Courses

10 A Day at the Toledo Zoo

Join OLLI for a fun and educational adventure to the Toledo Zoo, one of the nation's top-ranked zoological parks and home to over 10,000 animals from more than 700 species.

This course contains no sessions

11 All About ABBA at Victoria Playhouse

Travel with us across the border to the charming town of Petrolia, Ontario, for a fabulous afternoon of music, laughter, and nostalgia!

Saturday, September 27, 2025, Parking Lot J1

116A 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

116B OLLI Travel Orientation

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

This course contains no sessions

118 Albert Kahn in Paris and the Centre-Val de Loire

Join author, photographer and architectural historian, Dale A. Carlson, as he retraces the 1891 itinerary of architect Albert Kahn through Paris museums and the cities and villages of France's Centre-Val de Loire.

This course contains no sessions

119 Guardians of Michigan: Architectural Sculpture of the Pleasant Peninsulas by Jeff Morrison

Join photographer and historian Jeff Morrison for a fascinating visual tour ofMichigan's hidden architectural treasures.

Wednesday, October 8, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

12 Elk Viewing and Gourmet Experience at Thunder Bay Resort

Join us for a truly unique Northern Michigan adventure as we head to Thunder Bay Resort in Hillman, where breathtaking scenery, majestic wildlife, and fine dining await.

Thursday, October 2, 2025, Parking Lot J1

120A Joy of Painting - Waterfall

Create Your Own Bob Ross-Style Masterpiece

Thursday, October 23, 2025, Aubury Fine Arts Center Room 107 (Near the Marshall Fredericks Museum)

120B Joy of Painting - Seascape

Create Your Own Bob Ross-Style Masterpiece

Thursday, December 18, 2025, Aubury Fine Arts Center Room 107 (Near the Marshall Fredericks Museum)

121 Artist Reflective Conversations: Artemisia Gentilesche, Edmonia Lewis, Edvard Munch and Chuck Close

Join Andrea Ondish for thoughtful conversations exploring the lives and art of four visual artists from different centuries, each of whom faced significant challenges and used their creativity to persevere and inspire.

Tuesday, September 30, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

122 Beaded Plant Stick

Join Andrea Ondish for thoughtful conversations exploring the lives and art of four visual artists from different centuries, each of whom faced significant challenges and used their creativity to persevere and inspire.

This course contains no sessions

123 Floral Picture Frame Workshop

Add a touch of nature to your memories!

Thursday, September 18, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

124 Beginner Level Mosaic Workshop

Bring a touch of artistic flair to your home by creating your own one-of-a-kind mosaic candle holder!

Tuesday, September 30, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

125 No-Sew Sock Gnomes

Get crafty and bring a little charm into your home! In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to turn simple socks, rice, and a few clever accessories into adorable handmade gnomes.

Monday, October 20, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

126 Jewelry Christmas Tree Art

Turn your old costume jewelry into a sparkling holiday keepsake! In this creative, hands-on class, you'll design and assemble your own Christmas tree picture using vintage jewelry pieces.

Monday, November 3, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

127 Cybercrime Uncovered: How to Stay Safe in a Digital World

In this class, you'll explore the motivations and methods behind digital criminal activity and, most importantly, learn how to protect yourself.

Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

128 Behind the Barrel: Forensic Perspectives on Firearms Evidence

Step into the world of forensic science with this fascinating look at how firearmsevidence is examined and interpreted in criminal investigations.

Thursday, October 30, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

129 Understanding Social Justice

What does social justice really mean, and why does it matter today?

Tuesday, November 18, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

130A The Other Down Under

Raise your glass and join OLLI for a fun and approachable introduction to the world of wine.

Monday, September 29, 2025, River Rock Cafe

130B You Lost Me at Merlot

Raise your glass and join OLLI for a fun and approachable introduction to the world of wine.

Monday, October 27, 2025, River Rock Cafe

130C All about Bubbles

Raise your glass and join OLLI for a fun and approachable introduction to the world of wine.

Monday, November 24, 2025, River Rock Cafe

131 OLLI in the Kitchen: Let's Make Soup!

What could be more satisfying than a hearty bowl of homemade soup!

Monday, November 3, 2025, Tittabawassee Twp. Memorial Park Building

132 Sourdough Starter 101: From Starter to Scrumptious

Join OLLI for this popular hands-on introduction to the art of sourdough, led by the experts at Vitality Farm & Inc.

