This year, our Festival features an Osher member/UR alum and several UR professors. This not-to-be-missed half-day festival features Dr Nelson D. Lankford, UR grad and Osher member speaking on his 2025 Civil War book. He'll be followed by UR faculty member Dr Kelly G. Lambert, addressing her book on neurobiology. Then, we'll hear from UR faculty/staff members Dr. Julian M. Hayter, Dr. Thad Williamson, and Dr. Amy L. Howard, discussing their 2024 book on Richmond politics.

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Monday, March 9, JAC, Robins Pavilion 151

'Life in Three Dimensions - How Curiosity, Exploration and Experience Make a Fuller, Better Life' by Shigehiro Oishi, PhD is what motivated this class. The book introduces the concept of a psychologically rich life, alongside the two better-known paths of a happy life and a meaningful life. This class will explore each of these paths to a good life to see whether Oishi's concept may help us to see the world through a new lens.

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Thursday, March 5, TBD - UR Campus

In this immersive course, students will discover the powerful healing properties of herbs and learn why they are considered nature's medicine. Designed for beginners and herbal enthusiasts alike, this course will explore the medicinal benefits of common herbs, their traditional uses, and how to incorporate them into daily life for natural wellness.

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Monday, Feb 2, TBD - UR Campus

This course empowers you to become an active environmental conservationist through simple, impactful changes in your home and garden. You'll learn practical strategies for reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and making mindful garden choices that directly benefit the planet and foster a healthy ecosystem in your backyard.

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No session is currently available for registration

For Boomers, the change graph during our time has gone from a 60-degree slope to a rocket straight up. Assimilating such dramatic change has attacked the fundamental value systems that defined us. Coming out of the Depression and WWII our parents in the US and Canada instilled life principles in us that were considered universal. This bubble was burst in the 60's, and the US and Canada are now more different than ever before.

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Tuesday, April 28, TBD - UR Campus

What's that sound in your backyard? Is it a bird? Is it a cricket? More likely, you're hearing the nocturnal chorus of frogs and toads! Become a herpetology hero by joining the thousands of FrogWatch USA volunteers nationwide. This training workshop will prepare you to contribute to one of the largest citizen science projects in the nation. Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill the slot.

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Thursday, Feb 19, Maymont

Critical thinking is important for many reasons, including being a better citizen. As conspiracy theories abound, studying and analyzing the facts, evidence, and truth becomes increasingly important. We will cover the challenges, logic, the fallacies, and the solutions in arriving at the best conclusions. Insights into the brain as well as why science represents the ultimate in evidence-based decisions will be studied. Approaches to critical thinking and the best fact-checking sites will be covered.

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No session is currently available for registration

The capacity for cumulative cultural evolution seems to be both unique to our species and the origin of our ability to influence and alter the natural world, developing ever larger coordinated groups. In three sessions this course will examine (1) the biological evolutionary adaptations that make culture possible, (2) general mechanisms of cultural evolution and (3) suggested explanations for the temporary European dominance of the world in the 18th-20th centuries.

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Mondays; March 16, 23, 30, TBD - UR Campus

The practice of medicine is both an art and a science. Several interesting cases from the instructor's clinical practice will be presented. The challenge is to make the proper diagnosis and to select the most appropriate treatment plan for the individual patient. This requires serious thought and sensitivity as patients have their own individual needs and fears.

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Wednesday, Jan 14, TBD - UR Campus

Islam's entry into the Indian subcontinent was a gradual process spanning several centuries, primarily through trade and later through military conquest. Arab traders established contact with India initially on the western coast along the Gujarat and Malabar areas. These Arab traders became the key figures in introducing faith to the region. Evidence suggest early Muslim settlements began along the coast with mosques being built as early as the 7th century.

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No session is currently available for registration

Learn the fundamentals of gardening, including soil properties, soil conditioning, and soilless substrates. Also learn methods to propagate and grow native and introduced species of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous perennial plants as well as vegetables and small fruits. Course also covers common pests and diseases, as well as basic principles and elements of landscape design.

