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“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not the utter words, but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy |
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NOURISH YOUR MIND THIS THANKSGIVING SEASON 💚 |
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This season, we’re thankful for our vibrant community of curious minds and kind hearts.
Whether you’ve already joined us this fall or are still exploring your options, there’s still time to find your people and your place at OLLI. With new classes starting weekly, every day is an opportunity to engage, discover, and celebrate the lifelong journey of learning. |
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| 📚 Explore. Connect. Grow. Give thanks — and keep learning — with OLLI. |
| HARVESTING KNOWLEDGE: CHECK OUT THESE NOVEMBER CLASSES |
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Exploring the World Through Architecture: A Journey Across UNESCO World Heritage Sites |
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With over 950 buildings and sites recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage list, the architectural legacy of human civilization is as vast as it is diverse. This course offers a curated look at select examples that reveal how societies across time and geography have shaped their built environments in response to social, religious, economic, political, and environmental forces.
Guiding this exploration is Dr. Jim Rose, a retired architect, professor, and college administrator. Dr. Rose brings a wealth of experience, having taught architectural engineering, history, and design. He led a graduate program in historic preservation and conducted research in architectural conservation. His international experience includes a sabbatical in Rome as the U.S. delegate to ICCROM (International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property), and another teaching Italian Renaissance architecture at Loyola University Chicago’s Rome Center.
Join us for a fascinating look at how architecture tells the story of humanity. |
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Unlock the Language of Legends: Old English with Abigayil Wernsman
OSHR 4094 Introduction to Old English
Curious about the roots of Modern English? Ready to dive into the rich, mysterious world of the Angles and Saxons? This lively and intellectually stimulating course invites you to explore Old English—the language of Beowulf, ancient poetry, and early medieval storytelling.
Led by the ever-popular Abigayil Wernsman, whose enthusiasm and energy light up every classroom, this course offers a rare opportunity to study a “dead” language in a way that feels vibrant and engaging. |
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You’ll learn the fundamentals of Old English grammar, vocabulary, and declensions, and practice translating original texts together in class. It’s challenging, —but also deeply rewarding and surprisingly fun.
Whether you're a language lover, literature enthusiast, or history buff, you’ll leave with a foundational grasp of Old English and the tools to begin crafting your own translations. Expect some memorization, but also plenty of laughter, and a shared sense of discovery as you connect with the linguistic ancestors of our modern tongue. |
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Cultivating Self-Compassion: A Path to Inner Calm and Emotional Resilience
OSHR 9078 A Journey to Compassion (ONLINE)
In a world that often demands constant productivity and perfection, learning to treat ourselves with kindness is not just a luxury—it’s essential. |
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This course invites you to explore the transformative power of self-compassion and its profound impact on emotional well-being.
Grounded in both science and mindfulness, we’ll examine how compassion toward ourselves can shift our nervous system, support healing, and help us feel more fully present in our lives. Through guided meditation, breathwork, poetry, and reflective writing, you’ll learn practical techniques to train the mind and connect with the wisdom of the heart—laying the groundwork for a more centered and intentional way of living.
Katherine Robinson brings a rich and interdisciplinary background that spans psychology, anthropology, and mental health counseling, complemented by certifications in meditation, yoga, and brain longevity therapy. Her teaching integrates neuroscience with energy practices and sound healing to support physical relaxation, mental well-being, and the development of new neural pathways. Katherine’s gentle, inspiring approach fosters a safe and welcoming environment for personal exploration.
Whether you're new to self-compassion or looking to deepen your practice, this course offers a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with yourself and cultivate emotional strength from the inside out. |
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The Healing Power of Forgiveness: A Journey Toward Emotional Well-Being |
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Discover how the practice of forgiveness can open the door to greater peace, happiness, and emotional resilience. Inspired by Dr. Fred Luskin’s pioneering work with the Stanford Forgiveness Project, this engaging course offers practical tools designed to release resentment and reduce stress, while also fostering a deeper sense of joy.
Together, we’ll explore the profound connection between forgiveness and healing. Through guided relaxation techniques, reflective writing, and poetry, you’ll uncover personal barriers to forgiveness and learn how to gently move past them. This course invites you to embrace forgiveness and gratitude as daily practices that support a more centered and fulfilling life.
