member?

Intellectual discovery, personal growth, and social engagement are proven to enrich one’s quality of life, boost health, and contribute to one’s overall happiness. Those who are open to new experiences, actively involved in their communities, and cultivators of curiosity often lead more purposeful and productive lives.

From music to history or the arts to the sciences, the opportunities to expand your worldview and broaden your horizons are endless with OLLI at WMU!

OLLI Membership Fees

Memberships fees are $50 per year and are nontransferable. Our annual renewal date is July 1. Joining OLLI is simple – just head to our website at wmich.edu/olli. If you have questions about membership, call us at (269) 387-4157 or email wmu-olli@wmich.edu.

Keep us growing by becoming a member and by telling your friends about OLLI at WMU! The gift of an OLLI membership also makes an excellent present for friends, family, and colleagues.

Benefits of an OLLI Membership

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at WMU is membership-based and open to anyone 50+ with a passion for learning. There are no tests, no grading and no academic credit. Your annual membership fee helps defray costs not covered by our low course fees.

There are many benefits to an OLLI at WMU membership, including:

• 25% discount for most events at the Gilmore Theatre Complex

• 15% discount for most events at Miller Auditorium

• 10% discount for most items at the WMU Bookstore

• Enrollment fee waived at West Hills Athletic Club

• Access to Special Interest Groups which are member directed

• Member-only events and tours

Course Locations

Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Museum

6151 Portage Rd, Portage, MI 49002

College of Health and Human Services

Western Michigan University - East Campus

Friendship Village 1400 N Drake Rd, Kalamazoo, MI 49006

Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Michigan 420 E. Alcott Street, 49001

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

314 S Park St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007

KNAC, First Baptist Church Building 315 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49007

Milestone Senior Services 918 Jasper St, Kalamazoo, MI 49001

Moore Hall

Western Michigan University - Main Campus

Parkview Hills Clubhouse 3707 Greenleaf Cir, Kalamazoo, MI 49008

West Hills Athletic Club 2001 S 11th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009

Portage Zhang Senior Center 203 E Centre Avenue, Portage, MI 49002

The Biggest Village in the USA: Kalamazoo History through 1884

General Information and Policies

About the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Western

The Bernard Osher Foundation, headquartered in San Francisco, was founded in 1977 by Bernard Osher, a respected businessman and community leader. The Foundation supports a lifelong learning network for mature adults through their Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes, which can be found on the campuses of 120 colleges and universities nationwide.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Western Michigan University (OLLI at WMU) takes pride in providing intellectual and cultural stimulation, personal growth, and social engagement for adults 50+ in an informal, lively educational atmosphere. Over the last 10 years, over 1,000 members have participated in over 969 courses taught by 410+ volunteer instructors at nine different locations, in addition to over 60 events and 99 trips.

In addition, hundreds of volunteers have been an integral part of committees and leadership, helping to guide the success of OLLI at WMU. Courses and activities are developed by OLLI members with the support of the staff of WMUx. Members also volunteer as planners, instructors, committee members or advisory board members.

Scholarships

We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn. If you are unable to pay for courses, but want to experience what OLLI at WMU offers, why not take advantage of our robust Scholarship Fund?

An individual may apply for financial assistance to pay for one course per semester. The application is short and confidential. Please email us at wmu-olli@wmich.edu or call (269) 387-4157 for more information.

Trip Registration and Fees

Trips will be announced in the monthly newsletter and on our website. Dates and costs vary on a case-by-case basis. Day Trips are categorized as Easy, Moderate, or More Strenuous based on how active the adventure will be. OLLI has also partnered with Premier World Discovery to offer opportunities for family and friends to travel together on extended journeys around the globe. Visit wmich.edu/olli/trips to learn more.

Cancellations, Withdrawals, and Refunds

Cancellations: Instructors reserve the right to cancel a class and will notify course participants accordingly. The instructor will work with class members to arrange a make-up session. If you registered for a course and it is canceled, you may receive a refund or apply your course fee to another course if space is available.

If Western Michigan University classes are canceled for any reason, such as inclement weather, OLLI in-person classes are also canceled. It is the participant’s responsibility to consult the WMU website, OLLI website and/or local media regarding weather or other closures.

Withdrawals: You may withdraw from a course by contacting the OLLI office. Non-attendance or notifying solely the instructor is not an official cancellation.

Refunds: You will be eligible for a refund if you withdraw from a course at least two weeks before the first session. If you withdraw from a course less than two weeks before the first session, fees will not be refunded.

Parking Information

For in-person courses held on WMU’s campus, OLLI at WMU pays for your parking. Other course locations do not require permits. Parking permits are emailed or mailed by USPS (upon request) one to two weeks before the first session of your course.

Please let the office know if you already have a WMU permit or a disability parking placard/license plate, as you will not need a parking permit. If no handicapped parking spots are available when you arrive, you may park in any available space with a valid disability placard/license plate, including metered spots (except reserved parking).

Your Photo

When you participate in OLLI at WMU activities (courses, trips, events, etc.) your photograph may be taken and utilized to promote the Institute. Your photo may be used on the website, in our e-newsletter, in brochures, flyers, catalogs or elsewhere. If you do not want your photo to be used it is your responsibility to step out of pictures that are being taken.

Reluctant Speaker Class

Volunteers are the Heart of OLLI!

Are you eager to make a significant impact on your community? Do you want to utilize the skills you have developed over a lifetime or discover new ones? Would like to make new friends and social connections? If the answer is “yes” to any of the above, please consider volunteering with OLLI!

Teach a Course!

You do not have to be a current or past WMU instructor to teach a course! We welcome past and present instructors from public schools and colleges as well as members of the general community who are passionate about a topic and wish to share their knowledge with others. Got an idea for a topic? Contact us via email at wmu-olli@wmich.edu or visit wmich.edu/olli/become-instructor

Support OLLI at WMU

OLLI at WMU is a membership- and volunteer-driven organization. Even though instructors are unpaid volunteers, the Institute incurs other costs related to course offerings. Subsequently, membership and class fees do not cover all costs associated with operating the Institute. There are also people in the community who are committed to lifelong learning but cannot afford the cost of our courses.

Through WMU’s University Advancement and Alumni Relations Office, we accept donations to either our Operating Fund to support the day-to-day operations of OLLI at WMU, or our Scholarship Fund, which provides free or reduced course registration to individuals who are not able to otherwise participate otherwise.

Visit our website for more information about how you can support OLLI with a financial gift.

Connect with us on Facebook

Stay up to date by liking and following us on Facebook! Search for OLLI at WMU (@WMULifelongLearning) on your Facebook account. Our posts include thought-provoking articles, upcoming details for courses, trips, and events, as well as reviews and photos from programs that have already taken place. You can also use our page to connect with fellow OLLI members, post comments, and share interesting information!

Mollies and Wobblies Class

Registration

Registration for the Fall semester opens Wednesday, August 21 at 10 a.m. Courses are offered both in-person and online; course descriptions will indicate delivery method.

Ways to Register

Online

Call the OLLI office at (269)387-4157

Visit room 1530 in Ellsworth Hall on Western’s main campus

Please note that there will be limited “phone-in registration” for the Fall 2024 semester. Registering online is the quickest way to secure your spot for the courses you want to take. If you need assistance doing so, email us at wmu-olli@wmich.edu or call (269) 387-4157. If you have a visual or auditory disability, please make the OLLI at WMU office aware and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Trip Registration and Fees

Course Fees

Current fees are based on $10 per session for members and $20 for non-members. Other fees may apply.

If you register by mail, over the phone, or online you will receive registration confirmation and a receipt of payment via email. If you do not have an email address on file, you will receive your confirmation by postal mail upon request.

OLLI at WMU

Theater Scenic Design Class

Online Registration

Browse this Catalog

Click the ‘Click Here to Register ’ button

Click Here to Register

*Remember, members enjoy the lowest course fees and other benefits. Add a Membership to your cart if you have not yet renewed your annual membership.

Course Selection

Under Courses, click on the link for the appropriate starting month for your desired course

Browse for your desired course and click the ‘Add to Cart’ button

When you finish making all your course selections, click Cart to Checkout

Checkout and complete your transaction

For virtual courses, online access links will be sent to you prior to your course start date

For on campus classes, parking passes will be emailed a week before your course start date, if needed

August 2024 Courses

Biomedical Ethics

David J. Paul

Tues and Thurs 8/29 through 12/5. 10 to 11:40 a.m.

1121 Moore Hall, Western Michigan University

Discover the history of medical ethics in the United States as we examine many of the challenging ethical dilemmas faced by doctors, nurses, and other care providers. We’ll discuss diverse topics, including genetic and reproductive technologies, end of life care, AI in medicine, the conflicts between protecting patients' health while safeguarding their autonomy, and more.

Great Readings in Philosophy

McGwire Hidden

Tues and Thurs 8/29 through 12/5. 10 to 11:15 a.m.

1111 Moore Hall, Western Michigan University

Join undergraduate students in the Lee Honors College to explore great readings in philosophy! Together, you will read and reflect on influential works by philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, and more. This course offers a unique opportunity to participate in cross-generational discussions around life’s “big questions” while exploring new perspectives on the classic “big ideas” commonly associated with philosophy.

September 2024 Courses

World War I Aviation: A New Dimension in Warfare

Kevin Kenz

Tues 9/3. 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Museum

World War I is often portrayed as an endless war in the trenches. Yet this war was different from all others before it, for above the killing fields flew a new weapon—the airplane. As the 110th anniversary of the beginning of the Great War approaches, we’ll discover how this dimension of modern warfare began, the evolution of the aircraft technology they used, and the life stories of the pilots who took to the skies during this pivotal turning point in world history.

