Courses

10 Chihuly at Meijer Gardens

Experience the artistry of Dale Chihuly at one of Michigan's most beautiful destinations.

This course contains no sessions

11 Maritime Highlights of Michigan's Thumb Coast

Discover the beauty and history of Michigan's Thumb Coast on this relaxing day trip.

This course contains no sessions

12 Traverse City: Tunnels, Tastings & The Village

Join OLLI for a memorable fall day in beautiful Traverse City as we explore the historic Village at Grand Traverse Commons.

This course contains no sessions

120 Exploring the Art of Dale Chihuly

Learn about famous glass sculptor Dale Chihuly and his artworks before your visit to his exhibition at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.

This course contains no sessions

121 It's Card Making Time!

Join OLLI for a fun card-making class! You'll create 3-4 handmade greeting cards, depending on time, while enjoying the company of fellow OLLI crafters.

This course contains no sessions

122 Resin Art Workshop: Create Your Own Lazy Susan

Back by popular demand, join OLLI for another fun and creative resin art workshop! In this hands-on class, you'll design and create your own beautiful resin Lazy Susan, perfect for entertaining, decorating, or giving as a unique gift.

This course contains no sessions

123 Learn to Paint Like Bob Ross

Create a complete painting in one relaxing session with certified Bob Ross instructor Ted Simpson.

This course contains no sessions

124 Reflective Conversations: Famous Artists with No Formal Art Training

Reflective Conversations: Explore four famous visual artists who received no formal art training: Henri Rousseau, Bill Traylor, Grandma Moses, and Yoko Ono.

This course contains no sessions

125 Christmas Tree Charms

It's time for Christmas! Join us for a fun, festive craft as we create a charming Christmas tree decorated with charms and special touches.

This course contains no sessions

126 Small Market Basket with Cross Stitch Design

Participants will make a Market Basket that is 6 inches wide, 10 inches long, and 6 inches tall.

This course contains no sessions

127 Small Market Basket with Cherokee Wheels

Participants will make a Market Basket that is 6 inches wide, 10 inches long, and 6 inches tall.

This course contains no sessions

128 The CSI Effect

This course will examine fictional television shows like CSI and NCIS.

This course contains no sessions

129 Intro to Tap Dance

This tap class is for those with a lifetime of experience or those who have always wanted to learn to TAP! This tap course is geared toward dancers from beginners to advanced who just love to dance.

This course contains no sessions

13 Ann Arbor Adventure: The Big House, Zingerman's, and Presidential History

Join OLLI for a memorable day in Ann Arbor! Our adventure begins with a tour of Michigan Stadium, affectionately known as "The Big House.

This course contains no sessions

130 Couples Dancing

Have you ever wanted to learn to dance ballroom dancing, couples dancing, or even move together at a special event without stepping on each other's toes? This 2-week course is the perfect way to brush up on skills and learn new ones.

This course contains no sessions

131 Beginning Belly Dance

Continue the fun-or join us for the first time-in this welcoming belly dancing class designed for beginners.

This course contains no sessions

132 The Music and Dance of Scotland

Discover the rich traditions that have shaped Scotland's vibrant musical and dance heritage.

This course contains no sessions

133 Watch and Discuss Military Movies

This Watch and Discuss course explores military history through film.

This course contains no sessions

134 Star Trek: The History of the Future

Join us as we continue the adventures of Captain Pike's Enterprise in the first season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

This course contains no sessions

135 Film Noir: A Journey into the Heart of Darkness

Films noir exploded in the 1940s and '50s with dark visuals, morally conflicted characters, and fatalistic stories shaped by the Depression, WWII, and early Cold War fears.

This course contains no sessions

136A Aerobic Flow with Jill Miller

Groove to high-energy, choreographed classic dance hits and maybe even hit your 5,000 steps while you're at it! This low-impact aerobics class is about moving to the beat, with your instructor leading a series of easy-to-follow foot and arm combinations.

This course contains no sessions

136B Aerobic Flow with Jill Miller

Groove to high-energy, choreographed classic dance hits and maybe even hit your 5,000 steps while you're at it! This low-impact aerobics class is about moving to the beat, with your instructor leading a series of easy-to-follow foot and arm combinations.