Manuel Arellano, a seasoned instructional designer and facilitator, brings a rich background in personal development and transformative learning. He co-teaches with former Loveland Poet Laureate Veronica Patterson, blending poetry, conversation, and creative exercises to support emotional well-being and self-discovery.
Whether you're seeking personal growth or simply curious about the power of forgiveness, this course offers a safe and supportive space for meaningful reflection and connection with others. |
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🩷Who You Are Matters! A Discovery Game for Connection, Clarity, and Fun Looking to make new friends, share meaningful conversations, and have fun in a supportive environment? This engaging and interactive class offers all that—and more. |
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Through a series of seven structured conversations with a small group of peers, you’ll explore your personal strengths, interests, and possibilities for “what’s next” in life. Using the award-winning Who You Are Matters! board game, you’ll take turns sharing short stories and offering affirming feedback, all while practicing deep listening with the help of a 'talking stick' that encourages thoughtful, respectful dialogue.
This experience is designed to spark laughter, curiosity, and genuine connection. Participants often report feeling close to their tablemates quickly, thanks to the safe and structured format that emphasizes empathy over advice. It’s a powerful way to build community while gaining clarity about your own journey.
Rich Feller, Ph.D., creator of the game and nationally recognized expert in career development and aging well, will guide the experience. A University Distinguished Teaching Scholar (emeritus) at CSU, Rich has worked with NASA, the UN, AARP, and the Modern Elder Academy, and brings warmth, wisdom, and decades of experience to every session.
Whether you're seeking new friendships, personal insight, or just a joyful way to spend time with other Lifelong Learners, this class is a meaningful and memorable opportunity. |
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Find Meaning Through End-of-Life Stories: A Workshop with Nina Rubin |
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When we lose someone we love, we often find ourselves in a deeply vulnerable emotional and spiritual space. In these moments, many people report powerful experiences—dreams, signs, or visitations—that offer much-needed comfort, insight, and connection. These encounters can carry profound meaning, helping us process grief and deepen our understanding of life and relationships.
In this thoughtful and supportive workshop, Nina Rubin, LCSW, invites you to explore the healing power of storytelling. Through guided discussion and shared reflection, participants will learn how end-of-life stories—whether personal or passed down—can reveal wisdom, foster connection, and offer new perspectives on loss and love.
Nina brings over four decades of experience as a Jewish educator and clinical social worker, with a special focus on spiritual practice and Jewish death traditions. A longtime Fort Collins resident, she has worked extensively in medical social work and interfaith initiatives and has taught nationally on topics of Women’s Torah and spiritual healing.
Whether you have a story to share or simply wish to listen and learn, this class offers a safe, welcoming space to explore the transformative power of memory, meaning, and community. |
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Eat Well, Tread Lightly: Cooking Up Climate Solutions with Mark Easter
OSHR 3332 OLLI Talks: The Blue Plate: Shrinking Carbon, One Meal at a Time (Hybrid)
Up to one-third of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions originate from the food system, encompassing production, transportation, preparation, and waste. Understanding this impact is essential for anyone interested in making informed, meaningful choices about what they eat. |
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In this insightful and impactful course, CSU scientist and award-winning author Mark Easter draws on his book, The Blue Plate: A Food Lover’s Guide to Climate Chaos, to explore the carbon footprint of our meals. Participants will gain a clear understanding of how food-related emissions are calculated, which foods contribute most to climate change, and how to make practical adjustments that benefit both personal health and the environment.
This course includes a hands-on component: participants are invited to bring a printed copy of a favorite recipe. Selected recipes will be analyzed in class to estimate their carbon footprints and discuss strategies for reducing their environmental impact.
Whether you're focused on sustainability, public health, or food systems, this course offers valuable tools and knowledge to help you make climate-conscious decisions in everyday life. |
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Celebrating Our Instructors: The Heart of Lifelong Learning
At OLLI at CSU, we believe that lifelong learning is a journey best taken with inspiring guides—and we are incredibly fortunate to have a remarkable team of instructors leading the way. |
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Each term, our classrooms are filled with the voices of university professors, accomplished business leaders, skilled artists, compassionate practitioners, and more. This fall, we’re proud to welcome several of CSU’s distinguished faculty, along with award-winning writers, celebrated artists, and experts from fields as varied as politics, medicine, economics, and more.