Financial Health and Wellness

Andrew Brasosky and Nick Luciano

Wed 9/4, 9/18, 9/25, 10/9, 10/16, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13. 1 to 3 p.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1057

There are many aspects of well-being—but did you know that financial health is one of them? This course examines financial habits from a holistic perspective that offers meaningful insights and guidance for moving forward. We’ll discuss important questions related to money management, examine the impact of healthcare costs, learn how to leverage retirement funds effectively, discover strategies to outsmart scammers, and more.

Introduction to Pickleball

Greg

Cowles

Thurs 9/5, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26. 1 to 2:30 p.m.

West Hills Athletic Club

In this fun introductory course, you’ll join the master of the pickleball universe, Greg Cowles, to learn the basics of the game hands-on and see for yourself what the pickleball craze is all about! As we play the game together, you’ll practice pickleball skills in real time and walk away from this course feeling confident on the court. Pickleball clothing should be comfy, allowing freedom of movement; footwear worn should be the closest thing to tennis shoes.

Kalamazoo, A Growing City: 1884-1930

Thomas Dietz

Fri 9/6, 9/13, 9/20. 9 to 11 a.m.

Portage Zhang Senior Center, Meeting Room 1A/1B

Kalamazoo began blazing down a trail of rapid growth after adopting the municipal form of government in 1884. This course will explore the political, economic, cultural, and social history of the city through the 1920s, examining the rise of key industries, such as the paper industry; important political developments, like the adoption of the City Commission form of government; and other topics, including the establishment of Western Michigan University, our first hospitals, and the stories of the people who played pivotal roles in the growing city.

Exploring the Mysteries of Flannery

O’Connor

David K. Isaacson

Mon 9/9, 9/16, 9/23. 2 to 4 p.m.

Friendship Village, Clubhouse Classroom

This three-session class will explore three short stories by Flannery O'Connor, who, next to William Faulkner, is the most complex fiction writer of the American South. Our discussions will especially focus on O'Connor's dark humor, Christian faith, and her idiosyncratic portrait of downtrodden inhabitants of the rural South. Students will be expected to read the stories before class—"Parker's Back" for 9/9, "Everything that Rises Must Converge" for 9/16, and "A Good Man is Hard to Find" for 9/23. You can obtain and print these stories from the internet by typing the title of the story accompanied by the words “full text” in any search engine website of your choosing.

Introduction to Nanoscience and Nanotechnology

Shivi Saxena

Mon 9/9, 9/16. 9 to 11 a.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1087

Nanoscience and nanotechnology are emerging disciplines that are making a huge impact on society by providing various solutions to important issues, such as advancements in disease treatments, sustainable energy production, environmental remediations, and the development of advanced materials. You’ll walk away from this course with a basic understanding of the principles of nanoscience and nanotechnology as we examine how these disciplines are influencing our current era, the ways they can be applied, what problems researchers now face, and the challenges that lay ahead as we move toward the future.

Tai Chi: Road to Balance and Relaxation

Dr. Cheng Tao

Session 1: Mon 9/9 through 10/14. 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Session 2: Mon 10/21 through 11/25. 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. College of Health and Human Services, Room 4010

Tai Chi is one of the Chinese traditional martial arts, which was originally designed as a unique self-defense technique, but later evolved into a self-efficacy health exercise. Characterized as flowing, graceful, and being well balanced, Tai Chi's movements strengthen the body as well as the mind from within, promoting a complete bodymind harmony. Through practicing Tai Chi, the balance of Yin and Yang—the essentials of nature and relaxation— will be embedded into the practitioner. Unrestrained by age, gender, and health status, Tai Chi can serve as an ideal physical exercise for many. This course will introduce some essential Tai Chi principles such as controlled relaxation, mental quietness, breathing in-depth, and intent first. As a starting class, we will learn and practice 5 to 8 basic, yet classic, Tai Chi movements. By the end of the session, the participants are expected to grasp these essentials and be able to practice basic Tai Chi movements independently.

September 2024 Courses

Pickleball Injury Prevention

Dr. Tyler Norman

Tues 9/10. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

West Hills Athletic Club

With the rise in popularity of the sport of pickleball, particularly among seniors, it is important to take injury prevention into account. We’ll discuss the various types of injuries that are most commonly seen in those who play pickleball, how to prevent them from happening to you, and methods to shorten the recovery period if you do happen to get hurt while out on the court.

Pundits, Polls, and Politics:

The 2024 Election

Douglas W. Stowell

Wed 9/11. 9 to 11 a.m.

Online via Webex

The 2024 Presidential Election is around the corner—but how can we make a well-informed choice? In this nonpartisan discussion, we’ll review the POTUS “Approval” history from 1945-2020, explore how voter polls are done, examine the major issues facing the 2024 election, and identify party positions. We’ll also analyze the current poll results and do some in-class survey exercises related to the choice for President using the Corporate Assessment Model, a tool that ranks both issues and candidates. Finally, we’ll wrap up by conducting a class-wide, stateby-state electoral vote prediction. Just 1 in 20 voters decide an election—let's do our civic duty and become better prepared voters! Please note that, although not required, bringing a cellphone and having familiarity with using QR codes are helpful tools we’ll be using in this course.

Election Administration and Security

Meredith Place

Wed 9/11. 10 a.m. to Noon

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1057

Recent changes to Michigan election laws coupled with concerns regarding accuracy at the ballot box has led to confusion among voters—and in this course, you’ll walk away with a sense of clarity and better understanding about the checks and balances built into our election process. You’ll learn about the processes local election administrators use to conduct safe, secure, and accurate elections, as well as how inspectors are trained to administer a polling location and safeguard the integrity of these spaces. We’ll also examine the technology used to count votes, chain of ballot custody, the mechanics behind tallying election results, and more.

Album Recording A to Z

Ted Hogarth

Wed 9/11. 1 to 3 p.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1093

Have you ever wondered about the process of recording an album? In this course, you’ll learn how the magic happens from beginning to end—including writing the music, hiring musicians, finding a studio, obtaining permission to record others’ music, use their artwork, and how digital distribution works. Although a project like this can seem like an intimidating undertaking, it is well worth the time and money spent. We’ll also discuss home recording and how easy, fun, and less costly that process is.

Man Versus Microbes: A History of Vaccines

Dr. Sam Grossman

Thurs 9/12, 9/19, 9/26. 9 to 11 a.m.

Portage Zhang Senior Center, Meeting Room 1A/1B

Mixing medical history and science through the lens of a layman’s perspective, we will explore several diseases throughout history and how vaccines were developed to fight them. From smallpox and whooping cough to covid and the flu, we will learn about the human body’s different immune systems that fight disease and the key players who led the charge on developing vaccines with the hopes of saving millions of lives. We will also analyze the commercial aspects and governmental regulation of vaccines, as well as examine anti-vaccine movements throughout history.

Golden Information for Your Golden Years Series: Medicare 201

Rob Williams

Tues 9/17. 10 a.m. to Noon

Milestone Senior Services

Milestone Senior Services is hosting an on-going series of classes that provide important information about resources for older adults or those living with a disability, led by an expert speaker on a different topic each month. September’s topic is Medicare; if you already have Medicare but want to learn more about your options or how to change plans, this is the class for you!

Grief Recovery

Carole McEdwards, LMFT

Thurs 9/19, 9/26, 10/3, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24. 10 a.m. to Noon.

Friendship Village, Keystone Room

This course is an action program designed to help participants to move forward after experiencing profound losses, such as a loved one’s passing, navigating the heartbreak of divorce, the ending of a career, health challenges, crises of faith, the death of a pet, coming to terms with an “empty nest,” reconstructing one’s life post-addiction, and other painful life experiences. Drawing upon our inner reserves of willingness, courage, and open-mindedness, we’ll use the “Grief Recovery Handbook” by John James and Russel Friedman as our foundation as we explore the ideas that grief is a neglected and misunderstood process, we are ill-prepared to deal with loss, and that recovery is a choice. Together, we’ll analyze the myths surrounding dealing with grief and discover solutions to come to terms with the pain caused by significant emotional loss by taking specific actions, completing weekly assignments, and reflecting through written work. Students will walk away from this course feeling empowered and equipped to recover from grief, regain their energy, and rediscover life’s spontaneity. Please note that students are required to obtain a copy of the “Grief Recovery Handbook” by John James and Russel Friedman in order to experience the full depth of the course; this book may be found at the Kalamazoo Public Library or can be purchased on Amazon.

Solvitur Ambulando: A Labyrinth Meditation

Rev. Debbie Eisenbise

Fri 9/20. 2 to 4 p.m. or Fri 10/11. 10 a.m. to Noon College of Health and Human Services, Room 1087

Learn about the history and use of the labyrinth as a symbol of transformation and a tool for introspection! We'll explore the labyrinth's connection to spiritual pilgrimage and use in walking meditation, as well as the benefits of these practices. You’ll also have the opportunity to put learning into practice as we walk the labyrinth outside of the College of Health and Human Services and reflect upon our experiences. An indoor labyrinth will be available in case of inclement weather; please wear sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

Climate Equity: Bridging Gaps for a Sustainable Future

Muhammad Ishtiaq

Tues 9/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29. 1 to 3 p.m. College of Health and Human Services, Room 1057

In this course, we’ll dive into the complexities of climate equity as we discover how the impact of our changing climate intersects with social dynamics and explore strategies for building resilience in diverse communities.

