In Person   

Stay active and strong during your golden years with guidance from a certified personal trainer. This program blends education and exercise, focusing on functional fitness, cardio, strength, flexibility, balance, and core training. All activities can be modified to meet individual needs, and take-home workout copies are provided. Wear comfortable workout clothes and tennis shoes. Participants must complete a health questionnaire and UNL Rec Center waiver, which will be emailed for electronic signature before the first session.

“Step in time” into the whimsical world of imagination and wonder! Join OLLI friends at the Omaha Community Playhouse when the beloved story of the practically perfect nanny who transforms the lives of the Banks family takes flight! With dazzling choreography, unforgettable songs, wonderful costumes and scenery, Mary’s delightful adventures will whisk you away on a ride of joy and laughter. It will be supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! Before the show we will take a deep dive into the creative process and inspiration behind Mary Poppins with Director Brandon Box-Higdem.

 

Visit and tour UNL Rogers Memorial Farm where the history of this half section, no-till research farm will be explored from post-civil war federal property to ownership by the Rogers' family. In 1947, it was bequeathed to UNL where the university remains responsible for oversight of conservation activities. Over time, changes in agriculture and land utilization shifted attention from equipment to soil health and this farm has responded with ongoing research projects and university classes.

Join OLLI friends on an art-filled day at the Joslyn. Begin with a guided tour of “Through the Lens: American Photographs from the Carter Collection.” Enjoy lunch as a group, then discover the Phillip G. Schrager Collection for another expert-led experience. Wrap up the afternoon with free time to wander the galleries, revisit favorites, or discover something unexpected before heading home. Enjoy a relaxed, inspiring day surrounded by great art and good company.

Join OLLI friends on an art-filled day at the Joslyn. Begin with a guided tour of “Through the Lens: American Photographs from the Carter Collection.” Enjoy lunch as a group, then discover the Phillip G. Schrager Collection for another expert-led experience. Wrap up the afternoon with free time to wander the galleries, revisit favorites, or discover something unexpected before heading home. Enjoy a relaxed, inspiring day surrounded by great art and good company.

Delve into the rich history, theory and evolution of ancient acupuncture and East Asian medicine. Explore basic practices and diagnostic techniques and their adoption in the west. Gain basic insight into meridians, adjunct therapies, herbal formulas, single herbs, and the benefits these modalities bring to the modern human.

Gain insights needed to navigate tariffs, legislative gaps, shifting market prospects and the impact on farm incomes and state revenues. Agricultural producers in 2026 face complex challenges with ongoing trade volatility and policy uncertainty. We will analyze the livestock sector, specifically the cattle cycle and impacts of the Tyson plant closure, then evaluate agricultural policy impacts on farm and ranch decisions. We conclude with an examination of crop marketing and the 2026 grain outlook.

Examine Revelation chapters 1-3 as the gateway to the book’s apocalyptic message. Gain a clear introduction to apocalyptic literature with attention to key symbols and numerology that shape the text’s meaning. Focus on the Seven Churches, exploring their historical context and the messages they carried for early believers. Consider how these themes and insights continue to speak to modern Christians today.

Visit Nebraska’s newest nature and cultural center for an exploration of the art and natural beauty at Wagon Tongue Creek Farm and Nature Reserve. Nestled in the scenic Bohemian Alps near Valparaiso, the farm features both indoor and outdoor exhibits. Learn what inspires the instructor and how he creates large-scale metal sculptures. Discover the wonders of the unique landscape.

Discover the life and work of Nebraska author Bess Streeter Aldrich who published over 160 short stories and articles, nine novels and one novella. Visit her historic Elmwood home and step back to 1946 to meet Mrs. Aldrich (character portrayer), enjoy tea and her signature Lady Baltimore Cake, and tour her home. In class, explore “A Lantern in Her Hand,” “The Lieutenant’s Lady,” and selected short stories. Information about obtaining these books will be provided after registration.

