Welcome to the January edition of the OLLI Insider - your monthly update designed to inform, invite, and inspire. |
Dear friends,As we begin a new term and year at OLLI, we do so with a spirit of curiosity, generosity, and lifelong learning that continues to define our community. That spirit is beautifully reflected in a generous new planned gift from OLLI champions Christopher Hensey and Peg Chandler, already seeded with funding to endow a distinguished series of Emerging Scholar lectures. You might know Chris as our popular wine tasting instructor, and Peg is a dedicated OLLI member. Building on their vision, these lectures from PhD candidates will strengthen our outstanding offerings by featuring current research and fostering connections across generations. I'm also delighted to share that Peg and Chris will be joining us on our upcoming
OLLI trip to Spain and Portugal as they explore the process and plan a future wine tasting trip for our members. We are deeply grateful to Chris and Peg for investing in OLLI’s future and enriching our community in so many meaningful ways.
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If you are interested in giving the gift of learning with a donation to OLLI, you can do so HERE. You can also reach out to me or
Thea Barela-Rounsaville, Associate Director of Development for the Office of Engagement and Extension, if you’d like to talk about your own inspired gift ideas.
As we embark on this new term together, I look forward to another year of shared discovery, connection, and learning, and thank you for being part of our engaged and generous community.
In gratitude,
Meredith |
NEW TERM, NEW COURSES: EXPLORE THESE JANUARY POSSIBILITIES |
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Step Into the Sparkling World of Oscar Wilde!OSHR 4095 British Classics Book Club: Oscar Wilde
Ready for a course that’s as witty and unforgettable as its subject? Join us for an exploration of Oscar Wilde—the master of satire, scandal, and style. From the laugh-out-loud brilliance of The Importance of Being Earnest to the haunting beauty of The Picture of Dorian Gray, Wilde’s works are packed with sharp humor, daring ideas, and timeless insights into love, beauty, and society. |
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This isn’t just literature—it’s an experience. You’ll discover why Wilde’s words still glitter today, why his plays shocked Victorian audiences, and how his life story remains one of the most fascinating in literary history. Expect laughter, thought-provoking discussion, and maybe even a touch of heartbreak as we dive into the genius and tragedy of this iconic writer.
Leading the way is Abigayil Wernsman, an inspiring scholar with a PhD in literary arts and a passion for British literature. With her engaging style and deep expertise, Abigayil will make Wilde’s world come alive for you. Don’t miss this chance to learn from a true expert—and to fall in love with one of literature’s most dazzling figures.
Reserve your spot today—because Wilde wouldn’t want you to miss out!
Fifty Ways to Love Colorado: Your Passport to Fifty Adventures—No Plane Ticket Required! |
Why Fifty? Because Colorado Has That Much to Give!
Paul Simon once sang about fifty ways to leave your lover—but why leave when you can fall head over heels for Colorado? Picture this: fifty mountains to climb, fifty valleys to wander, fifty rivers to trace, and fifty wildflowers to marvel at. Add in birds, trees, and hidden gems, and you’ve got a love affair with the Centennial State that never ends. This isn’t just sightseeing—it’s soul-sighting. |
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Your tour guide is Kevin Cook, a master storyteller and lifelong naturalist whose passion for wildlife began in childhood and blossomed into decades of expertise. From writing for Bird Watcher’s Digest
to guiding birding tours and teaching at Rocky Mountain National Park for over 26 years, Kevin brings science, humor, and wonder to every class. Get ready for a journey that blends discovery with delight—because Colorado has at least fifty ways to steal your heart!
So, hop on the bus, Gus—your Colorado adventure awaits!
Talk the Talk: How Language Shapes Who We Are |
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OSHR 4076 How Language Affects Our Self-Image
Ever wonder why the words you choose—and even the way you wave your hands—say so much about you? In this lively course, we’ll dig into the magic of communication, from the sentences we speak to the silent signals we send. |
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How does language sculpt our self-image? How do others “read” us before we even open our mouths? And what happens when culture and gender add their own twist to the mix? Spoiler alert: it’s fascinating!
Join Dr. Marlin R. Clark for a fun, interactive session where we’ll laugh, learn, and maybe rethink the way we talk (and move!). He’s not just an educator—he’s a storyteller with a rich background in interpersonal communication. From his days as Associate VP for Student Life and Dean of Students to his Air Force career and teaching gigs at Utah Valley University, Marlin brings real-world wisdom and a knack for making big ideas click. These days, he calls Greeley, Colorado, home with his wife—and he’s ready to share insights you’ll use every day.