September 2024 Courses

What Lives in “The Zoo?” Urban Ecology in Kalamazoo

Dr. Sara Tanis

Fri 9/27. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1087

Urban Ecology is a life science devoted to understanding how ecosystems develop and persist in human-built environments. In this course, we’ll discuss how Kalamazoo’s urban infrastructure impacts its many ecosystems, as well as examine how these ecological communities in turn influence those same urban systems. We will also learn how aspects of social science directly affect ecosystems in cities and assess how light and noise pollution disturb and alter the behavior of urban inhabitants—including plants and animals! This course will take place both inside and outside of a classroom. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for a short walk around the sidewalks and paths at the WMU College of Health and Human Services.

Born of Hope and Indignation:

The Michigan Female College and the Fight for Co-education

Valerie R. Marvin

Mon 9/30. 1 to 3 p.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1093

Today Michigan women attend and graduate from public colleges and universities at higher rates than their male peers, but such was not always the case—the state systematically denied women access to the Michigan’s top public schools until 1870. We’ll explore the history of the fight for co-education, looking back to 1855, when sisters Abigail and Delia Rogers took to the Capitol in Lansing. There, they founded the Michigan Female College, which lasted 14 years. At the same time, the Rogers sisters joined James and Lucinda Stone of Kalamazoo, among many others, in lobbying the state to fund higher education for women and endorse coeducation at all levels. Ultimately the Rogers worked themselves out of a job when, in 1870, Michigan’s universities and colleges began admitting women.

Photovoice: A Life Well-Lived Kalamazoo

Jeri

Love

Tues 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29, 11/5. 1 to 3 p.m.

Film on Sat 10/5. 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Friendship Village, Keystone Room

Photovoice is a participatory photography program referred to as “Pictures with a Purpose,” in which participants choose a theme and utilize cell phones or digital cameras to document issues, share concerns, raise awareness, and promote community dialogue. “Lives Well-Lived” is an award-winning documentary film that celebrates the wit, wisdom, and life experiences of older Americans living full and meaningful lives. In response to this film, ten members of our lifelong learning community will use photography to develop a visual narrative of their ideas, beliefs, values, aspirations, and life experiences. You’ll explore new and creative avenues for sharing feelings and concerns about the aging process, as well as joyfully celebrate your accomplishments. To further document the experience, participants will write personal statements, create titles and captions for each image, and keep a photo journal, culminating in an exhibition of their photographs, portraits, and written work. In addition to class meetings, students will be asked to attend a special free viewing session of the film “Lives Well Lived” on Saturday, October 5 at the Kalamazoo Public Library’s Van Deusen Room (3rd floor) from 1 to 4:30 p.m. A discussion will follow the viewing.

The Ear: Anatomy and Its Contribution to Falls

Dr. Robin Criter

Thurs 10/3. 1 to 3 p.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1035

In this course, we’ll learn the basics of the anatomy and physiology of the ear, including how hearing works and the role our ears play in keeping our gaze stable during head movements. You’ll also discover how hearing and inner ear balance play a major role in falling. We’ll discuss relevant research conducted at WMU, along with current research opportunities and findings.

Visual Facilitation: Planning for Your Best Life as You Age

Dr. Allison Hammond

Thurs 10/3. 9 to 11 a.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1035

Come learn a new way to plan for the life you want to live as you age through Visual Facilitation. This course will teach you new ways to consider planning for your later years of life. Many people have made financial plans, chosen a power of attorney, and other technical things that need to be in place for smooth transitions as they age, however, many families have not had intentional conversations about the wishes of their elders or how family members can support them. You’ll learn about a simple visual tool called a Solution Circle that you can use to facilitate your own future planning with family and friends. This course was so popular in previous semesters that we just had to bring it back!

Contested Presidential Elections: An American Tradition

Thomas Dietz

Fri 10/4, 10/11, 10/25. 9 to 11 a.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1035

It might seem that contentious Presidential elections are a recent phenomenon, but this is not the case at all—bitterly divisive elections and their outcomes have occurred several times in American History. This course will explore the campaigns, issues, results, and consequences of three such elections: the 1800 election between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson; the 1824 election between John Quincy Adams, Henry Clay, and Andrew Jackson; and the 1876 election between Rutherford B. Hayes and Samuel Tilden.

Introduction to Ableism: Everything You Think You Know About Disability is (Probably) Wrong!

Max Hornick

Mon 10/7. 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Portage Zhang Senior Center, Lower Level Activity Room

Ableism is the oppression of people with disabilities. We’ll define and explore different types of ableism, examine how the words we use to talk about disability can contribute to either supporting equality or perpetuating stigma, identify strategies to address ableism, and discover how to unlearn one’s own unconscious biases related to disabilities.

The 2024 Presidential Election

Dr. John Clark

Thurs 10/10, 10/17, 10/24. 10 a.m. to Noon. College of Health and Human Services, Room 2010

Even before the nomination season ended, the 2024 election was clearly one for the ages. How can a wellinformed citizen, let alone an average voter, make sense of it all? In this class, political scientist John Clark will attempt to put this year’s presidential election into context. We’ll dive deep into the nomination process, the system of campaign finance, the impact of media coverage, the major issues in this election cycle, and the candidates themselves. The main focus of this course will center around understanding how elections work and why we end up with the elected officials that we do.

October 2024 Courses

The Art of Ethnography

Dr. Ann Miles

Mon 10/14, 10/21, 10/28. 3 to 5 p.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1087

This three-session course will explore the anthropological practice of ethnography, which, in part, studies the customs of individuals in their own cultures and environments through observation, interviews, and other research methods. Drawing on 30 years of anthropological research in southern Ecuador, you’ll learn how, over the course of decades, the city of Cuenca evolved from a sleepy colonial town to an expat retirement haven to a place threatened by drug violence—and how all of those changes are best understood when we take a step back to look at the larger picture, taking into account the complete and complex life experiences of the people who live there. We’ll also discuss how anthropologists make sense of complicated globalized worlds, explore how ethnography can help us understand cultural transformations, analyze the ethics of this type of research practice, and assess the value of long-term engagement in a single location.

Although not required, students who wish to dive deeper should consider reading the works “From Cuenca to Queens: An Anthropological Story of Transnational Migration” and “Unravelling Time: Thirty Years of Ethnography in Cuenca, Ecuador,” both by Ann Miles, which are available in physical and eBook formats from the WMU Libraries as well as major sellers.

Golden Information for Your Golden Years Series: Estate Planning 101

Jessica Brandow

Tues 10/15. 10 a.m. to Noon

Milestone Senior Services

In October, the topic is Estate Planning 101. In the first part of this comprehensive class, we’ll cover all the basics of estate planning, then spend the second half taking a deeper dive into comparing wills versus trusts. If you have already made plans and want a thorough review, or you’re thinking about estate planning for the first time, this class will equip you with invaluable knowledge so you can know exactly what steps you should take moving forward.

Gerrymandering: Past and Present

Robert Weir

Wed 10/16. 9 to 11 a.m.

Portage Zhang Senior Center, Meeting Room 1A/1B

Gerrymandering is a corrupt practice employed by partisan politicians to retain unfairly balanced legislative power. It's been a part of American politics since the late 1700s and it's still in practice today. Michigan is one of the few states where the electorate voted against gerrymandering in the 2018 general election, yet gerrymandering remains in Michigan news today. In this class, you will learn the definition of and examples of gerrymandering, its practice in bygone decades, and why it's still a relevant issue in Michigan. This topical discussion is non-partisan; people of all political persuasions are welcome. Because of its informative nature, this course has been intentionally scheduled prior to the November 2024 election.

Distracted Driving Epidemic

Marvin Berkowitz

Thurs 10/17. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1087

The distracted driving epidemic is having a devastating impact as our society continues to face tragic deaths, grievous injuries, and economic losses due to distracted driving. In this course, we’ll analyze the current crisis on our roads and discuss meaningful ways that we can take action to keep ourselves—and one another—safe.

The High Noon of Musical Romanticism – and Its Afternoon

Dr. Zaide Pixley

Wed 10/23, 10/30. 10 a.m. to Noon

Friendship Village, Keystone Room

The piano—it’s the perfect instrument to embody the gorgeous melodies and sumptuous harmonies of music that we call “romantic,” giving voice to the intimate, grand, and deeply personal expression that was so characteristic of the nineteenth century. Although Mozart and Beethoven paved the way, it was Schubert and Schumann who gave this music its own distinctive style. Chopin and Liszt amplified its drama, power, and lyricism. Brahms added grandeur mixed with tenderness, while Rachmaninoff fanned its dying embers. In this course, co-sponsored by the Gilmore Piano Festival, we’ll delight in their mighty concertos, ingenious fantasias, and exquisite miniatures, works that perfectly capture the spirit of musical romanticism.

The History and the Literature: The Women

Diane and Stanley Henderson

Fri 10/25. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Portage Zhang Senior Center, Meeting Room 1A/1B

Historical novels tell interesting stories about a time and place and the people living there. The authors of these novels must do extensive research so that their writing accurately reflects the history of the period. Using “The Women” by Kristin Hannah as our launching point, this session of “The History and the Literature” course series will offer a one-hour into at the history of the Vietnam War—both in-country and on the home front—to provide deeper context for the novel. We’ll then spend an hour discussing the novel as a piece of contemporary literature. Readers and history buffs alike will enjoy this course! Participants should read “The Women” before class.

