Although the tale of the painting known as “The Woman in Gold” was made into a Hollywood motion picture starring Ryan Reynolds and Helen Mirren in 2015, the fascinating truth is even better than the movie! Attorney Laura Reich presents a discussion of the history of the painting “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I,” by Gustave Klimt (better known as “The Woman in Gold”), including the groundbreaking 2004 U.S. Supreme Court case, brought by her law partner Donald S. Burris. In the legal opinion, the Court ruled in favor of Ms. Altmann, triggering shockwaves throughout the legal world. Ms. Reich will discuss the Altmann case and current art restitution efforts on behalf of the heirs and families of victims of Nazi persecution.

"The instructor was fabulous!! I hope she offers more classes!! " - OLLI Patron

This lecture explores pop culture’s dynamic relationship with American politics through a case study of "Hamilton," an American Musical. Not only will we explore how the musical portrays the historical figure of Alexander Hamilton and the Founding Period, but we will also focus on the ways in which the musical itself, as well as the cast, have interacted with and even influenced the American government and politics.

“Loved the knowledge and enthusiasm that this instructor exhibited. A true delight!” – OLLI Patron

On January 20, 1942, in a grand villa on the shore of Berlin’s Lake Wannsee, a conference of 15 Nazi officers got together to discuss the “Final Solution to the Jewish Question.” The meeting produced the “Wannsee Protocol,” which has mystified us ever since it was discovered in 1947 in Berlin. How should we understand this methodical business-like discussion of holocaust laid down in it? Why was the meeting even necessary? Hundreds of thousands of Jews had already been shot in Russia or gassed in the camp at Chelmno. Holocaust deniers sometimes contend that, because Hitler was not present at this meeting and because the genocidal nature of the "Final Solution" was not spelled out explicitly, somehow this means that there was no deliberate policy from the top ordering the destruction of the Jews of Europe. This lecture seeks to unravel the reasons behind the Wannsee Conference, what happened there and explain how it was that, on a snowy day, fifteen well-educated young men met to talk murder. 

"The instructor was excellent. Great asset for OLLI." - OLLI Patron

Join Robert Feeney as he brings to life the history and anecdotes of the soda fountain in America and its association with the corner drugstore. Long before the Civil War, soda water was considered a medicinal remedy. Robert will guide you through the rise and fall of this bubbly business. He will blend fond memories of cherry phosphates, lime rickeys, and root beer floats with the history behind the now-famous (and some not-so-famous) fizzy drinks of yore.

"He was one of the best and knowledgeable speakers I’ve heard at FAU." - OLLI Patron

Explore Florida in a whole new way: through the lens of popular culture, with this deep dive into TV, movies, and fiction set in the Sunshine State. From "Dexter" to "Key Largo" and "The Yearling," rediscover—or encounter for the first time—important works, and learn surprising facts, like which product sales soared thanks to "Miami Vice," or the original casting choices for "Bad Boys." You'll enjoy revisiting iconic shows and books, like "I Dream of Jeannie," as well as modern masterpieces like "Moonlight." Based on lecturer Caren Schnur Neile's latest book: "Featuring Florida."

“She is one of the best teachers I have ever had, she would take any course she offered.” OLLI Patron

James Earl (Jimmy) Carter Jr, the 39th President of the United States (1977-1981), was the longest-lived President in American history, reaching the century mark on October 1, 2024. Carter represented the "New South" when he was elected Georgia Governor in 1970. He was a "dark horse" who stunned the Democratic Party and the nation by becoming the party nominee in 1976 and winning the Presidency over President Gerald Ford. Carter's one term in office saw some major domestic and foreign policy accomplishments but also some major crises that undermined his reelection efforts and led to his defeat by Ronald Reagan in 1980. However, his post-presidency, spanning more than four decades, improved his historical image, with a growing respect for the basic decency and principles of the man. 

“I always enjoy Professor Feinman's presentations. He does a significant amount of preparation and delivers the information very well!” – OLLI Patron