Based upon his popular Great Decisions format, Professor Morton will evaluate seven critical issues confronting American foreign policy makers. Each issue will be considered for its historical and contemporary relevance and strategic value to the United States. Policy options for each issue will be presented and analyzed. NOTE: Topics may change if they overlap with Professor Morton's Spring Great Decisions series.  

LECTURES:

1. France

2. Egypt

3. Chile

4. International Criminal Court

5. Vietnam

6. Canada

7. Norway

Jeffrey Morton, Ph.D., is the Pierrepont Comfort Chair in Political Science and a Fellow at the Foreign Policy Association. He is the recipient of the prestigious FPA Medal, which is bestowed upon leading members of the American foreign policy establishment. He has been honored with numerous university awards, including Researcher of the Year, Talon Service Award, Master Teacher and University Distinguished Teacher of the Year. Professor Morton has contributed to articles that have appeared in the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. He directs the Leon Charney Diplomacy Program, which has received seventy-five awards for academic excellence and six national titles.

"We consider ourselves "Groupies" of Dr. Morton. An outstanding Professor!"- OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Based upon his popular Great Decisions format, Professor Morton will evaluate seven critical issues confronting American foreign policy makers. Each issue will be considered for its historical and contemporary relevance and strategic value to the United States. Policy options for each issue will be presented and analyzed. NOTE: Topics may change if they overlap with Professor Morton's Spring Great Decisions series.  

LECTURES:

1. France

2. Egypt

3. Chile

4. International Criminal Court

5. Vietnam

6. Canada

7. Norway

Jeffrey Morton, Ph.D., is the Pierrepont Comfort Chair in Political Science and a Fellow at the Foreign Policy Association. He is the recipient of the prestigious FPA Medal, which is bestowed upon leading members of the American foreign policy establishment. He has been honored with numerous university awards, including Researcher of the Year, Talon Service Award, Master Teacher and University Distinguished Teacher of the Year. Professor Morton has contributed to articles that have appeared in the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. He directs the Leon Charney Diplomacy Program, which has received seventy-five awards for academic excellence and six national titles.

"We consider ourselves "Groupies" of Dr. Morton. An outstanding Professor!"- OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Based upon his popular Great Decisions format, Professor Morton will evaluate seven critical issues confronting American foreign policy makers. Each issue will be considered for its historical and contemporary relevance and strategic value to the United States. Policy options for each issue will be presented and analyzed. NOTE: Topics may change if they overlap with Professor Morton's Spring Great Decisions series.  

LECTURES:

1. France

2. Egypt

3. Chile

4. International Criminal Court

5. Vietnam

6. Canada

7. Norway

Jeffrey Morton, Ph.D., is the Pierrepont Comfort Chair in Political Science and a Fellow at the Foreign Policy Association. He is the recipient of the prestigious FPA Medal, which is bestowed upon leading members of the American foreign policy establishment. He has been honored with numerous university awards, including Researcher of the Year, Talon Service Award, Master Teacher and University Distinguished Teacher of the Year. Professor Morton has contributed to articles that have appeared in the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. He directs the Leon Charney Diplomacy Program, which has received seventy-five awards for academic excellence and six national titles.

"We consider ourselves "Groupies" of Dr. Morton. An outstanding Professor!"- OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Important Supreme Court decisions and multiple Presidential Executive orders in 2005 now substantially alter and affect our legal and Constitutional landscape. Long-standing, comfortable, oft-repeated Constitutional principles such as "no person is above the law" and "we enjoy three coequal branches of government" now require further examination. Frequent ongoing Supreme Court "split" decisions reflect ever-present disparate fundamental challenges between liberal and conservative views, as well as uncertainty as to continued adherence to many established long-standing Supreme Court precedents. Expect a dynamic semester, as this course will not be for the faint-hearted.

Irving Labovitz, J.D., is an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University who teaches courses on U.S. Supreme Court decisions, drawing on a distinguished legal career that includes roles as an Air Force prosecutor, FTC attorney, and FDIC contract counsel. A graduate of Boston University School of Law and member of multiple bars including the U.S. Supreme Court, he has authored legal scholarship, lectured nationally, and served as both law firm co-chair and corporate general counsel.

"Professor Labovitz is engaging, extremely erudite, knowledgeable and possesses great presentation skills." OLLI Patron

 

 

Discover the bold visions and groundbreaking artistic techniques of the 19th and 20th centuries. From Realism to Abstraction, artists have explored endless creative possibilities, drawing inspiration from nature, the human form, political movements, and the pure joy of color and design. Each session pairs two artists with distinct styles, revealing how different approaches to similar subjects result in unique masterpieces. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a curious learner, this series offers an engaging look at artistic evolution, innovation, and the power of artistic expression!

Terryl Lawrence, Ed.D., is an NEH Humanities Fellow and artist with a doctorate from Columbia University, whose work has been exhibited in New York and Florida. A former fashion designer and photographer, she has published widely and currently teaches Art History and Mythology at Palm Beach State and Broward Colleges.

"It is obvious the Dr. Lawrence is eminently qualified. Her knowledge is abounding!"- OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Important Supreme Court decisions and multiple Presidential Executive orders in 2005 now substantially alter and affect our legal and Constitutional landscape. Long-standing, comfortable, oft-repeated Constitutional principles such as "no person is above the law" and "we enjoy three coequal branches of government" now require further examination. Frequent ongoing Supreme Court "split" decisions reflect ever-present disparate fundamental challenges between liberal and conservative views, as well as uncertainty as to continued adherence to many established long-standing Supreme Court precedents. Expect a dynamic semester, as this course will not be for the faint-hearted.

Irving Labovitz, J.D., is an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University who teaches courses on U.S. Supreme Court decisions, drawing on a distinguished legal career that includes roles as an Air Force prosecutor, FTC attorney, and FDIC contract counsel. A graduate of Boston University School of Law and member of multiple bars including the U.S. Supreme Court, he has authored legal scholarship, lectured nationally, and served as both law firm co-chair and corporate general counsel.

"Professor Labovitz is engaging, extremely erudite, knowledgeable and possesses great presentation skills." OLLI Patron

 

 

Discover the bold visions and groundbreaking artistic techniques of the 19th and 20th centuries. From Realism to Abstraction, artists have explored endless creative possibilities, drawing inspiration from nature, the human form, political movements, and the pure joy of color and design. Each session pairs two artists with distinct styles, revealing how different approaches to similar subjects result in unique masterpieces. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a curious learner, this series offers an engaging look at artistic evolution, innovation, and the power of artistic expression!

Terryl Lawrence, Ed.D., is an NEH Humanities Fellow and artist with a doctorate from Columbia University, whose work has been exhibited in New York and Florida. A former fashion designer and photographer, she has published widely and currently teaches Art History and Mythology at Palm Beach State and Broward Colleges.

"It is obvious the Dr. Lawrence is eminently qualified. Her knowledge is abounding!"- OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Discover the joy of Conversational Yiddish in this lively program filled with proverbs, folklore, music, and humor—mit a bissel history and literature! Learn how to “kvetch, kvell, and kibbitz,” whether you're a beginner or already familiar with the language. No prior knowledge is needed, and all levels are welcome, from novice to fluent speakers. This engaging experience offers something for everyone, blending cultural insight with practical conversation skills. Materials will be provided. Come join the fun and bring a little Yiddishkeit into your life! Space is limited to foster engagement.

Riva Ginsburg, a native Yiddish speaker born in a post-WWII displaced persons camp, has taught Yiddish Language and Culture at SUNY Binghamton—home to the nation’s largest Yiddish program under her tenure—and at Florida Atlantic University. A daughter of Holocaust Resistance fighters, she lectures widely on Jewish Resistance and post-Holocaust generations, and presents educational programs through FAU Lifelong Learning and community organizations.

In the mid-20th century, the United States experienced a dramatic shift—from post-World War I isolationism to becoming the Arsenal of Democracy in WWII and a reluctant superpower during the Cold War. FDR’s leadership, despite isolationist pressures, helped lead the Allies to victory and set the stage for U.S. global leadership through the United Nations, the Bretton Woods System, the Marshall Plan, and the Japan Economic Miracle. Today, the U.S. faces increasing calls to step back from its global role. This course will explore these key moments, focusing on the presidencies of FDR, Truman, Eisenhower, and Kennedy, and the evolution of America’s superpower status.

 LECTURE: 

 1. From Isolation to WWII: Explore Roosevelt’s mobilization for war, the New Deal, and America’s rise as a global power during World War II.

 2. Global Leadership Shift: Analyze the transition from British to American leadership, the Truman presidency, and the beginning of the Cold War.

 3. Kennedy, Johnson, and Vietnam: Examine the Kennedy-Johnson years, the Vietnam War, and Nixon’s historic opening to China.

 4. Carter, Reagan, Clinton: Explore Carter’s human rights shift, Reagan’s Cold War end, and Clinton’s NATO expansion.

 5. Bush-Cheney and the War on Terror: Study the impact of 9/11, the War on Terror, and America’s “unipolar moment” under Bush.

 6. The Great Disruption: Analyze America’s shift from Obama to Trump, examining Trump’s “America First” stance and its impact on global leadership.

Jeffrey Steinberg, M.A., is an Adjunct Professor at Frederick College and Florida Gulf Coast University Academy, where he teaches in lifelong learning programs on topics in political science and social science research. With a background in consulting as Executive VP of PTB Global Advisors, he brings decades of experience to the classroom, serving both academic and international business audience.

"Great presentation and terrific amount of information."- OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Ruin all of the crime shows for your friends!! This series explores the true nature of forensic investigations, from the crime scene to the crime lab and crime reconstruction. Each element of an investigation is a unique specialization often overblown by media. This course will uncover the simple science behind the practice. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

 LECTURES:

1. Crime Scene Processing: Learn the crucial steps in processing a crime scene, from securing the area to collecting evidence, ensuring accurate results.

2.  Latent Print Formation and Recovery: Discover how latent fingerprints are formed and recovered, and their importance in criminal investigations.

3.  Firearms and Ballistics: Explore firearm identification, bullet trajectory, and how ballistic evidence links suspects to crimes.

4.  Blood Pattern Analysis: Understand how blood spatter patterns provide insights into crime events and aid in crime scene reconstruction.

5. Trace Evidence: Learn how trace evidence like hair, fibers, and debris helps link suspects to crime scenes.

6. Crime Scene Sequencing: Apply methods to reconstruct crime events through sequencing, using case studies and worksheets for practice.

Patrick McLaughlin is a full-time instructor at FAU Boca Raton, coordinating the Forensic Investigations Minor. A retired NYPD detective with 20 years of experience and degrees in forensic science from John Jay College, he combines extensive crime scene work with academic research in areas like blood pattern analysis, DNA, ballistics, and latent fingerprint examination.

In this interactive series, we will examine how early life experiences, shaped by family, culture, and birth order, impact adult behaviors, emotions, and mindset. Participants will explore how these influences shape happiness, success, stress, and conflict while learning strategies to recognize and reshape ingrained patterns. By understanding the roots of stress, conflict, and personal roadblocks, they will gain tools to break unhelpful habits and make conscious choices, leading to greater fulfillment, improved relationships, and professional success.  This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Introduction to Early Life Conditioning: How family dynamics, birth order, and culture shape beliefs and behaviors.

