Courses

101 Bridge Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

OLLI Interest Group - Enjoy friendly bridge matches, improve your skills, and meet fellow enthusiasts.

July 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

102 Cooking Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

Explore new recipes, improve your culinary skills, and share meals with fellow food enthusiasts in hands-on cooking sessions.

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

103 Cross Country Skiing Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

Explore scenic trails and enjoy the winter landscape with fellow OLLI skiing enthusiasts.

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

104 Current Events Interest Group (Membership Required)

Join lively discussions on current news and global developments, sharing perspectives and gaining insights in a respectful, stimulating environment.

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

105 Cycling Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

Invigorating rides through scenic routes and camaraderie with fellow cycling enthusiasts.

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

106 Dinner Interest Group (Membership Required)

Explore a new local restaurant each month, savoring culinary experiences.

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

107 Esoteric Studies Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

Explore ancient wisdom and modern theories on the universe.

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

108 Guitar Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

Connect with fellow guitar enthusiasts, share techniques, and enjoy playing together.

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

109 Lunch Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

Enjoy good food and conversation with fellow OLLI members at brunches and lunches held at a variety of area restaurants throughout the year.

July 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

110 Movie/Theatre/Concert Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

111 OLLI Folks on Spokes Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

OLLI's slow-paced cycling group, for leisurely rides through scenic routes.

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

112 Ping Pong Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

Relish in some friendly Ping Pong matches and skill-building sessions.

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

113 Stamp and Coin Collecting Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

Join the OLLI Stamp/Coin Collecting Interest Group to explore the fascinating world of philately.

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

114 Knitting Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

OLLI Interest Group - Share your hobby with others who love to knit!

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

115 Puzzle Interest Group (OLLI Membership Required)

OLLI Interest Group - Meet up with other OLLI Members who share your puzzling hobby!

August 1, 2026 to September 1, 2027, Please Contact the Interest Group Leader for the Location

OLLI Membership July 1, 2026 to August 31, 2027

Our membership fee is $70 and includes Fall 2026, as well as Winter, Spring, and Summer 2027. Membership expires on August 31, 2027.

July 1, 2026 to August 1, 2027

OLLI Name Badge Replacement

Members may purchase their replacement name badge online and pick it up at the following month's OLLI Monthly Meeting.

August 12, 2026 to July 14, 2027, Curtiss Hall Room 201

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.

Tuesday, October 13, 2026, Parking Lot J1

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.

Thursday, October 15, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Tuesday, November 3, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 140

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.

Friday, November 13, 2026, Gilbertson Hall, Room 115

128 The CSI Effect

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

November 2-9, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Monday, October 19, 2026, Parking Lot J1

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

132 The Music and Dance of Scotland

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

Monday, October 12, 2026, Curtiss Hall - Seminar Rooms D & E

133 Watch and Discuss Military Movies

This Watch and Discuss course explores military history through film.

October 7, 2026 to November 18, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

October 9, 2026 to November 13, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 128

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.

October 14, 2026 to November 4, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

September 21, 2026 to October 12, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym

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.

October 19, 2026 to November 9, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym

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.

November 16, 2026 to December 7, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym

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.

October 1-29, 2026, Ryder Center - Fitness Center Track

137C Healthy Traveler with Katherine Resseguie

Enhance your travel experiences with our walking fitness course.

November 3, 2026 to December 3, 2026, Ryder Center - Fitness Center Track

137D Healthy Traveler with Katherine Resseguie

Enhance your travel experiences with our walking fitness course.

December 8, 2026 to January 28, 2027, Ryder Center - Fitness Center Track

138A Pilates with Katherine Resseguie

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

September 14, 2026 to October 26, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym

138B Pilates with Katherine Resseguie

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

November 2, 2026 to December 14, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym

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.

October 1-29, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym

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.

November 3, 2026 to December 3, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym

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.

December 8, 2026 to January 21, 2027, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym

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.

November 4-18, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym

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.

October 6-27, 2026, R244 - Campus Rec Entrance, Parking Lot R or K

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

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

November 3-24, 2026, R244 - Campus Rec Entrance, Parking Lot R or K

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

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

December 1, 2026 to January 19, 2027, R244 - Campus Rec Entrance, Parking Lot R or K

142A Wine Appreciation: The Art of Blind Tasting DATE CHANGED TO 10/5

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.

Monday, October 26, 2026, River Rock Cafe

142C Wine Appreciation: Popular Wines for the Holidays

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

Monday, November 30, 2026, River Rock Cafe

142D Wine Appreciation: Separated at Birth

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

Monday, January 25, 2027, River Rock Cafe

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

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.

Thursday, November 5, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

150 Decode Nutrition Labels

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

Tuesday, December 1, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

151 Simple Meal Planning

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

Tuesday, January 26, 2027, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

September 29, 2026 to October 13, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

155 Breathing for Health and Wellness

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

October 26, 2026 to November 9, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 140

156 Normalizing Grief: Not "Getting Over It"

Join us for a thoughtful discussion on grief, loss, and healing.

Thursday, October 22, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Thursday, November 5, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

158 Entering Marital Golden Age

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

Thursday, November 12, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

16 The Purple Rose Theatre Company

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

Thursday, December 10, 2026, Parking Lot J1

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

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.

September 18, 2026 to October 16, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 127

164 Why We Call Ourselves Americans

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

October 1-15, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

October 9, 2026 to November 6, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 127

166 Modern Iraq

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

October 12, 2026 to November 9, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 100

167 The Presidential Series: Franklin D. Roosevelt

Continue our Presidential Series with an overview of Franklin D.

Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

October 27, 2026 to November 17, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

November 3-17, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

170 Modern West Bank and Gaza Strip NEW DATES

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

November 16, 2026 to December 7, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Wednesday, November 11, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Tuesday, November 10, 2026, Warmbier Farms

174C Creative Floral Workshops at Warmbier Farms

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

Tuesday, December 8, 2026, Warmbier Farms

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

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.

Monday, October 26, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Monday, November 30, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Monday, January 25, 2027, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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).

September 29, 2026 to November 3, 2026, Zoom - You will be emailed a link prior to the start of the class.

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.

September 30, 2026 to November 4, 2026, Zoom - You will be emailed a link prior to the start of the class.

178C Cults and New Religious Movements in America

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

October 6, 2026 to November 10, 2026, Zoom - You will be emailed a link prior to the start of the class.

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.

October 22, 2026 to November 19, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Wednesday, November 18, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

185 Viruses and How To Maintain Your Computer

Properly maintaining your computer is essential to its longevity.

Thursday, December 3, 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.

Tuesday, October 13, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 140

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.

Friday, November 13, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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.

Thursday, October 15, 2026, Roberta R. Allen Reading Room - 4th Floor Zahnow

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

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

Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 140

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.

October 27, 2026 to November 17, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 140

20 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.

Sunday, November 22, 2026, Curtiss Hall - Seminar Room D - Second Floor

21 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.

Saturday, February 6, 2027, Curtiss Hall, Banquet Rooms

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.

Monday, October 12, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129

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

Free Senior Fitness Test

Take part in a specially designed fitness assessment for adults 60 and older

Wednesday, October 14, 2026, Ryder Recreation Center, Basketball Courts

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 Seminar 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.

Thursday, November 19, 2026, Parking Lot J1
Wednesday, December 2, 2026, Parking Lot J1