Their backgrounds are diverse, and so are their perspectives. That’s part of what makes OLLI so special. Our instructors don’t just teach—they challenge, provoke thought, and invite discussion. They bring not only knowledge, but also passion and curiosity, creating a space where ideas can be explored freely and respectfully.
We’re often asked how we find such incredible instructors. Sometimes we seek them out to fill a specific academic need, but more often, they come to us through word-of-mouth—recommended by members who’ve experienced their brilliance firsthand. It’s a testament to the strength of our community and the reputation OLLI has built as a place where thoughtful dialogue thrives.
Importantly, OLLI does not endorse every idea presented in the classroom. Instead, we embrace the diversity of viewpoints as essential to a rich educational experience. The goal isn’t to agree with every perspective, but to walk away with something new to consider—even if it challenges your own.
So, as you browse the catalog or website, take a moment to read the bios of our instructors. You’ll find stories of achievement, creativity, and dedication that reflect the very spirit of lifelong learning.
To all our instructors: thank you. Your contributions make OLLI a place where minds grow, ideas flourish, and community thrives. |
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Celebrating Our Members: The Heart of OLLI
At OLLI at CSU, our greatest strength isn’t found in our catalog or classrooms—it’s found in you, our members. |
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With over 1,300 members from diverse backgrounds, OLLI is a vibrant mosaic of professions, educational experiences, and life stories. Whether you’re a retired teacher, a curious engineer, a passionate artist, or simply someone who loves to learn, you bring something unique and valuable to our community.
We see the warm smiles you bring to class, the reusable cups that show your care for the environment, and the enthusiasm you share during discussions. We hear your kind words to staff and fellow learners, and we’re inspired by the thoughtful course ideas you suggest. You help make Drake Hall a place where newcomers feel welcome, introverts feel safe, and extroverts feel energized.
You’ve created a space where making new friends is easy and lifelong learning is joyful. That’s no small thing—and we’re deeply grateful.
So, here’s to you, our wonderful members. Thank you for being the heart of OLLI. Your presence brings a curiosity and kindness that make this community truly special. |
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Celebrating CSU: A Partnership That Powers Lifelong Learning
Behind every successful OLLI class, every lively discussion, and every moment of discovery, there’s a quiet but powerful partnership at work—our connection with Colorado State University. |
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| We are deeply grateful for CSU’s generous support, which allows OLLI at CSU to flourish. From providing welcoming classroom spaces to offering free parking for our members, CSU helps create an environment where learning is accessible, comfortable, and enjoyable. |
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This partnership is more than logistical—it’s a shared commitment to education, community, and lifelong learning. CSU’s support allows us to focus on what matters most: creating meaningful experiences for our members and fostering a space where curiosity is celebrated.
To the many individuals across campus who make this possible: thank you. |
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Your contributions may happen behind the scenes, but their impact is felt in every class, every conversation, and every connection made at OLLI.
Together, we’re building something truly special—and we couldn’t do it without you. |
TAKE YOUR OLLI EXPERIENCE TO THE NEXT LEVEL AS A VOLUNTEER |
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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. |
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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.
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✈️ LIFELONG LEARNING, GLOBAL EDITION |
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Your Passport To Discovery Opens This Spring & Summer
We're headed to Portugal and Spain with EF Tours on April 26-May 6, 2026. |
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Spots are limited, but we need at least 14 members to enroll for the trip to happen, so sign up soon!
Starting price of $3,829
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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"
Travel opportunity with OLLI at DU!
Discover America's 250th Anniversary: Boston, NYC, Philadelphia, and DC
- Starting price of $4,299 for 9 days
- See the itinerary, extensions, and pricing details HERE
- Call Collette at (303) 871-3090 for more information or to book |
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OLLI membership fees and tuition are nonrefundable - Here's why.
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OLLI at CSU is more than a catalog of courses—it’s a dynamic community of curious minds. And like any thriving community, it takes collective effort to keep things running smoothly.
Each term, your membership and tuition fees play a vital role in supporting the programs you enjoy. These contributions help us plan engaging courses, bring in expert instructors, maintain our technology, and offer complimentary bonus lectures. They also allow us to keep tuition affordable and accessible for all.
Your membership isn’t just a pass to participate—it’s a meaningful investment in the sustainability of OLLI. Because these funds are immediately directed toward programming and infrastructure, both membership and tuition fees are nonrefundable. Think of it like reserving a seat at a concert or theater performance—once the curtain rises, the resources have already been committed to making the experience possible.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re not just taking classes—we’re building and sustaining a vibrant lifelong learning community. |
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Never Miss an Important OLLI Update - Add Us to Your Contacts!