2. The Link Between Conditioning, Happiness, and Success: Identifying patterns that drive motivation, achievement, and personal roadblocks.

3. Stress and Conflict: Breaking the Cycle: Understanding triggers, conflict patterns, and strategies for healthier responses.

4. Rewiring Your Patterns for Lasting Change: Practical tools to reshape habits and cultivate well-being.

Pavel Mischenko, M.S., M.A., is Managing Partner at Leader Talent, LLC, and a business trainer-coach with a background in psychotherapy from Syracuse University. Since 1999, he has led leadership and communication programs globally for the American Management Association and Management Centre Europe, known for his energetic, impact-driven approach.

“It was a lot of fun, the presenter was very good and I loved the interactive approach.” OLLI Patron

In this course, Dr. Shapiro will explore the pivotal battles of World War II from 1944-1945. These four key battles—each with its unique strategic significance—shaped the war's outcome. From the D-Day landings to the Battle of the Bulge, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa, we’ll examine the events, tactics, and outcomes of these historic confrontations. Through in-depth analysis and discussion, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of these critical moments and their lasting impact on global history. This program offers a guided discussion with limited enrollment to foster a rich, interactive experience.

 LECTURES:

1. D-Day

2. Leyte Gulf

3. The Battle of the Bulge

4. Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Edward Shapiro, Ph.D., earned his doctoral degree in history from Harvard University and taught American history at Seton Hall University for three decades. He is the author of several books on American Jewish history, including A Time for Healing and Crown Heights, and has lectured across the U.S., Europe, and Israel.

“Dr. Shapiro’s lectures were clear, appropriate and quite interesting.”- OLLI Patron

Pundits from all sides claim that we’ve never been more divided, but history offers a different perspective. Our nation has always been marked by divisions, disagreements, and compromises, but also by moments of unity and progress. To truly understand today’s political climate, we must view the Founders not as saints or sinners, but as flawed humans—making both good and bad decisions, embracing both noble and flawed causes, and holding complex, often contradictory views. By studying their struggles and choices, we can gain insights into the origins of today’s political disputes. Armed with this knowledge, we can make informed decisions, no matter our political stance. Join us to explore the past and better understand the present.

LECTURES: 

1. Ben Franklin: Jack of All Trades, Master of Most! 

2. Alexander Hamilton: Illegitimate Immigrant Saved the Republic and Destroyed Himself 

3. "Great Little Madison": How a Diminutive, Sickly Man Conspired to Overthrow the Government and Give Us Our Quintessential Founding Documents

4. John Adams: An Undiplomatic Diplomat, Feisty Founder, and Hidden Hero 

 

Rebecca Staton-Reinstein, Ph.D., is president of Advantage Leadership, Inc., and holds degrees from William & Mary (B.A.), Indiana University (M.A.), and Union Institute and University (Ph.D.). A former costumed guide at Colonial Williamsburg, she combines her deep academic background with a lifelong passion for American history, shaped by growing up in Virginia and decades of research into the Enlightenment, the Founders, and the shaping of the United States.

 

“Presenter was exceedingly well prepared. Overhead presentation was superb” – OLLI Patron

 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

The best way to understand where we are going is to examine where we’ve been. In this four-week book discussion group, we will read four stories of our past. In addition to discussing the readings, we will also discuss strategies and prompts for writing our own stories of the past. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Night Watch by Jayne Anne Phillips

2. The Wonder by Emma Donoghue

3. Mice by Stacey Levine

4. Anthony Doerr’s Pushcart Prize-wining essay Two Nights

“Professor Rachel Luria is fabulous!” – OLLI Patron

Embark on a fascinating journey through the history of the Mediterranean Sea, an exploration of how ancient civilizations met, traded, and transformed the world. We’ll focus on the Egyptian, Phoenician, Greek, and Roman cultures and their lasting influence on the development of Western civilization. We’ll uncover how centuries of interaction shaped political, economic, and social life across the region. Discover the Mediterranean’s enduring legacy and its relevance today. Whether you're a history enthusiast or curious learner, this first part offers a captivating start to the story. By course’s end, you’ll see how this historic sea continues to shape our world today—making the past not only relevant, but fascinatingly alive.

LECTURES:

1. Introduction and Early History of the Mediterranean Sea

2. Classical Antiquity

3. The Roman Empire and the ‘Mare Nostrum'

4. The Fall of the Roman Empire

Dr. Daniel Rivera, a professor specializing in Middle Eastern history, politics, and Arabic language, earned his PhD from the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid. With over six years of experience living in the Middle East and conducting research at top institutions, he currently lectures at the University of Miami and Florida International University on the Middle East, North Africa, and the Mediterranean. 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

In today’s polarized political climate, it’s easy to see division as unprecedented. But history reveals a more complex story. This series invites participants to explore the tensions and compromises that shaped our nation’s founding, examining the flawed humanity of the founders and the ideas that influenced them. We’ll trace key moments—from the clash of Enlightenment ideals and evangelical fervor to the Constitutional Convention and the bitter Election of 1800. Through historical exploration and critical analysis, we aim to deepen understanding, challenge assumptions, and inspire informed civic engagement—regardless of political affiliation. Join us in connecting past debates to today’s challenges.

LECTURES:

1. The Enlightenment and the Founding of the U.S.: Why We Should Care and What Difference it Makes Today.

2. Conventional Wisdom: How We Ended Up with Our Constitution through Debate, Disgruntlement, Disillusion, and Decisions.

3. Founding Friends and Foes: How the Complex Relationships Among Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Hamilton and Franklin Affected Us Today.

4. Dirtiest Election Ever: How Jefferson vs. Adams in 1800 Set the Stage for Today’s Political Shenanigans.

Rebecca Staton-Reinstein, Ph.D., is president of Advantage Leadership, Inc., and holds degrees from William & Mary (B.A.), Indiana University (M.A.), and Union Institute and University (Ph.D.). A former costumed guide at Colonial Williamsburg, she combines her deep academic background with a lifelong passion for American history, shaped by growing up in Virginia and decades of research into the Enlightenment, the Founders, and the shaping of the United States.

"Presenter was exceedingly well prepares. Overhead presentation was superb." - OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

In this interactive series, we will examine how early life experiences, shaped by family, culture, and birth order, impact adult behaviors, emotions, and mindset. Participants will explore how these influences shape happiness, success, stress, and conflict while learning strategies to recognize and reshape ingrained patterns. By understanding the roots of stress, conflict, and personal roadblocks, they will gain tools to break unhelpful habits and make conscious choices, leading to greater fulfillment, improved relationships, and professional success.  This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Introduction to Early Life Conditioning: How family dynamics, birth order, and culture shape beliefs and behaviors.

2. The Link Between Conditioning, Happiness, and Success: Identifying patterns that drive motivation, achievement, and personal roadblocks.

3. Stress and Conflict: Breaking the Cycle: Understanding triggers, conflict patterns, and strategies for healthier responses.

4. Rewiring Your Patterns for Lasting Change: Practical tools to reshape habits and cultivate well-being.

Pavel Mischenko, M.S., M.A., is Managing Partner at Leader Talent, LLC, and a business trainer-coach with a background in psychotherapy from Syracuse University. Since 1999, he has led leadership and communication programs globally for the American Management Association and Management Centre Europe, known for his energetic, impact-driven approach.

“It was a lot of fun, the presenter was very good and I loved the interactive approach.” OLLI Patron

Immerse yourself in four powerful moments that marked the history of France, from the violent beginnings of the French Revolution in 1789 to some of the tangled events of World War II. In lively post-screening discussions, we’ll delve into new perspectives on French history and dissect the cultural nuances and societal reflections portrayed on screen. All films are watched and discussed AFTER THE SCREENING. All films are shown in French language with English subtitles.

1. Ridicule: Explore the roots of the French Revolution through Ridicule, a sharp satire revealing Versailles' intrigue and excess, and the stark divide between aristocrats and the starving masses before 1789.

2: J’accuse: Set in 19th-century France, this gripping retelling follows Georges Piquart as he uncovers the truth behind Captain Dreyfus’s wrongful espionage conviction amid national paranoia.

3: La Rafle: This powerful film depicts the 1942 roundup of Jews in Paris, revealing the tragic collaboration between French police and Nazis during the Holocaust under the Vichy regime.

4: Diplomatie: Set in 1944 Paris, this thrilling drama imagines Swedish diplomat Raoul Nordling’s efforts to prevent German General von Choltitz from destroying the city before the Allies' arrival.

Valerie Sutter, a former language teacher, gained her passion for French culture during her 40+ years of living in France. She shares this passion through her classes as well as trips she organizes in France every year.  She owns an apartment in Paris and spends six months of the year there when she’s not otherwise occupied in Miami.

“Can't wait for Valerie's next class. Her film selections and French culture discussions are informative and un délice. Merci, Valerie.” OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Get ready for a fast-paced, interactive seminar where today’s hottest topics take center stage! Each session kicks off with the lecturer’s fresh perspective, then it’s your turn to jump in with your own thoughts, insights, and even a little friendly debate. Expect lively exchanges, surprising viewpoints, and plenty of “aha” moments to take home. The only ground rules? Bring an open mind, a dash of curiosity, and a spirit of mutual respect—because great conversations happen when everyone feels heard. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"Loved the class! I will be signing up for another one of his classes." - OLLI Patron

Experience the power of storytelling through four critically and audience-acclaimed films that offer moving glimpses into diverse cultures, traditions, and human experiences. This curated film series invites you on a cinematic journey that transcends geographical boundaries, revealing the universal emotions, challenges, and hopes that unite us all. Each film explores themes such as identity, family, resilience, and belonging—capturing what it means to be human across different parts of the world. These powerful stories inspire empathy and reflection, reminding us of the deep connections we share regardless of background. Screenings will be introduced with brief context and followed by optional group discussions to enrich the experience. Join us for this engaging and thought-provoking celebration of global cinema.

LECTURES:

1."My Happy Family" – Georgia, 2017: After 52 years in a multi-generational Georgian household, a woman separates from her family to begin her own adventure. To the shock of her relatives, she leaves everything behind to start again. Running time: 119 Min.

2. "I’m Still Here" – Brazil, 2024: Winning the Oscar for best international feature film, this powerful story follows the Paiva family. One afternoon in 1971, Rubens Paiva, a former congressman and outspoken critic of Brazil's newly instituted military dictatorship, was taken from his home in Rio de Janeiro by the authorities and disappeared. His wife reinvents herself, charting a new course for her family, relentless in her pursuit of the truth. Running time: 137 MIN.

3. "There’s Still Tomorrow" – Italy, 2023: Recalling the great films of Italian Neorealism, this moving comedic drama is set in postwar Rome follows a working-class woman who dreams of a better future for herself and her daughter while facing abuse at the hands of her domineering husband. When a mysterious letter arrives, she discovers the courage to change the circumstances of her life. Running time: 118 MIN.

4. "The President’s Wife" – France, 2024: Long the woman-behind-the-man, Bernadette Chirac arrives at the presidential Elysée Palace in 1995 frustrated and all but cast off by her newly elected husband, Jacques. In rise from invisible political spouse to major media figure--as calculated as it was inevitable--is chronicled with equal parts reverence and wit, driven by Catherine Deneuve in a memorable central performance. Running time: 92 MIN.