Come experience “A Chorus Line”, conceived, originally directed and choreographed by Michael Bennett; book by James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante, music by Martin Hamlisch, and lyrics by Edward Kleban. A singular sensation. A cultural touchtone. An iconic masterpiece. One shot. One line. One audition. “God I hope I get it!” Winner of 9 Tony awards and the Pulitzer Prize; don’t miss it! Join the production team for a talk and tour before the show.

Let’s share a view of Albion, the homeland of “English literature,” its languages, dialects, literary genres, and media of communication over the ages. From stone/bronze-age “statements” in architecture, Celtic and Roman invasions, the arrival of Anglo-Saxons and Norse, the Norman conquest, War of the Roses, Oxford University, Civil War and Glorious Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, World Wars, and the Beatles! We will revisit as many as we can, with samples and pictures.

Discover how researchers at UNL are unlocking the secrets of the canine mind. Explore the Many Dogs Project and ongoing work in the Department of Psychology and Center for Brain, Biology and Behavior. Learn how scientists study dog cognition and behavior—and what these findings reveal about how dogs think, learn, and connect with humans.

Join us at Omaha’s Durham Museum for a guided exploration of “Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume” exhibit. Discover the art behind Disney costumes and learn how the memorable costumes bring characters to life as well as depict good and evil.

Learn about the Nebraska Capitol architecture, artistic influences and history as we stroll around the outside of the building and look at the artwork and the philosophical reasons behind each. Explore the interrelationship of Hartley Burr Alexander, a philosopher and professor at UNL, Lee Lawrey, architectural sculptor, and Bertram Goodhue, capitol architect. Discover the architectural and philosophical messages of the Capitol’s external iconography and how the panels were sculpted.

Learn about the Nebraska Capitol architecture, artistic influences and history as we stroll around the outside of the building and look at the artwork and the philosophical reasons behind each. Explore the interrelationship of Hartley Burr Alexander, a philosopher and professor at UNL, Lee Lawrey, architectural sculptor, and Bertram Goodhue, capitol architect. Discover the architectural and philosophical messages of the Capitol’s external iconography and how the panels were sculpted.

Explore how taste, smell, and the trigeminal system shape our daily experiences—from food to social interaction. Learn how these chemical senses work at the genetic, cellular, and brain levels, how they change with age or illness, and how disorders affect health. Examine chemosensory function across the lifespan and discuss current and emerging approaches to diagnosing and managing related disorders. Participants will taste and smell items during class, providing examples of the concepts discussed.

Build confidence, clarity, and comfort in a wide range of real-life speaking/presenting situations. Practical techniques, tips, and tools to employ whether you’re looking to get more involved, speak up with ease, or simply feel steadier when your voice needs to be heard in a live setting or over Zoom. A follow-up OLLI class will offer supportive practical opportunities for presentations.

Go behind the scenes at Corn Coast Brewing in Lincoln for a guided tour and tasting experience. Learn how this locally owned brewery transforms Nebraska-grown ingredients into distinctive craft beers, from recipe development to the brewing process. Hear the story of Corn Coast’s roots, commitment to community, and creative approach to brewing. The tour concludes with a curated tasting of several flagship and seasonal beers, offering a flavorful introduction to Lincoln’s craft beer scene.

Gain greater proficiency in digital photography while using an advanced amateur camera (adjustable), mirrorless interchangeable lens camera (MILC) or digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera. Learn the fundamentals as you practice with your own personal camera. Basic principles of photography will be reviewed and then more sophisticated digital camera operations, such as controls, function and purpose, lighting, composition, hardware options and software will be discussed.

Do you have envelopes full of negatives or slides? What about old photos stored in shoeboxes under your bed? Learn how to preserve these in a more organized form. Bring some of these to class and explore the process of scanning and saving those prints digitally so they will be memories forever. Bring no more than four or five prints, negatives, or slides.

Learn who maintains the wetlands and recreational trails beyond city limits, who built the levee protecting the City of Lincoln, and who manages the reservoirs scattered across the rural landscape. Discover the many facets of the Lower Platte South Natural Resources District and examine how it advances its mission to conserve land, water, and wildlife while supporting environmental education initiatives throughout the district.