Your words matter—more than you think!
Laugh Lab: Discover Your Inner Comedian |
OSHR 7063 Comedy Is Not Just for Professionals!
Ever wished you could turn life’s awkward moments into punchlines? Or maybe you just want to laugh until your cheeks hurt? Welcome to the ultimate fun-shop where humor takes center stage!
In this playful, hands-on experience, we’ll toss out boring rules and dive straight into the art of being funny. You’ll learn how to craft clever setups, nail perfect timing, and spin everyday stories into laugh-out-loud gems. We’ll experiment with the mic (don’t worry—it’s friendlier than it looks), explore your comic persona, and uncover tricks comedians use to keep audiences rolling. |
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No pressure, no judgment—just a safe space to stretch your creativity, sharpen your wit, and rediscover the joy of laughter. Because honestly, the world needs more giggles…and you’ve got plenty to share!
About Kate Lyn Reiter:
Kate is a Yale School of Drama MFA grad with a knack for turning humor into magic. She’s rocked NYC stages with award-winning comedy, taught theatre and literature, and inspired audiences with her talks on “Bringing Humor to Life.”
Warning: Side Effects May Include Uncontrollable Laughter.
Behind Barbed Wire: The Untold Story of Japanese American Incarceration |
This course brings history to life through the powerful story of the Hirai family of Washington State and others who endured these harsh realities. Discover what daily life was like inside relocation camps and how military directives, government policies, media narratives, and public opinion shaped the experience of Japanese Americans along the Pacific Coast and beyond during World War II.
About instructor Stuart Hirai:
Stuart is a Sansei (third-generation Japanese American) who grew up in rural eastern Oregon near Nyssa, where his family was among 350 households in the first War Relocation Authority labor camp—featured in Uprooted: The Camp Without a Fence. His personal connection and deep knowledge make this course an unforgettable journey into a chapter of history too often overlooked.
History You Were Never Taught: The Japanese American Experience During WWII
Discover Your Purpose: Find the Volunteer Role That Fits You |
This interactive course will help you uncover what truly drives you. Through guided exercises, you’ll identify your strengths, core values, and the issues that ignite your passion. You’ll draft a personal purpose statement and learn how to match it with opportunities that make a real impact.
We’ll explore the world of volunteer service—what boards and commissions do, the responsibilities involved, and how to evaluate roles so you find the perfect fit. Whether you want to share your expertise, champion a cause, or simply give back, this class will help you take the next step with confidence.
About the Instructors:
Lynette Reiling brings years of experience connecting volunteers with meaningful roles and is a certified life coach specializing in midlife transitions. Steve VanderMeer has spent decades working with nonprofits nationwide and knows what makes boards thrive. Together, they’ll guide you toward opportunities that align with your skills and purpose.
Your Next Chapter Starts Here: Discover the Volunteer Role That Fits You
Epic Lives, Timeless Lessons: Exploring the Hebrew Bible’s Human Stories |
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OSHR 5082 The Hebrew Bible Beyond Genesis: People, Places, and Stories
The Hebrew Bible is full of unforgettable characters—people who wrestle with challenges, make mistakes, and still strive to change the world for the better. In this course, we’ll explore these rich narratives, covering stories from Exodus through the Prophets and Writings, along with Midrash—traditional Jewish interpretations that add depth and color to the text.
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Together, we’ll uncover what these ancient stories reveal about resilience, leadership, and the human spirit—insights that still resonate today, regardless of your background or beliefs.
Rabbi Hillel Katzir has taught at OLLI-CSU for over a decade, sharing his expertise on Judaism, the Bible, and world religions. His passion is helping learners explore new perspectives and build understanding across differences.
Discover wisdom in the stories that shaped history—and still speak to us today.
From Chaos to Calm: Unlock the Power of Heart Intelligence |
Through short, easy-to-practice methods, you’ll discover how to shift from survival mode to a thriving state. These strategies activate the vagus nerve, engage the parasympathetic nervous system, and promote the release of “feel-good” neurotransmitters—bringing your body and mind back into harmony.
Whether you’re looking to improve emotional well-being, build resilience, or simply feel more at ease, this class offers practical tools you can use every day.