Shelly Isaacs, M.A., is the founder and host of Café Cinematheque International, a foreign language film program in South Florida, and launched Cinematheque at Sea, a film program available on luxury cruises worldwide, in 2009. A former advertising creative director, he holds a master’s degree in media ecology from NYU and has taught graduate-level cultural studies courses.

"His movies are great and he is fabulous in talking with the audience about each film. He makes even confusing films understandable and enjoyable." OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Join Nicholas DeAngelis for a hands-on series where you’ll master the basics of using your smartphone or tablet. Learn how to take and share photos, use essential apps like alarms and email, and customize your device with settings like background photos, sounds, and brightness. This interactive class is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to improve their skills. Participants are encouraged to bring their own devices, as in-class exercises and demonstrations will ensure a high level of engagement. Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock the full potential of your device and become more tech-savvy!  This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

 LECTURES:

 1. Tablet/Smartphone Basics

 2. Tablet/Smartphone Basics

 3. App Store Basics

 4. Getting Started with Apps

 5. System Settings and Setup

 6. Picture Sharing, Storage, and External Connections

Nicholas DeAngelis is a skilled technology trainer, known for his ability to simplify personal tech for users of all ages. Trained to CompTIA A+ standards, he specializes in resolving issues across computers, cellphones, and tablets, with a passion for teaching and empowering others through technology.

 

Nicholas is a professional and pleasant instructor with an obvious sensitivity to student needs and dedication to teaching what he knows. -  OLLI Patron

The United States faces numerous national security challenges, including Salafi-jihadism, terrorism, regional conflicts, nuclear proliferation, and competition for resources and power. Addressing these issues is a complex and often contentious process that impacts both U.S. security and its global role. President Trump’s foreign policy, centered on the “America First” doctrine and “peace through strength,” has shaped his approach. In this lecture series, Dr. Rabil will examine key national security concerns while highlighting the complexities and challenges Washington faces in a world increasingly moving toward multi-polarity.

 LECTURES:

 1.  War on Terror: Reconstitution of Salafi-Jihadism?

2.  Iran and Its Proxies: The End or Transformation of Iranian Proxies?

3.  Jordan: The Friendly King and the Precarious Kingdom.

4. The Present and Future of NATO: Transforming or Dismantling NATO?

Dr. Robert G. Rabil is a professor of political science at Florida Atlantic University and a leading expert on Salafism, radical Islam, and U.S.-Arab-Israeli relations. An internationally recognized scholar, he holds a doctorate from Brandeis University and has received numerous honors, including an honorary doctorate and FAU’s Scholar of the Year award.

"As always, the professor I most look forward to hearing. Impeccable preparation and enthusiasm. Simply the best." - OLLI Patron 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

This four-week course in applied ethics will look at some of the most difficult and controversial issues in contemporary life. We will apply traditional ethical systems such as virtue ethics, utilitarianism, and deontology to these questions. With ethics, there are no final answers but perhaps we can think more clearly about the ethical implications of issues... This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

 1. The Ethics of the New Reproductive Techniques: what ethical issues are raised by practices to treat infertility such as artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization, surrogate motherhood, and cloning?

 2. The Ethics of Animal Rights: Do animals have rights? And if so, what animals? Should we eat animals, do medical research on animals, or keep animals in zoos and aquariums? Do we have the right to keep pets?

 3. The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence: What ethical issues arise as machines are able to imitate human intelligence? How can we deal with issues of privacy, copyright protection, bias in decision-making, and the threat of deepfakes? Does a machine have ethical obligations?

 4. The Ethics of Gender: This is perhaps the most controversial issue today. Is gender a biological fact or something chosen at birth? Can someone change their gender or choose to be non-binary? How does this affect issues such as women's private spaces or women's sports?

Rabbi Michael Gold, Ph.D., is the spiritual leader of Temple Beth Shalom in Boca Raton, FL, and an adjunct professor of philosophy and religion at Broward and Miami-Dade Colleges. He has authored seven books, including Does the Universe Have a Soul?, and earned his doctorate from Florida Atlantic University with a focus on process philosophy and Jewish mysticism.

"Rabbi Gold was an excellent speaker and his handouts were very enlightening" OLLI Patron

The United States faces numerous national security challenges, including Salafi-jihadism, terrorism, regional conflicts, nuclear proliferation, and competition for resources and power. Addressing these issues is a complex and often contentious process that impacts both U.S. security and its global role. President Trump’s foreign policy, centered on the “America First” doctrine and “peace through strength,” has shaped his approach. In this lecture series, Dr. Rabil will examine key national security concerns while highlighting the complexities and challenges Washington faces in a world increasingly moving toward multi-polarity.

 LECTURES:

 1.  War on Terror: Reconstitution of Salafi-Jihadism?

2.  Iran and Its Proxies: The End or Transformation of Iranian Proxies?

3.  Jordan: The Friendly King and the Precarious Kingdom.

4. The Present and Future of NATO: Transforming or Dismantling NATO?

Dr. Robert G. Rabil is a professor of political science at Florida Atlantic University and a leading expert on Salafism, radical Islam, and U.S.-Arab-Israeli relations. An internationally recognized scholar, he holds a doctorate from Brandeis University and has received numerous honors, including an honorary doctorate and FAU’s Scholar of the Year award.

"As always, the professor I most look forward to hearing. Impeccable preparation and enthusiasm. Simply the best." - OLLI Patron 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Since 1918 the Foreign Policy Association has served as a catalyst for an open, objective and non-partisan public discourse of world affairs and American foreign policy. Great Decisions is an annual series that examines eight critical foreign policy issues, the topics for this course are selected by the Foreign Policy Association. Each lecture in this class includes background information, current American policy and foreign policy options for the United States. A bonus, ninth lecture titled “It’s A Wrap” completes the series. The Great Decisions Handbook , which includes information on each of the eight topics, can be obtained by visiting www.fpa.org.

LECTURES:

1. America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy
2. Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy
3. U.S.-China Relations
4. Ruptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation
5. Ukraine and the Future of European Security
6. Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order
7. U.S. Engagement of Africa
8. The Future of Human Rights and International Law
9.  It's a Wrap

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Since 1918 the Foreign Policy Association has served as a catalyst for an open, objective and non-partisan public discourse of world affairs and American foreign policy. Great Decisions is an annual series that examines eight critical foreign policy issues, the topics for this course are selected by the Foreign Policy Association. Each lecture in this class includes background information, current American policy and foreign policy options for the United States. A bonus, ninth lecture titled “It’s A Wrap” completes the series. The Great Decisions Handbook , which includes information on each of the eight topics, can be obtained by visiting www.fpa.org.

LECTURES:

1. America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy
2. Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy
3. U.S.-China Relations
4. Ruptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation
5. Ukraine and the Future of European Security
6. Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order
7. U.S. Engagement of Africa
8. The Future of Human Rights and International Law
9.  It's a Wrap

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Important Supreme Court decisions and multiple Presidential Executive orders in 2005 now substantially alter and affect our legal and Constitutional landscape. Long-standing, comfortable, oft-repeated Constitutional principles such as "no person is above the law" and "we enjoy three coequal branches of government" now require further examination. Frequent ongoing Supreme Court "split" decisions reflect ever-present disparate fundamental challenges between liberal and conservative views, as well as uncertainty as to continued adherence to many established long-standing Supreme Court precedents. Expect a dynamic semester, as this course will not be for the faint-hearted.

Irving Labovitz, J.D., is an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University who teaches courses on U.S. Supreme Court decisions, drawing on a distinguished legal career that includes roles as an Air Force prosecutor, FTC attorney, and FDIC contract counsel. A graduate of Boston University School of Law and member of multiple bars including the U.S. Supreme Court, he has authored legal scholarship, lectured nationally, and served as both law firm co-chair and corporate general counsel.

"Professor Labovitz is engaging, extremely erudite, knowledgeable and possesses great presentation skills." OLLI Patron

 

 

Since 1918 the Foreign Policy Association has served as a catalyst for an open, objective and non-partisan public discourse of world affairs and American foreign policy. Great Decisions is an annual series that examines eight critical foreign policy issues, the topics for this course are selected by the Foreign Policy Association. Each lecture in this class includes background information, current American policy and foreign policy options for the United States. A bonus, ninth lecture titled “It’s A Wrap” completes the series. The Great Decisions Handbook , which includes information on each of the eight topics, can be obtained by visiting www.fpa.org.

LECTURES:

1. America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy
2. Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy
3. U.S.-China Relations
4. Ruptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation
5. Ukraine and the Future of European Security
6. Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order
7. U.S. Engagement of Africa
8. The Future of Human Rights and International Law
9.  It's a Wrap

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Join German historian Anette Isaacs as she sheds light on a little-known chapter of World War II: the lives of over 400,000 German POWs held in more than 500 camps across the United States. Discover how these captured soldiers from Hitler’s Wehrmacht adjusted to life in places as far-flung as Texas, Iowa, Georgia, and of course Florida. Explore surprising stories of friendship, resistance, and deep ideological divides between pro- and anti-Nazi prisoners. This eye-opening lecture reveals the human side of war in the most unexpected corners of the American home front.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Important Supreme Court decisions and multiple Presidential Executive orders in 2005 now substantially alter and affect our legal and Constitutional landscape. Long-standing, comfortable, oft-repeated Constitutional principles such as "no person is above the law" and "we enjoy three coequal branches of government" now require further examination. Frequent ongoing Supreme Court "split" decisions reflect ever-present disparate fundamental challenges between liberal and conservative views, as well as uncertainty as to continued adherence to many established long-standing Supreme Court precedents. Expect a dynamic semester, as this course will not be for the faint-hearted.

Irving Labovitz, J.D., is an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University who teaches courses on U.S. Supreme Court decisions, drawing on a distinguished legal career that includes roles as an Air Force prosecutor, FTC attorney, and FDIC contract counsel. A graduate of Boston University School of Law and member of multiple bars including the U.S. Supreme Court, he has authored legal scholarship, lectured nationally, and served as both law firm co-chair and corporate general counsel.

"Professor Labovitz is engaging, extremely erudite, knowledgeable and possesses great presentation skills." OLLI Patron

 

 

Join Dr. Stephen Berk, Ph.D., for a compelling journey through the Romanov dynasty’s three-century rule and its impact on Russia and its Jewish population. Explore how political power, religious identity, and historical events shaped an era marked by survival, persecution, reform, revolution, and resilience. Dr. Berk’s insightful lectures reveal the complex legacy of the Romanovs through engaging stories and analysis. Whether you’re interested in Russian history, Jewish heritage, or political change, this course offers a rich and nuanced understanding of a pivotal period in world history. This is part one of a two part series.

