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-Programming available to non-members   

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Spring 2025 membership is required in order to register for member only courses, member benefits, and member only programming.  Click HERE to purchase your membership.

 

Anne Spencer House & Garden Museum: Bus Trip to Lynchburg  NEW!

  • Day of the week: W
  • Date: 4/23/2025
  • Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. 
  •    
  • Fees:
        Member: $80.00
        Non-Member: $95.00
  • *NON-REFUNDABLE

  • Details: 
    *This trip complements the one-day Anne Spencer course and UVA Special Collections member benefit outing. We hope you will join us for all three!
    Join OLLI at UVA for a spring day trip to the Anne Spencer Museum and Gardens in historic Lynchburg, Virginia. The Anne Spencer House & Garden Museum is the former home of renowned Harlem Renaissance poet Anne Spencer. The museum is a designated Virginia Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With up to 95% of the original house and cottage furnishings still in place today, it is considered one of the most intact house museums in the United States. Anne Spencer’s garden is also the only known restored garden of an African American in the United States. Anne Spencer was a poet, civil rights leader, advocate, and librarian. Her home and garden served as a gathering place for leading African Americans such as W.E.B. Du Bois, Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes, and Martin Luther King, Jr. The garden served as a private space of reflection and inspiration for the poet as well as a social realm for family and friends. W.E.B. Du Bois, James Weldon Johnson and George Washington Carver were plantsmen.
    Charlottesville and Staunton bus pick up and drop off.

 

OLLI at UVA Health and Safety Liability Waiver:

I understand that although OLLI at UVA holds the health and safety of its community as paramount, this does not guarantee that I will not be exposed to injury or illness of any kind. I acknowledge that my physical presence in the local community as well as participation and utilization of facilities, services, and programs at OLLI at UVA is voluntary, and may carry certain risks, such as injury or illness including COVID-19 that cannot be eliminated regardless of the care and reasonable efforts taken to avoid and mitigate those risks. I also understand that I may be at higher risk for injury or illness and take full responsibility for my health and safety.  I understand that I have the option to participate in OLLI at UVA activities remotely.  Despite these risks, I chose to participate in-person in OLLI at UVA activities.

I agree not to attend any in-person sessions if I am experiencing any symptom of illness such as cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.

I hereby release and agree to hold OLLI at UVA harmless from, and waive on behalf of myself, my heirs, and any personal representatives any and all causes of action, claims, demands, damages, costs, expenses and compensation for damage or loss to myself and/or property that may be caused by any act, or failure to act of OLLI at UVA, or that may otherwise arise in any way in connection with any services received from OLLI at UVA. I understand that this release discharges OLLI at UVA from any liability or claim that I, my heirs, or any personal representatives may have against OLLI at UVA with respect to any bodily injury, illness, death, medical treatment, or property damage that may arise from, or in connection to, any services received from OLLI at UVA.   This liability acknowledgement and release extends to OLLI at UVA together with all venues, volunteers, and employees. Click the add to cart button to accept.

NOTE: If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are four possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open 2) You have not added a membership to your cart or renewed your membership (Click HERE to purchase your membership) 3) You are not logged in (Click “Sign In” on the blue bar above) 4) You may need to refresh your screen. 

 

Grace Church, Cismont has reached maximum enrollment

Please add yourself to the WAIT LIST by clicking the ADD TO WAIT LIST button below. 

OLLI staff monitor enrollment and work to open seats before 5/8/2025.  We will contact those on the wait list to invite them to enroll when seats become available. Adding your name to wait list is free, if you are invited and choose to enroll the $27.00 fee will be collected at that time.  

Grace Church, Cismont with 

Day of the week: Th, Times: 1:45 PM - 3:00 PM. 

Limit: 25

Sessions: 1      

Dates: 5/8/2025 - 5/8/2025  

Course Description: 

* Join us for our May Social at Merrie Mill Farm and Vineyard at 3:30 p.m.
Local Historian and Author Barclay Rives
This excursion complements Richard Guy Wilson’s Gothic Architecture Course (Spring 24). Join us for a visit to one of Virginia’s best examples of Gothic Architecture.
Grace Church has a lively history stretching from colonial times to the present. Parson James Maury was Thomas Jefferson’s schoolmaster. Jefferson served on the vestry 1767-1770. The site has witnessed passage of British raiders and Civil War armies. The stone church, the only building in Virginia designed by William Strickland, was completed in 1855 and replaced a wooden colonial structure. Eccentric philanthropist John Armstrong Chaloner enabled rebuilding of the church following an 1895 fire, which destroyed all but the stone walls and massive bronze bell. In 2019, the church celebrated the completion of a massive remodel, including raising the ceiling above the altar to improve acoustics and installation of a Taylor and Boody organ, specially designed for the space.
Barclay Rives, a Cismont native, is the author of A History of Grace Church and William Cabell Rives: A Country to Serve. His stories have appeared in Albemarle Magazine, In & Around Horse Country, and Virginia Sportsman.