Monday, October 20, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

133 Lessons from the Past on Adapting to Climate Change (Based on the TED Talk by Laprisha Berry Daniels)

In this one-session class, we'll watch and discuss Laprisha Berry Daniels' TED Talk, "Lessons from the Past on Adapting to Climate Change."

Wednesday, October 1, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

134 Life Discussions: Understanding Human Behavior

Join us as we continue exploring shared life experiences through the lens of human behavior and its impact on personal development.

October 9, 2025 to November 6, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

135 The Power of Friendship

In this one-session class, We'll watch journalist Rhaina Cohen's TED Talk, "Why Friendship Can Be Just asMeaningful as Romantic Love"

Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

136 Forts, Furs & Fun: The Architecture of Mackinac Island

Join author, photographer, and architectural historian Dale A. Carlson as he explores the rich architectural legacy of Michigan's beloved Mackinac Island.

This course contains no sessions

137 Tanzania & East Africa Health Care Overview

Dr. Kelch will provide an overview of the health care systems, health issues, cultural and lifestyle factors, and nutrition affecting population health in East Africa.

Friday, October 3, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 220

138 A River Cruise through European History

Join us for a virtual journey through Europe as we follow the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers on a 15-day river cruise aboard the River Melody.

Wednesday, November 12, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Banquet Rooms

139 Let's be glad instead of SAD! - Understanding and Managing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

In this class, we'll explore the symptoms of SAD - like low energy, mood changes, and sleep disruptions - and discuss proven ways to manage it.

Thursday, November 6, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

14 Prohibition Tour

Uncover Detroit's thrilling past on a journey into the city's Prohibition-era underworld, where rumrunners, river smugglers, and hidden speakeasies fueled a rebellious spirit that still echoes today.

Friday, October 24, 2025, Parking Lot J1

140 Understanding Brain Change

Come and join an engaging conversation with Certified Dementia Educator Kristal Corrion, and learn more.

Thursday, September 25, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 128

141 Women, Dementia and Caregiving

Come and join the conversation with Dementia Educator Kristal Corrion, and learn more about understanding the importance of caregiving.

Thursday, October 16, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

142 November is Caregiver Month! Caring for Oneself while Caring for Another

Join JerryWilling, who shared a powerful program with OLLI a few years ago, as he returns to reflect on the challenges, rewards, and realities of being a family caregiver.

November 4-11, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

143 Are We Entering the Marital Golden Age? - Avoiding Marital Disasters by Learning from Marital Masters

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

November 19-26, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

144 Dementia Stages & Quality of Life

When we think of someone living with dementia, most of us picture the end stage of life when the effects are most noticeable.

Thursday, November 20, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

145 Healthy Traveler

Enhance your travel adventures with our meticulously crafted walking fitness course.

September 4, 2025 to December 18, 2025, Ryder Center - Fitness Center Track

146A Senior Strength Training - SEPTEMBER SESSION

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

September 4, 2025 to October 7, 2025, Ryder Center, Auxiliary Gym

146B Senior Strength Training - OCTOBER SESSION

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

October 9, 2025 to November 11, 2025, Ryder Center, Auxiliary Gym

146C Senior Strength Training - NOVEMBER SESSION

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

November 13, 2025 to December 18, 2025, Ryder Center, Auxiliary Gym

147A Vitality Flow: Yoga for Wisdom & Wellness - SEPTEMBER SESSION

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

September 4, 2025 to October 7, 2025, Ryder Center, Auxiliary Gym

147B Vitality Flow: Yoga for Wisdom & Wellness - OCTOBER SESSION

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

October 9, 2025 to November 11, 2025, Ryder Center, Auxiliary Gym

147C Vitality Flow: Yoga for Wisdom & Wellness - NOVEMBER SESSION

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

November 13, 2025 to December 18, 2025, Ryder Center, Auxiliary Gym

148A Pilates - SEPTEMBER SESSION

Whether you're brand new to Pilates or have some experience, you'll enjoy guided movements that boost flexibility, coordination, and overall well-being.

September 8-29, 2025, Ryder Center, Room 244

148B Pilates - OCTOBER SESSION

Whether you're brand new to Pilates or have some experience, you'll enjoy guided movements that boost flexibility, coordination, and overall well-being.