This course contains no sessions

136C Aerobic Flow with Jill Miller

Groove to high-energy, choreographed classic dance hits and maybe even hit your 5,000 steps while you're at it! This low-impact aerobics class is about moving to the beat, with your instructor leading a series of easy-to-follow foot and arm combinations.

This course contains no sessions

137A Healthy Traveler with Katherine Resseguie

Enhance your travel experiences with our walking fitness course.

This course contains no sessions

137B Healthy Traveler with Katherine Resseguie

Enhance your travel experiences with our walking fitness course.

This course contains no sessions

137C Healthy Traveler with Katherine Resseguie

Enhance your travel experiences with our walking fitness course.

This course contains no sessions

137D Healthy Traveler with Katherine Resseguie

Enhance your travel experiences with our walking fitness course.

This course contains no sessions

138A Pilates with Katherine Resseguie

This low-impact class strengthens your core, improves posture, and boosts mobility for better balance.

This course contains no sessions

138B Pilates with Katherine Resseguie

This low-impact class strengthens your core, improves posture, and boosts mobility for better balance.

This course contains no sessions

139A Senior Strength Training with Katherine Resseguie

This class is ideal for beginners and those already engaged in strength training, offering dynamic variations to familiar exercises.

This course contains no sessions

139B Senior Strength Training with Katherine Resseguie

This class is ideal for beginners and those already engaged in strength training, offering dynamic variations to familiar exercises.

This course contains no sessions

139C Senior Strength Training with Katherine Resseguie

This class is ideal for beginners and those already engaged in strength training, offering dynamic variations to familiar exercises.

This course contains no sessions

139D Senior Strength Training with Katherine Resseguie

This class is ideal for beginners and those already engaged in strength training, offering dynamic variations to familiar exercises.

This course contains no sessions

140A Strength and Strong with Kacie Meisel

Discover muscles you never knew you had! Join Kacie for a fun, full-body strength workout using light weights, resistance bands, and your own body weight.

This course contains no sessions

140B Strength and Strong with Kacie Meisel

Discover muscles you never knew you had! Join Kacie for a fun, full-body strength workout using light weights, resistance bands, and your own body weight.

This course contains no sessions

140C Strength and Strong with Kacie Meisel

Discover muscles you never knew you had! Join Kacie for a fun, full-body strength workout using light weights, resistance bands, and your own body weight.

This course contains no sessions

141A Vitality Flow: Yoga for Wisdom & Wellness with Katherine Resseguie

Join OLLI for a rejuvenating yoga class that enhances flexibility, strength, and mindfulness.

This course contains no sessions

141B Vitality Flow: Yoga for Wisdom & Wellness with Katherine Resseguie

Join OLLI for a rejuvenating yoga class that enhances flexibility, strength, and mindfulness.

This course contains no sessions

141C Vitality Flow: Yoga for Wisdom & Wellness with Katherine Resseguie

Join OLLI for a rejuvenating yoga class that enhances flexibility, strength, and mindfulness.

This course contains no sessions

141D Vitality Flow: Yoga for Wisdom & Wellness with Katherine Resseguie

Join OLLI for a rejuvenating yoga class that enhances flexibility, strength, and mindfulness.

This course contains no sessions

142A Wine Appreciation: The Art of Blind Tasting

We're breaking out the brown paper bags to pour five mystery bottles to see if you can guess the grape.

This course contains no sessions

142B Wine Appreciation: The Red Wines of Bordeaux

Many American wine drinkers have heard of Bordeaux and maybe even enjoy some of its red wines without really knowing what the word means or what grapes are actually in their glass.

This course contains no sessions

142C Wine Appreciation: Popular Wines for the Holidays

We all have go-to wines that we love to drink year-round.

This course contains no sessions

142D Wine Appreciation: Separated at Birth

Taste side-by-side examples of three different grapes, grown in different regions of the world.

