|
“How far that little candle throw his beams! So shines a good deed in a weary world.”
– William Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice |
|
|
|
Dear OLLI friends,
As we close out another remarkable year together, I’m filled with gratitude and pride in what we’ve accomplished as a community of lifelong learners. This fall term, our membership grew to more than 1,340 learners, reflecting the continued enthusiasm and engagement that makes OLLI at CSU such a vibrant and welcoming place to learn, connect, and grow.
This December also brings an opportunity to both reflect on our past and shape our future. As we approach the 20th anniversary of OLLI at CSU’s founding in 2026, please share your input on ways we can continue to thrive as we grow:
I want to extend sincere appreciation for our dedicated instructors, whose knowledge and passion enrich every class; to our members, whose curiosity fuels this institute; to our generous donors, whose support sustains our mission; our student workers, who bring fresh energy and support to our daily operations and to my incredible OLLI team of Julie and Debbie, whose extraordinary dedication make a seamless experience for everyone possible.
I wish you a joyful holiday season and a bright start to the new year—filled with learning, laughter, and meaningful connection. We hope you’ll join us for our Spring Open House on January 22 as we kick off another exciting term. Watch for the new catalog to be available online in late December, and mark your calendars for registration opening January 13 for Art and Design classes and January 14 for all other classes.
Warmly,
Meredith |
REFLECTIONS ON A RADIANT FALL |
|
This fall, OLLI shines brightly with a dazzling array of courses that spark curiosity and deepen understanding. From history and art to science and self-discovery, our community embraced learning in all its brilliance.
This season is a testament to the power of lifelong learning—a light that never dims. |
|
|
|
Thank you for being part of this vibrant community and for bringing your curiosity and passion to every class.
But wait! The Fall Term is not over yet. Keep reading to learn more about an online section just opened to meet the high demand for Rabbi Katzir’s Middle East Update. |
NEW SPACE AVAILABLE IN THIS POPULAR FALL CLASS! |
OLLI’s popular course, A Middle East Update, taught by beloved OLLI instructor Rabbi Hillel Katzir, will explore the region’s dynamics as of the class meeting date. Topics include U.S.–Israel relations, Israel’s internal politics, the Palestinians, neighboring nations, the forces driving conflict, and prospects for peace.
Important Update: The in-person section at Drake Hall is full—but we’ve just opened an online section with plenty of space available! This is a great opportunity to join the discussion from anywhere.
Your instructor, Rabbi Hillel Katzir, has been teaching at OLLI-CSU for ten years. His courses span Judaism, the Bible, interfaith relations, Middle East conflicts, and even the U.S. Constitution. A former attorney and passionate advocate for building bridges across differences, Rabbi Katzir brings deep knowledge and a unique perspective to this timely topic. |
IGNITING THOUGHT: OUR SPRING ONE READ |
|
We are thrilled to unveil our Spring One Read selection: Catching Wildfire by acclaimed author Laura Pritchett. This compelling novel delves into themes of resilience, transformation, and the fierce spark that drives us forward—making it a perfect catalyst for reflection and conversation.
Mark your calendars for a truly special event: OSHR 3352 001 Playing with {Wild}fire: Author Talk with Laura Pritchett, happening on April 16 at 10:00 a.m. This is a rare opportunity to engage directly with the author and explore the deeper layers of her powerful work. |
|
|
|
Registration opens online on January 14 at 9:00 a.m. With limited space available, we encourage you to register early to secure your spot for this unforgettable experience.
Laura Pritchett, PhD, is a nature writer based in northern Colorado. Her work is deeply influenced by the Western landscape and her personal experiences with wildfires.
She directs the MFA in Nature Writing at Western Colorado University and has written seven award-winning novels, including Hell’s Bottom, Colorado and Stars Go Blue. Her fiction has received honors such as the PEN USA Award and multiple Colorado Book Awards. |
|
Look for more details in the January newsletter about our dynamic Spring courses, led by expert instructors, exploring the causes, consequences, prevention strategies, and broader impact of wildfires.
This excellent book can be purchased locally or online at:
*Firehouse Books offers a 20% discount to OLLI members. |
|
|
|
MEET THE NEW FACES LIGHTING UP OUR CLASSROOMS THIS SPRING |
| GLENNA DUNNINGTON, RN, BSN, discovered watercolor in 2021 after a broken foot sidelined her during the pandemic, prompting a shift from woodworking to a less physical—but equally creative—outlet. What started with YouTube tutorials quickly evolved into Zoom classes and mentorship from a local artist. By 2024, Glenna was teaching watercolor classes in Fort Collins and Timnath. Her science and nursing background blend seamlessly with her lifelong passion for the arts, encompassing quilting, embroidery, and painting. Known for her warm, encouraging teaching style, Glenna inspires students to explore their creativity and delights in the moment they realize, “I made that!”