Dr. Christine O’Brien is a certified HeartMath trainer and trauma-sensitive resilience coach with extensive experience in integrative medicine, mindfulness, and stress reduction techniques.
Learn the science of calm—and live from the heart.
The Gullah Geechee Story: A Legacy of Resilience and Culture |
| OSHR 5077 The Rich Legacy of the Gullah-Geechee
Hidden in plain sight, the Gullah Geechee narrative is one of America’s most overlooked chapters. Kidnapped from West and Central Africa and enslaved for over two centuries on the coastal islands of South Carolina, Georgia, and northern Florida, this community endured unimaginable hardship—yet preserved a vibrant culture that still shapes our lives today. |
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From language and music to foodways and folklore, the Gullah Geechee people gave us treasures like Kumbaya,
the banjo, shrimp gumbo, and Br’er Rabbit. But their survival remains under threat—from rising seas, crushing taxes, and relentless development that erodes both land and heritage.
This course explores their extraordinary journey, their cultural contributions, and their ongoing fight to protect what remains. Whether you’re new to this story or returning for updated material, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of a people whose strength and creativity continue to inspire.
About the Instructor:
Dale Mary Grenfell is a writer and storyteller with a lifelong passion for history and cultural preservation.
Discover the culture that shaped America—and the struggle to keep it alive.
If you think this course list is exciting, wait until you see the whole show! Browse the full catalog by clicking Spring 26 Online Catalog |
IGNITE YOUR CURIOSITY THIS SPRING WITH THESE ONE-READ RELATED CLASSES! |
Together, they offer Wildfire Wisdom: A Kaleidoscope of Science, Smoke, and Stewardship. |
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Wildfires are reshaping life in the West—our forests, air, economies, and neighborhoods. These five courses stitch together the big picture and the practical steps, blending research, real-world experience, and hands-on strategies so you can understand what’s happening, why it matters, and what you can do about it. |
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What you’ll gain
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A clear grasp of how wildland fire behaves—and how management decisions are made.
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Actionable tools to reduce home and property risk (home hardening, defensible space, ember awareness, fire-wise landscaping).
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Insight into the science of forest recovery and how collaborative, evidence-based work guides restoration after fire.
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Practical air-quality know how to protect yourself and your community during ozone and smoke events.
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A data-driven look at Colorado’s evolving wildfire patterns and their ripple effects on local economies.
Wildfire related courses at a glance (five distinct lenses):1. OSHR 3349 OLLI Bonus: Restoring Resilience: Collaborative Science for Colorado’s Post-Fire Forests |
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| See how collaborative, science-based efforts are restoring burned landscapes and sustaining water, wildlife, and communities. Learn how researchers, land managers, and local partners turn findings into on-the-ground strategies that help forests thrive after fire. |
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OSHR 3348: OLLI Bonus: Community-Driven Resources for Real Air Quality Challenges
Explore easy-to-use tools and guidance developed with residents most affected by ozone, wildfire smoke, and air toxics. Discover how centering community voices leads to informed, protective decision-making—and bring your own ideas to shape future resources. |
3. OSHR 8104: An Essential Ecological Process: Introduction to Wildland Fire
Build a solid foundation: what wildland fire is, the roles of fuel, topography, and weather, and how incident management works. Then move from concepts to action with homeowner mitigation basics—understanding ember threats, creating defensible space, and prioritizing upgrades that matter. |
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4. OSHR 3346: OLLI Talks: Battle Scars: Trends in Wildfire Size and Impact across Colorado
Trace how fire patterns have shifted since 1990 and why a small number of large events now drive most losses. Examine county-level impacts, and the economic ripple effects on tourism, jobs, and community resources—using visuals and discussion to make complex trends clear.
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Why these classes are worth your time: You’ll leave with clarity, confidence, and a personalized set of next steps—plus checklists, discussion time, and resources you can use immediately. Whether you’re a homeowner, volunteer, lifelong learner, or simply curious, this series offers a panoramic view and practical tools for a future defined by change.
MEET THE AUTHOR WHOSE BOOK SPARKED THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THESE COURSES! |
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Introducing Our Spring One-Read: Playing with {Wild}fire by Laura PritchettThis season’s selection invites readers into a powerful exploration of resilience, renewal, and the human connection to a changing planet. Through inventive storytelling and bold perspectives, Playing with Wildfire challenges us to reflect on how we live—and how we rise from the ashes. |
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Save the Date:
April 16 | 10:00 a.m.