This course contains no sessions

143 Mixology Magic with Lindsay Merbaum: Stirring Stories & Shaking Mocktails - Part 2

Join author and mixologist Lindsay Merbaum as she shares her newest novel, Witches of the Wheel, while blending storytelling with hands-on mocktail creation.

This course contains no sessions

144 OLLI in the Kitchen: Easy "Any Day" Favorites

Cooking at home doesn't have to be complicated to be delicious.

This course contains no sessions

145 The Natural History of Costa Rica and Panama

An introduction to the geology, ecology, and human history of the Central American isthmus.

This course contains no sessions

146 The Geography and History of Scotland

Explore Scotland's landscapes, Viking influence, clan system, and castle era.

This course contains no sessions

147 Kick the Sugar Habit

Take control of your sugar cravings with certified health coach Alina Warner.

This course contains no sessions

148 Wellness Wednesday: Breast Health Demystified

Join OLLI for this informative wellness talk, where you'll learn practical tips for maintaining healthy breasts.

This course contains no sessions

149 Let's be Glad Instead of SAD - Understanding and Managing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Do you feel more tired, down, or withdrawn during the darker months? You're not alone - Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects millions of people each year.

This course contains no sessions

150 Decode Nutrition Labels

Learn how to make informed food choices by understanding what's really on a nutrition label.

This course contains no sessions

151 Simple Meal Planning

Say goodbye to hunger-driven snacking with our Simple Meal Prep Workshop.

This course contains no sessions

152 Moving Well with Kim Barcalow DPT

As we age, everyday movements can become more challenging, and stiffness, changes in balance, or aches may become more noticeable.

This course contains no sessions

153 Shoulder Pain with Stephen Zingg, DPT

Join us with Renue Physical Therapy for an educational seminar on shoulder pain and learn why discomfort when reaching, lifting, sleeping, or moving is so common.

This course contains no sessions

154 Common Medical Problems, Their Diagnosis and Treatment

Drs. Louis Constan and Louis Byrne continue their informative and entertaining look at common medical conditions affecting adults today.

This course contains no sessions

155 Breathing for Health and Wellness

Discover how proper breathing can improve overall health, wellness, movement, and recovery.

This course contains no sessions

157 November Caregiver Month: Caring for Oneself while Caring for Another

November is recognized as National Family Caregivers Month - a time to honor and support those who care for loved ones facing illness, disability, or aging.

This course contains no sessions

158 Entering Marital Golden Age

Back by popular demand, Jerry Willing returns with an engaging look at relationships and marriage.

This course contains no sessions

159 Modern Taiwan

Explore the history, politics, and evolving identity of Taiwan from the twentieth century to the present day.

This course contains no sessions

16 The Purple Rose Theatre Company

Join OLLI for a delightful day in the charming village of Chelsea, Michigan.

This course contains no sessions

160 Modern Lebanon

This class will focus on the history and politics of Lebanon and explore its rich, complex history from the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.

This course contains no sessions

161 The Presidential Series: Theodore Roosevelt

Kick off OLLI's Presidential Series with an introduction to one of America's most dynamic leaders.

This course contains no sessions

162 Historic Plagues

Join Professors Christina and Jason Szilagyi for an engaging exploration of some of history's most significant disease outbreaks.

This course contains no sessions

163 The Panama Canal

Discover the history and construction of the Panama Canal, one of the most significant engineering projects in modern history.

This course contains no sessions

164 Why We Call Ourselves Americans

Come join a thoughtful exploration of what it means to belong.

This course contains no sessions

165 The Roman Revolution

Join Professor Christina De Clerck-Szilagyi to learn about the collapse of the Roman Republic as it became the Roman Empire.

This course contains no sessions

166 Modern Iraq

Explore the history and politics of Iraq from the Twentieth and Twenty-First Centuries.

This course contains no sessions

167 The Presidential Series: Franklin D. Roosevelt

Continue our Presidential Series with an overview of Franklin D.

This course contains no sessions

168 1942: When World War II Engulfed the Globe

Following Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States entered World War II, transforming the conflict into a truly global war involving all the world's major powers.