GLENNA’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 2037 Create Watercolor Greeting Cards! |
|
|
|
JO VANDERKLOOT began her career as a family therapist focused on couples and families, but her passion for solving complex problems soon led her into organizational consulting. Her first role in a South Bronx mental health crisis clinic introduced her to the art of navigating chaos—a theme that shaped her 45-year career. She later partnered with an African American colleague in a long-running collaboration exploring racial divides and systemic dynamics, consulting with nonprofits and corporations, teaching at NYU, Smith College, and Seton Hall, and leading workshops nationwide. Today, Jo continues her clinical practice in Fort Collins, bringing warmth, insight, and a touch of humor to help others find clarity in the complexities of life.
JO’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 5072 Through the Lens of Chaos: A New Way to See Our World |
| |
|
|
|
MIKE FORNEY has spent the past two decades as a volunteer, small business counselor, and instructor with the Larimer County Small Business Development Center (SBDC), following a career as president and CEO of a national mortgage banking firm and earlier roles in advertising and public affairs with AT&T. His leadership includes serving as president of Routt County United Way, chairing the Yampa Valley Airport Commission, and acting as Rotary District Governor for a four-state region. He also flew over 50 volunteer missions for Angel Flight, helping patients reach care across the country. A natural storyteller, Mike visits local classrooms monthly and, with his wife Janet, delivers Meals on Wheels weekly. Since moving from Steamboat Springs to Old Town Fort Collins in 2017, he continues to blend service, storytelling, and business savvy—with heart and humor.
MIKE’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 5005 GREAT DECISIONS 2026 PART 1 |
|
|
|
WYNNE WHYMAN is the founding Director of Communication and Advocacy for the Center for Hearing Access, a national nonprofit dedicated to education and inclusion for people with hearing loss. Living with progressive hearing loss since childhood, Wynne has become a passionate advocate for accessibility, volunteering across Colorado and earning recognition—including the Hearing Loss Association of America’s 2023 Community Access Award for her work with Google Maps. With two master’s degrees and a background in designing executive leadership programs, she brings both expertise and empathy to her mission of amplifying voices and advancing equity through writing, speaking, and strategic leadership.
WYNNE’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 9097 Hearing Loss? How to Better Navigate the World |
| |
|
|
|
CAROLINE DENISON is a certified yoga instructor specializing in adaptive and private yoga for adults of all ages. With a focus on alignment, mindfulness, and accessibility, she offers group and individual sessions that meet students where they are—physically and emotionally. Her warm, engaging teaching style encourages students to listen to their bodies and embrace yoga as a personal journey of growth and well-being. Whether you're new to yoga or returning to the mat, Caroline’s inclusive approach ensures everyone feels supported, challenged, and inspired.
CAROLINE’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 9076 The Fundamentals of Yoga, Breath, and Movement |
|
|
|
ALAN HEILEMAN is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) Coordinator for Northern Colorado, where he helps older adults navigate the complexities of Medicare with clarity and care. With over 20 years of experience in the senior services field, Alan has worn many hats—from leading home care and assisted living communities to serving as President of the Elder Care Network and Chair of the Board for the Partnership for Age-Friendly Communities. He’s also a longtime facilitator of Alzheimer’s support groups and currently serves as Community Health Coordinator with UC Health’s Aspen Club. Passionate about aging well and living life to the fullest, Alan brings heart, humor, and a wealth of knowledge to every role he undertakes.
ALAN’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 3114 Medicare 101 |
| |
|
|
|
BUCK BEASON brings a unique blend of real-world experience and academic insight to the OLLI classrooms he teaches across the country. With a dual-track career spanning over four decades in data management and applications development—alongside teaching Business, Accounting, and Economics—Buck also spent five years inspiring middle and high school students with his love of History. He holds a BS in Management Science, with additional majors in History and Economics, as well as an MBA in Accounting. Whether he's diving into economic theory or historical trends, Buck’s engaging style and deep expertise make learning both accessible and enjoyable.
