College for Seniors   

TED Talks offer idea-driven, thought-provoking and accessible perspectives on important and sometimes challenging topics. Each week, we will watch two TED Talks that offer lively perspectives into subjects such as healthy aging, social connections as we age, aging across different societies and more, then engage in moderated discussions of their content.

We will learn about the fundamental science behind the observable atmosphere and its connection to the natural and built environments around us. This non-technical introduction will emphasize practical, accessible and relevant concepts, and promote scientific literacy grounded in lived experience that connects science to everyday observation and decision-making.

More than just beautiful flower arrangements, ikebana (“giving life to flowers”) is a contemplative practice firmly rooted in Japanese culture, aesthetics and philosophies of wabi sabi, simplicity, understated elegance and living harmoniously with nature. We will explore and practice the current expression of this graceful, ephemeral art by creating basic arrangements from simple miniatures to complex centerpieces and freestyle arrangements that can be reproduced and admired at home. Prerequisites: Participants must be able to use garden scissors to clip flowers and small branches. Note: As this is a progressive course that builds on knowledge gained in each class, participants should only sign up if they can attend all classes. Materials: Garden scissors, flat-bottomed container and large Japanese kenzan (flower frog); cost varies if buying new. Materials fee (payable to instructor): $30 for fresh plant materials and other shared supplies.

Cuban salsa (casino) is a lively Latin dance rooted in Cuban culture that focuses on rhythm, coordination and improvisation. Rueda de casino is a group dance where participants form a circle, switch partners and perform synchronized moves, fostering teamwork and fun. We will learn these social, joyful dances, beginning with a little merengue to build confidence before progressing to more complex salsa patterns. Prerequisites: Participants should be able to walk, move around the dance floor and lift arms above their heads; accommodations are available.

We will learn the basics of knitting including knit and purl stitches, simple increases (yarn over) and decreases (knit two together), how to cast on and bind off, and more. We will use these basics to make a scarf so that you can gain confidence undertaking projects up to the intermediate level on your own. Prerequisites: Participants should be able to read and follow instructions. Materials: Knitting needles (size 7), knitting gauge/needle size ruler, 3 oz. Lion Brand Wool-Ease (or equivalent) and project bag. Materials fee (payable to instructor): $20 for practice needles, yarn, tool kit and notebook with instructional handouts and patterns.

Mah jongg is a stimulating tile game that uses skill, tactics and luck. We will learn to play mah jongg using the National Mah Jongg League rules and cards. We will learn the fundamentals needed to play a supervised four-player game. Notes: As this is a progressive course that builds on knowledge gained in each class, participants should only sign up if they can attend all classes. Contact the instructor in advance with questions about accommodations for participation/color blindness. Required textbook: Let's Play Modern American Mah Jongg! by Stacey Rea (2017), ISBN: 978-0996750714, available from the instructor at a discounted rate of $10 on the first day of class.

Mah jongg is a stimulating tile game that uses skill, tactics and luck. We will learn to play mah jongg using the National Mah Jongg League rules and cards. We will learn the fundamentals needed to play a supervised four-player game. Notes: As this is a progressive course that builds on knowledge gained in each class, participants should only sign up if they can attend all classes. Contact the instructor in advance with questions about accommodations for participation/color blindness. Required textbook: Let's Play Modern American Mah Jongg! by Stacey Rea (2017), ISBN: 978-0996750714, available from the instructor at a discounted rate of $10 on the first day of class.

Meditation helps us to focus, quiet the mind and direct our energy. We will review various types of meditation and discuss physical techniques such as balancing, grounding and other methods to redirect energy. We will also study the energy centers, often called chakras or energy wheels, and how these impact our body and mind. Each class will include the practice of meditation.

Want to know what this needle-felting craze is all about? We will learn foundational techniques to form and felt three-dimensional shapes and figurines using wool batting and roving, specialized barbed needles, armature and other tools. We will complete several small, colorful projects and get ready to take our needle-felting to the next level. Prerequisites: Needlework experience is helpful though not required. Participants should be able to manipulate small craft needles and form shapes with wool. Materials fee (payable to instructor): $20 for materials kit.

