Courses   

How did Walt Disney's life and vision shape the creation of an entertainment empire? How did early challenges influence the company’s identity and creative output? And how did Disney grow into a global powerhouse? This course explores these questions and more as we delve into the 100-year history of the Walt Disney Company, tracing its evolution from humble beginnings to a global entertainment giant. Topics include the rise of Disney animation and theme parks, the company’s 1990s revival, and the strategic acquisitions that transformed Disney into a media conglomerate. We will also examine Disney's future and gain insights into what it’s like to work behind the scenes at the company. Throughout the course, we will consider diverse perspectives—from those who revere the Magic Kingdom to those who critique it and everywhere in between. This course offers a comprehensive look at how Walt Disney’s vision became a cultural force shaping today's entertainment industry.

Architectural history follows a canon of both traditional and eclectic styles from ancient to contemporary times. But what happens when a mix of whimsy, eccentricity, humor—and sometimes the creator's genius—insert themselves into the mix? Occurring throughout time and in various parts of the world, these unconventional structures exist to serve the cultures they were created for, from ancient religious sites to modern car-culture merriment. This course explores a myriad of structures set against the backdrop of the societies in which they existed, the construction methods used, the patrons for whom these structures were constructed, and the notions of the builders and architects who created them.

Learn the foundations for studying astrology in this beginner-friendly, interactive workshop. Using the birth chart as our primary object of inquiry and practice, we’ll explore the personal planets, their relationship to the zodiac, and their manifestations in your unique birth chart. Together we will learn how the birth chart can serve as tool for self-reflection, empowered storytelling, and a bridge between your own life and the ancient myths of the cosmos. At the end of the course, students will leave with the knowledge and skills needed to interpret their own (and other) charts and the basic tools by which to deepen their own astrology practice.

Our workshop, Authoring Resilience Part 2, co-taught with Amanda Masterpaul in Women's & Gender Studies and Dr. Emma Howes in English, will explore embodied approaches to storytelling, narrative critique, and critical theory while inviting participants to create knowledge through cross-cultural exchange. This collaborative course brings into conversation perspectives from English Studies, Theatre, and Women's and Gender Studies to cultivate intercultural resilience and locate valuable alternative methods for making meaning and fostering critical empathy. To do so, we will use community-based storytelling practices and embodiment work, along with critical literacy skills to complicate what counts as knowledge, who gets to create ways-of-knowing, and how we can work with one another to use performance and writing to share stories across different platforms. This particular workshop will expand upon our Spring 2025 session with OLLI, however, you are welcome to join us whether you participated in the first workshop or not.

Come and learn basic pop-up bookmaking techniques. This class is for all levels, as many pop-up techniques can be made with a piece of paper and a pair of scissors. We will learn 4 basic folds and then play and have fun with collage and drawing on the surfaces.

Course materials required: Bring pens, pencils, colored pencils, and/ or markers. Cost per student is $5 and will cover paper, glue sticks, exacto knives, and use of cutting surfaces. Please contact me if you would prefer to purchase your own materials and I can share a list and website to order from.

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Paul Newman, the embodiment of charisma, captivated movie audiences with his iconic baby blue eyes, striking features, and powerful screen presence. Known for his multiple Academy Award-nominated performances in films like Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), The Hustler (1961), and Absence of Malice (1981), Newman ultimately won an Oscar for The Color of Money (1986), the sequel to The Hustler. Alongside his acting career, he pursued a parallel path as a race car driver and dedicated significant time to entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors. This course will trace the timeline of Newman’s remarkable career, from his legendary collaborations with Robert Redford in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) and The Sting (1973) to his final roles in Road to Perdition (2002), Empire Falls (2005), and Cars (2006), where he voiced the retired race car Doc Hudson.

This hands-on class introduces you to a process-based method of relaxing into the moment and painting brushstrokes from your body’s felt center. In this approach, you set aside preconceived ideas and all judgments about expertise, and instead enjoy putting ink on paper in an entirely intuitive manner—led by curiosity and a spirit of experimentation.

The class begins with a deeper exploration of the materials used, including ink, paper, and brushes, as well as the historical, philosophical, and metaphysical aspects of this form of painting. It will cover all of these foundational elements, along with demonstrations and practice time for both seated and standing strokes. Silence, music, and movement will accompany the sessions, providing both focus and inspiration.

By the end of the class, you will have learned the properties of a wide range of natural hair brushes, the different ingredients and performance qualities of various hand-made rice papers, how to properly hold a bamboo brush, and how to breathe and move throughout the painting process. You will also develop a deeper ability to listen to and trust your body, cultivating a kinesthetic sense that supports all creative activities. You will learn how to start and finish an even, straight line, as well as how to enjoy the making, following, and completing of a bold, spontaneous stroke with a large, hand-made horse-hair brush—taking home a genuine, expressive work of art.

There is a materials fee of $5 per student.