BUCK’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 6110 War in the Skies: Europe 1939-1945 |
|
|
|
DAVID MARTINO, PH.D., is a clinical-developmental psychologist whose career spans therapy, teaching, fatherhood, and a creative flair. He has been a guest expert in the media, published children’s books and song lyrics, and had his plays performed in regional theaters. For over two decades, he has written sketch comedy for a live variety show that he proudly claims is “like SNL, but funnier.” With a sharp wit and deep empathy shaped by both professional and personal experience, David continues to champion mental health and storytelling—when he’s not biking the trails of Fort Collins, CO.
DAVID’S SPRING COURSES
OSHR 3127 Life in the Eighth Stage
OSHR 6101 Your Life in Eight Stages |
| |
|
|
|
WILLIAM DEWEY is a retired naval officer and global finance expert whose career has spanned continents and causes. After serving with distinction in Vietnam, he spent four decades working in international banking, management consulting, and inclusive finance, living in eight countries and shaping strategies that made a significant difference worldwide. A proud graduate of the University of Notre Dame and The Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy at Tufts, he brings a wealth of experience, a global perspective, and a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and learning.
WILLIAM’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 3347 Winning Hearts & Minds: Vietnam (1954-1975) |
|
|
|
|
DR. BRYAN DENNIS holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from UCLA, where he specialized in the ethnohistory and sociopolitical structures of New World cultures. After a dynamic career as a business and strategy consultant for nonprofits and small enterprises, he’s now happily retired and diving deep into his passions for ancient, medieval, and Renaissance literature and natural philosophy. Whether decoding historical texts or exploring timeless ideas, Bryan brings intellectual curiosity and a love of learning to everything he does.
BRYAN’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 6141 Armchair Travel During the Renaissance Via Maps, Literature, Travelogues, and Encyclopedias |
|
|
|
|
CHERIE NELSON SENIE is a writer, editor, and educator who blends literary depth with creative spark. With an MA in Literature and an MFA in Creative Writing from Colorado State University, she’s taught college courses, edited for the award-winning Ruminate magazine, and earned national recognition for her essays. Her debut collection, God Stars, is forthcoming from Orison Books, and she now brings her love of storytelling to Beattie Elementary as a librarian and Gifted & Talented teacher—where she also founded the student-run journal Beattie Uncovered. Whether mentoring young writers or crafting her own work, Cherie is dedicated to igniting imagination and celebrating individual voice.
CHERIE’S SPRING COURSES
OSHR 3129 Getting Unstuck: Tackling Writer’s Block with Constraints
OSHR 4077 Say it Short: Writing Flash Fiction and Nonfiction |
|
|
|
|
JANE HILLSON AIELLO is a lifelong poet who draws inspiration from intuition, nature, and everyday moments. Her work has appeared in multiple anthologies, and she recently earned a white ribbon at the 2025 Colorado State Fair for a poem celebrating the beauty of Colorado. Known for her welcoming “PlayShops,” Jane leads poetry workshops for organizations like Kavod on the Road, Senior Planet, and the Poetry Society of Colorado—especially geared toward “non-poets” who want to explore creative expression. Now based in Northern Colorado, she balances time with her grandchildren and her love of swimming, yoga, thrifting, and daydreaming—all while continuing to explore the art of poetry with joy and curiosity.
JANE’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 4105 Poetry for Non-Poets (and others!) |
|
|
|
|
LENINA OLIVAS AND FRANK BACZEK are vibrant performers whose shared passion for dance has brought them from Ballroom studios to the stage with the Boulder Philharmonic. Lenina, a creative force since 2014, blends the elegance of Ballroom with the expressive flair of Belly Dance, constantly exploring new styles and choreography. Frank, dancing since 2006, brings dynamic energy to Hustle and Ballroom, with appearances in two movie dance scenes and numerous community flash mobs. Together, they embody dedication, artistry, and a love for movement that inspires and connects.
LENINA AND FRANK’S SPRING COURSES
OSHR 7054 Introduction to Ballroom Dance: Foxtrot & Tango
OSHR 7064 Introduction to Ballroom Dance: Waltz & Rumba |
|
|
|
|
KRISTY NOWAK, MLIS, AND RACHELLE RAMER, MS, MLIS, are innovative librarians at Colorado State University, bringing energy and expertise to the evolving world of research and AI literacy. Kristy, the First-Year Experience and Student Success Librarian, helps students navigate research with creativity and critical thinking, using AI to spark conversations about bias and digital content. Rachelle, the Research & Scholarship Librarian for the Sciences, supports advanced researchers with hands-on workshops in prompt engineering and scientific writing, blending emerging tech with practical insight. Together, they empower learners to become thoughtful, tech-savvy users of information in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
KRISTY AND RACHELLE’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 3350 AI Decoded: Understanding and Using Generative AI |
|
|
|
|
DR. CHAD KINNEY is Director of the Institute of Cannabis Research at Colorado State University Pueblo, where he leads cutting-edge studies and shares insights into the science of cannabis. With a background in environmental and applied chemistry, Chad’s career spans leadership roles, including Chemistry Department Chair and interim Provost. His research explores innovative extraction techniques, cannabinoid analysis, and the environmental impact of pharmaceuticals—bringing curiosity, rigor, and a touch of discovery to everything he does. Fun fact: Chad is the father of Kailey, one of OLLI’s amazing student workers!