Discover the places that both royalty and people of other classes visited in London and the areas around it, especially those that people can still visit today. These include the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Church, Hampton Court, and the Globe Theatre. Learn about Stratford, where the playwright Shakespeare came from and where his plays are still performed today. Enjoy discussing stories and legends about these exciting places.

Deceit, hidden identities, and love triumphant are only the beginning of Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare.  Come share in one of the greatest comedic plays ever written.  Couples Benedick and Beatrice & Claudio and Hero navigate the feelings of new love but are derailed by the bitter and conniving Don John.  The show concludes with a post-performance question and answer period for OLLI attendees.

Let’s add some Olé! to your Cinco De Mayo party! In this hands-on course, create easy, flavorful Mexican entrées, sides and perhaps a dessert. Bring your enthusiasm for a fun time in the kitchen!

Learn about the early military posts (1795-1866) built on the lands which became the territory and then the state of Nebraska. These forts were some of the first permanent inroads to Nebraska, where the Native and Euro-American made connections leading to trade, exploration, war and eventual settlement.

Join your OLLI friends for an unpretentious, cozy, and sophisticated evening at L’s Kitchen, where Chef Lawrence DeVilliers will present five courses, five wine tastings, and five engaging stories inspired by the nation’s 250th anniversary. Known for its intimate, chef-driven dining experiences, L’s Kitchen offers the perfect setting to savor creative cuisine while enjoying great conversation and a memorable night out.

Discover why gait speed is more than just a way of measuring how fast you walk. This simple, accessible indicator reflects the health and function of multiple body systems and is strongly linked to overall vitality and survival. Learn how slowing down can signal underlying changes and how reduced mobility can create a cycle of inactivity and deconditioning that impacts long-term health. Participate in a gait-speed assessment and learn what you can do to improve this vital sign.

Learn about the great work being done at Boys Town. Discover how Boys Town programs developed and how they continue to change the way America cares for children and families. Tour the Boys Town Hall of History Museum and the Father Flanagan House Museum, which is the former residence of the founder, Father Edward Flanagan. Enjoy lunch at the Boys Town Overlook Café. Discover how they fulfill their mission of saving children, healing families, and strengthening communities.

 

Buzz into the fascinating world of some of the most social of all insects. From honeybees to bumble bees, we will explore the caste system, the journey to becoming a queen, and the communication methods within and between colonies. Join us as we discover the differences and similarities among these marvelous creatures while learning how to better understand their myriad strategies for collective well-being.

How do our neighbors from different religious traditions understand death, grief, and end-of-life rituals? Faith leaders from across the Lincoln community will share perspectives on beliefs, practices, and ways to offer care and respect.

Find additional information about the program here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Id7DNztCNzlsknPNQqb-LP36nLGMN7hg/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=117015420167708648636&rtpof=true&sd=true

How do we find the "Living Word" or "God’s Spirit" through the collection of ancient Biblical stories? Discover the contradictions and inconsistencies we might encounter, and how we can best communicate our evolving religious understandings to the young people in our lives. Employing the historical-critical method to analyze Scripture offers a valuable framework for seeking answers to these questions.

Learn about today’s evolving electric grid and the operational, technological, and security challenges facing the power industry. Explore the factors driving rapid change, including the integration of renewable energy resources, accelerating load growth, and increasing demand for reliability and resilience. Given the increasing digitalization of the grid, discover the cybersecurity risks introduced by modern technologies which include vulnerabilities associated with new grid devices and communication networks.

This course is co-sponsored by the UNO Alumni Association.

If you’ve ever enjoyed a theatrical performance, you know decisions were made about costumes and props. Discover the Great Plains’ largest costume and prop library at Nebraska Wesleyan University, and how thousands of garments, accessories, and specialty pieces support campus and community productions. Learn how costumes are selected, built, altered, stored, and preserved, and hear stories about memorable shows and creative problem-solving.