Click here to see an example of Big Brush Ink Painting

Explore the rich tapestry of bourbon in this engaging survey class, ""Bourbon: A Journey Through History."" This course delves into the origins of bourbon, tracing its American roots back to the late 18th century, when early settlers began distilling this distinctive spirit from corn. We'll examine the evolution of bourbon production, highlighting key milestones such as the establishment of the first distilleries and the enactment of the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897, which set standards for quality and authenticity.

As we progress, students will discover the resurgence of craft distilleries and the global appreciation for bourbon, marked by the rise of innovative flavor profiles and sustainable practices. Participants will learn about the unique characteristics that define bourbon, including mash bills, aging processes, and regional variations, all while gaining a deeper appreciation for this iconic American spirit. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of bourbon's storied past and vibrant future!

Color has a significant impact on mood, attention and interactions, making it important to everyone – not just artists. Artists use Color Theory to blend harmonious colors and avoid creating mud when they paint. However, Color Theory also explains why some pillows clash with that couch as well as providing the tools to ensure those blue pants will complement the green blazer. By exploring the relationships between colors, you will change the way you see the world (and maybe how the world sees you).

Materials Fee is $10 and payable in cash to the instructor the first day of class.

This class is designed to help older adults stay safe online and avoid common internet scams. Tailored specifically for individuals over the age of 50 who manage their own finances and regularly use the internet, the course provides essential tools for protecting personal information and financial well-being. Participants will learn practical tips and techniques for staying secure online, how to minimize unwanted spam, and best practices for creating strong, secure passwords. The course also covers common tactics used by scammers and introduces the concept of building a buddy system to provide mutual support in safeguarding personal finances.

Energy is essential for both national and economic security, underpinning all aspects of life. Yet discussions of energy security often exclude the public, reducing complex issues to simplistic narratives like "Green is Good" or "Oil is Evil," which provide little actionable insight. In this course, you will engage in a comprehensive examination of energy's role in human development. Topics include the unmatched importance of hydrocarbons (oil and more); advancements in electricity, the past, present, and future of nuclear energy; and the potential of renewables. We will explore how these energy sources impact national security, economic stability, industrial production, transportation, and daily life. Join this course for a balanced, realistic assessment of energy security, a critical issue of our time.

This two-day course is an introduction to the growing sport of disc golf. On the first day, we will be in the classroom learning the basics of how to play, as well as some of the sport’s history. On the second day, we venture out to the course and play a round together at Splinter City Disc Golf Course (near the Myrtle Beach Airport and Warbird Park). Disc golf is a great outdoor activity for people of all ages. If you want to have fun learning a new activity that gets you out in nature, this is a class for you. Discs will be provided for play.

First Class Location: Coastal Science Center

Second Class Location: Splinter City Disc Golf Course

This course will explore the history of Manhattan, emphasizing the unique traits that drew into its harbor millions of immigrants and millions more tourists seeking its many resources, rich culture, and complex history. Together, we will explore the history of New York City’s parks, city shopping, entertainment venues, museums, and concerts. We will also discuss the social and arts movements that grew out of the city. Gain an appreciation of what the city has to offer its visitors and an insight into the history behind the tourist attractions.

Come and create a beautiful 9" x 12" work of art in this two-day mixed media class. We'll begin with watercolor painting and then incorporate gold leaf, gold pen, and white markers to enhance the piece. The artwork is inspired by Maria Grossbaum, and attendees should already be familiar with using watercolor paints.

Please bring the following supplies: watercolor paints, a palette, spray bottle, various brushes, paper towels, a pencil, painter’s tape, a cheap tablecloth, two water containers, and a board for watercolor paper.

I will be supplying 100% Archer’s paper, gold leaf, gold leaf glue, white markers, gold leaf pens, masking fluid, brushes (for glue and masking fluid), and graphite paper.

There is a $10 materials fee, payable in cash to the instructor on the first day of class.

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This workshop reviews some strategies that can be used to bring the power of logic (the study of reasoning) to everyday discourse and discussion. Some tools from the logician’s tool kit will be explained, such as the basic distinction between deductive and inductive arguments and why it matters; common logical fallacies and how to identify them; and the practice of breaking reasoning down into its components to unlock important details in reasoning. Students will have a chance to practice using logic as a tool to bring clarity and insight into everyday discussions. Workshop participants should leave with a boost in their reasoning ability and a desire to learn more about all the power that logic has to offer

Historians, beer enthusiasts, and curious minds alike will enjoy this exploration of the history of brewing. We will begin in the distant past with the invention of beer around 4000 BCE. Then we will journey through time to the modern rise of craft brewing. Along the way, we will dive into fascinating topics including medieval brewing, beer in Shakespeare’s era, colonial brewing, Prohibition, indigenous brewing traditions worldwide, and the evolution of beer commercials. This course meets during happy hour, so feel free—nay, encouraged—to raise a glass and toast to history while we learn.

Discover the joy of graphic design in this fun and easy one-day workshop tailored for beginners! Introduction to Canva is perfect for adults who want to create eye-catching flyers, cards, social media posts, or photo collages—no design experience needed. In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the basics of using Canva, a free and user-friendly online design tool. We’ll walk you through creating your own project step-by-step, covering how to choose templates, add text and images, and customize colors and layouts. By the end of the day, you’ll feel confident navigating Canva and ready to design on your own. Come with ideas for a project or just an open mind. 

