Instructor: Marlene Katz

No image available Biography:

Marlene Katz, a University of Missouri graduate, was an adjunct professor at University of Missouri-Kansas City, where she taught English and literature. Marlene has a 28-year teaching career and has been involved in storytelling for 20 years. Women in history is her specialty. Marlene has performed in a five-state area and has lectured for various groups, often in costume and speech of the character she is portraying.

Classes by this instructor


Famous Hollywood Couples

This single-session class will feature famous Hollywood couples including George Burns and Gracie Allen; Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz; and Jack Benny and Mary Livingston. All of these couples created personas that were adored by millions through radio and television but also had personal lives together. The instructor will share stories about each of the couples, including how their legacies continue to influence popular culture today. Instructor Bio: Marlene Katz, a University of Missouri graduate, was an adjunct professor at University of Missouri-Kansas City, where she taught English and literature. Marlene has a 28-year teaching career and has been involved in storytelling for 20 years. Women in history is her specialty. Marlene has performed in a five-state area and has lectured for various groups, often in costume and speech of the character she is portraying.
Monday, August 24, 2026, KU Edwards Campus, Regnier Hall & Online

Malala Yousafzai: Courage and Compassion

<p>This one-session class will explore the life and legacy of Malala Yousafzai, the little girl who became an activist for girls' education in Pakistan and was shot by the Taliban for her views. She is the youngest winner of the Nobel Peace Prize and remains one of the most influential women of her generation. Her voice continues to educate and inspire people all over the world.</p><br><p><b>Instructor Bio: Marlene Katz</b>, a University of Missouri graduate, was an adjunct professor at University of Missouri-Kansas City, where she taught English and literature. Marlene has a 28-year teaching career and has been involved in storytelling for 20 years. Women in history is her specialty. Marlene has performed in a five-state area and has lectured for various groups, often in costume and speech of the character she is portraying.</p>
Monday, October 12, 2026, KU Edwards Campus, Regnier Hall & Online

Nelly Don: Entrepreneur, Trailblazer & Icon

Nelly Don, the Kansas City dress company founded by Nell Quinlan Donnelly Reed, was the largest women's dress manufacturer's label in America for over 60 years. Learn more about the woman behind the label, including her capture and ransom by gangsters, her connection to Tom Pendergast and how Nell steered her company successfully through both the Great Depression and World War II. Instructor Bio: Marlene Katz, a University of Missouri graduate, was an adjunct professor at University of Missouri-Kansas City, where she taught English and literature. Marlene has a 28-year teaching career and has been involved in storytelling for 20 years. Women in history is her specialty. Marlene has performed in a five-state area and has lectured for various groups, often in costume and speech of the character she is portraying.
Thursday, September 17, 2026, KU Edwards Campus, Regnier Hall & Online