Make sure you don’t miss last-minute class cancellations or registration opportunities! |
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| By adding the OLLI phone number (970-491-7753) to your contacts list, you’ll recognize our calls and voicemails right away. This simple step ensures you won’t overlook messages about open spots in waitlisted classes or other timely updates. Stay connected—add us today! |
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Classroom Temperatures
As we transition through the season, please be aware that we are unable to adjust the classroom temperature directly. To ensure your comfort, we kindly recommend dressing in layers. |
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| Layered clothing will allow you to adapt to varying temperatures and help make your learning experience more enjoyable. |
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Spring 26 - The air is thick with anticipation!
We’re thrilled about how the Spring 2026 term is coming together! |
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| With a fantastic lineup of courses and events in the works, it’s shaping up to be one of our best yet. The term will run from January 26 through May 16, and we’re kicking things off with our Spring Open House on January 22 from 2–4 PM at the Senior Center—a great opportunity to meet instructors and preview what’s ahead. Registration for all Art classes is tentatively scheduled to open on January 13 and on January 14 for all other classes, so mark your calendars! Keep an eye out for more details in the December newsletter. |
Improving Your ZOOM Experience🧰 Zoom Basics for a Better Experience |
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Whether you're joining a class, a meeting, or a social gathering, these simple tips will help you feel more confident and connected on Zoom. |
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🔊 1. Control Your Volume (PC or Phone)
Why it matters: If you can’t hear or be heard, it’s hard to participate!
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On a PC:
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Click the speaker icon in the bottom-right corner of your screen (Windows). -
Use the slider to adjust volume. -
Make sure your speakers or headphones are selected in Zoom: click the arrow next to the microphone icon in Zoom and choose your audio device. -
On a phone/tablet:
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Use the physical volume buttons on the side of your device. -
Make sure your device isn’t muted or connected to a Bluetooth device you’re not using.
💬 2. Use the Chat Feature
Why it matters: You can ask questions, share links, or communicate without interrupting.
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Click the Chat button in the Zoom toolbar (usually at the bottom of the screen). -
A chat window will open on the side. -
Type your message and press Enter to send. -
You can choose to message everyone or just the host or another participant.
🖥️ 3. Change Your View (Gallery vs. Speaker View) This does not apply to Hybrid classes.
Why it matters: You can choose how you see others—either one speaker or everyone at once.
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Click View in the top-right corner of the Zoom window. -
Choose Speaker View to focus on the person talking. -
Choose Gallery View to see all participants in a grid. -
On a phone/tablet, swipe left or right to switch views.
📝 4. Turn On Closed Captions (CC)
Why it matters: Captions help you follow along, especially if audio is unclear.
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If the host has enabled captions, click the CC (Closed Caption) button in the Zoom toolbar. -
Select Show Subtitle to see captions on screen. -
You can also click View Full Transcript to see everything that’s been said.
✅ Bonus Tips
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Join early to test your audio and video. -
Mute yourself when not speaking to reduce background noise. -
Use a headset for clearer sound. -
Keep your camera on if possible—it helps others feel more connected. |
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 November 24 though the 28.CONTACT INFORMATION:
• Email: OLLI@colostate.edu
• Phone: (970) 491-7753 |
🧡NOURISH LIFELONG LEARNING DURING THIS SEASON OF THANKS |
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As Thanksgiving approaches, we pause to reflect on the many things we’re grateful for — and at OLLI, that includes you. Your support helps cultivate a community where curiosity thrives, ideas flow freely, and lasting friendships take root. |
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November is a time of harvest, and at OLLI, our classrooms are filled with the fruits of lifelong learning. But this rich landscape of learning doesn’t grow on its own. It thrives because of generous hearts like yours. Your gift helps us welcome inspiring instructors to our classrooms and provide scholarships, ensuring learning remains accessible to everyone. Like a shared Thanksgiving table, every contribution — big or small — brings people together and nourishes minds.
This season, give thanks by giving back.
Make your gift to OLLI today and help lifelong learning thrive — not just this fall, but throughout the 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 |
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This email was sent by: Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
2545 Research Blvd Fort Collins, CO, 80526, USA |
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