Electric Bikes are a great and accessible way to explore Lincoln’s trail system. There are many health benefits from cycling, from being low impact on your joints to strengthening your cardiovascular system. Having an electric assist on your bike can help you go further and longer. Learn the fundamentals of how to use an E-Bike, the pros and cons and "test ride" one to see if it is right for you.

Recreational kayaking is a great lifetime activity and way to explore and enjoy the lakes in the Lincoln area. This class will introduce you to the basics of kayaking and safety measures so you can start enjoying this new activity on your own. All kayaking equipment is provided.

What brings over 1,000 people of faith and goodwill to a meeting in late April? Learn how members of 27 faith communities organize to create change in Lancaster County. Explore how community leaders are advancing systems change in the areas of pre-trial diversion, eviction mediation, mental health navigation and food insecurity. Obtain updates on current campaigns and gain insight into how organized people build power to influence local systems and policies.

Learn about the history of Lincoln’s Kennard House, originally the home of Thomas P. Kennard, Nebraska’s first Secretary of State. The Kennard House is the oldest building still standing that was part of Lincoln’s original town plat and was restored as a memorial to Nebraska statehood in 1967. We will tour the home, discuss its construction and architectural history, and learn about archeological investigations of the property conducted by UNL’s Summer Field School in Archeology and the History Nebraska State Archeology Office in the 1990s.

Learn about the history of Lincoln’s Kennard House, originally the home of Thomas P. Kennard, Nebraska’s first Secretary of State. The Kennard House is the oldest building still standing that was part of Lincoln’s original town plat and was restored as a memorial to Nebraska statehood in 1967. We will tour the home, discuss its construction and architectural history, and learn about archeological investigations of the property conducted by UNL’s Summer Field School in Archeology and the History Nebraska State Archeology Office in the 1990s.

Learn how the Lincoln Transportation and Utilities’ Watershed Management Division protects our community from flooding and stormwater pollution. Explore the history of local flood mitigation projects and how they shaped today’s drainage system. Learn how floodplain regulations and the Community Rating System help reduce risk and insurance costs, and how stormwater Best Management Practices improve water quality. Includes practical home tips and a guided tour of local watershed features.

Explore the life and writing of Loren Eiseley (1907–1977), one of the 20th century’s most influential nature writers with deep Nebraska roots. Trace his journey from boyhood wanderings in and around Lincoln to paleontological work in the western Nebraska badlands and a distinguished academic career. Read selected works highlighting how his early experiences in Nebraska shaped his writing. All participants receive a free copy of The Loren Eiseley Reader.

Learn fundamental principles of transportation engineering and gain an overview of the Nebraska Transportation Center (NTC) and its work. Discover NTC’s mission, research activities, and role in improving transportation systems in Nebraska and beyond. Explore topics in an engaging, non-technical manner with an emphasis on real-world applications, through interactive, hands-on activities and guided tours of transportation research facilities.

What if this season of life could feel joyful, intentional, and beautifully alive? In this empowering and perspective-shifting class, create your own Personal Palooza — a meaningful, doable plan to bring more passion, purpose, and pizzazz into everyday living. Through guided reflection and honest conversation, rediscover what lights you up, what may be holding you back, and design ways to celebrate the life you’re already living. Be open. Be inspired. Be brave. The life you want is closer than you think.

 

Join us on a nature walk to talk native gardening in a relaxed, fun, social atmosphere. This tour will highlight the native Nebraska-style landscape on the April Sampson Cancer Center campus. Discover the different types of prairie and native plants, what they look like, the benefits of using them, and how to incorporate these important plants into your home or business landscape. Be ready to walk and/ or stand the entire time.

Join us on a nature walk to talk native gardening in a relaxed, fun, social atmosphere. This tour will highlight the native Nebraska-style landscape on the April Sampson Cancer Center campus. Discover the different types of prairie and native plants, what they look like, the benefits of using them, and how to incorporate these important plants into your home or business landscape. Be ready to walk and/ or stand the entire time.

Enjoy a guided walk at Prairie Pines Nature Preserve, founded by Walt and Virginia Bagley in 1959. In December 2024, the 145-acre property was transferred to Wachiska Audubon. Wachiska and Prairie Pines Partners work together to maintain the habitat and promote conservation, education, and nature experiences.