We will learn the basic stitches of needlepoint including tent, mosaic, scotch, gobelin and more to make a design that can be made into a pillow or framed. Prerequisites: Participants should be able to see holes and threads in a canvas. Materials (more information to be provided by instructor to registered participants): Canvas, stretcher bars, brass tacks, tape, scissors, #2 pencil (required); magnifying glasses and additional threads (optional). Materials fee (payable to instructor): $30 for shared materials.

Men and women learn basic skills with different priorities and methods; although not limited to guys, this course is designed with men’s learning styles in mind. We will learn to translate what we see into a simple landscape oil painting on canvas. We will explore color value, composition, lighting and accurate limited palette colors. Oil painting materials such as brushes, oil paints and canvas will be discussed. Prerequisites: This course is for beginning painters only; please contact the instructor with any questions. Materials: The instructor will provide a list of materials that participants will need to gather and/or purchase before the first class; approximate cost: $100 if buying new. Materials fee (payable to instructor): $40 for shared art supplies.

Playing poker helps keep the memory sharp and provides an enjoyable social outlet. We will learn the general rules of three basic types of poker games then explore some of its many fun variations. Notes: This course is for newcomers to poker only. Participants will need a working Zoom camera and to participate with it turned on. Materials: Pencil, paper and deck of cards.

Welcome to the fun-filled world of the ukulele. Whether absolute beginners or someone looking to refresh old skills, we will be immersed in learning the instrument, how to tune and care for it, picking up a few chords and playing some tunes. Recommended textbook: Essential Elements for Ukulele by Marty Gross (2014), ISBN: 978-1480393882. Materials: Ukulele (required; if you do not have your own, contact the instructor for information about weekly rentals); music stand (recommended).

We will be introduced to significant works of pre- and early modern architecture and urban design dating from the mid-19th through the early 20th centuries in the U.S. and in Europe. Richly illustrated lectures will include Eclecticism, the Industrial Revolution, Art Nouveau, Arts & Crafts and the Bauhaus. Major projects of leading architects will be explored including Louis Sullivan, H.H. Richardson, McKim Mead & White, Antonio Gaudí, Frank Lloyd Wright, Walter Gropius and more.

Although black and white was the only option available to film producers when the art form was in its infancy, many films have been made in black and white even after color became the norm. We will feature five black-and-white motion pictures made during the budding and mature eras of the industry. Films include Modern Times (Charlie Chaplin, 1936); The Best Years of Our Lives (William Wyler, 1946); The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (John Huston, 1948); Witness for the Prosecution (Billy Wilder, 1957); and David and Lisa (Frank Perry, 1962). Note: Films will be closed-captioned in English.

Our favorite songs shine like jewels in the treasure chests of our memories. Long after much of what we have read or heard fades away, the lyrics to our favorite songs retain their pleasure, poignancy and power to enliven and inspire. In this highly participatory course, we will explore the artistry of especially well-written song lyrics, treating them as the works of art they are. Each participant will present several favorite songs for class discussion.

Our favorite songs shine like jewels in the treasure chests of our memories. Long after much of what we have read or heard fades away, the lyrics to our favorite songs retain their pleasure, poignancy and power to enliven and inspire. In this highly participatory course, we will explore the artistry of especially well-written song lyrics, treating them as the works of art they are. Each participant will present several favorite songs for class discussion.

You must be a current OLLI member to register for College for Seniors courses.

Some courses may have additional fees, as noted in the course description.

The Roman Republic (509-27 BCE) was plagued with civil unrest and rebellion in its final years. One such rebellion, the Second Catilinarian Conspiracy, ended in a dramatic battle when conspirators raised an army against their own city. We will study ancient evidence against the purported ringleader Lucius Sergius Catiline—much of which comes from his political enemies—and reconsider the case against him. The victor, after all, writes history. Required textbook: How to Stop a Conspiracy: An Ancient Guide to Saving a Republic by Sallust, trans. Josiah Osgood (2022), ISBN: 978-0691212364.

There have been many well known psychology experiments over the past 50 years on obedience, language, the nature of love and more. We will review the original research and see how well these experiments and more have stood up over the years. We will also look at more recent data that may change or expand our understanding. Prerequisites: No background in psychology is required. Note: There are both an in-person and an online option for this course. Participants must choose only one option to attend; please ensure that you are registering for the option you prefer, as we may not be able to accommodate changes.

