Contemporary Issues   

Meet some of the people and become familiar with the programs that make the Center for People one of Lincoln’s most dynamic nonprofit agencies. Visit the newly redesigned People’s Pantry, observe job seekers as they fine-tune their resumes or learn new computer skills and peek at an English language learning class for new Americans. Obtain a history of the 21-year- old organization and highlights plans for its innovative future, built on the mandate to “solution differently.”

Learn the basic skills necessary to function and flourish in an increasingly digital and online world. Discuss tools to effectively address the most popular phone and computer-based scams including identity theft, the nation’s number one consumer complaint. We will provide a practicum on safe browsing, secure banking, online shopping and payment systems, monitoring and protecting your credit, and cybersecurity. Created for everyone from the technophobic novice to the enthusiastic early adopter, the course focuses on the utility and benefit derived from using technology as a tool to stay connected, make life easier, and increase the quality of our lives.

Learn the basic skills necessary to function and flourish in an increasingly digital and online world. Discuss tools to effectively address the most popular phone and computer-based scams including identity theft, the nation’s number one consumer complaint. We will provide a practicum on safe browsing, secure banking, online shopping and payment systems, monitoring and protecting your credit, and cybersecurity. Created for everyone from the technophobic novice to the enthusiastic early adopter, the course focuses on the utility and benefit derived from using technology as a tool to stay connected, make life easier, and increase the quality of our lives.

2024 is a presidential election year and we have a re-match of the 2020 election. Former Political Science Department Chair John Comer will define the critical issues at stake this year. We will then look at Nebraska issues where the most critical races will be votes on a number of petition initiatives. It is also the first general election under Nebraska’s new voted ID law. Once again, this year we will have an election prediction contest where members of the class can compete for a prestigious trophy. There will be plenty of time for class members to discuss the results of the election and the implications for future events. The final session will involve representatives from Nebraska’s media who will provide insight into the results and insight on how the results may shape future politics.

2024 is a presidential election year and we have a re-match of the 2020 election. Former Political Science Department Chair John Comer will define the critical issues at stake this year. We will then look at Nebraska issues where the most critical races will be votes on a number of petition initiatives. It is also the first general election under Nebraska’s new voted ID law. Once again, this year we will have an election prediction contest where members of the class can compete for a prestigious trophy. There will be plenty of time for class members to discuss the results of the election and the implications for future events. The final session will involve representatives from Nebraska’s media who will provide insight into the results and insight on how the results may shape future politics.

Whether you’re new to smartphones, tablets or laptops, we will demystify these devices, their navigation and provide an understanding of the basics of web browsing and creating and managing your own email. Gain foundational knowledge required to thrive in the digital age; and consider registering for Crossing the Digital Divide: A Guide for Seniors to learn even more.

Whether you’re new to smartphones, tablets or laptops, we will demystify these devices, their navigation and provide an understanding of the basics of web browsing and creating and managing your own email. Gain foundational knowledge required to thrive in the digital age; and consider registering for Crossing the Digital Divide: A Guide for Seniors to learn even more.

Research consistently finds that most people aged 50 and older want to stay in their homes and communities as long as possible. The AARP Home Fit session was created to help people stay in the homes they love by turning where they live into a “lifelong home,” suitable and safe for themselves and anyone in their household.

Research consistently finds that most people aged 50 and older want to stay in their homes and communities as long as possible. The AARP Home Fit session was created to help people stay in the homes they love by turning where they live into a “lifelong home,” suitable and safe for themselves and anyone in their household.

A common perception is that U.S. immigration law is a simple process involving the completion of proper forms by one who wishes to seek the American Dream. This notion is in stark contrast to the realities of a frustratingly complex web of statutes, regulations, case law, and departmental memoranda that make the acquisition of that dream beyond the reach of most. Obtain a broad outline of U.S. immigration law and explore the specific areas of interest of the class, which may range from non-immigrant classifications to those in which permanent residence, and eventually citizenship, in the United States may be sought. In addition to discussing potential pathways available to family members, we may also address situations wherein employers are attempting to fill gaps in the labor market or those wherein individuals are attempting to escape persecution in their home countries.

