Courses

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


Thursday, September 24, 2026, Parking Lot J1
Discover the beauty and history of Michigan's Thumb Coast on this relaxing day trip.


Thursday, October 1, 2026, Parking Lot J1
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
Learn about famous glass sculptor Dale Chihuly and his artworks before your visit to his exhibition at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.


Tuesday, September 15, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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.


Wednesday, September 16, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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.


Thursday, October 8, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
Create a complete painting in one relaxing session with certified Bob Ross instructor Ted Simpson.


Thursday, October 15, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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
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
Participants will make a Market Basket that is 6 inches wide, 10 inches long, and 6 inches tall.


Friday, September 18, 2026, Gilbertson Hall, Room 115
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
This course will examine fictional television shows like CSI and NCIS.


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


September 23-30, 2026, Curtiss Hall Room 181
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
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.


September 23-30, 2026, Curtiss Hall Room 181
Continue the fun-or join us for the first time-in this welcoming belly dancing class designed for beginners.


October 5-26, 2026, Student Activity Room
Discover the rich traditions that have shaped Scotland's vibrant musical and dance heritage.


Monday, October 12, 2026, Curtiss Hall - Seminar Rooms D & E
This Watch and Discuss course explores military history through film.


October 7, 2026 to November 18, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
This class is ideal for beginners and those already engaged in strength training, offering dynamic variations to familiar exercises.


September 1-29, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym
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
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
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
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.


September 9-23, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym
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.


October 7-21, 2026, Curtiss Hall Room 181
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
Join OLLI for a rejuvenating yoga class that enhances flexibility, strength, and mindfulness.


September 1-29, 2026, R244 - Campus Rec Entrance, Parking Lot R or K
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
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
We're breaking out the brown paper bags to pour five mystery bottles to see if you can guess the grape.


Monday, September 28, 2026, River Rock Cafe
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
Taste side-by-side examples of three different grapes, grown in different regions of the world.


Monday, January 25, 2027, River Rock Cafe
Join author and mixologist Lindsay Merbaum as she shares her newest novel, Witches of the Wheel, while blending storytelling with hands-on mocktail creation.


Tuesday, September 15, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
An introduction to the geology, ecology, and human history of the Central American isthmus.


Wednesday, September 9, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
Take control of your sugar cravings with certified health coach Alina Warner.


Monday, September 14, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
Join OLLI for this informative wellness talk, where you'll learn practical tips for maintaining healthy breasts.


Wednesday, October 7, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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
Learn how to make informed food choices by understanding what's really on a nutrition label.


Tuesday, December 1, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
Say goodbye to hunger-driven snacking with our Simple Meal Prep Workshop.


Tuesday, January 26, 2027, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
As we age, everyday movements can become more challenging, and stiffness, changes in balance, or aches may become more noticeable.


Tuesday, September 1, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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.


Tuesday, September 22, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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
Discover how proper breathing can improve overall health, wellness, movement, and recovery.


October 26, 2026 to November 9, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 140
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
Back by popular demand, Jerry Willing returns with an engaging look at relationships and marriage.


Thursday, November 12, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
Explore the history, politics, and evolving identity of Taiwan from the twentieth century to the present day.


August 26, 2026 to September 23, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
Join OLLI for a delightful day in the charming village of Chelsea, Michigan.


Thursday, December 10, 2026, Parking Lot J1
This class will focus on the history and politics of Lebanon and explore its rich, complex history from the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.


August 31, 2026 to October 5, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
Kick off OLLI's Presidential Series with an introduction to one of America's most dynamic leaders.


Tuesday, September 8, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
Join Professors Christina and Jason Szilagyi for an engaging exploration of some of history's most significant disease outbreaks.


September 11, 2026 to October 2, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 128
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
Come join a thoughtful exploration of what it means to belong.


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


Wednesday, September 2, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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
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
Go behind the scenes at MBS International Airport and discover what it takes to keep a regional airport operating safely and efficiently.


Monday, September 21, 2026, MBS International Airport
Celebrate the beauty of autumn by creating a handcrafted fall wreath to brighten your front door or home décor.


Tuesday, October 6, 2026, 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
Create a stunning holiday centerpiece that will add festive charm to your table or home décor.


Tuesday, December 8, 2026, Warmbier Farms
As Bay County grew, more visionaries and scoundrels came to the area to build on what the community had to offer.


Wednesday, September 30, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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.


Monday, September 28, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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
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
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
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.
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.
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
Ready to travel with OLLI? Join us to learn about group travel perks, how to sign up for trips, and essential planning tips.


Wednesday, September 2, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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.


Monday, September 28, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
Are you tired of cable but unsure how to cut the cord? This class will explore how to get started.


Wednesday, October 7, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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
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
Properly maintaining your computer is essential to its longevity.


Thursday, December 3, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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
Join Professor Betsy Pierce for an illustrated journey through a recent sabbatical spent living, wandering, and learning in Greece's ancient capital.


Tuesday, October 6, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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
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
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
Lassoing the Sun: A Year in America's National Parks by Mark Woods is a blend of travel writing, memoir, and environmental reflection.


Thursday, October 1, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
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
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.


Thursday, September 10, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 129
Join OLLI for a thought-provoking discussion based on two fascinating TED Talks.


Wednesday, September 23, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 140
Discover the benefits of mindfulness meditation, a practice that encourages living in the present moment with greater awareness, calm, and acceptance.


September 22, 2026 to October 13, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 140
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
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
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
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
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
A great class for beginners and experienced participants, offering dynamic exercises.


July 21, 2026 to August 27, 2026, Campus Rec Center Entrance, Auxiliary Gym
This low-impact class strengthens your core, improves posture, and boosts mobility for better balance.


This course contains no sessions
Join historian Dr. Edward Lengel as he explores how Washington's vision shaped the Revolutionary War.


This course contains no sessions
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
Join Jason and Christina Szilagyi for an engaging exploration of the birth of the United States.


This course contains no sessions
Enjoy a guided tour of the Castle Museum, focusing on its history and architecture.


This course contains no sessions
Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Bay City Electric.


This course contains no sessions
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
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
Join OLLI and Johnny Panther Quests Boat Tours for an unforgettable journey through the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge, often called the "Everglades of Michigan.


Thursday, September 10, 2026, Saginaw Marina
Thursday, September 10, 2026, Saginaw Marina
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
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
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
Explore Scotland's landscapes, Viking influence, clan system, and castle era.


Monday, September 28, 2026, Curtiss Hall, Room 140