This course contains no sessions

169 The Origins of the National Parks (Via Zoom)

This class, presented by Will De Mann, a Michigan-based educator, writer, and public land advocate, will dive into this unique history of the National Park System, looking at the people, events, triumphs, and crises that have shaped the conservation movement in America and resulted in the preservation of our most important public lands.

This course contains no sessions

17 New Member Orientation

Discover OLLI! Join us to meet the staff and learn about SVSU OLLI's classes, trips, and programs, whether you're new or need a refresher.

This course contains no sessions

170 Modern West Bank and Gaza Strip

Explore the history and politics of the West Bank and Gaza Strip from the Twentieth and Twenty-First Centuries.

This course contains no sessions

171 Gar Wood: The Gray Fox of Algonac

Garfield Arthur Wood was the embodiment of big-time powerboat competition during the early decades of the 20th century.

This course contains no sessions

173 Behind the Scenes at MBS International Airport

Go behind the scenes at MBS International Airport and discover what it takes to keep a regional airport operating safely and efficiently.

This course contains no sessions

174A Creative Floral Workshops at Warmbier Farms

Celebrate the beauty of autumn by creating a handcrafted fall wreath to brighten your front door or home décor.

This course contains no sessions

174B Creative Floral Workshops at Warmbier Farms

Welcome the winter season by designing an elegant winter wreath using beautiful silk greenery, berries, pinecones, ribbons, and other seasonal accents.

This course contains no sessions

174C Creative Floral Workshops at Warmbier Farms

Create a stunning holiday centerpiece that will add festive charm to your table or home décor.

This course contains no sessions

175 A Taste of Japan: Tea, Tradition, and Friendship at the Japanese Cultural Center

Experience a unique cultural tradition at the Japanese Cultural Center, Tea House, and Garden.

This course contains no sessions

176 Bay County Heroes and Scoundrels - Part 2

As Bay County grew, more visionaries and scoundrels came to the area to build on what the community had to offer.

This course contains no sessions

177A The Words Between Us: A Novel by Erin Bartels

Join OLLI for a discussion of The Words Between Us by Erin Bartels, a moving novel about family secrets, first love, forgiveness, and the power of books.

This course contains no sessions

177B The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey by Candice Millard

Follow former President Theodore Roosevelt on one of the most dangerous adventures of his life in The River of Doubt by Candice Millard.

This course contains no sessions

177C Cloudbuster Nine: The Untold Story of Ted Williams and the Baseball Team That Helped Win World War II

Step back to World War II and discover the remarkable story of the Cloudbuster Nine, a Navy baseball team made up of future legends, including Ted Williams, Johnny Pesky, and Johnny Sain.

This course contains no sessions

177D Falling Apart and Other Gifts from the Universe: A Novel by Catherine Ryan Hyde

Enjoy a discussion of this heartwarming and inspiring novel about second chances, resilience, and the unexpected bonds that can change our lives.

This course contains no sessions

178A A Cosmic Grand Tour: The Realms of the Universe

In this course, we will explore the three fascinating realms of the cosmos: nearby planets and moons; the stars; and the galaxies (the great island of stars that turn out to be the building blocks of the universe).

This course contains no sessions

178B Tracing Our Roots: DNA, Family History, and the Politics of Identity

How does DNA reshape our understanding of ancestry, colonial society, and identity in the Americas? In this course, we will explore the science and methodology of genetic genealogy through the lens of first contact between European and Indigenous peoples.

This course contains no sessions

178C Cults and New Religious Movements in America

America has provided fertile ground for new and alternative religions to sprout and grow.

This course contains no sessions

178D The 60's Through the Great Speeches

The 1960s are a decade wrapped in myths and misunderstanding.

This course contains no sessions

179 Life Discussion with Ron Taylor

During this semester, we will venture into a smorgasbord of topics, a sampling that will help us choose a topic for focus in future courses.

This course contains no sessions

18 Travel Orientation

Ready to travel with OLLI? Join us to learn about group travel perks, how to sign up for trips, and essential planning tips.

This course contains no sessions

180 How to Buy Technology: Smart Phones, Computers, Tablets, Smart Watches, Smart TVs

Whether you're looking to upgrade or just make the best use of what you already have, this class will help you feel more confident navigating today's tech landscape.