CHAD’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 3229 Cannabis Research, Regulation, and Challenges |
|
|
|
|
DR. SHELLEY CRAUSBAY AND FREDDIE HABERECHT are part of the Urban Forestry team at the City of Fort Collins, where they bring science, strategy, and heart to sustainable urban landscapes. Shelley, the Senior Urban Forestry Planner, is a forest ecologist with a PhD in Botany and a passion for climate resilience and equitable land management, shaped by her work with the U.S. Forest Service and in conservation science. Freddie, an urban forester and certified arborist, holds a degree in Ecosystem Science and Sustainability from CSU and brings hands-on expertise and enthusiasm to tree care and planning. Together, they help cultivate greener, healthier communities through thoughtful design and ecological insight. Freddie Haberecht is an urban forester and certified arborist with the City of Fort Collins, shaping greener, healthier communities through thoughtful tree care and planning. A graduate of Colorado State University with a degree in Ecosystem Science and Sustainability, Freddie blends scientific insight with a genuine love for urban nature—bringing both expertise and enthusiasm to every canopy cultivated.
SHELLEY AND FREDDIE’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 3313 Cool Canopy: How Trees Keep Fort Collins Comfortable |
|
|
|
|
ANNE PERRY AND ALI HAYES are the creative force behind Dwellable, a home design firm transforming how we think about accessible living. With a focus on stylish, inclusive spaces for people aging in place, living with disabilities, or planning for changing family needs, they blend design innovation with real-world empathy. Anne brings expertise in design and strategy, while Ali draws on her leadership in healthcare and tech—and her personal journey as a parent advocating for accessible housing. Together, they believe every home should be built for every body, combining beauty and function in every project.
ANNE AND ALI’S SPRING COURSE
OSHR 3303 Lifelong Homes Series – Planning Your Forever Home for a More Flexible Future |
|
|
|
SHINE BRIGHTER: ELEVATE YOUR OLLI EXPERIENCE THROUGH VOLUNTEERING |
|
Volunteering with OLLI is a meaningful way to deepen your connection to our vibrant learning community. Whether you help behind the scenes, support instructors, or welcome new members, your time and talents make a real difference. It’s a chance to give back, meet new people, and shape the future of lifelong learning—while having fun along the way! We are thankful for Terry Nolan, who has stepped up as our Volunteer Coordinator. Join Terry in helping to support your OLLI as a volunteer by clicking on this LINK to share a little bit about your volunteer interests and ideas. We have opportunities for all skill and commitment levels. We can’t wait to hear from YOU. |
|
|
|
🌍 LIFELONG LEARNING, GLOBAL EDITION |
|
Discover Belize with OLLI at Colorado State!
Join us for an informational meeting about a new upcoming trip, A Week in Belize: Ruins, Reefs & Rainforests — an adventure filled with Mayan history, tropical beauty, and unforgettable cultural experiences. This exciting journey will take place in October 2026 for OLLI members at CSU and DU.
Info Meeting Details
📅 Date: Thursday, December 18
🕒 Time: 1:00 p.m. MST
📍 Location: Drake Hall and via Zoom HERE |
|
|
|
|
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or looking for a new type of adventure, this trip offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and relaxation — with the ease and camaraderie of traveling in a group. Learn about the itinerary, pricing, and what’s included — from exploring ancient ruins and snorkeling colorful reefs to experiencing local music and cuisine. Come see why Belize is the perfect destination for our next OLLI adventure! Bring your questions — and a friend who might want to join the fun. OLLI membership is not required to attend this information session. |
|
|
|
|
OLLI at Colorado State is traveling to Portugal and Spain in April. Don’t miss out on this fabulous trip!
We're headed to Portugal and Spain with EF Tours on April 26-May 6, 2026. Spots are limited, but we need at least 14 members for the trip to happen, so sign up by the end of December to join.
