Thursdays   

A Celebration of Our Innards
HL-02 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8
Thursdays 3:45 - 5:00 pm
Do you know what keeps your heart beating? Where is your spleen and what does it do? Do you thank your intestines for all their good work? What is the function of an appendix? And how about your adrenal glands? A very non-medical review of our innards and what they do for us.

Instructor Diana Lingle is a retired nurse who appreciates all her organs and hopes you will too.

Adventures in Dry Wool Felting
ART-09 (in-person)
Session II: Oct. 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12
Thursdays 3:45 - 5:00 pm
Dyed wool is a versatile material that can be used to make realistic 3-dimensional objects or a landscape or animal portrait using a few simple techniques. Both techniques will be explored in this class. No prior experience is necessary. Needles and felting bases will be provided. Materials fee $15, pay instructor at first meeting. Enrollment limited to 12. 

Instructor Laurel Devaney likes to divide her time between gardening, bird research, and exploring different art forms.

AI: The Good, The Bad and the Maybe
CA-02 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 17 24 Oct. 1, 8
Thursdays 12:15 - 1:30 pm
Artificial intelligence is suddenly everywhere—powerful, confusing, and often misunderstood. This class provides an introduction to what AI is, where it stands, and why it matters. We’ll start with the basics: key terms, a short history, and how today’s systems came to be. Then we’ll explore the current AI landscape, including major companies, popular tools, and a comparison of chatbots. We continue by examining the costs, risks, and controversies shaping public debate. Finally, we’ll look ahead to emerging capabilities in coding, autonomous agents, music, and video. No technical background required—just curiosity and a willingness to explore a rapidly changing technology. 

Before moving to Fairbanks in 2023, Instructor Jeff Lee retired from a 45-year career in IT. He remains a hobbyist and amateur writer.

American Presidents and Midterms 
POLI-01 (in-person)
POLI-01-Z (distance-delivered) RECORDED
Session I Add-On: Oct. 12 - 15
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs 2:00 - 3:15 pm
*This course meets for 4 consecutive meetings.
This course reviews the U.S. Presidency during Midterm elections. We will cover the political development of the presidency, the role midterms play in relation to presidents, and the final two classes will discuss current events in relation to students' interests in the topic.

Dr. Amy Lovecraft is a Professor of Political Science at UAF where she has worked since 2001.

American Presidents and Midterms 
POLI-01 (in-person)
POLI-01-Z (distance-delivered) RECORDED
Session I Add-On: Oct. 12 - 15
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs 2:00 - 3:15 pm
*This course meets for 4 consecutive meetings.
This course reviews the U.S. Presidency during Midterm elections. We will cover the political development of the presidency, the role midterms play in relation to presidents, and the final two classes will discuss current events in relation to students' interests in the topic.

Dr. Amy Lovecraft is a Professor of Political Science at UAF where she has worked since 2001.

Burlesque 101: From Idea to Performance
DAN-06 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8
Thursdays 3:00 - 6:00 pm
*This course meets at The Basement; 541 3rd Ave. Fairbanks, AK 99701.
In this fun and creative introductory class, participants will build a burlesque performance from the ground up. Together, we will explore the process of developing a show concept, designing short skits, selecting music, creating simple choreography, and choosing costumes and simple props that support the performance. Students will collaborate, rehearse, and gain a behind-the-scenes look at how burlesque blends humor, storytelling, movement, and theatrical flair. The class will conclude with a playful in-class showcase in a supportive and comfortable environment.

Instructors Charlie and Rachel Blackwell (see DAN-01)

Create a Barn Quilt
ART-11 (in-person)
Session II Add-On: Nov. 17, 19, 20
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 2:00 - 4:30 pm (3 meetings)
You will learn how to plan, draft and paint a 2x2 foot barn quilt, creating a unique piece of art to display. A materials fee of $10 (collected at the first class) will cover the cost of primer and paint. Before the first class you will receive instructions on how to choose, purchase and prepare your board for painting and where to find barn quilt patterns for inspiration. Materials fee $10, pay instructor at first meeting. Enrollment limited to 10.