There have been many well known psychology experiments over the past 50 years on obedience, language, the nature of love and more. We will review the original research and see how well these experiments and more have stood up over the years. We will also look at more recent data that may change or expand our understanding. Prerequisites: No background in psychology is required. Note: There are both an in-person and an online option for this course. Participants must choose only one option to attend; please ensure that you are registering for the option you prefer, as we may not be able to accommodate changes.

We will explore topics covered at the American Astronomical Society’s summer meeting in June including the latest results from the James Webb Space Telescope, the first results from the Vera Rubin Observatory and the possible detection of dark matter at our galaxy’s center. At a non-specialist level, we will have fun tackling two or three topics in each class. Be the first among your friends to be in the know! Note: There are both an in-person and an online option for this course. Participants must choose only one option to attend; please ensure that you are registering for the option you prefer, as we may not be able to accommodate changes.

We will explore topics covered at the American Astronomical Society’s summer meeting in June including the latest results from the James Webb Space Telescope, the first results from the Vera Rubin Observatory and the possible detection of dark matter at our galaxy’s center. At a non-specialist level, we will have fun tackling two or three topics in each class. Be the first among your friends to be in the know! Note: There are both an in-person and an online option for this course. Participants must choose only one option to attend; please ensure that you are registering for the option you prefer, as we may not be able to accommodate changes.

Democracy in the United States is facing profound institutional stress, political polarization and rapid change. We will examine how democratic systems function when constitutional structures remain in place but political norms, public trust and institutional relationships evolve. Rather than focusing on legal doctrine alone, we will explore how the legislative, executive and judicial branches interact with each other and the public in practice, and how those interactions shape democratic stability. Through recent examples, guided discussion and analogies to other democracies when useful for comparison, we will gain a clearer understanding of the strengths, vulnerabilities and future of self-government in the U.S. Note: Participants may choose to attend each week either in-person or online.

From "Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?" to "To be, or not to be," we have all heard iconic lines that begin great monologues in tragedies by William Shakespeare (1564-1616). But what is their context, what do they mean and how have they been performed? Each week, we will read and discuss several monologues from one play and watch video clips from important stage and film productions.

In this interactive course, we will survey 4000 years of geography, history, art, literature and places to visit in order to gain an appreciation of ancient Egypt and its culture. Recommended textbooks: Ancient Egypt: The Definitive Visual History by DK (2021), ISBN: 978-0744029246; and Egyptian Hieroglyphs for Complete Beginners by Bill Manley (2021), ISBN: 978-0500290286.

The eye has been described as one of the most complex organs in the human body. To better appreciate our fascinating sense of vision, we will cover basic anatomy and physiology, visual processing, eye health, diseases and more that are more prevalent in older adults.

Are you worried about losing your balance? While a common concern for older adults, there are simple ways to improve steadiness and reduce risk of falling. We will learn practical exercises to build strength for stepping safely, improve mobility for day-to-day activities and build confidence around balance. Prerequisites: Exercises will be done seated and standing next to a chair. Participants should be comfortable getting up and down from a chair unassisted and standing for 15 minutes at a time. Notes: As this course is progressive, participants should only sign up if they plan to attend each week. Former participants who wish to repeat this course may sign up during open registration.

Intellectual property is about ideas, their ownership and how a person or entity can monetize creations of the mind such as inventions, brand names, logos, music and books. It is increasingly a central feature of today’s global economy; the world’s most valuable intellectual assets dwarf that of physical assets. We will learn the principal types of intellectual property and explore public policy issues in related law, including whether the creator can be liable for the harm caused by it.

We will work on a delicious needlepoint project using a monochromatic color scheme. We will choose our own colors and work each week on a section of the pattern provided by the instructor. Prerequisites: Participants should have experience with needlepoint and be able to follow a pattern. Materials (more information to be provided by instructor to registered participants): Canvas, stretcher bars, brass tacks, tape, needles, scissons, #2 pencil and threads.

We will be introduced to the ancient art form of mosaics by creating our own unique works. We will study the historical and contemporary importance of mosaics by Spanish artist Antoni Gaudí (1852-1926) and apply his design principles to one individual and one collaborative project. Note: As this is a progressive course that builds on knowledge gained in each class, participants should only sign up if they can attend all classes. Materials: All materials will be provided.

