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OLLI Insider | August 2026
Welcome to the August edition of the OLLI Insider - your monthly update designed to inform, invite, and inspire. |
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Dear friends,
As we continue celebrating OLLI's 20th anniversary, I'm reminded that what makes this community so special isn't just the incredible courses we offer—it's the people who make them possible. Throughout this anniversary year, we'll be sharing new ways to celebrate our community and the many people who make OLLI such a vibrant place to learn and connect. |
| This month, we're excited to introduce a new OLLI STORE (use code CSUOLLI) featuring customizable apparel and other OLLI-branded merchandise. As a special anniversary offer, from August 1–14, you can order an OLLI-branded Gildan Cotton Tee (G500) for the cost of shipping only. Like every item in the store, it's fully customizable—choose your favorite color, logo, and size. |
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As we prepare for our Fall Open House and another exciting term beginning in September, we're also looking for members who would like to get more involved. Volunteers will play an increasing role going forward in assisting at events and serving as class hosts. If you've been thinking about volunteering, this is a wonderful time to join us. We'll be holding a Volunteer Training on Wednesday, September 9, at 10:00 a.m. Before attending, please complete our Volunteer Survey if you haven't already. Completing the survey helps us learn about your interests and connect you with opportunities that fit your schedule and talents.
Thank you for being part of what makes OLLI such a special community. I hope to see you at our Open House this month and throughout the exciting year ahead.
Warmly,
Meredith
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| We were saddened to learn of the passing of Dave Danbom on June 26. Dave was a beloved OLLI instructor whose courses in American history enriched our community, offering depth, clarity, and insight to all who had the privilege of learning from him. His thoughtful teaching and quiet presence left a lasting impression on his students and colleagues alike.
Dave led a remarkable life, marked by significant professional accomplishments—more details can be found on his Wikipedia page. Despite these achievements, he was known for his humility and understated manner.
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We are honored to share the following biography, provided by his son.
David B. Danbom died on June 26, 2026. He was 79 years of age. David was born in Denver on March 29, 1947, to Raymond and Rowene Danbom. He attended Denver Public Schools, graduating from George Washington High School in 1965. He attended Colorado State University, graduating in 1969. David received a scholarship to Stanford University, receiving a master's degree in 1970 and a Ph.D. degree in 1974. He taught American history at North Dakota State University from 1974 until his retirement in 2010. Over the course of his career, he published six books and won a number of teaching honors, including being designated Distinguished Professor.
David and his wife, Karen, moved to Loveland in 2011. In Loveland he remained active in his profession, serving for several years on the city’s Historic Preservation Commission and regularly teaching courses in the OLLI program at CSU. He is survived by his wife, Karen, his brother, Daniel, of Denver, his daughter, Elizabeth Cushmore, of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, his son, Mark, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, and four grandchildren. |
FALL INTO LEARNING AT OLLI |
Open House | New Location | Registration Dates | Class Start Schedule
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Celebrating 20 Years of Lifelong LearningThis fall marks our 20th season of lifelong learning at OLLI—a milestone we are excited to celebrate with our community. |
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Fall Open House - New Location |
Where:
Drake Centre
802 West Drake Road
Fort Collins, CO 80526
When:
Thursday, August 27, 2026
2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
What to Expect:
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Free and open to the public
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Door prizes
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Light refreshments
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Inspiring instructors
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A welcoming community of lifelong learners
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🗓️ Registration Information |
New this year:Fall registration will open after the Open House so members can meet instructors before registering.
Registration Dates
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Art & Design Classes - September 1, 9:00 a.m.
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All Other Classes - September 2, 9:00 a.m.
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Fall Term Highlights
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Term begins September 21
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Over 200 classes
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128 instructors
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7 subject categories
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7 bonus classes
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Options include
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Online
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Offsite
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Drake Hall
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Get Ready for Fall—Join OLLI TodayWe encourage you to purchase your membership in advance to ensure a smooth registration experience. Taking a few moments to sign in early allows you to confirm your account access and address any technical issues before registration opens—helping you save time and avoid unnecessary stress.
Now is the perfect time to take the first step toward a more active, engaged mind. Join today and be ready to explore, learn, and connect this fall.
Why join now
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Prevent login issues
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Expedite registration
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Provide peace of mind
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OLLI SUPPORT TIPS & (YES… STILL VERY IMPORTANT) TRICKS |
You may recognize these—and that’s by design. A quick check now can save time and stress later ✔️
✅ Pre‑Registration Checklist🔐 Prepare Your Account
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Renew or establish your OLLI membership in August.
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Sign in early to confirm your account access.
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Resolve any login or technical issues before registration opens.
👉 Need help? We’re happy to assist:
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📧 OLLI@colostate.edu
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📞 970‑491‑7753
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(Have your credit card ready—we’ll help you get set for fall.)
📞 Update Your Contact Information
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Confirm your phone number is current
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Make sure your voicemail is active
👉 We only call in the event of a last‑minute class cancellation, so if you see our number—it’s important.