The Beatles Before Ed Sullivan

Randall Schau Tues 10/29, 11/5, 11/12, 11/19. 10 a.m. to Noon

College of Health and Human Services, Room 2089

For most of America, the Beatles burst into our consciousness on February 8, 1964, when they appeared on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” By that time, however, the group had been together for seven years, doing mostly local, poorly paid gigs. This four-session class will focus on those early years—we'll talk about their growing up in Liverpool; how John met Paul, George, and Ringo; how Stuart Sutcliff and Pete Best came and went; and about their exhausting stints in Hamburg. We’ll also learn how Brian Epstein came to manage them, and George Martin produced them; about how their record company constantly underestimated them; and about how Beatlemania swept Britain before it crossed the Atlantic. With a thousand slides, dozens of videos and countless recordings of their songs, this class will dig deep into the group's slow ascent into stardom. Attendees will be kept on their toes with a series of Beatles quizzes.

Permanent Punishment

Abolaji Adewale Obileye

Thurs 10/31. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1057

Using case studies as our foundation, this course will focus on the issue of punishment within the criminal justice corridor. We’ll learn about the devastating impact sentencing experiences can have on one’s life, and the ways current punishment methods can permanently alter the chances of one's ability to correct their mistakes and reach their full potential. We’ll also analyze how American society has labeled the design of the correctional center as “correctional,” but in practice, the end result doesn’t represent corrected behavior or justify the types of punishment practiced in these facilities.

Diversity Under the Dome: Stories of the Very Different People Brought Together by Our Capitol

Valerie R. Marvin

Mon 11/4. 1 to 3 p.m.

College of Health & Human Services, Room 1093

Capitol buildings are, by their very nature, places where people from all walks of life come together. Some come to work as legislators, governors, secretaries, clerks, librarians, and pages. Others, including early reformers, came for a day or two to speak about pressing problems and to call for change. A few people spent their entire careers in our Capitol, where their presence spoke volumes. Many came after being elected to public office, while yet others came from across the globe and around the country to build and beautify our Capitol in the late 1800s. As we explore their life stories, we’ll discover that these many individuals were—and are—all different, yet all held two crucial things in common: a belief that they had important contributions to make, and a spirit of dedication to service and giving.

Mute Witness: The History and Future of Kalamazoo’s First Baptist Church Building

Matthew Claus

Wed 11/6. 1 to 3 p.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 1093

Tour: Sat 11/9. Time TBD. KNAC, First Baptist Church Building

Have you wondered what is happening with all the construction at the First Baptist Church building overlooking Bronson Park? This course will take a brief look at the history of the oldest church building in Kalamazoo— and the oldest public building downtown—and then delve into the unique transformation currently underway inside those walls. You’ll better understand how and why the Kalamazoo Nonprofit Advocacy Coalition (KNAC) took over as owners and operators of this treasured building and what the future holds for an iconic downtown landmark that has stood as a mute witness to 170 years of Kalamazoo’s history. Participants will also have the opportunity to attend an optional tour of the KNAC the weekend following the class.

KIA Encounter With the Visual Arts

Drs. James Carter and Sam Grossman Thurs 11/7, 11/14. 1 to 3 p.m.

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

This course is designed for anyone who wishes to gain a greater appreciation for the visual arts. Led by Kalamazoo Institute of Arts' (KIA) docents, Drs. Jim Carter and Sam Grossman, we’ll explore the KIA’s current exhibitions as we examine the various techniques artists utilize in creating art, as well as use the "Elements of Art" to further understand visual artwork. Expect to see excellent art and participate in exciting discussions. Students will improve their observation skills and become more comfortable discussing art with others.

Preparing for Death:

Leave No Stone Unturned

Dr. Susan Caulfield

Thur 11/7 and 11/14. 10 a.m. to Noon

Portage Zhang Senior Center, Meeting Room 1A/1B

Participants in this course will be introduced to a variety of topics that one might wish to address in preparing for the eventuality of death. Rather than approach this as a taboo or morose topic, the course will focus on identifying important topics and issues that one wishes to be honored both before and after dying. These topics include legal documentation and considering if one wants a service and, if so, what kind of service. We’ll also think about some questions. Does one want to write their own obituary? Are there people one hopes to be present when near death? Or are there people one does not want to be present at that time? Overall, the theme of this course is to create an inventory of what is important and begin work on addressing each item in one's inventory.

Golden Information for Your Golden Years Series: Advance Health Care Planning

Hilary Kerr

Tues 11/12. 10 a.m. to Noon Milestone Senior Services

In November, the topic is Advance Health Care Planning. You’ll learn strategies to organize your thoughts and wishes about how you want your loved ones to support your health and well-being in the future. We’ll also develop a plan for them to follow in the event you are unable to communicate your needs.

Inside the NFL’s Third Team on the Field

Ronald Winter

Thurs 11/14, 11/21. 1 to 3 p.m.

College of Health and Human Services, Room 2089

Discover the behind-the-scenes responsibilities and activities of National Football League officials. In this course, you’ll learn about individual positions, their duties, and what it takes to conduct the fast-paced, highly skilled event that is part of "America's Game." Examples of real game action will be used to highlight commonly misunderstood game situations.

Live Music and Discussion: African Influence on American Old Time Tunes

Howard Steiner and Band

Mon 11/25. 5 to 7 p.m

Portage Zhang Senior Center, Lower Level Activity Room

History comes alive through music in this unique course featuring an acoustic string band that will perform and discuss popular American “old time tunes” that were directly influenced by the cultural interchange between European colonists and African Americans, both enslaved and free. You’ll hear examples of songs that were profoundly shaped by the musical traditions brought to North America by people from Africa, highlighting the contribution of syncopation in particular. We’ll explore the role of the African “banjar,” or spiked lute, alongside the fiddle, demonstrating the ways these instruments influenced key elements of both dance and popular music. We’ll also compare and contrast these songs with European music that was popular at the time of cultural contact in the early years of the United States. This course takes a musical tour through time, featuring performances of historic tunes from Appalachia, the Minstrel era, ragtime, work songs, and early blues.

First Ladies: More Than the Women Behind the Men

Dr. Diana Carlin & Dr. Myra Gutin

Mon. 9/30 - 11/4. 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

Did John Adams listen to Abigail? Was Mary Todd Lincoln depressed? Did Eleanor advise Franklin? Did Edith Wilson really take over for the president? Was Hillary really a co-president? These are questions frequently asked about the first lady. She has no job description, and her position is unpaid. There is nothing she is required to do, but much that we expect. From the birth of our country through the present, this course will explore the evolution of the role and the Office of the First Lady. In addition to biographical information, we will explore topics and themes related to the women behind the men. We will examine how they helped shape history and how they left lasting legacies that impact many of us today.

Medieval Science: Exploring Insights and Discoveries

Dr. Ilya Dines

Mon. 9/30 - 11/4. 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of medieval scientific thought, encompassing various disciplines such as medicine, astronomy, and geography. We will delve into the groundbreaking insights and theories proposed by influential figures like Alhazen and Hildegard of Bingen. Through in-depth analysis and interactive discussions, we will uncover the complex network of scientific inquiry that defined the medieval era. This journey into medieval science promises intellectual enrichment. Additionally, it offers a unique opportunity to engage with historical methodologies and scientific concepts, fostering a deeper understanding of the medieval worldview. Join this enlightening exploration, as we discover the wonders of medieval science.

Peace Leadership: Exploring Peacebuilding from the Ground Up

Dr. Aleen Bayard

Tues. 10/1 - 11/5. 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

Explore the peacebuilding stories behind the headlines. Within the broad field of peacebuilding, the scales are decidedly tipped to study the phenomena around conflict resolution, transitional justice, and third-party interventions ~ most of them at the hands of diplomats and politicians. While these areas represent legitimate efforts

to negotiate treaties and monitor compliance, history has shown the Sisyphean nature of these approaches in terms of implementation and securing sustainable peace.

What has drawn far less attention are the valiant and courageous efforts of peace builders on the ground who are working in unimaginable circumstances, and in many cases in partnership or cooperation with sworn enemies. This course will examine the elements of a construct known as “positive peace,” which can and does exist, even in areas where conflict continues, through the lens of peace activists working on the ground.

This six-week program will include a mix of background reading, video, faculty presentations, and small-group interaction.

Architecture, Engineering, Design, and Technology: Case Studies From the Past, Present, and Future

Dr. John Zukowsky

Wed. 10/2 - 11/6. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

This course presents case studies in the history of architecture, civil and structural engineering, and industrial design. Specific design and building types will be discussed and include: computer aided design; skyscrapers; airports and aircraft factories; space craft and launch facilities, sci-fi dreams and reality; and museums and exhibitions that deal with those and related tech subjects. In each session we will explore the past, present, and future possibilities. Those case studies will refer to design and construction technology of their eras and place them in socio-cultural and political contexts. Sessions will generally be in a pro-seminar format with each lecture followed by discussion. The course will examine instances where architecture, design, and engineering are impacted by technological advances catalyzed by rivalry and conflict -- military, political, or economic/commercial -- and overall motivations related to wealth and power as much as to design, scientific, or engineering advances.

The Power of Introverts

Jeri Bingham

Wed. 10/2 - 11/6. 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

“Introverts are hermits. Introverts don’t like people. Introverts can’t hold a conversation.” These are some of the myths associated with introversion, the highly misunderstood personality type. In a society where the most extroverted are celebrated and rewarded, how do introverts fit in? For those who acknowledge and embrace their introversion, they know how to create a space for themselves. For those who are masquerading as extroverts, they are exhausted because they haven’t mastered how to be their true, authentic selves. For others, they don’t even realize they are introverts because of the stigma attached to the word - - who wants to be associated with such negative descriptions? In this course we will unpack this together and discuss the power of introverts, the beautiful balance of relationships with extroverts, how we support and honor both personality types, and much more.