We will learn the history, aesthetics and conceptual potential of printmaking, with special focus on its significance in modern art and the American printmaking revival of the 1960s. We then will translate our energy and inspiration directly to the press, where we will learn how to make and print oil- and water-based monotypes. Prerequisites: Participants should be able to stand for 10-15 minutes while using the printing press and assisting others; accommodations are available. Materials: High-quality materials will be provided to make approximately 10 prints per participant; participants may choose to purchase additional printmaking paper and supplies.

What is your personal experience when looking at art? Do you feel energized, inspired, curious, confused or even frustrated? We each have a different experience with art, and you do not have to be an art historian or have a guide to enjoy what you see. In this highly participatory course, we will learn to slow down, trust our eyes and reactions, use our knowledge and experiences to inform understanding, and work together as a small group to make meaning of one artwork each week. Note: Participants do not need to have taken other courses in the series to enjoy this one. Required textbook (read before class 1): How to See: Looking, Talking and Thinking about Art by David Salle (2016), ISBN: 978-0393354966.

Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius (121-180 CE) wrote Meditations as a private journal. His self-reflections continue to inspire inhabitants of the “great world city” he envisioned. Through readings and interactive lectures, we will discuss Marcus’ practical philosophy of daily living—including thoughts on ethics, nature, leadership, the gods, death and more—to go deep into the mind of a wise leader. Prerequisites: All participants should come prepared to engage in class discussions. Notes: Links to online readings will be provided by the instructor. There are both an in-person and an online option for this course. Participants must choose only one option to attend; please ensure that you are registering for the option you prefer, as we may not be able to accommodate changes. Recommended textbook: Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, tr. Martin Hammond (2006), ISBN: 978-0140449334.

Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius (121-180 CE) wrote Meditations as a private journal. His self-reflections continue to inspire inhabitants of the “great world city” he envisioned. Through readings and interactive lectures, we will discuss Marcus’ practical philosophy of daily living—including thoughts on ethics, nature, leadership, the gods, death and more—to go deep into the mind of a wise leader. Prerequisites: All participants should come prepared to engage in class discussions. Notes: Links to online readings will be provided by the instructor. There are both an in-person and an online option for this course. Participants must choose only one option to attend; please ensure that you are registering for the option you prefer, as we may not be able to accommodate changes. Recommended textbook: Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, tr. Martin Hammond (2006), ISBN: 978-0140449334.

Our microbiomes play a key role in overall health. Scientists are still discovering how the presence and diversity of microbial groups can lower chronic inflammation and reduce the risk of obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, dementia and even cancer. Through in-class videos, experts will present information about the microbiome and how diet and lifestyle impact aging. We will also learn how to adapt to a low-inflammation diet. Required textbook: The Abascal Way: To Quiet Inflammation for Health and Weight Loss by Kathy Abascal (2011), ISBN: 978-0978858605.

Terry Roberts’ ancestors have lived in the mountains of Western North Carolina for six generations. In seven award-winning novels, he has written about our region with insight, respect for the Appalachian literary tradition and memorable characters that bring history and the landscape to life. We will enjoy a rare opportunity to hear an accomplished novelist offer insight into the creation of his three most recent novels. Notes: Participants will get more out of the course if they are willing and able to read carefully and discuss openly. Participants do not need to have taken part 1 of this course to enjoy part 2. Required textbooks (all by Terry Roberts): The Sky Club (2022), ISBN: 978-1684428526; The Devil Hath a Pleasing Shape (2024), ISBN: 978-1684420377; and In the Fullness of Time (2025), ISBN: 979-8887980591.

We will survey the most popular operas by Italian composer Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924), including Manon Lescaut (1893), La Bohème (1896), Tosca (1900), Madama Butterfly (1904) and Il Trittico (1918). We will finish with Turandot (1926) with its greatest aria, “Nessun Dorma.” Note: Participants may choose to attend each week either in-person or online.

We will work on 10 origami projects ranging from simple single-sheet origami to more complex multi-unit structures. Each class will have a different theme such as flora, fauna, celebrations and gift boxes. Prerequisites: Participants should be able to fold paper and follow detailed written instructions. Materials: Origami paper, pencil, ruler, glue, scissors, paper clips or quilter clips; approximate cost: $25 if buying new.

We will explore Revolutionary-era paintings by artists such as Charles Willson Peale, Benjamin West and Gilbert Stuart, along with artworks by women and lesser-known artists, and of Native American subjects. We will virtually tour homes of patriot leaders as well as interiors at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s American Wing. We will end each class with a fun trivia game. Recommended textbook: Of Arms and Artists: The American Revolution Through Painter's Eyes by Paul Staiti (2016), ISBN: 978-1632864673.