Instructor Sandy Lachman took the Barn Quilt class last fall and taught the class last spring. Experienced quilters will be assisting students as they draft and enlarge their patterns for painting.

Data Offense for the Real World: Outsmarting AI Abuse Without the Hype
CA-04 (in-person)
Session II Add-On: Nov. 19
Thursday 5:30 - 6:45 pm (one meeting)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the fastest growing and most damaging fraud and data abuse vectors. This seminar empowers students with the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to protect their personal data and privacy in an increasingly forced AI‑saturated world. Through clear explanations, real‑world examples, and hands-on demonstrations, participants will learn how different kinds of AI work, how AI can be leveraged to exploit data and violate privacy, and how to build strong digital and offline habits that reduce vulnerability. The course emphasizes accessibility, clarity, and real‑life application. No AI hype or up-sells, just real strategies for real people concerned about protecting their data and privacy.

Instructor Mamie S. Brown is a Fairbanks attorney and founder of the Law Office of Mamie S. Brown, LLC, where she provides practical, value‑driven legal services to Alaskans and Alaska businesses. She is dedicated to helping protect Alaska’s seniors from AI‑driven scams, digital exploitation, and emerging forms of technological abuse.

Developing Your Intuition using Oracle Cards 
RB-02 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8
Thursdays 2:00 - 3:15 pm
You can develop your intuition by learning how to read Oracle Cards for daily inspiration and receiving insight from your divine guidance team of Higher Self, Angels, Ancestors & Guides. The course will instruct you how to read, interpret & successfully use Oracle Cards for Divination. Developing your own process of using the cards for self reflection and interpretation of the messages from the cards, while we explore the basic concepts how to use, read & interpret Oracle Cards for self and others. This course will include practice partner sessions, along with handouts for deeper review & study. The instructor will provide one on one tutoring with each student and each participant will receive a complimentary 5 Card private reading with Jill, scheduled by Zoom or in person. Enrollment limited to 16.

Instructor Jill Powell is an intuitive channel of Angels, Guides, & higher self. She is certified as an Angel Card Reader, also an Akashic Records Practitioner. For more than 30 years her passion is to share & teach sacred studies & wisdom.

English Country Dancing For All, I
DAN-04 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8, 15
Thursdays 12:15 - 1:30 pm (5 weeks)
*This course meets at the Pioneer Park Dance Hall! 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
*Participants should bring comfortable, non-marking shoes with smooth soles, and water.
*Part II builds on concepts learned in Part I, the instructor recommends you take both if you can.
Come learn the basics of English Country Dancing! Enjoy wonderful music from the 1700s to present, and be social and physically active with others in an easy walking format. All dances will be taught step-by-step, then called as you progress through the centuries of this wonderful dance form. The most challenging thing will be remembering which is your left hand or right hand, how to walk, and then turn in a circle! Partners are not necessary.

Instructor Dennis Rogers has been dancing and playing this form of music since the 1970s.

English Country Dancing For All, II
DAN-05 (in-person)
Session II: Oct. 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19
Thursdays 12:15 - 1:30 pm (5 weeks)
*This course meets at the Pioneer Park Dance Hall! 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
*Participants should bring comfortable, non-marking shoes with smooth soles, and water.
*Part II builds on concepts learned in Part I, the instructor recommends you take both if you can.
Come learn the basics of English Country Dancing! Enjoy wonderful music from the 1700s to present, and be social and physically active with others in an easy walking format. All dances will be taught step-by-step, then called as you progress through the centuries of this wonderful dance form. The most challenging thing will be remembering which is your left hand or right hand, how to walk, and then turn in a circle! Partners are not necessary.

Instructor Dennis Rogers has been dancing and playing this form of music since the 1970s. 

History and Fun With Rolls Royce 
HIS-05 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 24
Thursday 2:00 - 3:15 pm (one meeting)
Hear and see a brief history of the Rolls Royce Car Company, followed by a 45 minute video of the 2022 national fall tour around Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The tour features many fun activities and different models of Rolls, including a 2017 version with a complete picnic tailgate package! If the weather is good, come outside to view our 1999 Rolls Royce Silver Seraph, the car that saved the company. 