LECTURES:

1. The Beginning: Rise of the Romanovs amid chaos (1613)

2. Peter and Catherine the Great: Empire-building and Jewish policies

3. Napoleon’s Invasion: National pride and increased repression

4. Alexander II: Reform attempts and halted progress

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Join us for a refreshing exploration of modern poetry that will make you see the world, and yourself, with new eyes. In this engaging series, we’ll read and discuss brief, powerful poems by some of the greatest poets of the modern era. Guided commentary will open the door to insight and conversation, as each poem reveals the world anew, demonstrating how art can break through the habitual and revive our sense of wonder. Full-text readings will be shared onscreen. No poetry background needed; just a love of words and a sense of wonder. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Robert Frost: A Way With Words: The Road Not Taken, Mowing, The Sound of Trees, To Earthward

2. D. H. Lawrence: Speaking from Nature: Cruelty and Love, Snake, Lui et Elle, The Ship of Death

3. Elizabeth Bishop: Adrift in Existence: Arrival at Santos, Song for the Rainy Season, Sestina, Five Flights Up

4. Louise Glück: Trauma Is Drama: The Wild Iris, Retreating Wind, The Garden, Violets, Witchgrass, The Red Poppy

Don Adams, Professor of English at FAU for thirty years, has published extensively on modern literature, philosophy, and intellectual history, and is currently completing a book titled Prophetic Fiction and the Infinite Good. A Fulbright Scholar in Vietnam and India, he has also published poetry and prose, and in recent years has focused on creating and teaching a wide range of live Zoom courses to serve FAU’s non-traditional night students.

 

 

Join Dr. Terryl Lawrence for an inspiring journey through the lives and works of master realist painters whose art continues to captivate audiences with its technical brilliance and emotional depth. This series highlights artists whose personal stories and distinct styles shaped unforgettable masterpieces. Each session will feature rich PowerPoint visuals and rare archival film, offering insight into the moments that defined their artistic journeys. From the roots of Impressionism to the elegance of Art Deco, discover the compelling humanity behind great art and why these painters remain timeless.

LECTURES:

1. Frederic Bazille and the Birth of Impressionism
2. Rembrandt and Gilbert Stuart
3. Toulouse-Lautrec and Vincent van Gogh
4. John Singer Sargent
5. Anders Zorn and Robert Henri
6. Giovanni Boldini:Master of the Belle Époque
7. James Tissot and Edgar Degas
8. Tamara de Lempicka: Art Deco Glamour

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Through engaging with diverse narratives and characters from across the globe, we realize deeper empathy, challenge preconceived notions, and discover shared human experiences that resonate universally, hopefully enriching our personal outlook and deepening our connection to the wider world.

LECTURES:

1. An Officer and a Spy – France, 2029: In 1894, French Captain Alfred Dreyfus, a young promising officer, is degraded for spying for Germany, wrongfully convicted of treason and sentenced to life imprisonment. But discovering that Dreyfus may have been an innocent victim of corruption, hidden secrets as well as antisemitism, one man risks his honor and maybe his life to find the truth. (132 min.)

2. The Goddess of Fortune – Italy, 2019: When Annamaria, a longtime friend of Alessandro and Arturo, asks the couple to take care of her children, the relationship between the two men reaches a point of no return. (118 min.)

3. Holy Cow - France, 2024: After the tragic death of his father, 18-year-old Totone is thrust into the unexpected and very adult role of looking after his younger sister and their failing family farm in the Jura section of France. He assumes even more responsibility when he enters a cash competition for the best Comte cheese made in this western part of the French Alps. It is simultaneously a coming-of-age story and above all an ode to the love of cheese. (90 min.)

4. Touch – Iceland/Japan, 2024: A romantic and thrilling story that spans several decades and continents; Touch follows one man's emotional journey to find his first love who disappeared 50 years ago, before his time runs out. (120 min.)

 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Join Professor Taylor Hagood for a compelling book club exploring the gritty, lyrical world of poor white life in American literature. Through powerful short stories and novellas, we’ll examine how writers from Florida to Appalachia capture themes of survival, place, and identity with unflinching honesty and deep empathy. Each work invites thoughtful discussion and insight into lives often overlooked yet profoundly human. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. River of Names: Dorothy Allison

2. Redneck Boys: Ann Pancake

3. Speckled Trout : Ron Rash

4. I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down: William Gay

5. Car: Harry Crews

6. Joe: Larry Brown

Presented in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the American republic, this course explores the vital medical and political developments that shaped the birth of the United States. Through engaging commentary and vivid PowerPoint slides, we’ll examine how Colonial America was transformed during the Revolutionary era. This course offers a unique perspective on the founding of the nation, one that highlights both its political vision and its human cost. Space is limited.

LECTURES:

1. Health and Medical Care in Colonial America: Explore the state of early American medicine, including common treatments, practices, and public health in the colonies.
2. The British Colonies Become the United States: Trace the political journey from colonial dependence to revolutionary independence and the birth of a nation.
3.Health and Medical Care in the Revolutionary War: Learn about battlefield injuries, disease, and the evolution of military medicine during America’s fight for freedom.
4. Key Medical and Political Personalities of the Revolutionary Era: Meet the influential figures, doctors, soldiers, and statesmen, who shaped both the health and destiny of a new nation.

 

In an age of endless newsfeeds, social media, and opinion disguised as fact, how do we know what to trust? This interactive seminar explores how modern media evolved from a handful of respected news sources—like The New York Times, Washington Post, and network broadcasts—to today’s sprawling digital landscape. Led by veteran journalist David Sirken, each session invites spirited discussion about recent news stories, how they’re covered, and how public trust in media has changed. Participants will examine real news reports, share reactions, and explore the difference between reporting and commentary. Weekly "homework" will include curated videos or articles to spark next-class conversation. All viewpoints are welcome in this respectful, engaging, and timely look at the forces shaping today’s media—and our understanding of truth. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

Authoritarianism is not just a political system, it’s also a psychological and social phenomenon. In this course, we will explore the roots and relevance of authoritarianism, examining traits of the authoritarian personality (such as conventionalism), its links to prejudice and fear, and the ongoing debate about both right-wing and left-wing forms. We'll consider where authoritarian tendencies come from, childhood experiences or more recent influences, and how they relate to our moral sense, beliefs, and motivations. We'll also examine how group dynamics, identity, obedience, and power shape submission or resistance to authority. Finally, we’ll look at how today’s cultural forces, polarization, mistrust, misinformation, inequality, and rapid change, may be fueling authoritarianism, and we’ll discuss possible responses to help protect and strengthen democratic values. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

 

LECTURES: 

1. The History and Nature of the Authoritarian Personality Syndrome 

2. The Deep Structure of Authoritarianism: Where it comes from, and what it means to us 

3. The Social Psychology of Authoritarianism

4. Authoritarianism in Contemporary Culture

 

Kevin Lanning, Ph.D., is a professor of psychology and data science at Florida Atlantic University's Wilkes Honors College. His research focuses on personality measurement and computational social science, with expertise in the social psychology of U.S. presidential elections, and he teaches political psychology during election cycles.

 

Based on an analytical and comparative methodological approach, this course traces the historical encounter between Islam and Christendom and the history of the emergence of the Muslim community in Europe. The course attempts to analyze the implications of the growth of the Muslim community in Europe for both Muslims and Europeans in relation to socio-cultural, religious and political issues such as separation of Church and State, multiculturalism, assimilation, and political and civil rights. It also scrutinizes the emergence, ideologies and activities of Islamist and Salafist groups and their impact on European Muslim community including the rise of anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism. In trying to shed light on Islam and Islamism in various European countries, an emphasis will be placed on how Europe is addressing the growth of Islam and Islamism including as to whether or not Europe is creating a “European Islam.”

LECTURES:

1. The Historical Muslim-Christendom Encounter: Perceptions and Stereotypes
2. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in Britain
3. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in France
4. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in Spain
5. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in the Balkans
6. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in Russia
7. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in Netherlands
8. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in Germany
9. Europeanization of Islam or Islamization of Europe?

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Explore the rich cultural world of German Jews and how it transformed as many migrated east into the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, then the Russian and Austrian Empires. This multimedia program highlights the architecture, art, education, music, and daily life that defined these vibrant Jewish communities. Through vivid images and stories, you’ll see how traditions adapted and thrived in new surroundings. Join us for an engaging journey into the enduring creativity and resilience of Jewish life across changing lands and centuries.

LECTURES:

1. The Jews of Medieval Germany: The Original Ashkenazi Jews, their lives and culture.

2. The Migration from Germany to Polish Lands:Their communities, synagogue art and architecture, language, and daily life.

3. The Strength of Jewish Tradition and the Development of an Educational System: The great yeshivas, Jewish marriage customs, and literature in Yiddish, Hebrew, and Russian.

4. The Music of Jews in Central and Eastern Europe: Various forms of Jewish music, cantorial, Hasidic and klezmer. Yiddish theater. Changes in Jewish family life and growing secularization.

 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Based on an analytical and comparative methodological approach, this course traces the historical encounter between Islam and Christendom and the history of the emergence of the Muslim community in Europe. The course attempts to analyze the implications of the growth of the Muslim community in Europe for both Muslims and Europeans in relation to socio-cultural, religious and political issues such as separation of Church and State, multiculturalism, assimilation, and political and civil rights. It also scrutinizes the emergence, ideologies and activities of Islamist and Salafist groups and their impact on European Muslim community including the rise of anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism. In trying to shed light on Islam and Islamism in various European countries, an emphasis will be placed on how Europe is addressing the growth of Islam and Islamism including as to whether or not Europe is creating a “European Islam.”

LECTURES:

1. The Historical Muslim-Christendom Encounter: Perceptions and Stereotypes
2. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in Britain
3. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in France
4. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in Spain
5. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in the Balkans
6. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in Russia
7. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in Netherlands
8. Islam, Islamism and Antisemitism in Germany
9. Europeanization of Islam or Islamization of Europe?

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

The U.S. military has been involved in over 100 campaigns, ranging from localized conflicts to major international wars. Many have been dramatized in film, and depictions of war, people who fought in them, and the home front changed over time. The Second Indochina War, known in the United States simply as the Vietnam War, lasted from 1955 to 1975. During that period, nearly three million Americans served, 58,000 died, and thousands more were scarred for life. Public support for the war peaked in the mid-1960s but collapsed after the Tet Offensive in early 1968. This course will examine how Hollywood’s treatment of the war and its participants changed over time, reflecting America’s gradual disillusionment with a conflict nearly nine thousand miles from its shores. This program will be presented via Zoom.

LECTURES:

1. Earliest Film Efforts
2. Protests and the Anti-War Movement
3. Non-Combatants and Veterans
4. Redemption and Revision

L. Jon Grogan has a BA in Political Science from Tufts, an MA in Public History from the University of San Diego, and a PhD in American History from Loyola University, Chicago. He is also a retired Marine Corps officer who has served in various command and staff assignments in the United States and overseas.  He has taught for many Osher programs across the country, and his portfolio includes courses in American, African, and military history. 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

The U.S. military has been involved in over 100 campaigns, ranging from localized conflicts to major international wars. Many have been dramatized in film, and depictions of war, people who fought in them, and the home front changed over time. The Second Indochina War, known in the United States simply as the Vietnam War, lasted from 1955 to 1975. During that period, nearly three million Americans served, 58,000 died, and thousands more were scarred for life. Public support for the war peaked in the mid-1960s but collapsed after the Tet Offensive in early 1968. This course will examine how Hollywood’s treatment of the war and its participants changed over time, reflecting America’s gradual disillusionment with a conflict nearly nine thousand miles from its shores. This program will be presented via Zoom.