Who is Fredrick Law Olmsted? An Examination of This Visionary's Life, Work, and Living Legacy

Dede Petri, JD

Wed. 10/2 - 11/6. 1 to 2:30 p.m. Online via Zoom

Famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted has been called the most important historical figure that Americans know the least about. This course aims to change that by introducing the multi-faceted life, career, and legacy of Olmsted who was not only a landscape architect, but also a journalist, conservationist, farmer, and public servant.

Five experts will lead us in an examination of the work of Olmsted and his firm, that over 100 years, literally designed the American landscape. From Olmsted’s birth in 1822 to his death in 1903, we will travel his fascinating life and career as he gathered experiences before finally settling down at the age of 43. We will travel to England with Olmsted on his influential visit to Birkenhead Park; learn more about his groundbreaking work as an undercover reporter for The New York Times; examine his design philosophy; and zero in on specific work at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and the West.

We will also learn about the Olmsted firm, which operated for nearly 50 years after Olmsted’s death. There, Olmsted’s sons, John Charles Olmsted and Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr, carried on their father’s work and professionalized the field

of landscape architecture. 2024 marks the 125th birthday of the American Society of Landscape Architects which they founded.

Gender and the Law

Lauren Andersen, JD

Thurs. 10/3 - 11/7. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

This course will explore the legal history of gender and the law, understanding gender in its broadest sense including sex, sexuality, and gender identity. We will discuss sex discrimination doctrines under the Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution as well as under federal laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972.

By focusing on US Supreme Court decisions and gender equality advocates, we will explore the relationship between law and justice in many areas that affect gender minority lives, including employment, schools, health care, family, and beyond. The work of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Brenda Feigen, Sandra Day O’Connor, and Pauli Murray will be discussed. Some film clips will be used in class.

The Season of Sports Journalism: Tackle Media Coverage of the Summer Olympics Evolving into Fall Athletics Across the Globe

Annie Krall

Sat. 10/5 - 11/9. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

As the world watches the best athletes on the planet at a veracious rate during the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, learn what it is like to cover those competitors from the proverbial press box. What research do sports reporters need to have at the ready to understand the psychology and business of the best teams in the NFL, MLB, or NHL? Where do journalists get it right or wrong when writing or editing features in a rapidly changing gender dynamic of college athletics as Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Women's Basketball team proved? How do we understand from outside the ropes the familial and financial dynamics at play when talking about controversies like the PGA vs. LIV saga which is lighting the world of golf on fire? Answer these questions and more with Professor Annie Krall, a sports and news broadcaster. This course is for those who are regularly glued to their sports channels and those who simply like knowing who to root for during the big games. Yes, in the world of heroes and villains there is always more at play on and off the court.

Art Movements from the Roaring '20s to the Swinging '60s

Eleanor Schrader

Tues. 10/8 - 11/12. 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

The 20th century was a time of social and political changes that brought about varied responses in the art world. The social changes manifested during World War I and its aftermath were felt in the cutting-edge art movements that questioned the existing world order. Through the broken planes of Cubism to the jazzy images of the Harlem Renaissance, artists found their voices through varying degrees of despair in an attempt to capture the awaking spirit of the 20th century. In the aftermath of World War II, artists rallied to make sense of the changes brought about through post-war shifts in society to a new prosperity in consumerism. Through the confusing images of the Abstract Expressionists to the playfulness of Pop Art, we will explore how artists challenged and knocked down the walls of not only traditional art but the heretofore avantgarde art forms of the earlier 20th century.

Psychology Fundamentals

Dr. Andrés Gvirtz

Tues. 10/8 - 11/12. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

Welcome to this introductory course designed to provide a broad, yet insightful, glimpse into different areas of psychology. We will learn more about how psychology can help us understand humans’ individual personalities, as well as group dynamics. We will look at the influence of geography on psychology, and what psychology can learn by becoming more cross-cultural. Whether this is your first step into the world of psychology, or you are looking to deepen your existing knowledge, the discussions around classic studies, as well as the presentation of novel research findings, promise something new and exciting for everyone.

Wellness From Within

Mónica E. Gómez

Tues. 10/8 - 11/12. 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

This course explores mental, spiritual, and physical health and wellness through interactive discussion, brief meditation, creative writing, reading aloud, and plenty of humor. The workshops explore universal human issues while offering valuable techniques for enhancing both written and oral communication. Classes are low-tech, focusing on meaningful interaction, and a satisfying shared experience. Topics include managing stress, creative selfexpression, the power of words, the value of self-care, adapting to change, and establishing healthy boundaries.

The Empowered Consumer: Finding Your Purchasing Superpower

Susan Loyd

Thurs. 10/10 - 11/14. 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

Navigating the online marketplace can indeed be challenging. Unfortunately, e-commerce tips the advantage away from the consumer and towards very sophisticated marketers. Whether dealing with a small business on Main Street or a giant firm on Madison Avenue, it is difficult to know who to trust or how to discern a true bargain from a real rip-off. How do you sort fact from fiction and take control of your purchasing power? Most importantly, how do you protect yourself from being duped out of money or having your identity or account information stolen by hackers? In this course, we will cover critical aspects of being both a transactional and a relational shopper. We will discuss factors that can affect information perceptions and good buying decisions. And we will offer a variety of resources to enhance your ability to make safe, sharp, and savvy purchasing decisions with sellers you can trust.

We will hear from expert speakers, learn about valuable resources, and engage in helpful discussion. Being a Capable Consumer will change how you respond to social media messages and how you approach online shopping experiences for products and services big and small. You will gain confidence and clarity through six enlightening discussions.

The Great Con: The Talented Mr. Ripley in Literature and Film

Dr. Heather Brown Fri. 10/11 - 11/15. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Online via Zoom

American writer Patricia Highsmith first published The Talented Mr. Ripley in 1955. The story is told from the point of view of Tom Ripley, a man who is young, clever, and has a knack for fraud. A case of mistaken identity earns him a ticket abroad to a scenic coastal village in Italy, a far cry from his hardscrabble life in New York City. He soon becomes obsessed with Dickie Greenleaf, heir to a shipbuilding fortune and embarks on a series of deceitful and sinister acts that beget more of the same. Highsmith’s story builds its suspense as the reader traverses Tom’s physical and psychological journey through an affluent world too obtuse to recognize the extent to which he is a threat.

The Talented Mr. Ripley has been adapted from book to screen multiple times, with the most notable being the 1999 film directed by Anthony Minghella, starring Matt Damon and Jude Law. Such is the influence of the story that it has invited comparison to the 2023 film Saltburn, whose main character commits a similar subterfuge on a wealthy British family over the course of a summer in their country castle. As stories of frauds and scammers endure across popular media, Tom Ripley’s is one that confronts the reader to examine how far they would go to gain access into a world whose entry requires reinventing oneself to the point of moral collapse.

In this course, we will study the Highsmith novel as well as the 1999 film adaptation. We will close out the course with a discussion of Saltburn, which is indebted to the novel.

Language Myths Debunked

Dr. Asya Pereltsvaig Mon. 10/14 - 11/18. 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

“Eskimos have many words for snow.” “A language is a dialect with an army and a navy.” “Aborigines speak primitive languages.” “English has the world’s richest vocabulary.” “Children learn languages more easily than adults.” “Languages die because they are not fit enough for the modern world.” “Animals speak their own language.” You may hear many of these statements, but are they actually true? In this course, we will examine these and related beliefs about language. We will investigate what aspects of these statements are true and what aspects are false or even nonsensical. In doing so, we will explore topics including language diversity, language history, children’s language acquisition, adult language learning, animal and human communication, and much more. We will also consider where language myths come from and why they persist despite all the scientific evidence to the contrary.

Exploring Crosswords

Steve Weyer

Thurs. 10/17 - 11/21. 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Online via Zoom

Would you like to better understand crosswords, have greater success in completing them, increase your enjoyment of the process, and impress your friends as a cruciverbalist? Besides being fun, crosswords have been shown to improve cognitive reserve and mental flexibility. We will introduce other benefits of solving puzzles and explore the highlights of crossword history and culture. We will learn about different types of crosswords, discuss solving strategies and techniques, explore online sources and applications, and introduce the process of constructing crosswords. During each session, we will also solve and discuss crosswords as a group to improve our skills.

Meet the Instructors

Lauren Andersen, JD

Lauren Andersen is the director of the Utah Judicial Institute. She practiced appellate law in the state of California and presented arguments to the California Supreme Court and the United States Supreme Court. Lauren has closely studied the Roberts Court and has lectured about the Supreme Court and the death penalty, with her opinions quoted by both “The New York Times” and the “ABA Journal.” Additionally, Lauren previously served as the director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Utah.

Dr. Aleen Bayard

Aleen Bayard, Ph.D., has been a long-time adjunct faculty member at Northwestern University, teaching courses in leadership and change management for both the School of Professional Studies and Kellogg’s Center for Nonprofit Management. She served as the primary faculty member in Northwestern University's partnership with Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership to develop the curriculum for the Certificate in Jewish Leadership and taught in the program for several years. Aleen holds degrees from Stanford University, Columbia University, Northwestern University, and earned her doctorate from the Center in Values Driven Leadership at Benedictine University, where she studied peacebuilding. She is also the Vice Chair of the Leadership for Peace group of the International Leadership Association and has published two book chapters on peacebuilding. Aleen also works with organizations through her consulting practice, developing programs centered around leadership, culture, employee engagement, and team performance.