Instructors Patty and Bob Meritt are car collectors. They purchased their Rolls Royce on ebay in 2021. Patty, an enthusiastic and award winning teacher, has offered several previous OLLI courses including: Games for Brains, Service in Guatemala, Gunkholing in the San Juan Islands, and Updates on Child Development.

Introduction to Reiki
RB-01-Z (distance-delivered)
Session I: Sept. 24, Oct. 1, 8, 15, Oct. 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12
Thursdays 12:15 - 1:30 pm
*Starts a week late, runs for 8 weeks.
Reiki is a gentle Japanese healing practice that promotes relaxation, balance, and the body's natural ability to heal. In this introductory course, you will explore the foundations of Reiki, including what energy is and why it matters, the body's energy system, the seven major energy centers (chakras), the Reiki Principles, intuition, self-healing practices, and traditional Reiki hand placements. Through discussion, guided experiences, and practical exercises, you will learn ways to incorporate energy awareness and self-care into everyday life. This course provides a comprehensive foundation in Reiki and prepares students who wish to pursue Reiki Level I attunement and certification in the future.

Instructor Janneane Moody is a Reiki Master Teacher who has been practicing Reiki since 2017. She is passionate about helping others explore energy awareness, self-healing, and personal well-being through practical, accessible Reiki education.

Movement Pattern Strengthening for Longevity
EX-03 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, Oct. 1, 6, 8, 13, 15
Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:30 - 11:30 am
*Meets at Accelerated Fitness Alaska, 535 3rd Ave Ste B, Fairbanks, AK 99701
*This course meets twice a week for five weeks.
Instruction on strengthening movement patterns to improve function and the importance of training for strength, flexibility, mobility, stability, and fall prevention. Enrollment limited to 20.

Instructor Torrey Plunk is a decades long athlete, coach, and gym owner who helps people build strong, high performing bodies for lifelong function.

Nature Photography
PHT-01 (in-person)
Dates: Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8, 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12
Thursdays 2:00 - 3:15 pm
*This course meets for 8 weeks. Please plan to attend most, if not all, meetings.
Get out of the “Auto,” setting! This course will have you shooting like a pro! Learn about ISO, aperture and shutter speed. We’ll teach you how theseA work together and you’ll be creating stunning masterpieces in no time! Enrollment limited to 20.

Instructor Todd Whetstine professional sports and wildlife photographer who loves to teach.

Organic Planters, A
ART-01a (in-person)
Date: Sept. 8
Tuesday 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
*Three sections of the same course, feel free to register for one or all.
*Meets at 1790 Old Pioneer Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
Learn to make planters from branches and birch bark. We will be using some power tools (with training). This is a one day course, but if you need to finish your project you can join us for another day. The class will be held outdoors so please dress for the temperatures. Enrollment limited to 4.

Instructor Carla Reardon has lived in Alaska since the 1970s. She enjoys a wide variety of crafts from sewing to metalsmithing, and likes to relax by reading and doing Sudoku puzzles. If you have any questions about the course, please contact her at 907-457-4836.
 

Organic Planters, B
ART-01b (in-person)
Date: Sept. 9
Wednesday 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
*Three sections of the same course, feel free to register for one or all.
*Meets at 1790 Old Pioneer Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
Learn to make planters from branches and birch bark. We will be using some power tools (with training). This is a one day course, but if you need to finish your project you can join us for another day. The class will be held outdoors so please dress for the temperatures. Enrollment limited to 4.

Instructor Carla Reardon has lived in Alaska since the 1970s. She enjoys a wide variety of crafts from sewing to metalsmithing, and likes to relax by reading and doing Sudoku puzzles. If you have any questions about the course, please contact her at 907-457-4836.