A common perception is that U.S. immigration law is a simple process involving the completion of proper forms by one who wishes to seek the American Dream. This notion is in stark contrast to the realities of a frustratingly complex web of statutes, regulations, case law, and departmental memoranda that make the acquisition of that dream beyond the reach of most. Obtain a broad outline of U.S. immigration law and explore the specific areas of interest of the class, which may range from non-immigrant classifications to those in which permanent residence, and eventually citizenship, in the United States may be sought. In addition to discussing potential pathways available to family members, we may also address situations wherein employers are attempting to fill gaps in the labor market or those wherein individuals are attempting to escape persecution in their home countries.

We will learn about the disease, changes to expect and how to care for someone on this journey.

We will learn about the disease, changes to expect and how to care for someone on this journey.

The City of Lincoln adopted its first climate action plan in 2021. The State of Nebraska completed its first climate action plan in March 2024. Learn about the exciting things happening with each of these plans, including the who, what and why of the respective plans and how they complement one another.

The City of Lincoln adopted its first climate action plan in 2021. The State of Nebraska completed its first climate action plan in March 2024. Learn about the exciting things happening with each of these plans, including the who, what and why of the respective plans and how they complement one another.

Naturally occurring Radon can gather in Nebraska homes. It increases the risk of lung cancer but can be easily mitigated. Learn the best testing practices and how to make informed decisions on mitigating your home or not. We will dispel myths of radon and focus on the clear facts of the invisible gas. Nebraska DHHS helps to inform and protect our citizens.

Naturally occurring Radon can gather in Nebraska homes. It increases the risk of lung cancer but can be easily mitigated. Learn the best testing practices and how to make informed decisions on mitigating your home or not. We will dispel myths of radon and focus on the clear facts of the invisible gas. Nebraska DHHS helps to inform and protect our citizens.

The following video programs are previously recorded OLLI courses. Learn at your own pace, on your own time and at your convenience. Over 40 hours of programming is available for a single cost of $30. After registration, you will receive an email with a “Join Code” and instructions on how to access programming.

All programming originates from OLLI at UNL.

A Lightspeed Journey Through Science | 4 sessions

Science has discovered (almost) everything about the world we live in and put much of it to work in amazing ways. Yet few understand more than the science headlines, and often these are confusing and contradictory. Gain a coherent view of what it’s all about, how we know what we know, and why it matters to us all.

Fascism: A Warning from History | 4 sessions

The word "fascism" has been increasingly used to describe some modern political movements across the world. Fascism is a loose, incoherent, and conflicted collection of ideologies, myths and hatreds that is difficult to define. To understand the concept, you must understand its history. Explore its origins in Benito Mussolini's Italy, its zenith in Nazi Germany, its continued influence in Cold War-era Spain and other manifestations throughout history. The course concludes with discussions surrounding today’s political movements and assistance in helping to identify and confront any possible fascist threats - before it is too late.

100 Years of Nebraska’s Memorial Stadium…. and What’s Next | 1 session

Memorial Stadium was constructed in only 90 working days in 1923….at a cost of under $500,000. The stadium just recently celebrated its 100th birthday. Through many changes/additions, Memorial Stadium has stood the test of time. Now, more renovations are being planned to move to its next 100 years and to enhance the student and fan experience. Learn about Memorial Stadium, from its humble beginnings to its foreseeable future.

A Conversation with Don Walton – Retired Lincoln Journal Star Journalist | 1 session

Don Walton, a UNL graduate, joined the Lincoln Journal-Star as a college intern and worked at that newspaper for more than 60 years covering the legislature, the governor, and Nebraska politics. Don shares his insights and perspectives of his years as a news reporter in Lincoln.