Course materials needed: Please bring a laptop or tablet (Or a pen/paper to just take notes).

Curious about artificial intelligence but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly course is designed specifically for adults over 50 who want to understand what AI is, how it works, and—most importantly—how it can make everyday life easier, safer, and more fun. From voice assistants like Siri and Alexa to tools that help with writing, organizing photos, managing health, or even creating art, AI is everywhere. You’ll learn how to use these technologies confidently, ask the right questions, and spot the benefits and limits of AI in your personal and professional life.

Whether you’re a retiree exploring new hobbies, a grandparent staying connected with tech-savvy grandkids, or someone re-entering the workforce with new tools, this course will give you the skills to make AI work for you—on your terms.

In this course, you’ll learn what AI is (and what it isn’t), how it’s already part of your daily life, and how to use AI tools like ChatGPT, smart assistants, and photo organizers. You’ll also receive tips for staying safe and protecting your privacy, along with hands-on practice using real-world examples.

To participate, you’ll need a smartphone, tablet, or laptop (Windows, Mac, iOS, or Android are all welcome), an internet connection (for both at-home and in-class use), and a notebook and pen for optional note-taking. You’ll also need access to a Google account (Gmail) or a willingness to set one up in class. Headphones or earbuds are optional but helpful for individual AI interactions.

No prior tech experience is needed—just bring your curiosity!

Learn to play the classic game of Mah Jong while building friendships and boosting your brainpower. This interactive course introduces the fundamentals of gameplay, strategy and etiquette, all in a relaxed social setting. Perfect for beginners and anyone interested in sharpening memory, pattern recognition and mental agility. Let the tiles fall where they may-you'll still win with new friends and sharper thinking.

This course provides a comprehensive overview of key public health topics across the human lifespan, from prenatal health to aging care. We will examine major health challenges, interventions, and policies that impact individuals at each life stage. By focusing on health disparities, preventive care, and the role of public health systems, the course equips us with the knowledge and skills to understand health issues in diverse populations. Through readings and case studies, we will gain insight into the life-course approach to public health, emphasizing the importance of early intervention, continuous care, and aging with dignity.

No experience necessary! My easy-to-follow workshops welcome all skill levels. All materials and supplies are provided, so all you need to do is come and enjoy the creative process. I offer a choice of three pictures for you to make. Each picture is a 4X6, framed picture you make using authentic Scottish sea glass.

Required Materials: Fee of $25 due to the instructor on the first day of class.

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Are you interested in stories rich with murder, intrigue, and sharp wit? This course will explore the Norse sagas, which are medieval tales rooted in Old Norse mythology, written in Iceland centuries after the Viking era. These stories range from realistic travel chronicles to epic sword-and-sorcery adventures, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into "Dark Age" swashbuckling. In this course we will also discuss how these stories continue to profoundly influence modern culture.

Economics plays a central role in shaping every aspect of society. This course examines a series of prominent policy issues with economics at their core. We will explore the origins of these issues, the underlying data and evidence, and the policy tools available to address them. Each lecture will be standalone, delivered by a subject matter expert with a Ph.D. in economics. Potential topics include climate change, healthcare economics, economic inequality, and more, with final selections based on the most relevant and timely issues at the start of the course.

Chief Justice William Rehnquist led the U.S. Supreme Court for nearly 19 years (1986–2005), overseeing cases on privacy, civil rights, the environment, the First Amendment, and states' rights. Under his leadership, the Court actively struck down federal statutes and precedent, often with conservative outcomes. However, as its composition shifted, some conservative rulings diminished. This course examines the legacy of the Rehnquist Court, as well as his 15 years as an associate justice under Chief Justice Warren Burger. We will explore landmark cases, including Woodson v. North Carolina (1976), Craig v. Boren (1978), Miller v. Johnson (1995), Bush v. Gore (2000), Atkins v. Virginia (2001), and Lawrence v. Texas (2002).

Students will complete a wire and beaded tree of life sun-catcher or wall hanging with colorful wire and beads. Supplies are provided for $15.00 supply fee

View an example of a wire and bead tree of life

Join this course and gain the essential language skills to confidently embrace your next travel adventure!

By the end of the course, students will be able to hold basic conversations, greet others, introduce themselves, and ask personal questions. They will learn to effectively interact at airports and train stations by understanding announcements, asking for directions, and purchasing tickets. Students will also gain the skills to check in at hotels or Airbnbs, inquire about tours and services, order food in restaurants, and engage with servers. Shopping skills will include asking about prices, sizes, and options. Additionally, students will learn to request assistance in a health emergency and will gain a greater appreciation and understanding of key Hispanic cultural traditions.

Required Materials: Students will need a few essential materials for this course. Photocopied handouts will be provided by the instructor at no cost. Students should also have email access to download class presentations. Additionally, the textbook Spanish for Travelers: A Practical Guide by D. Galek (2023), available in paperback for $9.99 on Amazon or Walmart, is required.