Welcome to the May edition of the OLLI Insider - your monthly update designed to inform, invite, and inspire. |
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"Life is like riding a bicycle.
To keep your balance, you must keep moving."
-Albert Einstein |
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This spring, we’ve reached another incredible milestone—breaking our own membership record with more than 1,500 members (and still growing). It’s a powerful reflection of the curiosity, connection, and shared love of learning that define this community.
As we look ahead, we’re thrilled to extend the spring experience with over 40 new offerings into the summer. Registration for June classes opens on May 4 at 9:00 a.m., and continues throughout the session. We encourage you to take a few moments to plan for a smooth experience by reviewing key registration tips and tricks before May 4.
May also brings an opportunity to support the future of our institute by giving to the OLLI Program Fund, a featured opportunity during CSU’s Day of Giving on May 7. As costs continue to rise, this fund plays a vital role in keeping tuition accessible and supporting the special touches—like social gatherings—that make OLLI more than just a place to learn.
And speaking of gathering, we hope you’ll join us for two beloved spring traditions in Drake Hall:
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The OLLI Art Show on May 12, 1-3:00 p.m.
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The OLLI Poetry Reading on May 15, 10:00 a.m.
Looking a bit further ahead, we’re especially excited to unveil new 2027 travel opportunities on May 20, with information sessions at 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. From French wineries to the Italian Dolomites to New York City’s renowned art museums, these trips offer unforgettable ways to explore the world alongside fellow OLLI members and instructors. More information with info session zoom links are available on our OLLI travel page.
Thank you for bringing your never-ending curiosity to OLLI. It’s the energy that fuels this vibrant and welcoming community—and we’re so glad you’re part of it.
Warmly,
Meredith
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SPRING INTO LEARNING—EXPLORE THESE MAY CLASSES! |
| May 6, 10 a.m.-Noon, Drake Hall & Online
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Wildfire is part of living in the West—but preparation makes a real difference. Join us for a practical, solutions-focused class offered online and in person at Drake Hall on May 6, from 10:00 a.m. to Noon. This session focuses on clear, achievable actions homeowners can take to lower wildfire risk, including home hardening, creating effective defensible space, and making fire smart landscaping choices. Participants will also learn how small changes at home contribute to safer neighborhoods and more resilient communities.
The class is led by Janae Coston Malpas, Wildfire Mitigation Program Specialist with the Colorado State Forest Service. Janae manages statewide initiatives such as Community Wildfire Protection Plans, Firewise USA, Fire Adapted Communities, and wildfire mitigation grants. She also works with regional Wildfire Resilience Coordinators and statewide advisory groups to develop science based strategies that help communities adapt to wildfire risk. |
Discover the calming practice of shinrin yoku, or forest bathing—a Japanese approach to wellness rooted in spending intentional, mindful time in nature. In this gentle guided walk through a natural setting, participants will learn about the science and traditions behind forest bathing while being given space to fully experience it themselves. By slowing your pace and tuning into your surroundings, you’ll cultivate mindfulness, reconnect with a sense of awe, and leave feeling refreshed and grounded. The benefits extend far beyond the walk itself—supporting both mental clarity and overall health.
The experience is led by Alyssa Golinvaux, a registered nurse, massage therapist, yoga teacher, and KonMari® consultant devoted to helping others live more balanced, fulfilling lives. A Wyoming native with a deep appreciation for Colorado’s natural beauty, Alyssa brings a holistic, compassionate approach that supports participants physically, mentally, and emotionally. |
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Come on, get happy… and then get bold
May 13 5-6:30 p.m., Online |
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In Glenn Rosenblum’s upbringing, the world was shifting key signatures—and Broadway was, too. This lively, lecture concert experience steps into the revolutionary musicals of the 1960s and ’70s, when composers and lyricists tore up the old playbook and sang about things polite society preferred to whisper. From counterculture anthems to deeply human showstoppers, Glenn explores how Broadway stopped playing it safe and started telling the truth.
Think of it as a behind the scenes revival: how breaking Broadway’s “rules” gave us some of the most thrilling, goosebump raising numbers ever to hit the stage. If you love your musicals daring, heartfelt, and a little bit defiant, this one’s for you.
🎭 This lecture is offered in collaboration with OLLI at Pennsylvania State University.
Starring Glenn RosenblumTalent broker, actor, vocalist, globetrotting lecturer—and all around musical mensch—Glenn Rosenblum brings first hand theatrical flair to every lecture. Dubbed the “New Prince of Los Angeles Cabaret” by BroadwayWorld.com, Glenn’s stage, screen, and off Broadway credits are matched only by his passion for musical theatre history. When Glenn takes the mic, Broadway history doesn’t just talk—it sings.