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Fridays; Jan 23, 30, Feb 6, 13, 20, 27, TBD - UR Campus

We will survey the development, operational use, and subsequent evolution of the world's first operational cruise missile, the V-1; and the world's first operational ballistic missile, the V-2. The course will be broken into four parts: the post-WWI environment that led to development of these missiles; the V-1 cruise missile in operational service; the V-2 ballistic missile in operational service; and early US Air Force missile development based on these two designs.

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Thursday, 12/18, GOTW, Auditorium Room A001 (6 seats (9%) remaining)

Join this lecture to understand how and why Virginia is a data center and AI infrastructure hotspot, and what this means for residents of the state. What are the costs and benefits of Virginia's data center expansion? Efforts to educate AI users and prepare impacted communities are key to assure more ethical and greener computer operations for institutions located in the Commonwealth. This is Part 1: Part 2 will be a small, follow-up workshop.

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Tuesday, Jan 27, TBD - UR Campus

Join this small, interactive training session to learn how to engage in education and community advocacy related to making cloud technologies in the Commonwealth greener and more ethical. As the prolific use of AI supercharges data center growth, tech companies are investing heavily in Virginia. We'll unpack the material requirements for cloud computing as the 'winners' and 'losers' of policies and developments are discussed. This is Part 2, a follow-up workshop to the lecture on January 27.

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Tuesday, Feb 3, TBD - UR Campus

Designed by the Foreign Policy Association (FPA) and facilitated at the local level, this program highlights eight timely and thought-provoking foreign policy challenges facing the US. Purchase of a Great Decision briefing book or e-book is suggested.

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Wednesdays; Feb 4, 11, 18, 25, Mar 4, 11, 18, 25, TBD - UR Campus

The Japanese characters forming the word 'ike-bana' can be best translated as 'living flowers.' However, ikebana has become generally accepted as meaning the art form of Japanese flower arrangement. Watch a demonstration then create your own arrangement, using materials and flowers provided. Bring a flower snipping tool and a bucket to take home your flowers. You will keep the suiban container, kenzan spiky frog, handouts, flowers, and branch material to re-create your arrangement at home. Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill your slot.

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Tuesday, Jan 20, TBD - UR Campus

Explore the spices and flavors with some Indian restaurant favorites, including Butter Chicken, Saag Paneer, Naan Bread, and Cucumber Raita. Don't worry, it won't be too spicy! Class may run over/under the allotted time. Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill your vacated slot. Offered twice; please register for only one session.

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Thursday, Jan 29, The Kitchen Classroom
Thursday, February 12, The Kitchen Classroom

Create a beautiful container garden with guidance from Maymont staff in this make-and-take workshop. Learn how to customize and care for your container garden. Guests should bring their own gloves; all other materials will be provided. Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill your slot.

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Saturday, April 25, Maymont Gardens

If you joined us for the First Southern Mediterranean class, you should still come to this one to explore all-new recipes: Chicken Shawarma, Tabouli, Muhammara (Roasted Pepper and Walnut Dip), Baba Ganoush, and Zaatar Labneh Dip. Class may run over/under the allotted time. Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill your vacated slot. Offered twice; please register for only one session.

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Thursday, April 16, The Kitchen Classroom
Thursday, April 23, The Kitchen Classroom

Most conversations about aging focus on lifespan, but brainspan (how long our mind stays sharp) matters more. In this course, we will explore how the brain ages and what science reveals about protecting memory, balance, and clarity. Topics include normal changes versus early dementia, neuroplasticity, nutrition, sleep, stress, social ties, and purpose. Each session blends science with self-tests and take-home practices. We will build a personalized Cognitive Health Scorecard to track habits and strengthen resilience.

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Thursdays, April 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14, Synchronous Online

This updated course offers a clear, engaging introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it's rapidly transforming our world. From self-driving cars to chatbots and precision medicine, we will explore how AI works, where it's headed, and what it means for society. No tech experience needed, just curiosity! With fresh examples and timely updates, participants will gain a solid understanding of the opportunities and challenges AI presents today.