Performance Nutrition at the UNL Training Table | 1 session

Gain an understanding of what performance nutrition is and how it and hydration can provide a competitive edge in fueling and recovery for elite athletes. Discover how dual x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans, which measure the thickness and strength of bones, can assist with determining body composition change for performance.

America’s Founding Fathers | 6 sessions

Examine the similarities and differences among 10 of the men who have earned the title of “Founding Father.” Who were they and how did their accomplishments set them apart from others who supported the movement for independence?

Black Homesteaders in Nebraska and the Great Plains | 3 sessions

DeWitty, Nebraska, later known as Audacious, was the largest and longest-lasting African American settlement in Nebraska. Settlers began arriving in 1906 attracted by the Kinkaid Act offering 640 acres of free land in the Sandhills. Black Homesteaders endured all the risks and burdens of other homesteaders, in addition to social isolation and finding eligible marriage partners. Black communities created rich cultural and civic lives to establish churches, schools, baseball teams, reading circle, musical groups. Learn the history surrounding this story of Black achievement, struggle, persistence and risk-taking.

Exploring the Amazing Diversity of Nebraska Wetlands | 1 session

The recently completed “Wetlands of Nebraska Outreach and Education” project produced a series of products designed to increase awareness of the importance of wetlands in Nebraska and the people and wildlife that depend on them. Watch excerpts of videos of the wetland produced by the talented team at Platte Basin Timelapse.

The Lincoln, Pershing, and Mural Connection | 2 sessions

Explore the connection between General John J. Pershing, the Pershing Mural, and the city of Lincoln. The mural at the west entrance of the Pershing Center for over a 59-year period is a unique work of ceramics. The auditorium has been demolished, but the mural has been preserved and is planned for installation at Wyuka Park.

Civil Discourse | 3 sessions

One in six Americans stopped speaking to a family member or close friend after the 2016 election. This course highlights the story of Americans with opposing viewpoints, and investigates their differences, concerns and experiences that lie behind each viewpoint. Barriers to engaging in civil discourse conversations and potential solutions are discussed.

Lymphedema: Treatment and Prevention | 1 session

Lymphedema, a chronic condition, affects 3-5 million Americans. Get general information regarding the lymphatic system, the possible causes of lymphatic dysfunction, and a general recognition of early symptoms for proactive treatment and/or prevention of a chronic state.

Obtain a comprehensive understanding of the complex and often contentious relationship between religion and contemporary society. Examine the intersection of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions with key societal domains, including the legal system, public education, LGBTQ+ rights, economics, and responses to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Obtain a comprehensive understanding of the complex and often contentious relationship between religion and contemporary society. Examine the intersection of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions with key societal domains, including the legal system, public education, LGBTQ+ rights, economics, and responses to the Covid-19 pandemic.

In 2024, we are witnessing history in the making as Nebraska takes steps toward re-enfranchising Nebraska voters previously convicted of a felony. Before 2005, those Nebraskans had been denied the vote indefinitely. That year, the Nebraska Legislature amended state statute to limit disenfranchisement to two years beyond the date a person completed a felony sentence. Since then, a variety of re-enfranchisement measures have been introduced without success – until this year. Explore the history and current circumstances regarding voting rights in Nebraska and the power of participation in our democracy.

In 2024, we are witnessing history in the making as Nebraska takes steps toward re-enfranchising Nebraska voters previously convicted of a felony. Before 2005, those Nebraskans had been denied the vote indefinitely. That year, the Nebraska Legislature amended state statute to limit disenfranchisement to two years beyond the date a person completed a felony sentence. Since then, a variety of re-enfranchisement measures have been introduced without success – until this year. Explore the history and current circumstances regarding voting rights in Nebraska and the power of participation in our democracy.