📬 Stay Connected
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Add OLLI to your contacts:
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Check your email settings so messages don’t go to spam
✔️ A few quick steps now = a smooth and stress free registration later. |
This is Part 2 of a two-part introduction. Part 1 appears in the July newsletter on the OLLI website.
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Terrence MonteTerrence Monte brings a multidisciplinary background that includes a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, a Master of Fine Arts, and a Master of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine. |
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He has taught yoga and meditation for more than 20 years and previously operated a successful acupuncture practice in Manhattan. Now based in Fort Collins, he continues his clinical work with a focus on herbal studies, OB/GYN care, and sleep disorders.
Fall Course: OSHR 9100 Introduction to Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture
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Lee NeedhamLee Needham is a lifelong educator and traveler with 30-year career teaching social sciences in the Poudre School District. |
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He brings a passion for culture, history, and experiential learning to his courses, with a particular interest in exploring regions through food, traditions, and daily life. Lee is also co-owner of Let’s Explore!, a cycling and walking tour company that emphasizes an immersive cultural discovery approach that informs his teaching.
Fall Course: OSHR 5109 Brie My Guest ~ Provence
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Amy O’BrienAmy O’Brien is a multidisciplinary artist whose career has included roles in hospitality, event planning, cosmetology, and business ownership. A lifelong creative, she works across a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, woodworking, and interior design. |
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She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art and Interior Design from California State University, Long Beach, and has taught art classes in both Iowa and Colorado. Her work spans portraits, landscapes, still lifes, and abstract pieces.
Fall Courses:
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OSHR 1048 An Acrylic Painting from Start to Finish: Fall Pumpkin
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OSHR 1057 An Acrylic Painting from Start to Finish: Holiday Painting
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OSHR 1049 An Acrylic Painting from Start to Finish: Holiday Ornaments
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Glenn RosenblumGlenn Rosenblum is a performer, lecturer, and talent professional with extensive experience in theatre and cabaret. He holds a B.A. in Theatre from UCLA and has trained at USC and Hofstra University. |
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His stage credits include leading roles in Cabaret, Guys and Dolls, Man of La Mancha, and Little Shop of Horrors, as well as Off-Broadway and recorded productions. His work has also appeared on television, and he has lectured internationally on musical theatre.
Fall Course: OSHR 3360 Broadway Showstoppers with Glenn Rosenblum
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Greg RussiGreg Russi practiced trial law for 34 years in Colorado and also served as a policymaker on the state’s Western Slope. He has taught courses on the U.S. Constitution in both Colorado and Washington, focusing on improving constitutional literacy for general audiences. His teaching emphasizes clear, accessible exploration of foundational legal principles. |
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Fall Courses:
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OSHR 3369 The Constitutional Right of Privacy at 100
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OSHR 6176 The U.S. Constitution for Lifelong Learners: Part One
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Herb SaperstoneHerb Saperstone is a geologist with degrees from the University of Vermont and Colorado State University, specializing in stratigraphy, sedimentology, and basin evolution. He has worked with ARCO Coal and the U.S. Geological Survey and later transitioned into science communication, developing educational programming on earth and environmental topics. |
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He currently volunteers as a naturalist in Larimer County, leading geology programs in local parks.
Fall Course: OSHR 1056 Uncovering Ancient Landscapes: A Field Study of Lory State Park’s Geology
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Leslie StewartLeslie Stewart retired from the Colorado State University music faculty in 2023 after serving as a violin instructor, conductor, and director of the CSU Concert Orchestra. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Violin Performance from the University of Southern California and has conducted youth and community orchestras nationwide. |
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A professional orchestral musician, she is an active performer and founding music director of the Health and Wellness Community Orchestra.
Fall Course: OSHR 7077 Women in Music
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Jacqueline Vickery, Ph.D.Jacqueline Vickery is a researcher, educator, and consultant specializing in media literacy and digital life. Formerly a tenured professor at the University of North Texas, she founded the Youth Media Lab and authored multiple books on media and culture. |
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She now leads Mindful Media, a consulting practice that supports organizations navigating digital environments. She is also active in community service in Fort Collins.
Fall Courses:
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OSHR 3390 Travel Smarter with Digital Tools: Trip Planning
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OSHR 3391 Travel Smarter with Digital Tools: Navigating a Destination
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OSHR 3392 Travel Smarter with Digital Tools: Documenting Your Journey with Polarsteps
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OSHR 3386 Scroll Smarter: Spotting Fake News and Misinformation Online
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OSHR 3387 Scroll Smarter: Detecting Deepfakes and Manipulated Images
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OSHR 3388 Scroll Smarter: Recognizing Conspiracy Theories and Propaganda Online
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OSHR 3389 Scroll Smarter: Protecting Yourself from Social Engineering and Online Deception
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Randy Wall
Randy Wall holds a doctorate from the University of Colorado Boulder and has spent more than two decades immersed in French language and culture. An educator and avid traveler, he has led walking and cycling tours throughout France and co-founded a boutique tour company with Lee Needham. His teaching reflects a deep appreciation for regional culture, particularly the landscapes, cuisine, and traditions of Provence.