October 6-27, 2025, Ryder Center, Room 244

148C Pilates - NOVEMBER SESSION

Whether you're brand new to Pilates or have some experience, you'll enjoy guided movements that boost flexibility, coordination, and overall well-being.

November 3-24, 2025, Ryder Center, Auxiliary Gym

149 Wellness Wednesday! Aerobic Flow

Groove to high-energy, choreographed classic dance hits and maybe even hit your 5,000 steps while you're at it!

October 15, 2025 to November 5, 2025, Ryder Center, Room 244

15 Meadow Brook Hall Tour and Holiday Shopping

Discover the beauty and history of Meadow Brook Hall, a National Historic Landmark, museum, and the fourth-largest historic home in the country.

Monday, November 10, 2025, Parking Lot J1

150 Common Medical Problems and Treatments

Join OLLI Member and retired family physician Dr. Louis Constan, MD, for an informative and engaging look at some of the most common medical conditions affecting adults today.

September 4-18, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

151 Kick the Sugar Habit

Take control of your sugar cravings with certified health coach Alina Warner. In this class, you'll uncover the root causes of your cravings and learn effective strategies to break free from the sugar cycle - all while still enjoying life's sweetness.

Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Curtiss Hall Room 223

152 Wellness Wednesday: Breast Health Demystified

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

Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

153 Centering Prayer Workshop

Centering Prayer is a method to open ourselves to God, consenting to His presence and action within.

Thursday, October 2, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

155 Is It Your Back? or Your Pelvic Floor? A Closer Look at the Hidden Causes of Back Pain

Dr. Wenger will explain how pelvic floor health impacts posture and spinal alignment, and how dysfunction in this area can contribute to back pain.

Tuesday, October 7, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

156 Understanding and Managing Hand and Wrist Arthritis: A Guide for Everyone

The session will provide practical strategies for managing pain and enhancing hand function, includingexercises, adaptive devices, and lifestyle modifications.

Tuesday, November 11, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

157 Self-Defense for Women

Empower yourself with the skills and confidence to stay safe. This women-only self-defense class will teach you practical techniques to help protect yourself in real-life situations.

Tuesday, October 14, 2025, Ryder Center, Auxiliary Gym

158A The American Civil War: The Antebellum United States

Explore the causes, conflict, and consequences of the American Civil War.

September 10, 2025 to October 1, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

158B The American Civil War: The Civil War

Explore the causes, conflict, and consequences of the American Civil War.

October 8, 2025 to November 5, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

158C The American Civil War: Reconstruction

Explore the causes, conflict, and consequences of the American Civil War.

November 19, 2025 to December 10, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

16 Starbright Christmas at Victoria Playhouse - 2025

Celebrate the season with Starbright Christmas at the charming Victoria Playhouse in Petrolia, Ontario.

Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Parking Lot J1
Thursday, December 11, 2025, Parking Lot J1

160 Grant, Lee, and the Final Year of the Civil War: A Nation Forged in Fire

This course will review the final crucible of the Civil War, the last and most relentless and violent year from the spring of 1864 until the surrender at Appomattox.

October 28, 2025 to November 18, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

161 Exploring Aviation & Naval History: The People and the Stories Behind Their Legacy

In this engaging class, we will explore the lives of military personnel, from well known figures to everyday individuals who served with little recognition.

October 15-29, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

162 The Nuremberg Trials

Explore one of the most significant legal and historical events of the 20th century - the Nuremberg Trials.

October 17, 2025 to November 14, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 224

163 The Age of Alexander the Great and his Successors

Join historians Christina and Jason Szilagyi for a captivating look at the life, conquests, and legacy of Alexander the Great.

October 20, 2025 to November 24, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

165 Basket Making with Sue: Double Jelly Basket

Join OLLI to create a charming, handcrafted wooden caddy perfect for holding two pint-sized jars!

Friday, October 3, 2025, Gilbertson Hall, Room 115

166 Basket Making with Sue: Flowerpot with Cherokee Wheels

In this intermediate-level workshop, you'll create a stunning 9"x 9", 8" high woven flowerpot basket, complete with decorative Cherokee wheels.

Friday, November 7, 2025, Gilbertson Hall, Room 115

169 Invasive Wetlands: Battling Phragmites with Technology and Fieldwork

Phragmites australis is an invasive wetland plant that can create dense monocultures in formerly healthy wetlands.