This course contains no sessions

181 Cutting the Cord

Are you tired of cable but unsure how to cut the cord? This class will explore how to get started.

This course contains no sessions

182 Tech Tuesday - Is a Smart Home Right for You?

Curious about smart home technology, but not sure where to start? Discover how smart devices can add convenience, entertainment, and security to your everyday life.

This course contains no sessions

183 Protect Your Data

How to back up your files.

This course contains no sessions

184 Understanding Bitcoin: A Beginner's Guide.

Curious about Bitcoin but not sure what it is or how it works? This introductory class will explain the basics of Bitcoin and digital currency in simple terms.

This course contains no sessions

185 Viruses and How To Maintain Your Computer

Properly maintaining your computer is essential to its longevity.

This course contains no sessions

186 Escape to Paradise? or Paris - A Travel Information Session: Hawaii and Paris

Can't decide on your next destination? Let us help.

Wednesday, September 9, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

187 Two Unforgettable Journeys - A Travel Information Session: From Highlands to the Alps

A Grand Tour Preview of Scotland - Glasgow, the Highlands & Edinburgh, then on to the Highlights of Central Europe - Switzerland, Germany, Austria & Czechia.

Thursday, September 10, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

188 Where Winter Blooms: An Athenian Sabbatical

Join Professor Betsy Pierce for an illustrated journey through a recent sabbatical spent living, wandering, and learning in Greece's ancient capital.

This course contains no sessions

189 Beyond the Postcard: Discovering Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia

Discover the rich history, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant cultures of Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia before your journey begins.

This course contains no sessions

19 Educating For Civic Confidence- Michigan OLLI Collaboration Class

OLLI at SVSU is pleased to join fellow OLLI programs across Michigan in partnership with the State Bar of Michigan Judicial Section and the Michigan Center for Civic Education (MCCE) to offer a two-part educational series exploring Michigan's judicial systems.

This course contains no sessions

190 Egypt: Beyond the Pyramids

Join us for an engaging exploration of Egypt, a country where ancient history and modern life intersect in fascinating ways.

This course contains no sessions

191 Lassoing the Sun: A Year in America's National Parks

Lassoing the Sun: A Year in America's National Parks by Mark Woods is a blend of travel writing, memoir, and environmental reflection.

This course contains no sessions

192 The Great Divide: A Historical Novel of the Panama Canal

Cristina Henríquez's The Great Divide (2024) is a sweeping historical novel set during the construction of the Panama Canal in the early twentieth century.

This course contains no sessions

193 Galápagos Islands Expedition

Join OLLI for an unforgettable journey to the Galápagos Islands as the presenter shares highlights from a seven-day expedition cruise through this remarkable archipelago.

This course contains no sessions

194 TED Talk: Manoush Zomorodi and Anil Seth

Join OLLI for a thought-provoking discussion based on two fascinating TED Talks.

This course contains no sessions

195 TED Talk: Roy Woods Jr. -How Comedy Deals with Hard Truths

Join OLLI for a lively discussion based on Roy Wood Jr.

This course contains no sessions

196A Mindfulness Meditation September

Discover the benefits of mindfulness meditation, a practice that encourages living in the present moment with greater awareness, calm, and acceptance.

This course contains no sessions

196B Mindfulness Meditation October

Discover the benefits of mindfulness meditation, a practice that encourages living in the present moment with greater awareness, calm, and acceptance.

This course contains no sessions

20 Mid Winter Tai Chi Festival

Experience the gentle practice of Tai Chi and Qigong-often described as "meditation in motion"-as you explore movements designed to promote balance, flexibility, strength, and overall well-being.

This course contains no sessions

21 National Parks Trivia Day

How well do you know America's national parks? Join Will De Man and test your knowledge of iconic landmarks, wildlife, history, and hidden gems from Acadia to Zion.

This course contains no sessions

22 An Evening of Pressed Flowers and Creativity

Join OLLI for a fun and creative evening at this special event! Enjoy light snacks while learning the art of preserving nature's beauty.