Marvin Berkowitz

Marvin Berkowitz has served as the president of “Fathers Against Distracted Driving” for over a decade. As a nationally certified driving instructor, Marvin has made countless presentations about safety behind the wheel to groups of all ages, ranging from new-to-the-road teenagers to seniors who are seasoned drivers.

Jeri Bingham

Founder of “HushLoudly: Introverts Redefined,” an award-winning WGN Radio podcast and brand, Jeri Bingham is an introvert advocate and strategist dedicated to amplifying the voices of introverts in a world that celebrates and rewards the most extroverted. She is on a mission to empower the most ill-defined, misunderstood personality type through education and understanding. Jeri is also an adjunct lecturer for Northwestern University and speaks frequently on the topic of introversion at universities and companies. She has been featured in

“The Chicago Tribune,” “Cosmo UK,” “Color Magazine,” “WGN Radio Chicago,” and the “Myers-Briggs Company Podcast.” Jeri is a contributing writer for the “Myers-Briggs Magazine” and “Rolling Out” magazine; her Myers-Briggs articles include “Inclusivity Includes Black Introverts” and “Be a Champion for All, Including Your Introverts.” Additionally, Jeri is a higher education administrator and marketing communications executive who has served in leading accountability positions in academia and nonprofits for over 25 years.

Jessica Brandow

Jessica Brandow is a Southwest Michigan attorney with experience spanning estate planning, elder law, probate and trust estate administration, contract law, real estate, and small business. She graduated from the University of Arkansas School of Law in 2015, beginning her career as a paralegal for an estate planning law firm in Fayetteville and sat for the Arkansas Bar Exam in 2016. After being promoted to associate attorney, Jessica continued working in Fayetteville until relocating to Michigan with her husband in 2018. She received her Michigan law license and started her own practice in 2019. Jessica is currently a member of the Michigan Bar Association, the Michigan Bar Elder Law and Disability Section, the Michigan Bar Probate and Estate Planning Section, the Michigan Bar Young Lawyers Section, the Kalamazoo County Bar Association, the Calhoun County Bar Association and the Calhoun County Estate Planners Council. She continues to work primarily in the field of estate planning and elder law and is a full-time mobile attorney who helps clients all across Southwest Michigan.

Andrew Brasosky

Andrew Brasosky is a Western Michigan University alum and former Bronco football player. He grew up on the east side of Michigan and served in the United States Marine Corps for ten years after graduation. Andrew deployed overseas six times, including three combat deployments, during which he was wounded and decorated two times for valor in combat. Following his service, he relocated to Kalamazoo and began a new career with Stryker prior to transitioning to his current position with Edward Jones. Andrew is married to Elizabeth, a fellow WMU graduate, and they have two children.

Dr. Heather Brown

Heather Brown has a Ph.D. in English with a concentration in rhetoric and composition from the University of Maryland, a Master of Arts in English from the University of North Carolina-Wilmington, and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in creative writing from

Hollins University. She has taught courses in academic writing, English literature, language and linguistics, women’s literature, feminist theory and criticism, rhetorical theory and criticism, and more. Heather is currently an adjunct associate professor of academic writing at the University of Maryland Global Campus, one of the largest distance-learning institutions in the world, where over a third of the students are Black and African-American and over 55,000 military-affiliated students are enrolled worldwide. She also works as a learning designer, primarily serving graduate and professional studies programs in notfor-profit higher education institutions and library training organizations, such as the Northwestern University School of Professional Studies.

Dr. Diana Carlin

Diana Carlin, Ph.D., is Professor Emerita of communication at Saint Louis University. She teaches courses on and has written about First Ladies of the United States for 30 years and is the co-author of “U.S. First Ladies: Making History and Leaving Legacies” and “Remember the First Ladies: America's History-Making Women.” Diana has also published articles and book chapters about many of America’s First Ladies in addition to researching and writing about women in politics, presidential communication, and political debate.

Dr. James Carter

Jim Carter is a retired internal medicine physician from Kalamazoo. In addition to clinical practice, he was an associate professor of Internal Medicine at MSU_CHM, where he taught medical students and residents. Early in his retirement, Jim trained as a docent at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and over the course of the past decade he has led well over one hundred tours at the KIA, given numerous KIA Art Breaks and volunteered to teach several OLLI courses.

Dr. Susan Caulfield

Dr. Sue Caulfield is a retired professor from Western Michigan University where she taught sociology, holistic health, and interdisciplinary health sciences. The year she retired she earned her master’s degree in comparative religion with a focus on death and dying. A trained mediator who strongly believes in the importance of creating safe spaces for dialogue, Sue likes to guide conversations about the topics of death and dying, as it is a natural part of the life course, yet is a topic not often discussed within circles of loved ones.

Dr. Robin Criter

Robin Criter, Au.D., Ph.D., is faculty in the department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences in the College of Health and Human Services at Western Michigan University. She earned her B.S. from Saint Louis University, Au.D. from the University of Iowa, and Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Robin’s research centers around the relationship between hearing and balance, particularly as it relates to falling.

Dr. John Clark

John Clark is chair of the Political Science department at Western Michigan University. He's been teaching and thinking about elections for more than three decades—but he's yet to fully figure them out.

Matthew Claus

Matt Claus is the Executive Director of the Kalamazoo Nonprofit Advocacy Coalition. He has more than 13 years of experience serving in the nonprofit sector in Kalamazoo, including working at Kalamazoo College and Ministry with Community. Matt previously taught in the English department at Kellogg Community College and worked as a professional writer and editor. Since moving to Kalamazoo with his wife in 2010, Matt has continued to grow more passionate about making the city a great place to live for all and has enjoyed serving on the board of the Kalamazoo Film Society for over a decade.

Greg Cowles

Certified by the Professional Pickleball Registry, Greg Cowles is a Pickleball professional. He has trained fellow athletes at the Western Michigan University West Hills Athletic Club for over five years. Before joining the West Hills Athletic Club, Greg was the Pickleball Pro at both the Gull Lake Country Club and the Portage YMCA. He also has extensive experience coaching—before pickleball, Greg coached every level of baseball, culminating as Head Coach of Kalamazoo Valley Community College—and his lifelong love of racquetball naturally led him to his newest passion, pickleball.

Thomas Dietz

Tom Dietz is a frequent OLLI instructor who teaches courses in both local Kalamazoo history and American history. In addition to serving as the curator of Local History at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum for 22 years, Tom also spent a long stretch of his career as a part-time instructor in the History department at Western Michigan University. He has a Master of Arts degree in American History from Wayne State University.

Instructors Continued

Dr. Ilya Dines

Ilya Dines, Ph.D., is a native of St. Petersburg, Russia, who completed his doctorate studies on the topic of medieval bestiaries at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Ilya pursued postdoctoral research in Cologne and at Cambridge, where he focused on how medieval pigments, stained glass, and bells were produced. He has authored three books and 20 articles on medieval animals, cartography, and medieval manuscripts.

Reverend Debbie Eisenbise

Reverend Debbie Eisenbise is a spiritual director, end-oflife doula, and instructor in Western Michigan University's program for Holistic Health and Contemplative WellBeing. She also lectures on interspirituality, leads grief and spiritual formation retreats, and is a mentor and supervisor for other spiritual directors at the Dominican Center Marywood at Aquinas College. With a background in comparative religion and 35 years of experience serving in Christian ministry and studying contemplative practices, Rev. Debbie has an extensive repertoire of knowledge about and experience with comparative religion.

Dr. John Geisler

Dr. John Geisler earned his bachelor’s degree at Adrian College where he was an athlete, scholar, and thespian before setting his sights on the University of Toledo, where he earned both his master’s and doctoral degrees. John taught mathematics and science as a public school teacher before going on to serve as a college counselor and counseling educator at two Michigan universities—Central and Western—in addition to acting as the president of three professional counselor groups at the local, state, regional, and national levels. In his spare time, he has refereed for the NCAA and frequently volunteers to teach for OLLI. John is married to Candace, a psychotherapist in Kalamazoo, and enjoys spending time with his family, which includes three adult children, seven grandchildren, and three greatgrandchildren.

Mónica E. Gómez

Mónica E. Gómez has made her living with words as a writer, songwriter, teacher, broadcast journalist, and voice talent. Her writing appears in numerous anthologies, including “Red Boots & Attitude: The Spirit of Texas Women Writers” and The New York Times 2020 online edition. In her hometown of El Paso, Texas, Mónica hosted NPR’s State of the Arts and moderated National Issues Forums for the local PBS station. As a performing songwriter, she released three albums and presented performances and workshops through the Texas Commission on the Arts and other state and regional arts agencies. Distilled from years

of work with diverse populations, Mónica’s creative writing workbook, “EXPRESSERCIZE: Write Answers,” contains more than 100 exercises in expression and self-discovery, and her workshops integrate diverse forms of inspiration and highlight the literal creative power of writing.

Dr. Sam Grossman

Dr. Sam Grossman is a retired pediatrician and medical director who practiced medicine in a variety of locations over the course of his career, ranging from a private office to a large community health center. He also taught humanities as a college professor for 10 years. Sam has always been interested in photography as an art form and currently serves as a docent at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.