LECTURES:

1. Earliest Film Efforts
2. Protests and the Anti-War Movement
3. Non-Combatants and Veterans
4. Redemption and Revision

L. Jon Grogan has a BA in Political Science from Tufts, an MA in Public History from the University of San Diego, and a PhD in American History from Loyola University, Chicago. He is also a retired Marine Corps officer who has served in various command and staff assignments in the United States and overseas.  He has taught for many Osher programs across the country, and his portfolio includes courses in American, African, and military history. 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Join Dr. Terryl Lawrence for an inspiring journey through the lives and works of master realist painters whose art continues to captivate audiences with its technical brilliance and emotional depth. This series highlights artists whose personal stories and distinct styles shaped unforgettable masterpieces. Each session will feature rich PowerPoint visuals and rare archival film, offering insight into the moments that defined their artistic journeys. From the roots of Impressionism to the elegance of Art Deco, discover the compelling humanity behind great art and why these painters remain timeless.

LECTURES:

1. Frederic Bazille and the Birth of Impressionism
2. Rembrandt and Gilbert Stuart
3. Toulouse-Lautrec and Vincent van Gogh
4. John Singer Sargent
5. Anders Zorn and Robert Henri
6. Giovanni Boldini:Master of the Belle Époque
7. James Tissot and Edgar Degas
8. Tamara de Lempicka: Art Deco Glamour

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Explore the hidden history of American intelligence in this eye-opening eight-week course. Contrary to popular belief, the United States developed a civilian intelligence service long before World War II, starting with Washington’s spies during the Revolution. Journey through the evolution of U.S. intelligence—from early agents with artistic and scientific talents to FDR’s private spy network, the OSS, and the creation of the CIA. Discover lesser-known stories of espionage, diplomacy, and innovation that shaped the nation’s survival and security. The course concludes with a look at today’s complex intelligence community and its future challenges. Join us for a fascinating exploration of America’s secret defenders.

LECTURES:

1. The American Revolution:Washington and Franklin’s Spies

2. American Spies in Europe: Cooper, Morse, Irving, and the Bread and Cheese Club

3. The Purloined Life of Edgar Allan Poe

4. Lincoln’s Spies: Engineers and Diplomats

5. FDR and The Room

6. The OSS and the Birth of the CIA

7. Successes, Failures, and the Privatization of Intelligence

8. Today and Into the Future

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Explore the rich cultural world of German Jews and how it transformed as many migrated east into the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, then the Russian and Austrian Empires. This multimedia program highlights the architecture, art, education, music, and daily life that defined these vibrant Jewish communities. Through vivid images and stories, you’ll see how traditions adapted and thrived in new surroundings. Join us for an engaging journey into the enduring creativity and resilience of Jewish life across changing lands and centuries.

LECTURES:

1. The Jews of Medieval Germany: The Original Ashkenazi Jews, their lives and culture.

2. The Migration from Germany to Polish Lands:Their communities, synagogue art and architecture, language, and daily life.

3. The Strength of Jewish Tradition and the Development of an Educational System: The great yeshivas, Jewish marriage customs, and literature in Yiddish, Hebrew, and Russian.

4. The Music of Jews in Central and Eastern Europe: Various forms of Jewish music, cantorial, Hasidic and klezmer. Yiddish theater. Changes in Jewish family life and growing secularization.

 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Get ready for a fast-paced, interactive seminar where today’s hottest topics take center stage! Each session kicks off with the lecturer’s fresh perspective, then it’s your turn to jump in with your own thoughts, insights, and even a little friendly debate. Expect lively exchanges, surprising viewpoints, and plenty of “aha” moments to take home. The only ground rules? Bring an open mind, a dash of curiosity, and a spirit of mutual respect—because great conversations happen when everyone feels heard. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"Loved the class! I will be signing up for another one of his classes." - OLLI Patron

Join Jeffrey Morgan, Ph.D., for a four-week exploration of how vivid imagery excites the senses and expands the mind by bridging imagination and reality. Participants will trace the roots of imagistic poetry and its connection to ekphrastic poetry, examining how poets use visual language to deepen meaning. Through projected texts and lively group analysis, the class will delve into works by William Carlos Williams, Ezra Pound, Marianne Moore, and others, culminating in a close look at Wallace Stevens, whose poetry masterfully explores the interplay between imagination and the real world. With an accessible, engaging approach, Dr. Morgan invites participants to read, reflect, and "analyze the dickens out of" these powerful poetic voices. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1.  Defining Imagery: Williams, Pound, MacLeish Day

2. Examples of Imagery: Williams, Roethke, Owen Day

3. Voices of Imagery: Hayden, Doolittle, Bishop, Moore

4. Wallace Stevens: Five poems

Important Supreme Court decisions and multiple Presidential Executive orders in 2005 now substantially alter and affect our legal and Constitutional landscape. Long-standing, comfortable, oft-repeated Constitutional principles such as "no person is above the law" and "we enjoy three coequal branches of government" now require further examination. Frequent ongoing Supreme Court "split" decisions reflect ever-present disparate fundamental challenges between liberal and conservative views, as well as uncertainty as to continued adherence to many established long-standing Supreme Court precedents. Expect a dynamic semester, as this course will not be for the faint-hearted.

Irving Labovitz, J.D., is an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University who teaches courses on U.S. Supreme Court decisions, drawing on a distinguished legal career that includes roles as an Air Force prosecutor, FTC attorney, and FDIC contract counsel. A graduate of Boston University School of Law and member of multiple bars including the U.S. Supreme Court, he has authored legal scholarship, lectured nationally, and served as both law firm co-chair and corporate general counsel.

"Professor Labovitz is engaging, extremely erudite, knowledgeable and possesses great presentation skills." OLLI Patron

 

 

Discover the real history behind England’s most famous dynasty in this engaging course on the Tudors. Each week, explore a different monarch, from Henry VII’s rise to power to Elizabeth I’s legendary reign, uncovering their personalities, key achievements, and the historical events that shaped their rule. Learn to separate myth from reality as we delve into the drama, politics, and legacy of these iconic figures. The final session examines how Tudor monarchs have been portrayed in film, offering insight into their enduring cultural impact. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or curious about the Tudors’ true stories, this course promises a captivating journey through one of England’s most fascinating eras.

LECTURES:

1. Henry VII: A Dynasty is Born

2. Henry VIII: Tyrant or Reformer?

3. Edward VI: The Boy King

4. Mary I: “Bloody Mary”?

5. Elizabeth I: Gloriana, the “Fairie Queen”

6. Tudor Kings and Queens in Film

Dr. Katie McLain will take you on a deep dive into the history of American drug policy, exploring how the U.S. has responded to drugs over time, and what those choices mean for our communities today. From early moral panics around opium use to recent struggles with fentanyl, we will follow patterns of drug crises in the country. Using historical analysis, media critique, and discussion, students will gain a nuanced understanding of how drugs—and the laws governing them—have helped define American society and global power.

LECTURES:

1. Drug Cycles of the 20th Century & Origins of U.S. Drug Laws: The beginnings of illicit drug laws in the United States and the early roots of addiction science.

2. Treatment & Incarceration: How treatment for drug use evolved alongside the expansion of incarceration and specialized facilities. How public health efforts became intertwined with law and order.  

3. Fear as a Tool in Drug Policy: How media, political leaders, and advocacy groups used fear to shape public perceptions of drugs.

4. Into the 21st Century: The major shifts in drug policy, from marijuana legalization and the fentanyl crisis to renewed interest in psychedelics. This final session encourages big-picture thinking, debate, and reflection on what past cycles can teach us about the future.

Dr. McLain holds a Ph.D. in History from Montana State University, specializing in the history of illicit drug controls in the United States. She has worked with the U.S. Departments of State and Justice on counter-narcotics and crime prevention initiatives and consults with communities to develop substance use prevention and justice programs.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Street photography is a fine-art medium rooted in the candid capture of fleeting moments in shared public spaces. Both art and craft, it reveals emotional, psychological, philosophical, and cultural truths about the human condition. In this 100% projector-driven course, we’ll explore how great street photography uses tone, form, point of view, lens choice, metaphor, and composition to create powerful images. We’ll also examine how a personal philosophy of life shapes this art form and gives it depth. Weekly pacing may vary based on discussion, with emails previewing upcoming content. Students are invited (but not required) to share their own work during the final class. All levels welcome. Student sharing is optional. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

1. Philosophy & Vision: Arbus, Salgado
2. Color & the Magical Mundane: Haas, Leiter
3. Cultural immersion & Gear: Allard, Winogrand
4. Decisive moments: Cartier-Bresson, Frank
5. Visual Metaphor & Staging: Kertész, Eisenstaedt
6. Student Submissions: Every part counts (God is in the details) – wrap up

Leo Howard Lubow is an award-winning photographer, writer, and educator specializing in portraits, commercial, and fine art photography. A former AV-rated attorney, he now teaches photography through programs like Johns Hopkins Odyssey and Horizon Workshops, with his work featured in major publications and recognized by the Maryland Photography Alliance as a "Maryland Master."

Important Supreme Court decisions and multiple Presidential Executive orders in 2005 now substantially alter and affect our legal and Constitutional landscape. Long-standing, comfortable, oft-repeated Constitutional principles such as "no person is above the law" and "we enjoy three coequal branches of government" now require further examination. Frequent ongoing Supreme Court "split" decisions reflect ever-present disparate fundamental challenges between liberal and conservative views, as well as uncertainty as to continued adherence to many established long-standing Supreme Court precedents. Expect a dynamic semester, as this course will not be for the faint-hearted.

Irving Labovitz, J.D., is an adjunct professor at Florida Atlantic University who teaches courses on U.S. Supreme Court decisions, drawing on a distinguished legal career that includes roles as an Air Force prosecutor, FTC attorney, and FDIC contract counsel. A graduate of Boston University School of Law and member of multiple bars including the U.S. Supreme Court, he has authored legal scholarship, lectured nationally, and served as both law firm co-chair and corporate general counsel.

"Professor Labovitz is engaging, extremely erudite, knowledgeable and possesses great presentation skills." OLLI Patron

 

 

Launched in April 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope began with flawed optics. Scientists and engineers quickly developed a fix, and in December 1993, astronauts restored Hubble’s vision to near perfection. Since then, Hubble has captured millions of stunning observations and produced vast amounts of high-quality data. This series will trace 36 years of “Hubble Science,” highlighting its groundbreaking discoveries and its impact on both the astronomical community and people worldwide. Join Dr. Sarajedini as he presents the science with clarity and accessibility, so everyone can appreciate how Hubble has transformed our understanding of the universe.

LECTURES:

1. The Hubble science related to the Solar System and extra-solar planets.

2. Discoveries in the area of stars and galaxies.

3. Galaxies and cosmology.

4. Summary of previous lectures and a glimpse into the future of the Hubble Space Telescope. I will cover all of the relevant background information so the talk will be accessible to everyone.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Moving beyond just what a film is about, we’ll see how it's told – examining narrative structures, visual language, character development, and unique cultural nuances that shape the cinematic experience. Through films from various corners of the globe, we'll uncover how directors, writers, and cinematographers employ distinct artistic choices to offer a deeper appreciation for the universal craft of storytelling in its many global forms.

