Friday   

This is a course that explores the cultural cross-currents that defined America in the 1970s. While not designed to address or rehash the political developments of the era, obvious overlaps will occur when investigating the contextual environment of American socio-cultural experiences. Literature, film, television, sports, music and the vibrant 'liberation' ethos in society will attract our attention. Busing, affirmative action and other matters of culture in law and before the courts will be covered as well.    

Recommended reading: A Deep Funk in Funkytown by Tim Rosenfield, Smith Publishing, 2025. Available at: facinghistoryblog.com. 

 

Join a Great River Greening Ecologist (and staff) for a hands-on introduction to Minnesota’s native prairies. Learn about local restoration efforts, then head into the fields to hand-harvest native grass and wildflower seeds that help restore vital habitat. Held at Lake Elmo Park Reserve, with support from Washington County staff, this fall workshop combines ecology, stewardship, and outdoor exploration during peak seed season. This course requires walking off-trail across uneven terrain.

 

The 3-minute Thesis Competition challenges graduate students to communicate the significance of their dissertation research in just three minutes, with the aid of a single, static slide. The first session of this course will discuss the history of the nation-wide competition, judging, and how students prepare with Assistant Vice Provost Noro Andriamanalina and Itoro Watt, winner of the 2025 University-wide competition. For the second session, OLLI members will attend the 3-Minute Thesis Competition on the University of Minnesota campus followed by lunch. An optional third session on Zoom will invite participants to discuss their experience at the competition afterwards. 

 

Friday, 10/23: Todd Lefko, U.S. Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy

U.S. trade and tariff policies have shaken global economic norms. What’s the rationale behind this shift in economic policy, and what are the implications for multilateral trade and geopolitics?

Todd Lefko is President of the International Business Development Company, an import-export firm dealing with water purification equipment, kilns, linen, art, and new technologies.

10/30 - No class.

Friday, 11/6: Christi Silver, The Future of Human Rights and International Law

As democracy and human rights retreat globally—and the U.S. pulls back—how can civil society and legal norms remain effective in a divided world? What is the role and force of international law in this era of impunity?

Christi Siver is a Professor of Political Science at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University. 

Friday, 11/13, No class.

Friday, 11/20: Anne Linnee, U.S. Foreign Policy: America and the World

The federal administration has broken from 80 years of U.S. foreign policy leadership, embracing an “America First” approach. This session explores the impact of isolation and diminished influence in relation to current U.S. foreign policy. 

Anne Linnee retired from the State Department in 2023 following a more than 20-year career as a U.S. Foreign Service Officer. 

 

What actually works when conditions are unstable? Bruce Lee was more than a martial artist—he was a systems thinker who engineered motion under pressure. This course explores how Lee developed adaptable methods across martial arts, film, philosophy, and culture. Students will examine principles of efficiency, timing, and emotional control, applying them to performance, decision-making, and identity. Through case studies and discussion, the class shows how disciplined adaptability shapes resilience and creative power.

Recommended reading: The Bruce Lee Code by Thomas Lee, Career Press, 2023.

 

This course on sex education for older adults offers a practical, respectful overview of intimacy, relationships, and sexual health in later life. It affirms that sexuality remains important across the lifespan and supports adapting to change. Part 1 covers physical aspects of aging, including menopause, erectile dysfunction, chronic illness, medications, and mobility, with strategies for comfort and safety. Part 2 explores emotional and social factors like body image, self-esteem, and cultural attitudes, empowering participants to maintain healthy, satisfying intimate lives. 

Recommended reading: The evolving concept of older adult sexual behavior and its benefits by ML Syme, Generations Journal,  2014;38(1):35-41.

 

There is a surge in divorce rates among adults over 50. The adjustment to being single later in life can be daunting. This course offers a practical 4-session workshop focused on addressing the emotional, financial, housing, and social adjustments. The workshops may apply to widowed people as well, but are largely focused on the aftermath of divorce. This course is also not an emotional support group, rather an opportunity for each participant to create a plan to help guide their adjustment. The exact focus of each session will depend on what the majority of the group prefers.  Expect to do some personal reflection and guided planning.  This is a hands on experience.