The United States seems to be divided into two different countries – an urbanized “Blue” region of social and cultural liberalism and the “Red” rural regions rebelling against social and demographic change and resenting coastal elitism. It seems everyone has an opinion about rural America. Is it gripped in a tragic decline? Or is it on the cusp of a glorious revival? Is it the key to understanding America today? Perhaps, we’re missing the real question…is rural America even a thing? The presenters will examine this supposed divide from a social, economic, and political perspective. Does it really exist and what, if anything, should be done? What can we do to better understand each other? How can we address the economic issues that have victimized rural America?

Speakers:

Steven Conn, Ph.D

Steven Conn is the W.E. Smith Professor of History at Miami (Ohio) University and the author of numerous books, including the one that inspired this symposium entitled, “The Lies of the Land.” In 2016, he admitted to becoming an “accidental expert.” Eighteen months earlier, he published a book examining the “anti-urban tradition” in American life and traced its impact on policy and places across the 20th century. His goal was to explore a central American paradox: “we are a highly urbanized nation filled with people who dislike their cities.”

Jena Ochsner

Jena Ochsner is a farmer, a farm wife, mother of two farm kids, and an advocate for all things agriculture, though she was not raised on a farm. Her husband, Levi, and her family live and work on his family’s fifth generation farm where they raise corn, soybeans, cattle, and country kids. The two also ship their homegrown beef (Double O beef) from their farm to families across the country.

Brad Lubben, Ph.D.

Brad Lubben is an extension associate professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He is active in conducting the Nebraska Rural Poll annual survey, gathering the aggregated voice of rural Nebraskans on such issues as community, government policy, well-being, and work. He relays the findings to state lawmakers, ensuring the rural voice is heard.

Cheryl Burkhart-Kriesel, Ph.D.

Cheryl Burkhart-Kriesel is a professor and extension specialist at the University of Nebraska Panhandle Research, Extension, and Education Center in Scottsbluff. Her community development experience focuses on new resident recruitment, retention, tourism development, and community planning.

L. J. McElravy, Ph.D.

L.J. McElravy is an associate professor of Leadership in the Department of Ag Leadership, Education, and Communication. His research and extension efforts focus on leadership assessment, leadership training, and development based on positive psychology, and developing shared leadership systems prepared to engage in effective creative and innovative problem-solving.

Ronnie Green, Ph.D.

Ronnie Green is Chancellor Emeritus at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He was appointed the 20th chancellor of UNL in 2016 and retired from that position in 2023. Before that appointment, he was the Harlan Vice Chancellor of the UNL Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources and Vice-President for Agriculture and Natural Resources of the University of Nebraska system. Green was raised on a mixed beef, dairy, and cropping farm in southwest Virginia.

Erin Schoenberg

Erin Schoenberg is development manager at the Center for Rural Affairs. Raised on a farm/ranch in North Central Nebraska, Erin’s work is focused on strengthening community networks and partnerships and organizing workshops and courses for farmers.

Jillian Linster

Jillian Linster is policy director at the Center for Rural Affairs. She draws on her diverse experiences to advance the organization goals of values, worth, and action. She supports a group of exceptional people in their tireless dedication to strong rural communities.

Saturday, October 12, 2024 Schedule                                

8:30 am   Doors Open

9:00 am   Welcome

9:10 am    Steven Conn – Keynote; W.E. Smith Professor of History Miami (OH) University

10:05 am Questions and Answers

10:20 am Break

10:25 am Jena Ochsner; Double “O” Farms, Sutton, NE

10:55 am Questions and Answers

11:05 am  Break

11:15 am   Nebraska Rural Polls Panel; Brad Lubben, Nebraska Extension, UNL; Cheryl Burkhart-Kriesel, Nebraska Extension, UNL; L.J. McElravy, Ag Leadership, UNL

12:05 pm Questions and Answers

12:20 pm Lunch

1:00 pm    Ronnie Green; UNL Chancellor Emeritus 1:30 pm Questions and Answers 1:45 pm        Break

1:55 pm    Center for Rural Affairs; Erin Schoenberg, development manager, CFRA; Jillian Linster, policy director, CFRA