LECTURES:

1 My Motherland – France, 2023: France, a widow hears on the radio that an organization is asking for people willing to welcome eligible homeless migrants into their home. She decides, against her family’s objections, to welcome Reza, a young Afghan broken by war and exile. Two worlds meet, and they begin to hold each other’s hands. 91 min.

2.  The Source – France, 2011: A comedy/drama set in a village and centered on a battle of the sexes, where women threaten to withhold sexual favors if their men refuse to fetch water from a remote well. 135 min.

3. The Owners – Czechoslavakia, 2023:
A timely metaphor for failing democracy that takes a seriocomic look at the most local form of self-governance: the co-op apartment building meeting. With problems both large and small, absurd and touching, can the neighbors reach an agreement, or will the building become the casualty of their self-centered interests? 96 min.

4. Another Round – Denmark, 2023: When four high school teachers agree to consume higher levels of alcohol on a daily basis to see how it affects their social and professional lives, it becomes an intoxicating, touching, and thought-provoking drama about friendship, freedom, and the cost of drinking. (117 Min.)

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Join Dr. Stephen Berk, Ph.D., for a compelling journey through the Romanov dynasty’s three-century rule and its impact on Russia and its Jewish population. Explore how political power, religious identity, and historical events shaped an era marked by survival, persecution, reform, revolution, and resilience. Dr. Berk’s insightful lectures reveal the complex legacy of the Romanovs through engaging stories and analysis. Whether you’re interested in Russian history, Jewish heritage, or political change, this course offers a rich and nuanced understanding of a pivotal period in world history. This is part two of a two part series.

LECTURES:

1. Pogroms and Responses: Emigration, Zionism, and resistance

2. The Last Chapter Begins: Famine, unrest, and political roles

3. World War I: Catastrophe for Russia and Jews

4. Revolution and Collapse: Abdication, execution, and new myths

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Join Mark Gridley, Ph.D. for a lively exploration of Irving Berlin’s unexpected influence on jazz. Known for patriotic and romantic classics like God Bless America and Always, Berlin also crafted rich chord progressions that jazz legends couldn’t resist. This course highlights the Berlin tunes most beloved by jazz musicians and showcases unforgettable performances by greats like Ella Fitzgerald, John Coltrane, and Chick Corea. From traditional interpretations to adventurous contrafacts, you’ll hear how Berlin’s music provided the perfect foundation for jazz improvisation, and continues to inspire today. Come celebrate this surprising intersection of American song and jazz mastery. Space is limited.

LECTURES:

1. Blue Skies: Ella Fitzgerald’s scat brilliance; Mary Lou Williams’ Trumpets No End for Duke Ellington.

2. Cheek to Cheek: Jazz interpretations by Hawkins, Woods, Ammons, Jamal, Grappelli, and the Turtle Island String Quartet.

3. Russian Lullaby & Marie: Reverent and hard-driving renditions from Fitzgerald to Coltrane, Dorsey, Goodman, Garner, Getz, and Brecker.

4. How Deep Is the Ocean: Performances by Chick Corea, Bill Evans, Marilyn Monroe, Oscar Peterson, and more.

The Audrey Grant Better Bridge Beginner program offers a clear, enjoyable introduction to the game of Bridge, using expertly designed materials to make learning easy. The course features color-coded cards that guide players step-by-step through bidding and play, helping beginners understand key concepts with confidence. These coded cards provide visual cues and structured practice, making it easier to grasp the fundamentals of the game. With a friendly, hands-on approach, Audrey Grant’s method builds skills gradually while keeping the experience fun and social. Ideal for those new to Bridge, this program creates a solid foundation for future learning and play. Space is limited.

Life Master Abbie Feuer, an ACBL Accredited Teacher and Certified Director, has introduced over 600 people to bridge through the Audrey Grant Better Bridge series. A retired optician, Abbie enjoys bike riding, spending time with her grandson Leo, and playing bridge alongside her husband Dennis in major tournaments across the country.

Join Professor Taylor Hagood for a compelling book club exploring the gritty, lyrical world of poor white life in American literature. Through powerful short stories and novellas, we’ll examine how writers from Florida to Appalachia capture themes of survival, place, and identity with unflinching honesty and deep empathy. Each work invites thoughtful discussion and insight into lives often overlooked yet profoundly human. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. River of Names: Dorothy Allison

2. Redneck Boys: Ann Pancake

3. Speckled Trout : Ron Rash

4. I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down: William Gay

5. Car: Harry Crews

6. Joe: Larry Brown

Explore four groundbreaking films that reshaped cinema and captured the cultural pulse of their eras. In this four-week course, we’ll view selected clips and dive into iconic works by Roman Polanski, Milos Forman, Stanley Kubrick, and Federico Fellini. Each session includes guided discussion, behind-the-scenes stories, film analysis, and fun trivia, perfect for cinephiles and curious newcomers alike. Discover how these visionary directors used style, story, and symbolism to challenge norms and create timeless masterpieces. Spoiler alert! Watch the movie in advance so you can add to the discussion!

LECTURES:

1. Chinatown: Corruption, loss, and the noir aesthetic reimagined
2. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest: Freedom, sanity, and institutional power
3. Dr. Strangelove: Satire, nuclear anxiety, and Kubrick’s dark brilliance
4. 8½: Dreams, identity, and Fellini’s cinematic autobiography

Ed Katz is an award-winning producer, film enthusiast, and educator with over 15 years of experience in marketing for arts and entertainment. He leads popular film discussion groups in Palm Beach Gardens and beyond, combining his dual degrees in Film and Marketing to offer insightful, engaging explorations of cinema.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Join German historian Anette Isaacs as she sheds light on a little-known chapter of World War II: the lives of over 400,000 German POWs held in more than 500 camps across the United States. Discover how these captured soldiers from Hitler’s Wehrmacht adjusted to life in places as far-flung as Texas, Iowa, Georgia, and of course Florida. Explore surprising stories of friendship, resistance, and deep ideological divides between pro- and anti-Nazi prisoners. This eye-opening lecture reveals the human side of war in the most unexpected corners of the American home front.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Join Dr. Terryl Lawrence for an inspiring exploration of creativity through the lens of visionary artists across time and media. This dynamic series delves into the ideas, dreams, emotions, and intellect that shape the art-making process. Each session compares two artists who approached similar themes, revealing how personal experience and innovation led to unique expressions of art. The final session reflects on the evolving role of the art critic. With visuals, video, and commentary, Dr. Lawrence brings each topic vividly to life.

LECTURES:

1. Dreamers: Remedios Varo & René Magritte
2. Designers: Edward Burne-Jones & William Morris
3. Architects: Zaha Hadid & Frank Gehry
4. Painters: Gustav Klimt & Egon Schiele
5. Memorialists: Maya Lin & Frederick Hart
6. Sculptors: Louise Nevelson & Marisol Escobar
7. Photographers: Irving Penn & Gordon Parks
8. Thinkers: Oh to be a painter - Twin Obsessions

Discover your artistic potential in this hands-on course designed for beginners and advanced students alike. Led by James Warwick, a seasoned illustrator with over 50 years of professional experience and 20 years teaching, this class offers personalized instruction to help you create vibrant, professional-quality artwork. Explore the expressive world of pastels, learning techniques in still life, figurative, and landscape art, with expert guidance on choosing the right paper and materials. For acrylic painters, the course focuses on mastering essential skills such as color mixing, accurate rendering, and abstract expression. Bring your creativity and reference images as you develop your style in a supportive environment. New students can share previous work for tailored feedback. Whether you want to refine your skills or start fresh, this course offers an inspiring journey into the joys of painting with pastels and acrylics. Join us and unlock your inner artist! Space is limited.

James Warwick is an adjunct professor at Florida International University and founder of Drawing for Longevity, a pioneering art-based program designed to improve memory, cognition, and hand-eye coordination. With over 50 years in art and design and seven years teaching cognitive enhancement, he combines his expertise to create innovative, non-pharmacological interventions that support brain health and dementia prevention.

Discover the golden age of cinema before the 1950s, when films reflected innocence, romance, and artistry rather than Hollywood gigantism. This course explores four unforgettable classics. Each week explores a masterpiece that shaped generations and reveals timeless truths about youth, love, and resilience.

LECTURES:

1.  The Red House (1948): A tender, suspenseful tale of adolescence, desire, and hidden secrets.

2. The Red Shoes (1948): A lush, romantic classic that inspired countless young dancers.

3. The Night of the Hunter (1955): A haunting, unforgettable story of childhood terror and salvation.

4. Summer Interlude (1955): A graceful Swedish meditation on love, loss, and memory.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Join us for an open and honest discussion about the many challenges women face in today’s world—and the wisdom we’ve gained along the way. From navigating ageism and shifting family roles to understanding generational differences, this interactive session will offer a space for reflection, connection, and shared experience. We’ll also explore the valuable lessons life has taught us, considering what we might have done differently with the benefit of hindsight. In addition to conversation, we’ll touch on rejuvenation techniques to help us feel our best—focusing on wellness through exercise, skincare, and social engagement. Whether you're looking to share your story, gain new insights, or simply connect with others, this program is about celebrating resilience, growth, and the power of being a woman in 2026. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

Ellyn Mantell is a motivational speaker, writer, and blogger focusing on women’s issues, aging, health, and body image, helping others navigate life’s challenges and societal messages. Her upcoming memoir, The Best We Could: Healing from Intergenerational Trauma (spring 2025), follows her first book, So Much More Than My Ostomy, and she also facilitates support and women’s chat groups.

Launched in April 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope began with flawed optics. Scientists and engineers quickly developed a fix, and in December 1993, astronauts restored Hubble’s vision to near perfection. Since then, Hubble has captured millions of stunning observations and produced vast amounts of high-quality data. This series will trace 36 years of “Hubble Science,” highlighting its groundbreaking discoveries and its impact on both the astronomical community and people worldwide. Join Dr. Sarajedini as he presents the science with clarity and accessibility, so everyone can appreciate how Hubble has transformed our understanding of the universe.

LECTURES:

1. The Hubble science related to the Solar System and extra-solar planets.

2. Discoveries in the area of stars and galaxies.

3. Galaxies and cosmology.

4. Summary of previous lectures and a glimpse into the future of the Hubble Space Telescope. I will cover all of the relevant background information so the talk will be accessible to everyone.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

We'll examine how cultural perspectives, artistic traditions, and historical contexts influence the look and feel of a film, revealing the rich tapestry of global visual storytelling and enhancing our appreciation for the sheer beauty and expressive power of international cinema.

LECTURES:

In a Better World – Denmark, 2010: In a richly humanistic story dealing with relevant issues, two Danish boys, whose families are worlds apart in their circumstances, come together in a violent situation, while one of their fathers grapples with the impact of global violence in a world thousands of miles away. 119 min.

Utama – Bolivia, 2022: With breathtaking cinematography and naturalistic performances, Utama touchingly captures love and tradition in times of climate change. 87 min.

Vermiglio – Italy, 2024: 1944, Vermiglio, Italy, a remote mountain village. The arrival of Pietro, a deserter, into the family of the local teacher, and his love for the teacher's eldest daughter, will change the course of everyone's life. 119 min.