Dr. Myra Gutin

Myra G. Gutin, Ph.D., is a Professor Emerita of communication at Rider University. For the past 40 years, her research has focused on American First Ladies. She is the author of “The President's Partner: The First Lady in the Twentieth Century” and “Barbara Bush: Presidential Matriarch.” Myra has authored numerous book chapters, articles, and op-eds about First Ladies and is currently at work writing a biography of Betty Ford. A frequent media commentator, she is the immediate past president and one of the founders of FLARE, the First Ladies Association for Research and Education.

Dr. Andrés Gvirtz

Andrés Gvirtz, Ph.D. is an assistant professor at King’s College London, University of London. His research aims to improve our understanding of behavior by combining personality data (who somebody is) with spatial information (where somebody is). He is also a research affiliate at the King's Institute for Artificial Intelligence. Before joining King’s College London, Andrés was a supervisor for marketing and organizational behavior at Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, where he taught psychometrics in the department of Psychology and was nominated for the Student-Led Teaching Awards. He has been awarded an Innovation Education Fund, shortlisted for the Dean’s Awards, and nominated for the King’s Education Awards. Andrés holds a Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Cambridge and was a visiting fellow at Harvard Business School. He received a MPhil in psychology from the University of Cambridge and a B.A. in economics and psychology from Clark University.

Dr. Allison Hammond

Allison Hammond, Ed.D., provides opportunities to help families avoid confusion, conflict, and chaos as parents age. As a Visual Facilitator, Allison has conducted numerous Visual Facilitation Sessions for people with disabilities, youth, small businesses, non-profits, and families of all kinds. She has a doctoral degree in education leadership from Western Michigan University, and her visual facilitation training includes MAPs and PATHs through the Inclusion Network, Charting the Life Course at the University of Missouri–Kansas City, and The Agerbeck Method in Chicago.

Diane and Stanley Henderson

Stan and Diane Henderson are avid readers—Stan reads history, Diane fiction. In other lives, they would have been History and English professors. Now they team up to share their passions with us. Pre-retirement, Stan was the Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Life at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and Diane was an educational program planner and consultant. They say they are now both “failing” retirement!

McGwire Hidden

McGwire Hidden has taught or co-taught courses on topics like existentialist philosophy, phenomenology, and the history of philosophy to students across a wide range of ages. From our OLLI lifelong learners and traditional undergraduate students at WMU to some of Western’s newest students at the Lakeland Correctional Facility in Coldwater, Michigan, McGwire loves leading discussions about life’s “big questions” and introducing new perspectives about the world around us to his students.

Ted Hogarth

Ted Hogarth is a highly accomplished music composer, arranger, archivist, educator, and performer who leads several critically acclaimed ensembles. He is the founder and leader of The Mulligan Mosaics Big Band and serves on the board of The Gerry & Franca Mulligan Foundation. Ted has released four recordings as a leader and is included on over a dozen recordings by musicians such as Phil Woods and Rob Parton. He attended high school at the prestigious Interlochen Center for the Arts, completed his undergraduate studies at Arizona State University and Northeastern Illinois University, and received a master's degree in jazz composition with distinction from DePaul University.

Max Hornick

Max Hornick has engaged in disability advocacy for over a decade. While attending community college, Max, who identifies as neurodivergent and disabled, co-founded the Mental Illness Support & Advocacy Alliance (MISAA), an organization run by and for students with psychiatric disabilities. They went on to graduate from Western Michigan University and are both a Certified Nonprofit Professional and a nationally certified ADA Coordinator. Max's lived experience informs their work as a Community Education Specialist for Disability Network Southwest Michigan, where they have provided education on disability-related topics and facilitated the Autistic adult peer support group since 2018.

David K. Isaacson

David Isaacson taught college English composition and literature for five years before embarking on a thirty-threeyear career as a Reference and Humanities Librarian at Western Michigan University. He was responsible for acting as a liaison to the English, Foreign Languages, Religion, Communications, Art, and Theater departments, helping professors with their research and assisting students in these disciplines with library assignments. He has an Honors degree in English from Indiana University, a master’s degree in American Studies from Claremont University, and a master’s degree in library science from the University of Illinois. David has also been a discussion leader for a monthly book group called Classics Revisited as well as a facilitator for a monthly short story discussion at Friendship Village retirement community for the last twenty years.

Muhammad Ishtiaq

Muhammed Ishtiaq is a Fulbright Scholar and Ph.D. candidate in Applied Economics at Western Michigan University with extensive experience in teaching and research centered around Climate Communications.

Kevin Kenz

Kevin Kenz has volunteered for the Air Zoo in Kalamazoo, Michigan for 32 years and is a proud member of the League of World War One Aviation Historians, the Great War Aviation Society, and the Aircraft Engine Historical Society.

Instructors Continued

Hilary Kerr

Hilary Kerr has over 25 years of professional experience serving in gerontology-focused roles. She currently works as the Advance Care Planning Specialist at Bronson Healthcare Group, integrating perspectives from her previous experiences as a public guardian, nursing home social worker, and Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program coordinator. Hilary holds a Master of Science degree in human services with a specialization in gerontology and has taught as an adjunct professor at Western Michigan University for the past five years.

Annie Krall

Annie Krall is an adjunct faculty member at Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism. She is a former radio news anchor for WLS-Radio (890AM) in Chicago and has taken her storytelling abilities on-air as a TV news and sports reporter to NBC in St. Louis, MO (KSDK-TV) and ABC in Green Bay, WI (WBAY-TV). After earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northwestern University, Annie covered breaking news in Green Bay, the Ryder Cup international golf tournament, and the Green Bay Packers. Host of her own weekly medical investigative series “Your Health Matters,” she has written and produced for ABC News in New York City on the medical and business units for shows like Good Morning America, World News Tonight with David Muir, and 20/20. Sharpening her golf skills as a competitive golfer starting at the age of six, Annie was the first entertainment golf correspondent for the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA). She has helped spotlight celebrity women who either play or have had their lives changed by the sport.

Jeri Love

Jeri Love is an award-winning photographer, writer, and a Certified Photovoice Facilitator through Photovoice Worldwide. Her photography work has been showcased in group and solo exhibitions throughout the United States since 2013. She formerly worked in Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago as a journalist and broadcast news executive, followed by a career as a corporate communications executive and ghostwriter for business and arts leaders, and holistic health professionals. In addition to earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism and a Master of Fine Arts in creative nonfiction writing, Jeri has studied with master photographers throughout the United States and has been a teaching artist for more than 20 years. Jeri is a resident of Kalamazoo, where she is involved in environmental justice work and community arts projects through her company, Red Bag Arts.

Susan Loyd

Susan Adams Loyd is chief executive officer of Better Business Bureau serving Minnesota and North Dakota. She is regarded as an expert in ethical business practices, customer service strategies, and consumer protection. Susan is passionate about educating buyers to be astute in their purchasing decisions, particularly how to protect themselves from fraud and deception. She is a frequent contributor to media and panel discussions on factors that make certain consumers more at-risk. In her series “The Capable Consumer,” Susan teaches empowering techniques and practical tips to safeguard one’s identity and financial assets, helping others know who to trust, especially in this online world.

Nick Luciano

Nick Luciano has been a Regional Manager for MFS Fund Distributors, Inc., a subsidiary of MFS Investment Management, since 2022. In this role, he works exclusively with financial advisors in Western Michigan and Northern Indiana. Nick joined MFS in 2015 as a client service representative before moving over to the sales team, climbing the ranks to become an internal sales team leader and regional sales representative, covering the Greater Atlanta area. Nick earned his Bachelor of Science degree in business administration with a concentration in finance from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Valerie R. Marvin

Valerie Marvin is honored to serve as the historian and curator of the Michigan State Capitol, a National Historic Landmark. She graduated from the University of Michigan in 2005 with a Bachelor of Arts in Russian Studies and earned her Master of Science in historic preservation from Eastern Michigan University in 2009. Valerie lives with her husband David in a 1906 home in downtown Lansing.

Carole McEdwards, LMFT

Carole McEdwards has served in private practice as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Michigan since 2010. She currently provides services at Great Lakes Psychology Group in Kalamazoo and earned her master's degree in marriage and family therapy at Evangelical Seminary in Myerstown, Pennsylvania.

Dr. Ann Miles

Dr. Ann Miles has taught anthropology and sociology at Western Michigan University for 30 years. She has published three books under the University of Texas Press, all based on original ethnographic research in Ecuador. Ann is a Fulbright Scholar, recipient of National Endowment for the Humanities grants, and, in addition to teaching at WMU’s Kalamazoo and Coldwater campuses, she is the Director of the University Center for the Humanities.

Dr. Tyler Norman

Dr. Tyler Norman is the Manager of Corporate Outreach at West Hills Athletic Club. Over the course of his nearly 40-year-long career, he has worked with countless retireeaged individuals of all levels of fitness and varieties of ailments. Tyler has earned certifications from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) as an Exercise Physiologist and Exercise is Medicine practitioner, and as a Corporate Fitness Specialist by the National Corporate Fitness Institute (NCFI). He has also earned degrees in Exercise Science, Sport Management, and Interdisciplinary Studies, all from Western Michigan University.

Abolaji Obileye

Abolaji Obileye, a second-year Ph.D. student in Western Michigan University’s department of Sociology, is originally from a small town called “Ijebu Ode” in Nigeria. There, he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in sociology with a concentration in criminology and has been an instructor for the past five years. Abolaji’s research interests center around the issues of correctional centers, professionally specializing in teaching, learning, and researching about recidivism, reentry, and reintegration.