This course contains no sessions

17 Behind the Scenes at Amigo Mobility

Learn how this innovative company designs and builds personal mobility devices that improve lives around the world.

This course contains no sessions

170 Weather 101 with Chris Easlick

Join Chris Easlick, meteorologist from WNEM TV5, for an engaging and easy-to-understand look at the science behind the forecast.

Tuesday, September 23, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

171 Birding Basics: An Introduction to Michigan's Birds

This beginner-friendly class is the perfect introduction to Michigan's most common birds, their habitats, and how to identify them by sight and sound.

This course contains no sessions

172A Fall OLLI Book Club: Being Mortal by Atul Gawande

In this powerful and thought-provoking book, surgeon and bestselling author Atul Gawande explores how modern medicine often struggles to balance safety, quality of life, and dignity as we age.

Monday, September 29, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

172B Fall OLLI Book Club: The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray

This captivating historical novel tells the remarkable true story of Belle da Costa Greene, the personal librarian to financier J.P. Morgan.

Monday, October 27, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

172C Fall OLLI Book Club: The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden

In this gripping psychological thriller, Sydney Shaw thinks she's finally found the perfect man - charming, handsome, and successful.

Monday, November 24, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

173 Creative Conservation

Join wildlife conservationist and former Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom host Stephanie Arne for an inspiring look at real-life conservation efforts.

October 8, 2025 to November 12, 2025, Zoom - You will be emailed a link prior to the start of the class.

174 Legendary Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes: Tales from the Inland Seas

Explore the haunting stories of shipwrecks beneath the Great Lakes in this captivating course led by author and storyteller Anna Lardinois.

October 9, 2025 to November 13, 2025, Zoom - You will be emailed a link prior to the start of the class.

175 American History in Six Songs (Approximately)

Explore how music reflects and shapes American history - from indigenous traditions and colonialism to African influence and modern cultural shifts.

October 14, 2025 to November 18, 2025, Zoom - You will be emailed a link prior to the start of the class.

176 The Power of One in Steven Spielberg Films

Explore themes of morality and redemption in the films of Steven Spielberg through scene-by-scene analysis of Close Encounters, Lincoln, Bridge of Spies, Saving Private Ryan, Munich, and Schindler's List.

October 20, 2025 to November 24, 2025, Zoom - You will be emailed a link prior to the start of the class.

177 The Magic of Motown

Celebrate Motown's golden era - from its 1950s roots to its 1970s legacy - through iconic artists, timeless hits, and the label's groundbreaking impact on music and culture.

October 28, 2025 to December 2, 2025, Zoom - You will be emailed a link prior to the start of the class.

178 U.S. Supreme Court Roundup & Preview 2025-2026

This course will review major decisions issued by the U.S. Supreme Court during its 2024-2025 term and preview current cases pending before the Court during its October 2025 sitting.

Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 222

18 Discovering Art: A Guided Tour of the Saginaw Art Museum

Join us for a guided tour of the Saginaw Art Museum, a hidden gem in the heart of the Great Lakes Bay region.

Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Saginaw Art Museum

182 Alfred Hitchcock: Horror and Suspense

Join Jason Szilagyi for an engaging exploration of four suspenseful classics from the Master of Suspense himself - Alfred Hitchcock.

September 15, 2025 to October 6, 2025, Curtiss Hall Room 223

183 Understanding Artificial Intelligence. Curious about AI?

This class offers an accessible introduction to artificial intelligence (AI), explaining what it is, how it functions, and the many ways it's shaping our daily lives.

This course contains no sessions

184 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.

Tuesday, October 14, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

185 Cutting the Cord

With television cable bills becoming increasingly expensive, more people are "cutting the cord" by getting rid of cable.

Wednesday, October 1, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

186 Viruses and How to Maintain Your Computer

Computer viruses can destroy computer data, hard drives and make your computer completely unusable.

Monday, October 6, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

187 How To Buy Technology: Smart Phones, Computers, Tablets, Smart Watches, Smart TV's

In this practical and easy-to-follow session, we'll break down different types of technology - from smartphones and tablets to smart home devices and beyond.

Tuesday, October 28, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

188 Getting to Know Your Android: Tips for Phones & Tablets

In this beginner-friendly session, you'll learn the essentials: how to download apps, access content, adjust settings,and navigate your device with confidence.