Explore how compassion shapes Mahayana Buddhism and fuels the Bodhisattva path. Meet Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, whose stories reveal the depth of Buddhist compassion. Discover how her teachings can guide everyday actions, transforming ordinary moments into mindful, compassionate practice. Uncover why even a simple walk becomes a peaceful, intentional expression of kindness within Buddhist tradition.

During a 150-year stretch, our Founding Fathers wrote the Mayflower Compact, the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, plus other documents crucial to our founding and today. Why so many documents over such a long time; what “wrong(s)” did each presumably correct? If we stand on their shoulders and learn from their examples, how well did our founders prepare us to correct our own “wrongs”?

Build photography skills using your mobile devices – smart phones and tablets. Most of the content will focus on Apple device Technology but, it will also cover Android features, multiple apps and photographic principles common to all cell phone cameras. There will also be limited discussion about post processing of photographs using the phone app Snapseed. Download Snapseed from your app store to enable some practice processing photos on your device during class.

Learn the lifesaving skills of Adult Hands-Only CPR, Child CPR, Infant CPR and AED use, as well as mild and severe airway block for adults, children and infants. Skills are taught in a dynamic group environment using the American Heart Association’s research-proven practice, while watching technique. Also learn the use of life-saving tourniquets in controlling serious extremity hemorrhage. This course is information only and does not lead to re-certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.  

Explore how different approaches to biblical interpretation shape beliefs, values, and public life. Compare evangelical and mainline Protestant perspectives—without debating who’s “right.” Participants will gain tools to ask better questions, understand denominational differences, and reflect on how faith communities influence culture, inclusion, and democracy.

Explore this 2020 addition to the National Register of Historic Places and learn about the infamous and notorious Robber’s Cave. Tour the cave (which is 55 degrees year round) and discover its fascinating past, including the cave’s ownership through the past century and beyond as well as hear about the legends who used the cave. Learn about not only the geological and man-made origins of the cave but hear entertaining anecdotes along the way.

Explore this 2020 addition to the National Register of Historic Places and learn about the infamous and notorious Robber’s Cave. Tour the cave (which is 55 degrees year round) and discover its fascinating past, including the cave’s ownership through the past century and beyond as well as hear about the legends who used the cave. Learn about not only the geological and man-made origins of the cave but hear entertaining anecdotes along the way.

The Chocolate Season Chocolaterie and Coffee Shop handcrafts delicious moments in the form of delightful bakery products. Midsummer is an ideal time to reconnect with OLLI friends over coffee or tea and a tasty kolache or scone. Enjoy meeting the owner and learning how the business began and what goes on behind the scenes. Feel free to purchase coffee or additional baked goods as well.

Enjoy the historical exhibits in this museum, located on UNL's East Campus. Any tractor sold in Nebraska must first be tested at the museum. It is the only tractor testing museum in the world and the only complete tractor test laboratory in the world. The museum was built in 1920 and is dedicated to preserving and documenting the history of Nebraska's test laws dating from 1919. Enjoy a tour of the museum and visit to the test lab.

Explore the history and mission of the Sister Servants of the Holy Spirit of Perpetual Adoration, the first cloistered community in Lincoln. Commonly known as the “Pink Sisters” for their rose-colored habits, these nuns have lived a quiet life of prayer and adoration at Christ the King Chapel since 1973. Learn about their life of silent contemplation and their spiritual impact on the local community and global missions. Also enjoy a brief tour of the chapel and areas nearby.

Nebraska was formerly covered by shallow seas whose levels rose and fell for more than 500 million years. At Schramm Park, south of Gretna, NE, observe rocks and search for fossils that provide evidence for a portion of these fluctuating marine environments. After a lecture in the park’s Education Center, visit a rock outcrop of Pennsylvanian Age (300 million years old). Find additional information about the program here: https://docs.google.com/document/ d/1RBOTnhHSGm7yTY_1Iy-axNAT8h7q57hK/edit

Explore the Western as a uniquely American genre that shaped the mythology of the nation’s past. Trace its rise from late-19th-century dime novels to Owen Wister’s The Virginian and the landmark film The Great Train Robbery. Follow the Western’s evolution in literature and film—from Zane Grey and pulp magazines to Louis L’Amour, and from early screen cowboys to icons like John Wayne and Clint Eastwood.