Join us for an exclusive author event:
OSHR 3352 001 – Playing with {Wild}fire: Author Talk with Laura Pritchett
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to engage with the author and uncover the deeper layers of her work. |
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. |
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This excellent book can be purchased locally or online at *Firehouse Books, *
The Bookstore on the Square, or online at Amazon or
Barnes & Noble Books.
*Old Firehouse Books and The Bookstore on the Square in Fort Collins offer 20% discounts to OLLI members. |
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU: NURTURE YOUR MIND WITH THESE RESOLUTIONS |
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1. Read for 20 Minutes DailyWhy: Regular reading strengthens neural connectivity, improves memory, and slows cognitive decline.
Evidence: Reading stimulates multiple brain regions and builds cognitive reserve, delaying age-related decline.
Source: Yale longitudinal study; American Academy of Neurology; Verywell Mind, collegenp.com |
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2. Learn a New Skill Every QuarterWhy: Learning new skills promotes neuroplasticity, which helps the brain adapt and stay resilient.
Evidence: Neuroplasticity rewires neural circuits, improving memory and cognitive flexibility at any age.
Source: Cleveland Clinic, Allied Academies, Neurology Insights,
verybigbrain.com |
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4. Take a Class Outside Your Comfort ZoneWhy: Novel challenges stimulate brain plasticity and strengthen problem-solving skills.
Evidence: Engaging in unfamiliar activities builds new neural pathways and enhances cognitive reserve.
Source: Harvard Health, U.S. News, Science of Mind |
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5. Practice Active RecallWhy: Retrieval practice significantly improves long-term memory retention compared to passive review.
Evidence: Studies confirm the “testing effect”—active recall strengthens memory and learning efficiency.
Source: Roediger & Karpicke, Recall Academy, Thrive Center,
osmosis.org |
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7. Commit to Digital LiteracyWhy: Digital literacy improves cognitive flexibility and adaptability in complex environments.
Evidence: Research links digital skills to enhanced problem-solving and reduced cognitive load.
Source: Journal of Learning for Development, Springer,
ResearchGate |
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8. Teach What You LearnWhy: Teaching others activates retrieval practice and deepens understanding (Protégé Effect).
Evidence: Preparing to teach improves comprehension and retention more than re-study.
Source: Applied Cognitive Psychology, Effectiviology, Collegenp |
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9. Schedule Weekly “Brain Workouts”Why: Puzzles, language learning, and music practice enhance memory, attention, and executive function.
Evidence: Word puzzles improve processing speed; music boosts cognitive flexibility and emotional health.
Source: UCSF, International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, Neurolaunch |
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10. Set a Lifelong Learning GoalWhy: Goal-setting increases motivation, persistence, and cognitive engagement.
Evidence: Specific, challenging goals activate the brain’s reward system and improve performance.
Source: Oxford Research Encyclopedia; DAVRON; APA Journal |
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TURN YOUR RESOLUTIONS INTO ACTION—UNLOCK NEW POSSIBILITIES AND START YOUR LIFELONG LEARNING JOURNEY WITH OLLI TODAY! |
NEW YEAR. NEW CONNECTIONS. NEW IMPACT—VOLUNTEER WITH OLLI! |
| | As we step into a new year, why not take your commitment to lifelong learning to the next level? Volunteering with OLLI is a meaningful way to strengthen your connection to our vibrant community. Whether you lend a hand behind the scenes, assist instructors, or greet new members, your time and talents truly matter. |
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Volunteering isn’t just about giving back—it’s about meeting new people, shaping the future of lifelong learning, and having fun along the way!
We’re excited to share that Terry Nolan is serving as OLLI's Volunteer Coordinator. Join Terry in supporting OLLI by clicking this LINK to tell us about your volunteer interests. We have opportunities for every skill set and schedule—there’s a place for YOU!
Let’s make 2026 a year of connection, contribution, and community. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Start the New Year by Making a Difference with OLLI! |
🌍 LIFELONG LEARNING, GLOBAL EDITION |
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Discover Belize with OLLI at Colorado State!Over 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.
Watch the EF Launch Presentation HERE or check out the PowerPoint
HERE. |
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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. Belize is the perfect destination for our next OLLI adventure! Nine days for a starting price of $3,939.