Margarete Queen of the North – Scandanavia, 2021: 1402. Queen Margrete is ruling Sweden, Norway, and Denmark through her adopted son, Erik. But a conspiracy is in the making and Margrete finds herself in an impossible dilemma that could shatter her life's work: the Kalmar Union. (120 Min.)

 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Why don’t judges respond to public criticism—or speak out on controversial cases? This engaging series explores the complex world of judicial speech and the ethical boundaries that protect the courts’ neutrality and public trust. Participants will examine real case studies such as Caperton, Williams-Yulee, and Republican Party of Minnesota, and analyze scenarios where judicial speech may raise ethical concerns. Topics include judicial independence, integrity, and accountability; codes of judicial conduct; judicial speech during campaigns; responses to public criticism; comments on pending cases; partisan speech; and the role of judges in public commentary, teaching, and educational settings. Sessions will be presented in a flexible format—there is no set order, and some topics may be combined. Gain insight into how judges preserve impartiality while upholding democratic values.

**No class April 2nd**

Join us for a transformative journey into greater clarity, presence, and vitality through meditation, breathwork, and the Gurdjieff Work. We’ll begin with Kirtan Kriya, a simple 12-minute practice of sound, finger movements, and visualization that research shows can sharpen memory, improve mood, deepen focus, and reduce stress. We’ll also explore the Gurdjieff Work, a path of self-observation and conscious attention that helps us step beyond automatic reactions and see reality more clearly. Along the way, you’ll experience renewed energy, inner calm, and a deeper connection to yourself.

 

LECTURES:

1. Practice Kirtan Kriya for brain and emotional health.

2. Cultivate self-observation, non-identification, and self-remembering.

3. Transform thoughts and impressions for inner peace.

4. Apply the “three-brained being” approach for balance and effectiveness.

 

Susan Standbrook is a certified yoga instructor (RYT 300, E-RYT 200, KRI 220) specializing in Yin, Restorative, Trauma-Informed Yoga, Deep Play for Kids, and Yoga Dance, as well as a Health and Well-Being Coach. A former English and ESL teacher with a B.S., M.Ed., and postgraduate certifications in administration, supervision, and language education, she integrates breathwork, movement, and self-observation to help individuals reconnect with their true essence.

 

Relations between the United States and Russia date back to the time of the American Revolution and were critical throughout the 19th century from the U.S. Civl War through the building of the Trans-Siberian Railroad. Little of this history is known and without it, it is almost impossible to understand the recent decade's dynamics. This six-week course will explore 245 years of Russian American engagement, concluding with a deeper look at the twists and turns of relations over the past two decades. Each lecture will be enhanceby a  PowerPoint 

LECTURES:

1. The League of Armed Neutrality and the American Revolution; Abraham Lincoln and Czar Alexander II: A Critical Partnership.
2, The Bolsheviks and the American Industrial Revolution.  
3. The World War II Alliance that Defeated Hitler and the Axis Powers and the Eisenhower Effort to Demilitarize the Cold War.
4. Reagan and Gorbachov: The End of Soviet Communism. 
5. The Putin Era and Washington's Shift.  
6. A Look at the Future of the U.S.-Russia Relationship: A New Yalta Deal in the Works?

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Ruin all of the crime shows for your friends!! This series explores the true nature of forensic investigations, from the crime scene to the crime lab and crime reconstruction. Each element of an investigation is a unique specialization often overblown by media. This course will uncover the simple science behind the practice. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

 LECTURES:

1. Crime Scene Processing: Learn the crucial steps in processing a crime scene, from securing the area to collecting evidence, ensuring accurate results.

2.  Latent Print Formation and Recovery: Discover how latent fingerprints are formed and recovered, and their importance in criminal investigations.

3.  Firearms and Ballistics: Explore firearm identification, bullet trajectory, and how ballistic evidence links suspects to crimes.

4.  Blood Pattern Analysis: Understand how blood spatter patterns provide insights into crime events and aid in crime scene reconstruction.

5. Trace Evidence: Learn how trace evidence like hair, fibers, and debris helps link suspects to crime scenes.

6. Crime Scene Sequencing: Apply methods to reconstruct crime events through sequencing, using case studies and worksheets for practice.

Patrick McLaughlin is a full-time instructor at FAU Boca Raton, coordinating the Forensic Investigations Minor. A retired NYPD detective with 20 years of experience and degrees in forensic science from John Jay College, he combines extensive crime scene work with academic research in areas like blood pattern analysis, DNA, ballistics, and latent fingerprint examination.

James Stewart and Henry Fonda were two of the greatest American actors, and unlikely best friends for nearly 50 years. Though divided by politics, religion, and temperament, they shared a deep bond, a love for the same woman, and a remarkable range of talent across stage and screen. This eight-week series follows their parallel paths from small-town beginnings to Hollywood stardom, exploring their iconic performances in comedy, drama, thrillers, and westerns. With behind-the-scenes stories, film clips, and historical context, we’ll celebrate their lasting legacy in American cinema.

LECTURES:

1. The Farmer Takes a Wife (1935): Fonda’s film debut with Janet Gaynor (91 min.)

2. Next Time We Love (1936): Stewart’s first lead role opposite Margaret Sullivan (87 min.)

3.Young Mr. Lincoln (1939): The breakthrough that made Fonda a star (100 min.)

4. Destry Rides Again (1939): Stewart’s first major western with Marlene Dietrich (94 min.)

5. My Darling Clementine (1946): Fonda’s acclaimed return to film after WWII (97 min.)

6.The Mortal Storm (1940): Stewart’s final film before military service (100 min.)

7. On Our Merry Way (1948): Stewart and Fonda’s first co-starring comedy (107 min.)

8. Firecreek (1968): A dramatic showdown between Stewart’s sheriff and Fonda’s outlaw (140 min.)

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Discover the richness of The Song of Songs through both traditional and feminist lenses in this  interactive series. We will explore the biblical text's poetic imagery, spiritual symbolism, and its radical depictions of love, voice, and gender. Each session invites discussion in small groups and as a class, using handouts with key sources. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Introduction to The Song of Songs: Themes and structure
2. Traditional/Allegorical Interpretations: Divine love and sacred longing
3. Feminist Readings: Voice, desire, and gender dynamics
4. Garden Imagery: Comparing Eden and The Song of Songs

Rabbi Daniela was ordained in 2003 from Seminario Rabinico Latinoamericano in Buenos Aires and holds advanced degrees in Psychology, Jewish Studies, and Women’s Studies. She and her husband, Rabbi Rami Pavolotzky, currently serve as co-rabbis at Temple Beth Torah Sha’aray Tzedek in Tamarac, Florida.

Curious about artificial intelligence and how it fits into your life? This series introduces older adults to the many ways AI is transforming daily living and supporting healthier, more independent aging. Each week explores a key topic: healthcare tools that enhance safety and remote care; financial technologies that assist with budgeting and fraud protection; transportation innovations that make getting around easier; and AI-powered tools that promote mental wellness and social connection. No technical skills required—just a desire to learn how smart technology can support you now and in the future.

LECTURES:

1. AI & Your Health: Explore how AI is revolutionizing healthcare with smart tools that support wellness, safety, and independent living.
2. AI & Your Money: Learn how AI is being used to manage finances, detect fraud, and simplify retirement planning.
3. AI on the Move: Discover how AI makes transportation easier, safer, and more accessible with smart navigation and mobility tools.
4. AI & Connection: See how AI supports mental wellness and social engagement through virtual companions, brain games, and more.

Join us for this exciting series exploring the history of American musical theater! From its roots in vaudeville and Tin Pan Alley to the groundbreaking works of Gershwin, Bernstein, and Sondheim, and on to modern legends like Alan Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda, we’ll trace the evolution of this uniquely American art form. Lectures will spotlight the historical and social backdrop of beloved productions, while diving into the lives, influences, and signature styles of the composers who shaped the genre. A fun, interactive musical experience filled with stories, sounds, and surprises—perfect for music lovers of all kinds!

LECTURES:

1. The Genesis of Broadway: From Vaudeville to Scott Joplin to "Tin Pan Alley," how a generation of impoverished musicians gave birth to a new American Art form.  Music of Joplin, early Gershwin and others.  

2. George Gershwin, Father of Musicals: A retrospective on his life and music, focusing on his legacy as the architect of the "Broadway musical" concept and his unique compositional style.  Music of George and Ira Gershwin 

3. Bernstein and Sondheim, the second generation: How "postwar" musicals reflected the changing American socio-political landscape, with special focus on the relationship between Bernstein and Sondheim and how they pioneered the modern musical theater format. Music of Bernstein and Sondheim.  

4. Hollywood and the Rise of the "Movie Musical": A closer look at some of the most beloved movie musicals, including "Top Hat," "White Christmas" and "Guys and Dolls."  The complex relationship between movie studios, composers, and talent will be explored.  Music of Irving Berlin, Frank Loesser, others.

5. Changing Music for Changing Times: A look at Broadway's "Transition Years", moving away from Sondheim towards simpler "pop" stylistic influences, and how this changed the scope of American Music.  Music of Andrew Lloyd Weber and "Rent", others.  

6. Disney and the Cartoon Movie Musical.  How Disney used the format of Broadway Musicals to completely revitalize its brand in the early 1990's, creating one of the most beloved animation traditions in modern history.  Music of Alan Menken.  

Born in Kentucky, concert pianist Aaron Orin earned a piano scholarship to the University of Kentucky at age 14 and graduated at 19. He has performed at the White House and other prestigious venues, recently completed a Master’s in Piano Performance at FAU, and is pursuing a second Master’s in History while working as a musical director for numerous South Florida shows.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Pundits from all sides claim that we’ve never been more divided, but history offers a different perspective. Our nation has always been marked by divisions, disagreements, and compromises, but also by moments of unity and progress. To truly understand today’s political climate, we must view the Founders not as saints or sinners, but as flawed humans—making both good and bad decisions, embracing both noble and flawed causes, and holding complex, often contradictory views. By studying their struggles and choices, we can gain insights into the origins of today’s political disputes. Armed with this knowledge, we can make informed decisions, no matter our political stance. Join us to explore the past and better understand the present.

LECTURES: 

1. Ben Franklin: Jack of All Trades, Master of Most! 

2. Alexander Hamilton: Illegitimate Immigrant Saved the Republic and Destroyed Himself 

3. "Great Little Madison": How a Diminutive, Sickly Man Conspired to Overthrow the Government and Give Us Our Quintessential Founding Documents

4. John Adams: An Undiplomatic Diplomat, Feisty Founder, and Hidden Hero 

 

Rebecca Staton-Reinstein, Ph.D., is president of Advantage Leadership, Inc., and holds degrees from William & Mary (B.A.), Indiana University (M.A.), and Union Institute and University (Ph.D.). A former costumed guide at Colonial Williamsburg, she combines her deep academic background with a lifelong passion for American history, shaped by growing up in Virginia and decades of research into the Enlightenment, the Founders, and the shaping of the United States.