 

Greencroft Lecture NEW!

  • Presenter: John Ragosta
  • Date: 5/1/2025 
  • Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Day of the week: Th
  • Location: Greencroft Club, 575 Rodes Drive Charlottesville, VA 22903
  • Fees:
        Member: $35.00
        Non-Member: $50.00
  • Non-refundable

Presentation Description: 

In a democracy, how should citizens disagree with government policy? What is a “loyal opposition”?
In 1798, with partisan battles raging, Thomas Jefferson’s Kentucky Resolutions declared that a state could pronounce federal laws unconstitutional and “nullify” them – secession, state against the federal government, and state against state, threatened. Newspapers warned that “Civil War!” loomed.
George Washington begged Patrick Henry to come forth from retirement, oppose these dangerous policies, and save the union. While Henry had led opposition to ratifying the Constitution, he insisted that since “we the people” adopted the Constitution, anyone contesting federal policy must seek reform “in a constitutional way.”
Tellingly, within eight days of his Virginia Resolutions being adopted – Resolutions that were much milder than Jefferson’s Kentucky Resolutions – James Madison wrote Jefferson that they had gone too far. Jefferson, chastised, recognized the danger of the 1790s’ hyper-partisanship and reconsidered.
This story – recounted in For the People, For the Country: Patrick Henry’s Final Political Battle – is the story of how a democracy must work if it is to survive.
John Ragosta is a fellow at Virginia Humanities and previously was the Acting Director of the Robert H. Smith International Center for Jefferson Studies at Monticello. He has taught law and history at the University of Virginia, George Washington University, and Hamilton, Oberlin, and Randolph Colleges. Dr. Ragosta’s most recent book – For the People, For the Country: Patrick Henry’s Final Political Battle – has received highly favorable reviews in the Wall Street Journal and New York Sun. He is also the author of Religious Freedom: Jefferson’s Legacy, America’s Creed (UVA Press, 2013) and several other works. Ragosta, an award-winning author and frequent commentator, holds both a PhD and a JD from the University of Virginia. Before returning to academia, Dr. Ragosta was a partner at Dewey Ballantine LLP. He is also a beekeeper.

NOTE: If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are four possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open 2) You have not added a membership to your cart or renewed your membership (Click HERE to purchase your membership)  3) You are not logged in (Click “Sign In” on the blue bar above) 4) You may need to refresh your screen.

 

Sharing Nature with Young Children NEW!

Instructor: Ellen Powell

       Hover over an Instructor's name above and their biography will appear.

Day of the Week: Th

Times: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM   

Dates: 4/10/2025 - 5/1/2025 


Number of class sesssions in this course: 4  

Fees:
    Member: $48.00
    Non-Member: $63.00

Course Location: Ivy Creek Natural Area - Classroom

Location Address: 1708 Earlysville Rd Charlottesville, VA 22903

Limit: 15


Course Description:

Today’s young people spend less time outdoors than previous generations. And, despite the availability of information at their fingertips, children often know little about the natural world in their own backyards. Disconnection from nature has implications ranging from mental and physical health issues to the future of our natural resources. The good news is that just one adult can help foster a child’s love for the world around them. In this class, we’ll explore and engage with nature through the lens of early childhood. We’ll learn fun, educational, and safe ways to take children outside and to bring nature in. This class will make you more excited about nature yourself, and more confident guiding explorations for grandchildren or groups. Please bring $10 to the first class session to purchase Project Learning Tree’s curriculum for ages 1-6, “Trees & Me.”


NOTE: If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are four possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open 2) You have not added a membership to your cart or renewed your membership 3) You are not logged in (Click “Sign In” on the blue bar above) 4) You may need to refresh your screen.