Put on a happy face… and bring your jazz hands. |
🌞 TURN THE PAGE TO SUMMER! THE JUNE CATALOG IS HERE |
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CUE THE DRUMROLL…Our June Catalog is bursting onto the scene with 40 engaging classes, behind-the-scenes tours, and inspiring lifelong learning opportunities designed to spark curiosity throughout June. From thought provoking lectures to unforgettable experiences, there’s something for every learner ready to say yes to discovery.
🗓 Registration opens Monday, May 4, 9 a.m.
🎓 Classes begin June 1
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| CELEBRATING OUR OLLI ARTIST AND POETS WITH TWO SPECIAL EVENTS! |
Save the date to attend these special events!
You’re Invited! OLLI Art Show🎨Join us for a celebration of creativity at the Annual OLLI Art Show, featuring the work of our talented OLLI artists!
Come enjoy fabulous art, great company, and light refreshments in a warm, welcoming setting. Whether you’re an art lover, a curious browser, or just looking for a fun afternoon out, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
📅 Date: May 12
⏰ Time: 1-3:00 p.m.
📍 Location: Drake Hall
🎟️ Admission: Free and open to the public
Bring a friend, sip something refreshing, and spend the afternoon surrounded by imagination and inspiration. We can’t wait to see you there!
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You’re Invited! OLLI Spring Poetry Reading📖✨Step into a morning of words, wonder, and community at the OLLI Spring Poetry Reading, featuring our supremely talented OLLI poets reading their own beautiful, moving, and inspiring work.
Come to be supportive.
Come to be inspired.
Come to hear poetry that delights the ear, stirs the heart, and sparks the imagination.
📅 Date: May 15
⏰ Time: 10:00 a.m.–Noon
📍 Location: Drake Hall
🎟️ Admission: Free and open to the public
☕ Refreshments: Light refreshments available
Bring a friend, settle in, and enjoy a gathering filled with thoughtful language, creative energy, and warm company. Let poetry set the tone for your day—we can’t wait to share it with you!
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✈️ LIFELONG LEARNING, GLOBAL EDITION |
YOUR PASSPORT TO WONDER STARTS HERE |
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TRAVEL WITH EF TOURS IN 2027:Pack your curiosity and mark your calendar—EF, Go Next, and Road Scholar are preparing to unveil our 2027 voyages to inspiring destinations both near and far. We invite you to join us on May 20, as we present OLLI’s 2027 travel lineup—thoughtfully crafted experiences designed to spark learning, cultural insight, and a spirit of exploration.
Join EF Tours 11:00 a.m. May 20, Drake Hall or ONLINE for an exciting meeting introducing two new trips:
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A Wine Tour of France with Chris Hensey
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Hiking the Dolomites with Susan Atkinson
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ADDITIONAL 2027 TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES WITH ROAD SCHOLAR AND GO NEXT:NYC Art Museum Experience trip with Margaret Sharkoffmadrid. Join a Road Scholar presentation online on May 20, 10 a.m.
Greeks and Byzantines Cruise in October of 2027
Join a Go Next presentation at Drake Hall or Online on September 15, 1p.m.
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CELEBRATING OLLI ARTISTS IN THE COMMUNITY |
Visit the Fort Collins Museum of Art for an exciting opportunity to celebrate the creative contributions of our own OLLI community within a major Fort Collins arts event.
OLLI members Connie Bennett, Trudy Reeder, and Brian Carroll are among the featured artists this year, with their masks proudly on exhibit at the museum. Visit the Fort Collins Museum of Art for an exciting opportunity to celebrate the creative contributions of our own OLLI community within a major Fort Collins arts event. |
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MAY IS A MONTH OF UNCERTAIN WEATHERIn May…
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It May rain…
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It May snow…
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It May be sunny and warm!
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So, to weather the weather,
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Come prepared for all seasons in a day.
This may be a touch dramatic, but when Mother Nature shows restraint, the air conditioning rarely does. To weather the weather in all its forms, we recommend dressing in layers.
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Office Hours
9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
2545 Research Blvd. Fort Collins, CO 80526
Contact Information
(970) 491-7753.
OLLI@colostate.edu |
GIVING TO OLLI THROUGH RAM'S RISE 2026 |
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UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT'S ANNUAL DAY OF GIVING IS MAY 7
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This year, one of the funds that will be featured is Osher Program Support.
To give to OLLI through Ram's Rise: |
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When you hover over the picture a "Give Now" will appear.
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Click "Give Now" and enter your donation amount on the right side of the page.
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Under the amount field, look for a drop-down menu under Designation "Select a Designation"
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Open the drop-down menu and click on a new drop-down, "Engagement & Extension."
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Open the new drop-down and scroll down until you see "Osher Program Support".
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Click the "+" sign on the left and fill in the appropriate information.
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Scroll down and click on the "Go to Payment Page" to complete your donation.
Thank you for all you do to support OLLI and for considering this opportunity to donate through Rams Rise 2026.
You can also support OLLI by clicking the link or calling Thea at the number listed below.
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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