2:25 pm   Questions and Answers

2:35 pm   Closing Remarks – Conclusion

The United States seems to be divided into two different countries – an urbanized “Blue” region of social and cultural liberalism and the “Red” rural regions rebelling against social and demographic change and resenting coastal elitism. It seems everyone has an opinion about rural America. Is it gripped in a tragic decline? Or is it on the cusp of a glorious revival? Is it the key to understanding America today? Perhaps, we’re missing the real question…is rural America even a thing? The presenters will examine this supposed divide from a social, economic, and political perspective. Does it really exist and what, if anything, should be done? What can we do to better understand each other? How can we address the economic issues that have victimized rural America?

Speakers:

Steven Conn, Ph.D

Steven Conn is the W.E. Smith Professor of History at Miami (Ohio) University and the author of numerous books, including the one that inspired this symposium entitled, “The Lies of the Land.” In 2016, he admitted to becoming an “accidental expert.” Eighteen months earlier, he published a book examining the “anti-urban tradition” in American life and traced its impact on policy and places across the 20th century. His goal was to explore a central American paradox: “we are a highly urbanized nation filled with people who dislike their cities.”

Jena Ochsner

Jena Ochsner is a farmer, a farm wife, mother of two farm kids, and an advocate for all things agriculture, though she was not raised on a farm. Her husband, Levi, and her family live and work on his family’s fifth generation farm where they raise corn, soybeans, cattle, and country kids. The two also ship their homegrown beef (Double O beef) from their farm to families across the country.

Brad Lubben, Ph.D.

Brad Lubben is an extension associate professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He is active in conducting the Nebraska Rural Poll annual survey, gathering the aggregated voice of rural Nebraskans on such issues as community, government policy, well-being, and work. He relays the findings to state lawmakers, ensuring the rural voice is heard.

Cheryl Burkhart-Kriesel, Ph.D.

Cheryl Burkhart-Kriesel is a professor and extension specialist at the University of Nebraska Panhandle Research, Extension, and Education Center in Scottsbluff. Her community development experience focuses on new resident recruitment, retention, tourism development, and community planning.

L. J. McElravy, Ph.D.

L.J. McElravy is an associate professor of Leadership in the Department of Ag Leadership, Education, and Communication. His research and extension efforts focus on leadership assessment, leadership training, and development based on positive psychology, and developing shared leadership systems prepared to engage in effective creative and innovative problem-solving.

Ronnie Green, Ph.D.

Ronnie Green is Chancellor Emeritus at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He was appointed the 20th chancellor of UNL in 2016 and retired from that position in 2023. Before that appointment, he was the Harlan Vice Chancellor of the UNL Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources and Vice-President for Agriculture and Natural Resources of the University of Nebraska system. Green was raised on a mixed beef, dairy, and cropping farm in southwest Virginia.

Erin Schoenberg

Erin Schoenberg is development manager at the Center for Rural Affairs. Raised on a farm/ranch in North Central Nebraska, Erin’s work is focused on strengthening community networks and partnerships and organizing workshops and courses for farmers.

Jillian Linster

Jillian Linster is policy director at the Center for Rural Affairs. She draws on her diverse experiences to advance the organization goals of values, worth, and action. She supports a group of exceptional people in their tireless dedication to strong rural communities.

Saturday, October 12, 2024 Schedule                                

8:30 am   Doors Open

9:00 am   Welcome

9:10 am    Steven Conn – Keynote; W.E. Smith Professor of History Miami (OH) University

10:05 am Questions and Answers

10:20 am Break

10:25 am Jena Ochsner; Double “O” Farms, Sutton, NE

10:55 am Questions and Answers

11:05 am  Break

11:15 am   Nebraska Rural Polls Panel; Brad Lubben, Nebraska Extension, UNL; Cheryl Burkhart-Kriesel, Nebraska Extension, UNL; L.J. McElravy, Ag Leadership, UNL