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OLLI at Colorado State is traveling to Portugal and Spain in April. Don’t miss out on this fabulous trip! |
| Join fellow OLLI members in
Portugal and Spain with EF Tours April 26-May 6, 2026. If you’ve been considering joining,
sign up soon because prices go up in February! Starting price of $3,829.
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Download the itinerary HERE
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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" |
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OLLI at the University of Denver is traveling to NYC with Road Scholar in November and invites you to join them on an incredible theater experience! Learn more about this Best of NYC Theater trip at an online informational meeting on Monday, January 19, 11 a.m. |
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Go Next cruise on July 28-August 6, 2026
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Starting price of $3,399
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See the ship details, itinerary, deck plans, and pricing options HERE
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Watch the Go Next trip launch presentation HERE
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Download a flyer HERE
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Call Go Next at 1-800-842-9023 for more information or to book
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THE TOYS FOR TOTS GIFTS HAVE BEEN DISTRIBUTED! |
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Thank You for Making a Difference!Because of your generosity, countless disadvantaged children will experience the joy of the holiday season through Toys for Tots. Every gift you donated is more than a toy—it’s a message of hope, love, and possibility. Together, as a community, we’ve turned compassion into action, and that impact will be felt for years to come. Thank you for opening your hearts and making this season brighter for those who need it most. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward—because every day is an opportunity to make a difference. |
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READY, SET, REGISTER! YOUR GUIDE TO OLLI COURSE SIGN-UP |
How to Register for OLLI Classes
Registration Dates
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January 13, 9 a.m.
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Online registration opens for Art & Design courses.
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January 14, 9 a.m.
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Online registration opens for all courses.
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January 22, 2–4 p.m.
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In-person registration at the Open House at the Fort Collins Senior Center.
Review important Registration Tips HERE to avoid common problems on opening day.
Ways to Register1. Online2. In-Person
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Attend the Open House at the Senior Center or call 970.491.7753 to schedule an appointment at Drake Hall.
3. Phone
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Call the office 970.491.7753 and register over the phone.
Completing Your Online Registration
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Click “Add to Cart” on the course detail page.
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Before Adding a Course to Your Cart:
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Check Important Details in the Section Detail Box(es) on the right side of the page:
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Course Sections:
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Beside the course description on the right side of the page, you’ll find course section boxes that contain key information such as the date and location of the course.
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Each section appears as a box on the right side of the page.
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If there are multiple sections, you’ll see multiple boxes.
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Only one box will appear open at a time
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Use the + and – icons to expand or collapse a box
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See the visual below.
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Use the information in these boxes to confirm your course information BEFORE selecting the “Register” button.
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For courses with multiple dates, confirm you are selecting the section meeting on the preferred date.
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For courses with an Online option, ensure you are choosing the section meeting at the desired location, online or Drake Hall.
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Visual Guide: Refer to the images above for examples.
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When finished selecting courses, go to your cart and click “Checkout”.
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Log in with your email and password.
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If you don’t have an OLLI account, you’ll be prompted to create one.
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If you forgot your password, click the “Forgot Password” button and check your email for a reset password option. You can also call the office, and we can help you reset your password.
6. After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with Zoom links for online classes. Please save this email in a folder in your inbox.
Need Help?If you experience any issues:
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Email: OLLI@colostate.edu
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Phone: 970-491-7753
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In-Person: By appointment or at the Spring Open House at The Senior Center.
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OLLI EXPLORATIONS: A GIFT FROM THE OLLI AT THE UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE |
| Please note that these courses are free, but registration is required. See more information HERE. |
OFFICE HOURS:
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Drake Hall is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
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Our address is 2545 Research Blvd. Fort Collins, CO 80526.
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Please note that the OLLI office will be closed January 1 - 2.
CONTACT INFORMATION: |
KEEP THE FIRE OF LEARNING BURNING BRIGHT |
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As the new year ramps up, we’re reminded of the glowing hearth that OLLI represents—a place where curiosity sparks, ideas crackle, and friendships warm the soul. Every class, every conversation, every shared insight adds fuel to this fire, creating a space where lifelong learning thrives.
But a fire needs tending. Your generosity is the wood that keeps the flames strong. With your support, we can stoke the embers of opportunity—providing scholarships, drawing exceptional instructors, and ensuring that everyone has a seat by the fire.
Like logs added to a winter blaze, each gift brings light, warmth, and connection to our community. Help us keep the fire alive—make your gift to OLLI today and let the glow of learning carry us 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 |
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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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