Thursday 11 am - 1:30 pm
*Three sections of the same course, feel free to register for one or all.
*Meets at 1790 Old Pioneer Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
Learn to make planters from branches and birch bark. We will be using some power tools (with training). This is a one day course, but if you need to finish your project you can join us for another day. The class will be held outdoors so please dress for the temperatures. Enrollment limited to 4.

Instructor Carla Reardon has lived in Alaska since the 1970s. She enjoys a wide variety of crafts from sewing to metalsmithing, and likes to relax by reading and doing Sudoku puzzles. If you have any questions about the course, please contact her at 907-457-4836.
 

Poetry of Stevie Nicks
LIT-02-Z (distance-delivered) RECORDED
Session I: Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8
Thursdays 2:00 - 3:15 pm
This will be a discussion class. We will read and listen to the songs of Stevie Nicks, both in her solo work and with Fleetwood Mac, then we will discuss the poems within the lyrics.

Instructor Scott Sexton is a retired surveyor whose broad interests include martial arts and poetry.

Remember & Invent: Handmade Books
ART-11 (in-person)
Session II Add-On: Nov. 17, 19 
Tuesday and Thursday 9:30 - 11:45 am (two meetings)
Join Northwoods Book Arts Guild members Chris and Vanessa for two days of bookmaking fun. Books will focus on memory and writing, as well as creativity and invention. Techniques for collage, writing, and bookmaking will be integrated in a lively workshop. Please bring copies of photos, letters, ephemera, or other items that will inspire memories. All tools and materials will be provided for use at the class. Materials fee $20; please pay the instructors on the first day of class. Enrollment limited to 10.

Instructors Chris Greenfield-Pastro and Vanessa DeWolf are both members of the Northwoods Book Arts Guild. They are excited to share the skills they have learned through the guild with others and both enjoy bringing the creative process to life in the form of handmade books.

Sketching is for Everywhere
ART-09 (in-person)
Session II: Oct. 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12
Thursdays 10:30 - 11:45 am
This course will focus on the freedom and joy of sketching for personal reward and growth! The group will meet at UPark for the first class, for insights and methods of keeping a personal sketchbook, and the following weeks will be spent at agreed-upon locations to add to that very same sketchbook.

Instructor Ruth Segler is a retired teacher who spends her time painting and traveling. She carries her sketchbook with her wherever she goes to record the world around her and improve her observation skills! Her sketchbooks are prized possessions as they hold her memories as well as show her growth as an artist. Find her at Ruth’s Rocks on Facebook or come see her at the Farmer’s Market in the summertime!

Swim Stroke Development
EX-05 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8
Thursdays 9:15 - 10:30 am
*This course meets at UAF Patty Center Pool, 1790 Tanana Loop, Fairbanks, AK 99775.
*Please keep an eye out for date/time changes - the Patty Pool is still in the process of scheduling for the Nanook Swim Team and UAF Rec courses.
A class for people comfortable in the water who would like to learn how to swim various strokes, including freestyle with proper breathing, breaststroke, backstroke, butterfly, elementary backstroke, and sidestroke. Enrollment limited to 10.

Instructor Jane Reilly swam competitively and taught swimming as a Red Cross certified teacher for many years.

Five Crown
REC-11 (in-person)
Session II: Oct. 22, 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19
Thursdays 12:15 - 1:30 pm (5 weeks)
Come learn and play the Five Crown card game, the game that isn't over until the Kings are WILD.

Instructor Patsy Perkins has been enjoying games for years and feels it is a good way to spend time with friends.

Watercolor On Yupo Paper
ART-03 (in-person)
Session I: Sept. 17, 24, Oct. 1, 8, 15
Thursdays 10:30 - 11:45 am (5 weeks)
Have you ever wished you could erase what you have painted? Maybe a silly mistake made you want to start over? You can use Yupo plastic paper! It also makes your colors brighter and allows new ways to mix colors. This class will show you how to enjoy using this new modern material. Enrollment limited to 12.

Instructor Peggy Swartz has been a part of the art community of Fairbanks for many years. She loves to explore new ways to use charcoal, watercolor, and pastel in her paintings.