 

 

Social Security: Understanding the Benefits   

  • Instructor: Tracy Meade
  • Day of the week: M, Times: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM. 
  • Dates: 2/17/2025 - 2/17/2025     
  • Member Benefit
  • Course Location:OLLI at UVA Campus - Terrace Level
  • Location Address:1 Morton Drive, Terrace Level Charlottesville, VA 22903

Limit (we do monitor enrollment and when possible may add seats): 35

Description: 

Learn what you need to know about Social Security while you are still working, about the benefits to you and your family that are available, when to apply for your benefits, the advantage of waiting until full retirement age to claim your benefits, and how your benefits may be taxable to you. You will also learn how to set up a secure online "my Social Security" account to check your earnings and get your benefit estimates, and when to file for Medicare, our country's basic health insurance program for people age 65 or older and for many people with disabilities.

NOTE: This is open to non-members. You are welcome to bring a friend. 

NOTE: If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are four possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open 2) You have not added a membership to your cart or renewed your membership (Click HERE to purchase your membership) 3) You are not logged in (Click “Sign In” on the blue bar above) 4) You may need to refresh your screen.

 

Speaking of Rivers Tour with Horace Scruggs  

  • Day of the week: Th
  • Date: 5/15/2025
  • Time: 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. 
  •    
  • Fees:
        Member: $100.00
        Non-Member: $115.00
  • *NON-REFUNDABLE

  • Details: 

    Rivers have always been vital to the development and commerce of many civilizations throughout history. And through much of the history of America this has included the labor and invention of both free and enslaved African-Americans. With the personal stories at the forefront, this Rivanna River float will enlighten paddlers of the experiences and contributions African-Americans had on Central Virginia’s rivers. This will include discussions on the American slave trade, local plantations, bateau and watermen, and canal workers. Come learn how African-Americans navigated the river as well as the societal pressures of their times.
    This beginner-friendly half-day trip introduces participants to the rural beauty of Fluvanna County. While there are numerous riffles and a few very small Class 1 rapids, the majority of the trip is placid water over pebble, rock and sand bottom. In the summer, the water is low and clear, and inviting for swimming, snorkeling, wading, and fish watching. Numerous pebble beaches and sunny rocks make good places to break, swim and snack.
    At typical summer water levels, expect the trip to take from 3-3.5 hours at a leisurely pace. If the Rivanna River level is too low the float will take place on the James River.
    In partnership with the Rivanna River Company: kayak, paddle and flotation device included. Multiple guides will be with the group and the option to travel in a canoe with a guide is available, please inquire. Closer to May 15 more details will be shared with those enrolled.

 

OLLI at UVA Health and Safety Liability Waiver:

I understand that although OLLI at UVA holds the health and safety of its community as paramount, this does not guarantee that I will not be exposed to injury or illness of any kind. I acknowledge that my physical presence in the local community as well as participation and utilization of facilities, services, and programs at OLLI at UVA is voluntary, and may carry certain risks, such as injury or illness including COVID-19 that cannot be eliminated regardless of the care and reasonable efforts taken to avoid and mitigate those risks. I also understand that I may be at higher risk for injury or illness and take full responsibility for my health and safety.  I understand that I have the option to participate in OLLI at UVA activities remotely.  Despite these risks, I chose to participate in-person in OLLI at UVA activities.

I agree not to attend any in-person sessions if I am experiencing any symptom of illness such as cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.

I hereby release and agree to hold OLLI at UVA harmless from, and waive on behalf of myself, my heirs, and any personal representatives any and all causes of action, claims, demands, damages, costs, expenses and compensation for damage or loss to myself and/or property that may be caused by any act, or failure to act of OLLI at UVA, or that may otherwise arise in any way in connection with any services received from OLLI at UVA. I understand that this release discharges OLLI at UVA from any liability or claim that I, my heirs, or any personal representatives may have against OLLI at UVA with respect to any bodily injury, illness, death, medical treatment, or property damage that may arise from, or in connection to, any services received from OLLI at UVA.   This liability acknowledgement and release extends to OLLI at UVA together with all venues, volunteers, and employees. Click the add to cart button to accept.

NOTE: If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are four possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open 2) You have not added a membership to your cart or renewed your membership (Click HERE to purchase your membership) 3) You are not logged in (Click “Sign In” on the blue bar above) 4) You may need to refresh your screen. 