Fall Courses:
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OSHR 5109 Brie My Guest ~ Provence
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OSHR 4131 Conversational French for the French Curious
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DISCOVER LOCAL EVENTS AND EXPERIENCES THAT COMPLEMENT YOUR OLLI JOURNEY.
THE PIANO ODYSSIAD COMES TO LIFE |
THE STAGE IS SET | AUGUST 5–8Join us for a remarkable celebration of artistry and emerging talent. Attend the performances—or be part of the production by volunteering for this extraordinary event.
🎼 How to Get Involved & Attend |
🤝 Volunteer Opportunities
Be part of the experience behind the scenes:
Complete the volunteer form:
👉 odyssiad.com/volunteer
Contact the Volunteer Coordinator: Cecilia Dagg |
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🎟️ Concert Information & Tickets
Visit the official site for full concert details: 👉 odyssiad.com
Important Update:
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Tickets are no longer sold through CSU’s Box Office.
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All ticketed events are now available via Eventbrite
🎹 Ticketed Performances
Tickets are required for the following evening concerts:
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Monday, August 3
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Wednesday, August 5
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Saturday, August 8
👉 All other events are free and open to the public.
💙 OLLI Member Benefit
OLLI members receive a discounted ticket price:
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Use promotion code: OLLI
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Discounted ticket price: $30
🕒 Day-of Ticket Availability
Tickets will also be available:
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At the Registration / Will Call table
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Located on the first floor of UCA
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Beginning at 6:30 p.m. (one hour before the concert)
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✈️ LIFELONG LEARNING, GLOBAL EDITION |
Take your learning beyond the classroom in 2027. Explore unforgettable travel experiences designed exclusively for OLLI members.
👉Visit our website for full details and registration information.
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April 15–29, 2027 | 13 nights
EF Go Ahead & OLLI Tour
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Only 2 spots remaining!
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Double occupancy: $6,614
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Travel with OLLI instructor and sommelier Chris Hensey
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| June 15–24, 2027 | 8 nights
EF Adventures & OLLI Tour
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Double occupancy: $5,719
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Travel with OLLI instructor and award-winning landscape architect Susan Atkinson
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October 2–8, 2027 | 6 nights
Road Scholar & OLLI Tour
Double occupancy: $2,599 -
Travel with popular OLLI instructor Margaret Sharkoffmadrid
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KEVIN OLTJENBRUNS AND THE FOUNDING OF OLLI AT CSU - Honoring the leadership and dedication that brought lifelong learning to Colorado State University.
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| This year marks the 20th anniversary of a vision that continues to shape our community: making lifelong learning accessible to older adults who understand that curiosity never retires. At the heart of that vision was Kevin Oltjenbruns.
Kevin devoted more than 30 years to Colorado State University as a faculty member, advisor, and administrator. |
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A lifelong learner herself, Kevin played a pivotal role in bringing the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute to CSU. After co-authoring the successful 2006 grant application, she gathered a dedicated group of learners whose enthusiasm and commitment laid the foundation for what OLLI has become today—now thriving with more than 2,000 members.
Although Kevin passed away in 2018, her legacy lives on in every class offered and every connection made. The vibrant learning community we celebrate today stands as a testament to her vision, leadership, and enduring belief in the power of lifelong learning. |
🎉 BE PART OF THE 20TH SEASON |
| As we are preparing for another exciting year, we invite you to be part of OLLI’s 20th season of lifelong learning by joining our volunteer team.
Fall is just around the corner—and with registration opening and classes on the horizon, now is the perfect time to get involved. Whether you enjoy welcoming new members, supporting instructors, or helping behind the scenes, your time and talents make a meaningful difference. |
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Volunteering is also a wonderful way to connect with others and play an active role in the OLLI community as we begin a new season of discovery and learning.
Terry Nolan, Volunteer Coordinator, is ready to help you find the right fit.
👉 Click this link to share your interests and get started—there’s a place for everyone to grow with OLLI. |
🌿INVEST IN LIFELONG LEARNING
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CELEBRATE 20 YEARS—HONORING A LEGACY, INSPIRING THE FUTURE
As we mark OLLI’s 20th season of lifelong learning, we celebrate more than a milestone—we celebrate a legacy. From the enduring vision of Bernard Osher to the leadership that brought that vision to life at Colorado State University through Kevin Oltjenbruns, OLLI has grown into a vibrant community where curiosity thrives and connections flourish.
For two decades, members have come together to learn, share ideas, and explore new possibilities. Each class, conversation, and experience builds on the foundation these leaders helped create—one that continues to evolve with every new season.
As we look ahead, one meaningful way to honor this legacy is through giving. Your support helps sustain the diverse programs and opportunities that define OLLI, ensuring that future members can continue to learn, connect, and grow.
Celebrating 20 years is not only about reflecting on the past—it’s about investing in what comes next. Together, we carry forward a tradition of lifelong learning that continues to enrich lives and strengthen our community. |
Office Hours
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Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Contact Information |
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Until Next Month,
Your OLLI Staff |
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