Change and transition occur with every breath we take. We will focus on developing techniques to enhance our personal transformation by exploring our connection with the divine through meditation, sacred movement, virtual travel to sacred sites and planning personal sacred ceremonies. We will use sound and vibration, and sacred texts and geometry including the Celtic spirit or medicine wheel. Each week will begin with calling the directions of the spirit wheel and end with guided meditation. Prerequisites: Participants should have an open mind and desire for growth.

Every great novel starts with a unique story. Week by week, we will help each other plot our novels from the ground up, building the beats that hook readers. We will leave with a complete outline and the confidence to write our novels. Prerequisites: Participants can be new or experienced writers and should be ready to actively participate in this fun, small-group course including reading the textbook, completing weekly exercises and bringing ideas to share. Required textbook: Save the Cat! Writes a Novel: The Last Book on Novel Writing You'll Ever Need by Jessica Brody (2018), ISBN: 978-0399579745.

We will explore six stories from Liberation Day by George Saunders (born 1958), one of the U.S.’s most original contemporary writers. Through facilitated conversation, we will examine Saunders’ blend of satire, compassion and moral inquiry, and consider themes of power, empathy, technology and what it means to be human in a modern capitalist society. Required textbook (any edition): Liberation Day: Stories by George Saunders (2022).

We will explore six stories from Liberation Day by George Saunders (born 1958), one of the U.S.’s most original contemporary writers. Through facilitated conversation, we will examine Saunders’ blend of satire, compassion and moral inquiry, and consider themes of power, empathy, technology and what it means to be human in a modern capitalist society. Required textbook (any edition): Liberation Day: Stories by George Saunders (2022).

The names of whiskey’s founding fathers are easily recognizable—Johnny Walker, Jack Daniels, “Pappy” Van Winkle—but what about the women of whiskey? Nettie Harbinson, Margie Smith, Elizabeth Cumming and many more played an integral role in the spirit’s history, yet they remain unknown. We will pay homage to these women by learning how they changed whiskey around the world. We will end with an optional, fun and informative whiskey-tasting. Note: Class 5 will meet at the instructor’s home in North Asheville. Materials fee (payable to instructor): $20 for tasting.

Tai chi chih consists of 19 movements and one posture and, when done mindfully and with intention, is considered a moving meditation that strengthens the connections between body, mind and spirit. Circulating and balancing chi (life force) are achieved through applying the principles of slowness, continuity, circularity and moving from the center. Prerequisites: Participants should be able to stand for up to 40 minutes before break; a chair may be used if needed. Note: Movements include slow forward/back and side-to-side weight shifts with some arm movement; all are done slowly and softly.

We will discuss and analyze recent, controversial Supreme Court cases including presidential power, immigration and more. The course will not be a forum for advocating political views; rather, we will learn about the Constitution by studying the majority, concurring and dissenting opinions and debating their merits. Notes: The summer 2026 course will feature different cases from previous summers; repeat participation is encouraged. There are both an in-person and an online option for this course. Participants must choose only one option to attend; please ensure that you are registering for the option you prefer, as we may not be able to accommodate changes.

We will discuss and analyze recent, controversial Supreme Court cases including presidential power, immigration and more. The course will not be a forum for advocating political views; rather, we will learn about the Constitution by studying the majority, concurring and dissenting opinions and debating their merits. Notes: The summer 2026 course will feature different cases from previous summers; repeat participation is encouraged. There are both an in-person and an online option for this course. Participants must choose only one option to attend; please ensure that you are registering for the option you prefer, as we may not be able to accommodate changes.

Utopian communities have been a part of America since its founding. We will take a closer look at some of the most important communities from the 17th to the 20th century and the religious, political, social and economic events that influenced their founding, development and legacies. Note: Participants may choose to attend each week either in-person or online.

We will make wine more fun and enjoyable by learning simple guidelines used daily by experts. We will learn secrets that will make any wine taste better; major regions and grapes; which wines you like best and why; flavor components and how to pair wine with any meal; and how to order in restaurants and shops to get what you want for less. Note: We will meet at Quench! Wine Bistro, located about a 10-minute drive from the Reuter Center. Materials fee (payable to instructors): $50 for shared food and wine.