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Thursdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, Synchronous Online

Explore how digital technologies and artificial intelligence affect the brain, behavior, and mental health. This course examines the impact of modern devices on attention, memory, emotions, and decision-making, while addressing ethical concerns like privacy and tech-based addictions. We will learn how neuroscience and psychology offer tools to support well-being in a rapidly evolving digital world.

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Mondays; Jan 26, Feb 2, 9, 16, 23, Mar 2 , Synchronous Online

From pulp origins to mainstream dominance, science fiction has evolved into a powerful storytelling form that explores new worlds, ideas, and ways of thinking. This course traces the genre's growth over two centuries, distinguishing it from fantasy and myth, and highlighting key authors who shaped its direction. We will discover how science fiction reflects cultural change and reimagines the future.

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Tuesdays; Jan 20, 27, Feb 3, 10, 17, 24, Synchronous Online

Explore the fascinating world of Albert Einstein's theories: no math or science background required. This course introduces key ideas like time travel, warped space, black holes, and gravitational waves, all in accessible terms. We will discover how modern science continues to confirm Einstein's predictions and why his work remains a source of wonder for both scientists and science fiction fans.

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Tuesdays; Jan 27, Feb 3, 10, 17, 24, Mar 3, Synchronous Online

Science is full of surprises. Dyes, accidentally discovered, launched the modern pharmaceutical industry. A failed experiment opened the door to new physics. Discoveries are never just facts. They are moments of creativity, struggle, and chance with far-reaching consequences. In this course, we will explore the human side of science, tracing breakthroughs in biology, chemistry, physics, and more. We will ask not only what was found, but how and why it matters.

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Thursdays, April 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14, Synchronous Online

Artificial Intelligence (AI) shapes our daily lives in subtle yet powerful ways. In this non-technical course, we will explore six case studies that reveal how AI systems work, the ethics behind machine decision-making, and the impact of these technologies on our world. We will gain a deeper understanding of AI's current influence, and the possibilities ahead.

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Thursdays; Jan 15, 22, 29, Feb 5, 12, 19, Synchronous Online

This course highlights transformative milestones in medicine from the 18th century to today, beginning with Jenner's smallpox vaccine. We will explore key medical and public health advances, the innovators behind them, and the profound effects these breakthroughs have had on longevity and quality of life. The course offers a compelling look at how science and clinical care have worked together to reshape health outcomes over the past two centuries.

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Wednesdays; Jan 14, 21, 28, Feb 4, 11, 18 , Synchronous Online

This course, presented in partnership with the Osher Collaborative for Integrative Health, features expert speakers from their upcoming national conference, Navigating Chronic Illness in a Complex Healthcare System. Through engaging presentations and discussions, participants will explore how integrative health approaches can address the challenges of living with chronic conditions and help individuals make informed choices within today's increasingly complex healthcare environment. Topics will focus on whole-person care, patient empowerment, and practical strategies for managing long-term health concerns.

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Fridays; Jan 30, Feb 6, 13, 20, 27, Mar 6, Synchronous Online

Some substances heal, others harm, and some do both. This chemistry-rich (but non-technical) course explores the fine line between pharmaceuticals and poisons. We will examine drug development, venom-inspired medicine, and the history of FDA regulation shaped by scandal and reform. From aspirin's industrial roots to Gila monster hormones, participants will uncover the fascinating, sometimes unsettling chemistry behind what we choose to swallow.

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Thursdays; Jan 22, 29 Feb 5, 12, 19, 26, Synchronous Online

How much of who we are is shaped by the places we live and experience? This course invites reflection on the psychological and emotional relationships between people and their environments. Drawing on psychology, geography, architecture, and design, we'll explore environmental psychology and how physical environments shape behavior, cognition, identity, and memory. We will discuss concepts such as place attachment, identity, and cognitive maps, and reflect on memory, home, trauma, displacement, and nature's role in well-being.