12:05 pm Questions and Answers

12:20 pm Lunch

1:00 pm    Ronnie Green; UNL Chancellor Emeritus 1:30 pm Questions and Answers 1:45 pm        Break

1:55 pm    Center for Rural Affairs; Erin Schoenberg, development manager, CFRA; Jillian Linster, policy director, CFRA

2:25 pm   Questions and Answers

2:35 pm   Closing Remarks – Conclusion

The Founders who wrote our U.S. Constitution faced two uncompromising attitudes: small states demanding equality with large states and slave states seeking a stronger voice in congressional districting and in presidential elections. Creating a U.S. Senate with all states delegated two senators and also granting slave states the right to count three-fifths of slaves in each U.S. Census for congressional districts helped to mollify both groups to protect their interests. Turning to the election of the President, the delegates held 30 separate votes unsuccessfully and finally used a model based upon the election of emperors under the Holy Roman Empire. The Constitution was then ratified. Despite critical Constitutional amendments that enhanced both democracy and citizen rights, neither the U.S. Senate nor the Electoral College, other than 12th Amendment, have been reformed to avoid “minority rule.” Explore how both institutions contribute to our “creeping counter-majoritarianism” in the 20th and 21st centuries.

The Founders who wrote our U.S. Constitution faced two uncompromising attitudes: small states demanding equality with large states and slave states seeking a stronger voice in congressional districting and in presidential elections. Creating a U.S. Senate with all states delegated two senators and also granting slave states the right to count three-fifths of slaves in each U.S. Census for congressional districts helped to mollify both groups to protect their interests. Turning to the election of the President, the delegates held 30 separate votes unsuccessfully and finally used a model based upon the election of emperors under the Holy Roman Empire. The Constitution was then ratified. Despite critical Constitutional amendments that enhanced both democracy and citizen rights, neither the U.S. Senate nor the Electoral College, other than 12th Amendment, have been reformed to avoid “minority rule.” Explore how both institutions contribute to our “creeping counter-majoritarianism” in the 20th and 21st centuries.

The United States locks up more of its citizens than any other liberal democracy. How does having the world’s largest incarcerated – and formerly incarcerated – population influence the social, economic and political life of the nation? Identify the level of government most responsible for high incarceration levels, explore the key drivers of incarceration and investigate the unintended consequences of creating an exponentially growing population of ex- prisoners. Incarceration levels are rooted in struggle to manage a growing violent crime problem during a historical period marked by roiling social changes that included widening economic inequality, increasing racial diversity and sharpening ideological divides. That struggle has produced several unintended and under-explored consequences that ultimately affect everyone in society.

The United States locks up more of its citizens than any other liberal democracy. How does having the world’s largest incarcerated – and formerly incarcerated – population influence the social, economic and political life of the nation? Identify the level of government most responsible for high incarceration levels, explore the key drivers of incarceration and investigate the unintended consequences of creating an exponentially growing population of ex- prisoners. Incarceration levels are rooted in struggle to manage a growing violent crime problem during a historical period marked by roiling social changes that included widening economic inequality, increasing racial diversity and sharpening ideological divides. That struggle has produced several unintended and under-explored consequences that ultimately affect everyone in society.

Crops irrigated by water from the High Plains/Ogallala Aquifer comprise a significant portion of the world’s food supply. This water is Nebraska’s most important natural resource. Beginning about 31 million years ago, ashfall from eruptions of super volcanos to the west and southwest and then sediments carried by raging rivers flowing off the Rocky Mountains formed the aquifer. Learn about the geologic development of this feature and the impact in recent years of irrigation on the water in the aquifer.

Crops irrigated by water from the High Plains/Ogallala Aquifer comprise a significant portion of the world’s food supply. This water is Nebraska’s most important natural resource. Beginning about 31 million years ago, ashfall from eruptions of super volcanos to the west and southwest and then sediments carried by raging rivers flowing off the Rocky Mountains formed the aquifer. Learn about the geologic development of this feature and the impact in recent years of irrigation on the water in the aquifer.