David J. Paul

Dave Paul has taught undergraduate biomedical ethics courses for 30 years to well over 6,000 students, with many of his former students currently practicing in healthcare today. He also regularly participates in conferences related to medical research and is involved in clinical ethics discussions with local physicians. Additionally, Dave is the chair of the Philosophy department at Western Michigan University and has taught scores of other courses across multiple disciplines since his career began in 1994.

Dr. Asya Pereltsvaig

Asya Pereltsvaig, Ph.D., received degrees in English and History from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and a Ph.D. in Linguistics from McGill University. She has been teaching in lifelong education programs since 2010, including at Yale and Stanford, and is a popular instructor for several OLLI programs around the country. Asya’s expertise is in the relationship between language and history. Her most recent publication is called “Languages of the World: An Introduction, 4th edition.”

Dede Petri, JD

Dede Petri has served as the president and CEO of the Olmsted Network since 2020. For over 30 years, she has been a leader and innovator across a wide range of nonprofit organizations. Dede was the 42nd president of The Garden Club of America; co-founded the American Council of Trustees and Alumni, for which she acted as president from 2003 to 2016; and served as general counsel and congressional liaison for the National Endowment for the Humanities. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa and magna cum laude from Harvard College with an A.B. in American history and literature, and she received her J.D. from Harvard Law School.

Dr. Zaide Pixley

Zaide Pixley’s work as an educator began at P.S. 58, Bronx, then continued at Interlochen and the University of Michigan, where she earned a Ph.D. in Musicology. She was a member of Kalamazoo College’s faculty for thirty-one years, where she taught a wide range of courses on topics ranging from music history and theory to rock and roll. In celebration of the Orchestra’s centenary, she collaborated with Jane Rooks Ross to co-write "100 Years of Great Music: Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra." She is also the program annotator for the Gilmore Piano Festival and a member of the board.

Meredith Place

Meredith Place is serving her first term as the Kalamazoo County Clerk/Register of Deeds. As the official “Keeper of the Record,” she is responsible for receiving and safeguarding public records, including, but not limited to, birth, death, and marriage records, property records, and concealed pistol licenses. Meredith also serves as the Chief Election Official of the County and is active with the Michigan Association of County Clerks (MACC) and the Michigan Association of Registers of Deeds (MARD).

Instructors Continued

Shivi Saxena

Shivi Saxena is an International Ph.D. student in the Chemistry department at Western Michigan University who studies and works with nanomaterials. She graduated from Isabella Thoburn College in India with a Master of Science in chemistry in 2016. Shivi is also an active member in the Climate Change Working Group at WMU.

Randall Schau

Randy Schau, Kalamazoo’s former deputy city attorney, has been a dedicated OLLI instructor for over eight years. Drawing upon a deep reservoir of knowledge and experiences, Randy’s courses have spanned a wide range of topics, including the history of baseball, television, and music; fascinating facts about living things; the internment of Japanese Americans; how the United States got their borders; and many more.

Eleanor Schrader

Eleanor Schrader is an award-winning educator, lecturer, and author who leads worldwide tours about art and architectural history. She has been named a distinguished instructor at UCLA Extension, where she teaches history of architecture, interior design, furniture, and decorative arts. Eleanor is a Professor Emerita of art and architectural history at Santa Monica College and completed her graduate work in fine and decorative arts at Sotheby's Institute in London and New York. She was a design review commissioner for the City of Beverly Hills and currently serves on the board of directors of the John Lautner Foundation.

Howard Steiner

Howard Steiner plays clawhammer banjo in the downstroke style of the African musicians who introduced the banjo to the New World and has been fascinated by both the instrument’s history and that of old string band tunes, and he enjoys exploring how this style of music has evolved over the years. He and the other members of the Rinktum Ramblers Band—Sarah Tyriver and Lee Talmadge on fiddles, Mary McCartney on bass, and Steve Seevers on guitar and vocals—delight in keeping this traditional music alive by playing the old tunes together in jam sessions, as well as for the live music at contra dances and square dances held in the Michiana region.

Douglas W. Stowell

Doug Stowell is a veteran in the world of consumer and political polling in both the United States and European Union markets. His career includes serving in such roles as Market Research Director for the Xerox Corporation; U.S. Clients Director for the NOP, Ltd. polling firm in London; and Senior Polling Executive for Wirthlin Worldwide in Washington, D.C. In 2008, Doug launched Market Resource Associates, which conducts opinion polls on issues in the United States and globally. This is his fourth quadrennial election program. Doug is also a member of the Furman University OLLI in Greenville, South Carolina, and conducts virtual Zoom programs for more than 80 groups nationally.

Dr. Sara Tanis

Dr. Sara Tanis is an urban tree physiologist and forest entomologist. She has a master’s degree in Horticulture and a Ph.D. in Forestry, both from Michigan State University. After graduation, Sara spent several years developing her teaching skills at Kalamazoo College and Colgate University. She is currently the Faculty Director of the Sustainable Horticulture Program at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Sara teaches classes on pruning, landscape design, and plant identification and their uses. She serves the Kalamazoo community as an Ecumenical Senior Center Board member, a member of the Climate Action and Climate Justice Plan Advisory Council, and as an advisor to several Agriculture Tech Programs in local high schools. In her spare time, Sara enjoys gardening, Irish dance, and helping retired greyhounds find their forever homes.

Dr. Cheng Tao

Dr. Cheng Tao is a professor of education at Jiangsu Maritime Institute, Jiangsu, China, and has been a Visiting Scholar at Western Michigan University’s Haenicke Institute for Global Education since 2022. Over the course of his 30-year career, Cheng has received numerous accolades celebrating both his excellence as a teacher and the genuine respect and care he shows to his students. Alongside academic instruction, Tao has practiced Tai Chi for over 25 years and has taught the practice to a wide range of age groups at various levels, including Basic Tai Chi, Intermediate Tai Chi, Tai Chi Sword, Tai Chi Fan, and Seated Tai Chi at WMU campuses and local community centers. Cheng’s wife is currently pursuing her Ph. D. degree at WMU, and his two boys attend elementary school in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Robert Weir

Robert Weir is a skilled writer, author, presenter, and classroom facilitator. He was an active volunteer for Voters Not Politicians, the non-partisan grassroots organization that put the issue of gerrymandering on the ballot in the November 2018 general election. He is a resident of Portage and graduated from Western Michigan University in 1970 with an emphasis on broadcast communications and political science.

Steve Weyer

Steve Weyer has been a cruciverbalist (crossword aficionado) since the 1990s. In 2002, he developed CrozzWord, a mobile app for crossword solving. Since 2010, he has taught crossword-focused and related courses for the OLLI at Southern Oregon University. Steve also constructs crosswords for Jackson County Libraries and other organizations and publications. His first New York Times crossword debuted in November 2023, and his crosswords appear weekly in Ashland.news and on his website.

Rob Williams

Rob Williams began his career in the health insurance industry in 2007. A year later, at the request of employers who were having difficulty making the switch from group coverage to Medicare, he turned his focus to helping them navigate the new transition. Over the course of 16 years, Rob counseled over a thousand clients and has won awards from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Priority Health. In his capacity as Sales Director for Nexben, Rob currently consults with, trains, and assists more than 500 Medicare agents to find the right coverage for their clients.

Ronald Winter

Ron Winter is a retired Associate Professor Emeritus who served as a collegiate official for 19 years in the Big Ten Conference. He is also a retired referee from the National Football League, where he earned 19 years of experience. Ron is currently a trainer for the referee position for the Collegiate Officiating Consortium.

Dr. John Zukowsky

John Zukowsky, Ph.D., is an architectural and design historian with over five decades of museum experience, who has taught university courses in Chicago, New York, and Hamburg, Germany. He earned a bachelor's degree from Hunter College and his master’s and doctoral degrees from Binghamton University. John has been the recipient of awards from the American Institute of Architects, the Society of Architectural Historians, and the Republics of Austria and France. While acting as curator of architecture for the Art Institute of Chicago from 1978 to 2004, he organized numerous popular, award-winning exhibitions and books. Meanwhile, John served as a museum executive in Ohio, Chicago, and New York from 2004 to 2012, including on sites that are historic landmarks. Recently, he authored the following books: “Building Chicago,” “Architecture-Inside Out,” “New Military Museums,” and “A Chronology of Architecture.”

Trips, Events, & Special Interest Groups

Premier World Discovery 2024 Trips

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

October 4 to 9, 2024

Events

Taste of OLLI

Wednesday, August 14

Highlight’s of Italy’s Amalfi Coast November 5 to 12, 2024

Visit wmich.edu/olli/trips for additional details

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (registration begins at 8 a.m.)

Fetzer Center

2251 Business Ct, Kalamazoo, MI 49008

Annual Meeting

Wednesday, November 13

TBD

Advia Credit Union

6400 W Main St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009

Good Times with OLLI

Thursday, September 19 1 to 3 p.m.

Milestone Senior Services 918 Jasper St, Kalamazoo, MI 49001

Special Interest Groups

EDISON: The EDucation IS ON

- Resident Scholars

Group Dates TBD, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Michigan, 420 E. Alcott Street, 49001

Introduction to Film

Michael Marchak

Celebration Cinema, 6600 Ring Rd, Portage, 49024

German Conversation

Gail Ledbetter

Fridays, ongoing, 10 a.m. to noon, location varies

Readers Theatre Comes Alive

Dr. D. Terry Williams & Mary VanDerMass

Wednesdays, ongoing, 1 to 3 p.m.

Parkview Hills Clubhouse