This course contains no sessions

311 Healthy Traveler

Boost your travel readiness with this walking fitness course designed to increase endurance.

July 21, 2026 to August 27, 2026, Ryder Center - Fitness Center Track

312 Senior Strength Training

A great class for beginners and experienced participants, offering dynamic exercises.

July 21, 2026 to August 27, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym

313 Vitality Flow: Yoga for Wisdom & Wellness

Improve flexibility, build strength, and promote mindfulness and relaxation.

July 21, 2026 to August 25, 2026, R244 - Campus Rec Entrance, Parking Lot R or K

314 Pilates

This low-impact class strengthens your core, improves posture, and boosts mobility for better balance.

This course contains no sessions

373 Online Lecture: George Washington & the Road to Independence

Join historian Dr. Edward Lengel as he explores how Washington's vision shaped the Revolutionary War.

This course contains no sessions

376 Raising and Rebuilding the Fleet After Pearl Harbor

This class covers the rapid repair and return of U.S. warships after Pearl Harbor, highlighting innovation and determination that strengthened the Pacific fleet.

This course contains no sessions

390 Age of the American Revolution

Join Jason and Christina Szilagyi for an engaging exploration of the birth of the United States.

This course contains no sessions

461 Tour of The Castle Museum

Enjoy a guided tour of the Castle Museum, focusing on its history and architecture.

Wednesday, August 19, 2026, Castle Building

462 Bay City Electric Facility Tour & Energy Insights DATE CHANGE TO AUG. 20

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Bay City Electric.

Thursday, August 20, 2026, Bay City Electric Facility

463 Saginaw Water Treatment Plant Tour

Join OLLI for a tour of the Saginaw Water Treatment Plant.

Tuesday, August 25, 2026, Saginaw Water Treatment Plant

553 In Five Years: A Novel by Rebecca Serle

A woman's carefully planned future is upended by one unexpected moment in this heartfelt story of love, friendship, and fate.

Monday, August 24, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

601 Weather 101: Part 2 with Chris Easlick

Continue your weather education with WNEM TV5 meteorologist Chris Easlick as he takes a deeper dive into the science of forecasting.

This course contains no sessions

633 Understanding Bitcoin: A Beginner's Guide

This introductory class will explain the basics of Bitcoin and digital currency in simple terms.

This course contains no sessions

December Monthly Meeting Fascinating World of Drones

Join us for an engaging look at the fascinating world of drones.

Wednesday, December 9, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Banquet Rooms

Exploring the Everglades of Michigan: A Shiawassee Wildlife Boat Tour

Join OLLI and Johnny Panther Quests Boat Tours for an unforgettable journey through the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge, often called the "Everglades of Michigan.

This course contains no sessions

January Monthly Meeting An African Safari - More Than Just a Game Drive

In June 2026, Elaine Dougherty traveled with SVSU-OLLI to Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar on a 16-day learning adventure.

Wednesday, January 13, 2027, Curtiss Hall, Banquet Rooms

November Monthly Meeting Ernie Harwell: War Correspondent and Beloved Sportscaster

For more than 40 years, Ernie Harwell was the voice of summer in Michigan.

Wednesday, November 11, 2026, Curtiss Hall Seminar Rooms

October Monthly Meeting Doing 100 on Route 66

Join John Lacko for a visual journey down the Mother Road, from Chicago to Santa Monica, during Route 66's centennial year.

Wednesday, October 14, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Banquet Rooms

September Monthly Meeting Reframing the City Beautiful: Parks, the Environment, & Health in Nineteenth-Century American Cities

Often, when we take on leadership positions, we find ourselves critiqued by others.

Wednesday, September 9, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Banquet Rooms

Starbright Christmas at Victoria Playhouse

Kick off the holiday season with OLLI on a festive getaway to the charming Victorian town of Petrolia, Ontario! Enjoy a delicious lunch at Chuck's Roadhouse Bar & Grill before exploring Petrolia's quaint downtown, where you'll find unique shops, bakeries, and plenty of small-town holiday charm.

This course contains no sessions