Wednesday, November 5, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

189 Cloud Storage Made Easy: Protecting Your Digital Life

Cloud storage offers a simple, reliable way to back up and protect your digital information.

Monday, November 17, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

19 Inside the Action: A Tour of Mobile Medical Response (MMR)

Get an up-close look at how emergency medical care works with this behind the-scenes tour of Mobile Medical Response (MMR).

Monday, October 13, 2025, MMR Mobile Medical Response

190 Short, Fun and Viral: Exploring Facebook Reels and TikTok

This class will introduce you to the world of Facebook Reels and TikTok - two of today's most popular platforms for sharing short, creative content.

Wednesday, October 1, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

191 Digital Photography & Photo Editing for Your Pictures

Capture your memories like a pro! This class will teach you techniques for taking stunning photos right from your phone.

Tuesday, October 7, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

192 Password Manager

This class will provide an overview of password managers available to manage all those pesky account passwords.

Wednesday, November 5, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

193 Understanding Current TV Streaming Services

Today, there are so many options for TV streaming services.

Wednesday, December 3, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

194A Travel Book Discussions: The House on Endless Waters

The House on Endless Waters is a literary historical novel that follows internationally acclaimed Israeli author Yoel Blum, who has been cajoled into traveling to Amsterdam to celebrate the translation of his latest book into Dutch.

Monday, September 29, 2025, Zahnow Library Z111

194B Travel Book Discussions: One of Them: My Life Among the Maasai of Kenya

One of Them: My Life Among the Maasai of Kenya by Eti Dayan is a memoir that tells the remarkable personal story of how the Israeli author's life became intertwined with the Maasai people in Kenya.

Friday, October 17, 2025, Zahnow Library Z111

195 Pack Your Bags

This class will discuss everything from packing lists, packing cubes, luggage, carry-ons, tech gear, travel documents, travel apps, roll vs. fold, as well as a variety of travel tips.

This course contains no sessions

196 Journey to Kenya & Tanzania: An OLLI Member's African Adventure

Join a fellow OLLI member, Marvin Tegen, for a fascinating look at a recent trip to Kenya and Tanzania.

Wednesday, November 5, 2025, CCB 116

197 Ancient Wonders of Egypt

Journey to the land of pharaohs and pyramids with OLLI member Deb Piotrowski as she shares her recent adventure through Egypt, one of the world's most fascinating civilizations.

Thursday, November 20, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

198 Discovering Costa Rica

Join fellow OLLI members Luis and Rosie Mulford as they share their recent adventure to Costa Rica.

Monday, December 8, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

199A Travel Preview: Hawaii - Oahu, the Big Island & Maui

Cross the Pacific to discover a state unlike any other.

Thursday, November 13, 2025, Curtiss Hall - Seminar Rooms D & E

199B Travel Preview: Egypt, Jordan & Nile River Cruise

Descend into a world of ancient wonders to discover the land behind the legends.

Thursday, November 13, 2025, Curtiss Hall - Seminar Rooms D & E

199C Travel Preview: Scotland: Glasgow, the Highlands & Edinburgh

Scotland's rugged landscapes and centuries-old fortresses tell the tale of a bold, brave people.

Thursday, November 13, 2025, Curtiss Hall - Seminar Rooms D & E

199D Egyptian Dance Demonstration

A dazzling live performance inspired by the rhythms and spirit of Egyptian culture.

Thursday, November 13, 2025, Curtiss Hall - Seminar Rooms D & E

199E Travel Social Hour

Join fellow travelers for light refreshments and conversation. Share stories, ask questions, and get excited for your next OLLI Adventure!

Thursday, November 13, 2025, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

20 A Taste of Tradition: Tour of Bay Port Fish Company

Join us for a behind-the-scenes tour of Bay Port Fish Company, one of Michigan's last remaining commercial fisheries.

Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Bay Port Fish Company

21 Behind the Scenes at WSGW Radio

Go behind the mic with a guided tour of WSGW Radio!

Thursday, September 25, 2025, WSGW

25 Fall Escape to Mackinac Island

Experience the magic of Mackinac Island in its full fall splendor!

Monday, September 22, 2025, Parking Lot J1

325D Senior Strength Training - SESSION STARTS AUGUST 5

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

This course contains no sessions