Starting price of $3,829
-
Learn more HERE and download the itinerary HERE
-
Watch the EF Launch Presentation HERE and see the PowerPoint HERE -
Call the EF team to register at: 1-800-438-7672 & reference "OLLI Colorado State 2026 Portugal and Spain Trip" |
|
|
|
THE TOYS FOR TOTS BOXES HAVE ARRIVED! |
|
The Toys for Tots boxes have arrived at Drake Hall and are ready to receive your generous donations. All gifts will be delivered to economically disadvantaged children in our community. Please note that the toys should be new and unwrapped.
Thank you, Ed McConnaughey, for giving OLLI members the opportunity to share goodwill this holiday season.
You may drop off your donations anytime Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. |
|
|
|
|
Do any of these items look familiar? If so, please stop by the office anytime Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to claim your belongings. We’d love to reunite these items with their owners!
Please note that any unclaimed items will be donated at the end of the term. |
|
|
|
|
Phone CallsTo help maintain a focused and productive environment for our staff, we kindly ask that members refrain from taking phone calls in the foyer of the OLLI office. This area is an active workspace, and phone conversations can be quite disruptive.
If you need to take or make a call, please step outside and use the space between the glass doors. Your consideration helps keep our office running smoothly—thank you for helping us create a respectful and supportive atmosphere for everyone. |
|
|
|
|
OLLI EmailsWe get it—email overload is real. But before you hit delete on that next message from OLLI, consider this: our emails are packed with the kind of info that keeps your learning experience running smoothly. Think Zoom links for your online classes, classroom locations (online, Drake Hall, offsite, etc.), updates on cancellations or venue changes, class handouts, and even alerts when a spot opens in a waitlisted course. That’s not spam—it’s gold!
To make life easier (and avoid frantic last-minute phone calls to the OLLI office), we suggest creating a dedicated OLLI folder in your inbox. It’s a simple way to keep all your course info in one place, ready when you need it. No more digging through deleted messages or wondering when or where your class is meeting.
Your inbox doesn’t have to be a black hole. Let your OLLI emails light the way!
|
|
|
|
|
Classroom TemperaturesAs we welcome the winter season, our classrooms remain full of warmth—sometimes a little too much! While the temperature outside may be chilly, indoor heating can occasionally make learning spaces feel unexpectedly warm. Since we’re unable to adjust classroom temperatures directly, we recommend dressing in layers to stay comfortable. Layered clothing allows you to adapt easily to changing conditions, helping to ensure your learning experience remains cozy and enjoyable, regardless of the weather. |
|
|
|
|
Spring 2026 Is Looking Bright!The Spring 2026 term is already beginning to shine! With a brilliant lineup of courses and events in the works, it’s shaping up to be one of our brightest seasons yet. The term runs from January 26 through May 16, and we’ll spark things off with our Spring Open House on January 22 from 2–4 p.m. at the Senior Center—a great chance to meet instructors and preview what’s ahead. Registration is tentatively scheduled to open on January 13 for Art classes and January 14 for all other classes, so mark your calendars and stay tuned. More details will light up your inbox in the January newsletter! |
|
|
|
OFFICE HOURS
-
Drake Hall is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
-
Our address is 2545 Research Blvd. Fort Collins, CO 80526.
-
Please note that the OLLI office will be closed from December 24 - 26 and January 1 - 2.
-
The OLLI staff may work remotely during the final two weeks of December, and the Drake Hall doors may be locked.
CONTACT INFORMATION:• Email: OLLI@colostate.edu
• Phone: (970) 491-7753 |
ILLUMINATE THE FUTURE
WITH YOUR GENEROSITY |
|
|
As the year draws to a close, we’re reflecting on the light you bring to OLLI. Your support helps illuminate a vibrant learning community where curiosity sparks connection, ideas shine brightly, and minds continue to grow. Our classrooms glow with the energy of engaged learners and inspiring instructors—but this brilliance is fueled by generous hearts like yours. Your gift enables us to offer scholarships, attract exceptional educators, and make lifelong learning accessible to all. Like lights strung across a winter landscape, every contribution adds warmth, clarity, and a sense of connection. Help us keep the light burning—make your gift to OLLI and let learning shine into the new year.
Click here to support OLLI at CSU or call Thea Barela-Rounsaville at 720.327.0132 for more information. |
Until Next Month,
Your OLLI Staff |
|
|
This email was sent by: Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
2545 Research Blvd Fort Collins, CO, 80526, USA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