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Tuesdays, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, Synchronous Online

This beginner-friendly course introduces Google Workspace tools like Drive, Gmail, Calendar, Docs, Sheets, and Slides. We will learn core features, basic navigation, and practical applications for personal and professional use. With guided instruction and real-world examples, the course builds confidence and foundational skills to boost productivity and collaboration.

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Wednesdays; Jan 21, 28, Feb 4, 11, 18, 25 , Synchronous Online

Wish you had more birds, bees, and butterflies where you live? This class will discuss how to improve the habitat around you using native plants, whether you have a traditional yard, container garden, or community space.

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Mondays; Jan 26 and Feb 2, TBD - UR Campus

Increase your connection to the natural world by slowing down to focus on drawing from observation and recording your experiences in a nature journal. In this series of weekly classes, students will learn tips and techniques for building their own creative toolkit for keeping a nature journal. Pencil, pen and watercolor will be used as participants learn inspiring ways to draw, write and paint. No experience is necessary for this fun and relaxing introductory class.

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Wednesdays; Jan 28, Feb 4, 11, 18, Synchronous Online

Scientific understanding of the human gut has changed radically, revealing that microbes may be powerful allies in our search for health. Does our modern way of living damage these helpful bacteria? Are diet changes or probiotics helpful? This course will focus on a few recent developments in microbiome science, and refer to research studies that may help us protect our own microbiomes and well-being.

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Wednesday & Friday; Mar 4 and 6, TBD - UR Campus

The first thirty years of the twentieth century produced a revolution in physics the likes of which have not been seen before or since. At the center of this revolution was Albert Einsten, known not only for his theories of relativity but also as one of the founders of quantum theory. This course explores the foundations of our modern view of the universe and the major scientific personalities of the time.

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Fridays, April 3, 10, 17, TBD - UR Campus

From 1861 to 1865 Richmond was at the center of the Civil War. A community of just 30,000 civilians became the Capitol of the Confederate Government, and the focal point of several military campaigns that would change the country forever. Join a Ranger for a discussion of the importance of these engagements around the Confederacy's Capitol. This will be followed by an update on the fall class on Threats Facing the National Parks.

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Wednesday, April 15, TBD - UR Campus

Plastics are everywhere. We use them constantly, store and cook our food in them, and wear them as polyester clothing. We travel in plastic cars and airplanes. But plastics are not biodegradable. Recent studies indicate that we're eating, drinking, and breathing increasing amounts of tiny micro- and nano-plastics. This course will discuss strategies to reduce our plastic consumption, and refer to recent studies of the health problems these substances may cause.

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NOTE CHANGED DAYS: Tuesday and Friday, Dec 2, 12, and 16, Special Programs Building, Classroom 156 (1 seats (3%) remaining)
Fridays; Mar 13, 20, 27, TBD - UR Campus

Join this class to answer your questions related to pruning: Who? When? Why? How? How much? Participants will gain a better understanding of how plants work, and, therefore, how we can work with them to maximize plant health and attain desired outcomes in our landscapes.

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Thursday, Jan 15, TBD - UR Campus

You cannot be both old and young. You cannot be both tall and short. And NO, absolutely NO, a cat cannot be both dead and alive. Fundamental to understanding quantum mechanics is the idea of Superposition. But you do not need to understand quantum mechanics in order to understand Superposition. This class will explain Superposition without the use of any mathematics. There will be no mention of addition or subtraction, or even numbers at all.

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Friday, Feb 6, TBD - UR Campus

Discover how to grow abundant gardens while restoring the health of the soil and ecosystem. This class introduces principles of regenerative practices: building soil life, conserving water, increasing biodiversity, and creating closed-loop systems. Students will leave with practical techniques to cultivate resilient, sustainable gardens that give back more than they take.

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Monday, Jan 26, TBD - UR Campus

This course will explore the anatomy (structure), physiology (function), and pathology (diseases) of the major organ systems of the body. Major medical advances are reported every day, and it is important for us to understand the workings of our bodies. Join us for this 'mini-medical school' in eight sessions.