 

“Presenter was exceedingly well prepared. Overhead presentation was superb” – OLLI Patron

 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Issues of gender and sexuality are frequently in the headlines, but what are their deeper historical roots, especially in Florida? This course offers a broad perspective on how these topics have evolved in the Sunshine State, from women’s suffrage to today’s transgender rights debates. Through lectures, presentations, guest speakers, and discussion, we’ll explore how laws, policies, and public opinion have changed over time, and why these shifts matter today. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Women’s Suffrage and Florida’s Delayed Ratification of the 19th Amendment
2. The Equal Rights Amendment and Women’s Rights in Florida
3. Legal History of Homosexuality and Lesbian-Gay Non-Discrimination Laws
4. Same-Sex Marriage and the Ongoing Debate over Transgender Rights

Fred Fejes, Professor Emeritus of Communication at Florida Atlantic University, is a leading scholar in media studies and LGBTQ history whose work has been widely published and recognized, including the Roy F. Aarons Award for contributions to research on issues affecting LGBTQ communities. A former Fulbright Distinguished Chair, he is the author of Gay Rights and Moral Panic and numerous influential works on media, sexuality, and cultural politics, and is currently completing Queer by the Beach: History of the Fort Lauderdale Community.

We'll experience the exhilarating breadth and depth of contemporary international filmmaking, discovering the diverse styles and boundless creativity of filmmakers, showcasing the limitless possibilities of storytelling from around the world.

LECTURES:

A Real Job – France, 2023: A young PhD student in need of money and pressured to get work by his parents becomes a substitute teacher in a middle school. Without any experience and faced with a weakened system, he discovers the difficulties of the profession. (100 min.)

Miracle – Romania, 2022: An enigmatic journey and a gripping police thriller with devastating social commentary involving the lives of several people in a small Romanian town. Divided into two parts, a local investigator uncovers clues and revelations leading to an unfathomable truth, and possibly an actual miracle. (118 min.)

An Impossible Love – France, 2018:
A chronicle of the unconditional love between a mother, Rachel, and her daughter, Chantal, from 1958 to the present day, which is endangered by an unsteady and manipulative father. (135 min.)

Trifole – Italy, 2025:
In this bittersweet portrait of a vanishing rural way of life, a young woman travels to Piedmont to care for her aging grandfather, an expert forager. Armed with his loyal dog, she hunts for a prizewinning truffle to save what’s most precious. (100 min.)

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

James Stewart and Henry Fonda were two of the greatest American actors, and unlikely best friends for nearly 50 years. Though divided by politics, religion, and temperament, they shared a deep bond, a love for the same woman, and a remarkable range of talent across stage and screen. This eight-week series follows their parallel paths from small-town beginnings to Hollywood stardom, exploring their iconic performances in comedy, drama, thrillers, and westerns. With behind-the-scenes stories, film clips, and historical context, we’ll celebrate their lasting legacy in American cinema.

LECTURES:

1. The Farmer Takes a Wife (1935): Fonda’s film debut with Janet Gaynor (91 min.)

2. Next Time We Love (1936): Stewart’s first lead role opposite Margaret Sullivan (87 min.)

3.Young Mr. Lincoln (1939): The breakthrough that made Fonda a star (100 min.)

4. Destry Rides Again (1939): Stewart’s first major western with Marlene Dietrich (94 min.)

5. My Darling Clementine (1946): Fonda’s acclaimed return to film after WWII (97 min.)

6.The Mortal Storm (1940): Stewart’s final film before military service (100 min.)

7. On Our Merry Way (1948): Stewart and Fonda’s first co-starring comedy (107 min.)

8. Firecreek (1968): A dramatic showdown between Stewart’s sheriff and Fonda’s outlaw (140 min.)

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Storytelling is one of humanity’s oldest and most powerful tools for connection. In this engaging interactive seminar led by Cynthia Carrico, Director of FAU’s Speaking Center, participants will explore how personal stories inspire empathy, preserve memory, and build community. From oral traditions to memoir writing, discover how sharing your life experiences can transform both storyteller and listener. In a supportive environment, participants will develop storytelling skills, craft compelling 5-minute memoirs, and learn to harness vulnerability to make their stories resonate. The course culminates in a unique Human Library event, where storytellers become “human books,” engaging in one-on-one conversations with readers. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or new to storytelling, this course invites you to reflect, connect, and celebrate the power of your own voice. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

Cynde Carrico, MA in Communication from FAU, specializes in communication apprehension, rhetorical analysis, and strategies for effective, authentic connections across media and professional settings. With over 25 years in educational leadership, she now applies her expertise at FAU’s Speaking Center, helping individuals overcome public speaking anxiety and enhance performance in high-stakes environments.

This series continues the exploration of the Diaspora, focusing on the history and culture of Jews in four European communities. All are part of the saga of European Jewish prosperity, achievement, persecution, exile, destruction and return. Many American Jews have Russian roots as it once had the world’s largest Jewish population including imperialistic holdings in the Ukraine, Lithuania, Latvia, Belarus and parts of Poland. Germany was the home of Ashkenazi Judaism and today has a surprisingly growing Jewish community including Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt. The Jewish presence in Italy dates to pre-Christian Rome and has continued, despite periods of extreme Papal persecution and expulsions and Mussolini. The United Kingdom's Jewish history, going back to William the Conqueror, is centered in London and is connected to many diasporic communities; it includes many well-known figures, from Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli to Sir Daniel Day-Lewis.

LECTURES:
1. Russia: Beyond the Pale- Medieval, Imperial, Soviet & Post-USSR
2. Germany: Prosperity, Integration, Destruction and Rebirth
3. Italy: Surviving Emperors, Popes, and Mussolini 
4. The Netherlands: Conversos, Commerce, Occupation and Remembrance

Building on the previous Introduction to Jewish Philosophy course, this continuation dives into some of the most important and often debated issues shaping contemporary Jewish life. Explore the contrasts between Orthodox and liberal Judaism, the rise and impact of Jewish feminism, diverse Jewish responses to the Holocaust, and the evolving meanings of Zionism today. Through thoughtful discussion and insightful analysis, this course offers a deeper understanding of how these complex topics continue to influence Jewish identity, community, and belief in the modern world. Ideal for anyone eager to engage with the vital questions and challenges facing Judaism today. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Contemporary Jewish movements

2. Jewish feminism

3. Reactions to the Holocaust

4. Zionism

Hollywood films have been America's most important contribution to the world's culture, and this was never truer than during the 1930s.  This was arguably the most important decade of the twentieth century, and it marked the golden age of American movie-making with films responding to the challenges of the Great Depression and the outbreak of World War II. Movies were the most popular form of entertainment at this time, and they are a primary source for understanding the hopes, fears, and ideals of the movie-going public.  They also were influential in shaping public discourse and governmental policies.

 

LECTURES:

1.  King Kong explores the impact of the economic collapse of 1929 and suggests how Americans should respond politically to the greatest economic disaster in their country's history (104 min.)  

2.  The Grapes of Wrath highlights the social and economic devastation of the Great Depression and is a superb cinematic version of the most important American novel of the1930s (130 min.)

3. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington is Jimmy Stewart's most important film, and it exhibits a skepticism toward Washington politics while championing the voice of the common man (129 min.)  

4. Sergeant York features Gary Cooper and concerns the stance that the United States should take toward the war in Europe (133 min.)                

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

              

Bridge has the suspense of poker, the cerebral challenge of chess, and the excitement of competitive sports—all in a fun, social setting! Join us and learn to play what many call the greatest game in the world. Bridge is more than a card game; it sharpens memory, enhances strategic thinking, and brings people together. No prior experience is needed—this course is perfect for absolute beginners. You'll be playing at your very first lesson with guidance every step of the way. Each session builds your skills and confidence while keeping the game enjoyable and accessible. Whether you're looking for a new hobby or a brain-boosting challenge, bridge offers endless rewards. Come play, learn, and make new friends! Space is limited.

Linda J. Green represented South Africa in the World Bridge Olympics from 1980 to 1993 before dedicating herself full-time to teaching bridge at all levels for over 45 years. Now based in Florida since 1998, she is an ABTA Master Teacher, certified online instructor, ACBL-accredited teacher and club director, actively involved in the American Bridge Teachers Association and the ACBL Community Games.

Discover the passion, elegance, and connection of Argentine tango in this fun and welcoming 4-week series. Led by Mariano Bejarano, professional tango instructor and dancer with over 20 years of experience, you'll learn the essential elements of tango, including the embrace, musicality, and basic steps for social dancing. Designed for absolute beginners, no prior dance experience or partner is needed. Mariano creates a supportive and relaxed atmosphere where you'll build confidence, enjoy the music, and experience the joy of movement. Comfortable clothing is recommended, and participants should wear shoes with a snug fit and smooth soles that slide easily. Whether you're curious about tango culture or just want to try something new, this class is your perfect first step onto the dance floor. Space is limited.

Born in Rosario, Argentina, I have over 15 years of professional experience teaching, performing, and organizing tango events, with training from renowned masters in Argentina and the U.S. I organize the Miami Sunshine Tango Festival and Florida Tango Weekend, DJ and teach at milongas across Florida, and have brought world-class tango artists and musicians to the South Florida community.

Discover the pivotal contributions of early American Presidents who laid the groundwork for the United States. This four-week course delves into the leadership, philosophies, and challenges faced by Washington, Adams, Madison, and Monroe (The life of Jefferson was addressed in a privious lecture). Through engaging PowerPoint presentations and open discussions, we’ll examine their presidencies, personal journeys, and impact on shaping the Constitution, foreign and domestic policies, and the evolving American political system. From wartime leadership to the creation of party systems, each session offers a deeper understanding of how these Founding Fathers guided the nation through its formative years.

LECTURES: 

1: George Washington: From military hero to revered First President, shaping the Constitution and defining executive leadership.
2: John Adams & John Quincy Adams: A father-son duo who rose to the presidency, battled fierce political rivals, and left lasting marks on American history.
3: James Madison: Architect of the Constitution and President during the War of 1812, Madison’s influence endures.
4: James Monroe: A unifying statesman whose presidency bridged two party systems and expanded America’s reach.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

 

The world moves fast, and so does the news. Stay ahead with this dynamic discussion group! We’ll dive into the latest headlines, analyze their impact, and explore how different media outlets shape public perception. From breaking news to global issues, no topic is off-limits. Challenge perspectives and engage in thought-provoking conversations. This is your space to think critically and share your voice. Join us for lively discussions that strive to make sense of today’s fast-paced world.Understanding the news means shaping the future!  This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"The group always interacted, Marlene was an excellent moderator." OLLI Patron

Discover the richness of The Song of Songs through both traditional and feminist lenses in this  interactive series. We will explore the biblical text's poetic imagery, spiritual symbolism, and its radical depictions of love, voice, and gender. Each session invites discussion in small groups and as a class, using handouts with key sources. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Introduction to The Song of Songs: Themes and structure
2. Traditional/Allegorical Interpretations: Divine love and sacred longing
3. Feminist Readings: Voice, desire, and gender dynamics
4. Garden Imagery: Comparing Eden and The Song of Songs

Rabbi Daniela was ordained in 2003 from Seminario Rabinico Latinoamericano in Buenos Aires and holds advanced degrees in Psychology, Jewish Studies, and Women’s Studies. She and her husband, Rabbi Rami Pavolotzky, currently serve as co-rabbis at Temple Beth Torah Sha’aray Tzedek in Tamarac, Florida.