Explore the exhibits at the Great Plains Black History Museum. The Hate & Hope exhibit focuses on the ugly part of Great Plains history and positive events in Omaha, as well as other parts of America. Other permanent exhibits include 24th and Glory that features famous Omaha athletes, and African American History through Street Signs. A guided tour will be followed by time to view exhibits on your own.

Experience the “rooms where it happens” as you explore study, instruction, and performance spaces in the new music building on UNL’s City Campus. Visit rehearsal rooms used by the Cornhusker Marching Band during bad weather and see where the next generation of Nebraska musicians train and perform.

In July 1922, William Jennings Bryan, “The Great Commoner,” donated his home to the Lincoln Methodist Association for the site of a new hospital. The historic landmark still stands at the current Bryan Health East Campus, where it was once atop a hill and offered a “fair view” of the Prairie Capitol and its adjacent farms. Join OLLI friends to tour this historic residence restored to its early 1900’s grandeur.

In July 1922, William Jennings Bryan, “The Great Commoner,” donated his home to the Lincoln Methodist Association for the site of a new hospital. The historic landmark still stands at the current Bryan Health East Campus, where it was once atop a hill and offered a “fair view” of the Prairie Capitol and its adjacent farms. Join OLLI friends to tour this historic residence restored to its early 1900’s grandeur.

In July 1922, William Jennings Bryan, “The Great Commoner,” donated his home to the Lincoln Methodist Association for the site of a new hospital. The historic landmark still stands at the current Bryan Health East Campus, where it was once atop a hill and offered a “fair view” of the Prairie Capitol and its adjacent farms. Join OLLI friends to tour this historic residence restored to its early 1900’s grandeur.

Explore emerging research and clinical advances in women’s cancer across genetics, environment, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Examine how inherited risk, social factors, and environmental influences shape ovarian cancer outcomes. Discover personalized approaches to breast cancer diagnosis, along with innovations in hormone-based and targeted therapies. Learn about updated clinical strategies for cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers, and consider the unique physical and emotional challenges of survivorship following gynecological cancer care.

Find additional information about the program here: https://docs.google.com/document/ d/1fUdUxg9CIlPfdoYoUJAWx5MSlf-1cQX_/edit

Explore how the mind works beneath conscious awareness, integrating neuroscience, psychology, and philosophy to explain how prediction, emotion, and biology shape perception, judgment, personality, and behavior. Topics include automatic and controlled processing, bias and intuition, allostasis and stress, the Big Five personality model, moral psychology, and narrative identity. We will emphasize humility, self‑understanding, and compassion, showing how awareness of unconscious influences supports wiser choices and healthier relationships.

Explore why reading serious literature matters and how the purposes of reading evolved over time. Consider generational relationships to literature and how certain works call for rereading for deeper insight. Discuss how literature expands the mind in ways distinct from science or ethics. Examine the idea of a literary canon: what is included and how the canon changes. 

This course is a continuation of the Introduction to Bridge I course and is designed for the student with very limited prior knowledge of bridge. Learn how the game is played, bridge vocabulary, basic Standard American bidding, and basic card play. There will be ample opportunities to play hands that will illustrate class concepts. The students will dictate the pace of the course, so all can grasp the basics of the game. 

Although Kansas lies outside the South, it holds a rich civil rights history. Explore two pivotal stories: the landmark Supreme Court case “Brown v. Board of Education,” centered on a young Black girl seeking to attend her neighborhood school in Topeka—now a national historic site—and the founding of Nicodemus by Black homesteaders. A descendant shares this history. Join OLLI members on a three-day trip to these significant sites.

Whether you intend to register for the trip or not, all OLLI members are welcome to attend this course.