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Wednesdays; Mar 11, 18, 25, Apr 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, TBD - UR Campus

Explore Spain's Northeastern region! Take a deeper dive into Spanish wine with this regionally focused class. We all likely know about Rioja, but are you familiar with Priorat (think big bold reds) or Penendes (home of CAVA)? Join us and you will be. Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill the slot.

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Thursday, Feb 5, The Kitchen Classroom

This class offers a visual journey through the changing seasons in and around Richmond. From spring blooms and nesting birds to summer butterflies, fall migrations, and winter's quiet beauty, the presentation highlights the rhythms of local wildlife and landscapes. Filled with Jim's beautiful photographs, it also includes suggestions and brief descriptions of nearby parks, gardens, and natural areas, encouraging viewers to explore and connect with local nature.

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Monday, Feb 9, TBD - UR Campus

Join us for tips about being a savvy news consumer in this difficult climate with the rise of social media and artificial intelligence (AI), as well as the decline in local newspapers. Virginia Public Media President Jayme Swain will provide an update on what's happening in the news landscape and share how you can tell fact from fiction.

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Tuesday, April 7, TBD - UR Campus

What makes one person more resilient than another? You may be surprised: it is actually a learned skill and can be improved upon. How your brain perceives pressure, your body's reaction to the pressure, and the dynamic communication between your brain/body connection creates conditions to increase your resilience. We will explore the powerful, built-in resilience of your brain and body, and how to harness that power for sustained resilience.

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Tuesdays, March 17 and 24, TBD - UR Campus

Discover the newly-renovated habitats along Maymont's outdoor Virginia Wildlife Trail! Explore our 40-acre valley, home to historic and present-day native Virginia species, many of which are rescued wildlife. Join our educator to learn about the fascinating life histories of these animals and their vital roles in our ecosystem. You'll also get an inside look at how we care for them through specialized diets, enrichment activities, and training. Dress for walking (good shoes, water bottle, etc.). Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill your vacated slot.

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Monday, May 18, Maymont

In American society today, science is often misunderstood and mistrusted, and most people struggle even to define it. This two-part seminar explains what science is and how it developed by tracing its origins through epochs of trial-and-error, missteps, stagnation and near-eradication up to the present day, while highlighting the invention of the critical ideas and factors necessary for modern science and its survival.

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No session is currently available for registration

In today's society, Science has become controversial and people often find it difficult to define what it is. This seminar traces Science from its pre-historic beginnings through epochs of missteps, stagnation, and near-extinction up to the present day and, while doing so, highlights the critical steps involved in the development of Science. This evolution was undirected and resulted in an institution unique among human endeavors.

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No session is currently available for registration

Ever wonder what that unusual rock or fossil really is? Bring your geological finds for expert identification and learn about their origins, age, and formation. Whether it's a family keepsake, a strange beach stone, or a mysterious mineral, discover the hidden story inside your specimen. Time slots will be assigned prior to class so that Dr. Kitchen can examine each item. All are welcome, and curiosity is encouraged!

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Tuesday, Jan 20, TBD - UR Campus

Learn the basics of pairing wine with food, specifically what pairs well with what and why, while sampling wine with paired bites to see if you agree. We will sample six wines, each paired with a tasty bite designed to complement or sometimes contrast. Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill the slot.

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Thursday, March 12, The Kitchen Classroom

This class is back by popular demand, but with all new wines. Do you have to spend a lot of money for a good bottle of wine? Can you tell the difference when you do? We will taste similar wines at different prices, learn what makes the difference, and find out if you can tell. Eight wines will be tasted, each as a pairing with one inexpensive and one more expensive. Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill your vacated slot.

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Thursday, May 7, The Kitchen Classroom

Warm up with hearty and comforting Italian/Italian-American Flavors: Chicken Marsala, Garlicky Kale, Creamy Polenta, and an Apple Cake. Class may run over/under the allotted time. Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill your vacated slot. Offered twice; please register for only one.

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Thursday, February 26, The Kitchen Classroom
Thursday, February 26, The Kitchen Classroom