 

The Greatest Books You Never Read: Middlemarch 

Instructor: Evelyn Edson

       Hover over an Instructor's name above and their biography will appear.

Day of the Week: Tu

Times: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM   

Dates: 3/4/2025 - 3/25/2025 


Number of class sesssions in this course: 4  

Fees:
    Member: $48.00
    Non-Member: $63.00

Course Location: Christ Church Glendower, St. Anne’s Parish, Glendo - Meeting Room

Location Address: 900 Glendower Rd Scottsville, VA 24590

Limit: 14


Course Description:

Middlemarch by George Eliot. You always meant to read it, or maybe you did read it many years ago. Taking it up now with the wisdom of age, you will definitely see things differently. How do Eliot's characters speak to us today?


NOTE: If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are four possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open 2) You have not added a membership to your cart or renewed your membership 3) You are not logged in (Click “Sign In” on the blue bar above) 4) You may need to refresh your screen.


 

Tour the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. with Horace and Hannah Scruggs  NEW!

  • Day of the week: W
  • Date: 6/4/2025
  • Time: 7:00 AM - 6:30 PM. 
  •    
  • Fees:
        Member: $90.00
        Non-Member: $105.00
  • *NON-REFUNDABLE

  • Details: 

    Updated description:

    Join historians Horace and Hannah Scruggs for discussions and insight while visiting The National Museum of African American History and Culture.  Based on personal experience and research, pre and post visit conversations will give attendees a more meaningful visit to this museum.    NMAAH is a place where all Americans can learn about the richness and diversity of the African American experience, what it means to their lives, and how it helped us shape this nation.

 

OLLI at UVA Health and Safety Liability Waiver:

I understand that although OLLI at UVA holds the health and safety of its community as paramount, this does not guarantee that I will not be exposed to injury or illness of any kind. I acknowledge that my physical presence in the local community as well as participation and utilization of facilities, services, and programs at OLLI at UVA is voluntary, and may carry certain risks, such as injury or illness including COVID-19 that cannot be eliminated regardless of the care and reasonable efforts taken to avoid and mitigate those risks. I also understand that I may be at higher risk for injury or illness and take full responsibility for my health and safety.  I understand that I have the option to participate in OLLI at UVA activities remotely.  Despite these risks, I chose to participate in-person in OLLI at UVA activities.

I agree not to attend any in-person sessions if I am experiencing any symptom of illness such as cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.

I hereby release and agree to hold OLLI at UVA harmless from, and waive on behalf of myself, my heirs, and any personal representatives any and all causes of action, claims, demands, damages, costs, expenses and compensation for damage or loss to myself and/or property that may be caused by any act, or failure to act of OLLI at UVA, or that may otherwise arise in any way in connection with any services received from OLLI at UVA. I understand that this release discharges OLLI at UVA from any liability or claim that I, my heirs, or any personal representatives may have against OLLI at UVA with respect to any bodily injury, illness, death, medical treatment, or property damage that may arise from, or in connection to, any services received from OLLI at UVA.   This liability acknowledgement and release extends to OLLI at UVA together with all venues, volunteers, and employees. Click the add to cart button to accept.

NOTE: If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are four possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open 2) You have not added a membership to your cart or renewed your membership (Click HERE to purchase your membership) 3) You are not logged in (Click “Sign In” on the blue bar above) 4) You may need to refresh your screen. 

 

Thanks for your interest in A Rebellious Spirit: Exploring Outside the Lines in Carmen and The Pirates of Penzance with Leanne ClementThere are 70 seats available. Online registration has closed.  Call the OLLI Office at 434-923-3600 to register. 

  • Presenter: Leanne Clement
  • Dates: 2/20/2025 - 2/20/2025 
  • Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
  • Days: Th 

Description: 

Charlottesville Opera’s 48th season brings two swashbuckling classics to The Paramount in summer 2025: Bizet’s Carmen and Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance. These productions explore bold characters who forge their own paths, whether on land or at sea. General Director Dr. Leanne Clement and Education Director Dr. Bridgid Eversole delve into the themes of rebellion and independence that connect the stories of Carmen and the tender-hearted Pirates of Penzance, offering fresh insights into these timeless works. This discussion will include performances by two of Charlottesville Opera’s 2025 Ader Emerging Artists who will be in residence with the company, performing in shows and concerts throughout the summer.

 

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