Lifelong Learning: Exploring the ASU Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Arizona State University (ASU) offers a diverse array of low-cost educational and cultural courses and programs for adults aged 50 and over. For a decade, OLLI at ASU has catered to the intellectual curiosity and personal growth of the "encore generation," providing opportunities to explore new interests, expand horizons, and connect with like-minded individuals.

A Diverse Curriculum

Each fall and spring, OLLI showcases a new lineup of low-cost educational and cultural courses and programs, all without tests, grades or educational requirements. With over 90 classes offered each semester, the curriculum spans a wide range of subjects, including history, art, music, opera, travel, creative writing, science, current events, literature, geography, religion, physics, space, Shakespeare, and more.

Recent fall classes have included diverse topics such as:

The Science of Dog Intelligence
The Morass in the Middle East
Religious Traditions of the World
Artists of the American West
Genetic Disorders and Medical Ethics
Exploring the Masters of Jazz
Grave Robbing for Fun and Education (a class on the historical use of cadavers in medicine and science)

For those with an interest in the performing arts, OLLI offers opportunities to delve into the history and development of improvisational and murder mystery theater, sometimes followed by attendance at a full-stage production.

OLLI is also holding school on Saturdays this fall at the Tempe Public Library, with a class called From Hildegard to Streisand: Perspectives on Women in Music.

New Offerings

OLLI at ASU continually evolves to meet the changing interests of its members. Recent semesters have seen the introduction of new courses, such as the first class in Spanish, Escribir Phoenix (or Writing Phoenix), held at the ASU Downtown Phoenix campus and led by ASU Regents’ Professor David Foster.

Locations and Registration

Classes are conveniently located in locations throughout the Valley: the ASU West and Downtown Phoenix campuses, Tempe Connections at the Tempe Public Library, Friendship Village Tempe and Maravilla Scottsdale.

Registration is available online for fall short courses and lectures that begin in September, October, November and December. The printed schedule is typically available in late August at most public libraries, senior and community centers, and online at the OLLI website.

The Encore Generation

“The 50-plus generation is now known as the encore generation,” says Richard Knopf, director of OLLI at ASU. “Never has there been a greater thirst by seniors to explore, chart new destinies, expand horizons and serve others.”

OLLI at ASU recognizes the unique needs and desires of this demographic, providing opportunities for lifelong learning, personal enrichment, and community engagement.

Read also: Explore OLLI Programs

The Bernard Osher Foundation

OLLI at ASU is funded in part by the Bernard Osher Foundation, which supports university-quality educational offerings for mature students interested in learning for the love of learning. ASU is one of several colleges and universities across the United States to have been awarded a permanent Osher Foundation endowment to sustain and support its programs.

Tempe Connections

“Tempe Connections” is one of many Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Arizona State University (OLLI at ASU) locations in the greater Phoenix area providing learning experiences and a community where adults ages 50+ engage in non-credit, university-quality classes, member-driven programs, campus-based learning opportunities, and pathways to public service. Diverse short classes covering science, art, literature, world religions, politics, and more are taught by premiere ASU faculty, emeritus professors, and talented community scholars. Classes meet in our 40-seat Program Room, adjacent to Connections Cafe.

Sample Courses and Lectures

OLLI at ASU offers a wide variety of courses and lectures each semester. Here are a few examples of past offerings:

Florentine Baroque Art: The Phoenix Art Museum presents more than 30 examples of painting, sculpture, and decorative arts drawn from the most important Florentine Baroque art collection outside of Italy, assembled over more than 40 years by Houston-based art collector and co-founder of the Medici Archive Project, Sir Mark Fehrs Haukohl. Featured artworks by local Florentine artists and artists across Europe reflect Florence’s flourishing art industry, as well as the cultural and intellectual legacy of the Medici Grand Dukes on the Renaissance and Baroque movements.
Digital Devices and Mental Health: Explore how digital technologies and artificial intelligence affect the brain, behavior, and mental health. This course examines the impact of modern devices on attention, memory, emotions, and decision-making, while addressing ethical concerns like privacy and tech-based addictions.
Behind the Scenes at Chase Field: Step onto the home turf of the Arizona Diamondbacks and experience Chase Field like never before! This exclusive guided tour for OLLI members offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Major League Baseball’s most unique ballparks - complete with a retractable roof, poolside areas, and air-conditioned comfort in the heart of downtown Phoenix. During this 90-minute experience, participants will walk through the main concourse, dugout, and suite level, visit the luxury suites and Diamondbacks Hall of Fame exhibits, and tour the premium season ticket locations where Advantage Members sit. The experience also includes a Q&A session with members of the Diamondbacks ticket sales staff (TBD).
Legendary Couples in History: Let’s delve into the lives and loves of history’s most legendary couples - from the mythic romance of Antony and Cleopatra to the passionate entanglement of Napoleon and Josephine. We’ll spotlight iconic literary figures like the Brownings, as well as famous royal duos, musical geniuses, and pioneering partners in science.
Presidents and the Press: This class will explore how and why the press became a protected “business” and examine the early relationship between the Founders and the media. We will discuss Presidents and the media in wartime - how presidents have “used” the press, from party newspapers to radio, television, and now digital platforms. The class will also cover the rise of right-wing media in the 1980s and how the repeal of the Fairness Doctrine enabled Rush Limbaugh and his acolytes to dominate the airwaves.
Mountain States Bumble Bee Atlas: are helping to map and protect these important native pollinators. Amy is an Endangered Species Conservation Biologist with the Xerces Society and the coordinator of the Mountain States Bumble Bee Atlas, which covers Colorado, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming.
Geology of the Valley of the Sun: Join McDowell Sonoran Conservancy docent and former executive director of the MSC, Mike Nolan, as he explains, through the eyes of a geologist, the “deep” history of the Valley of the Sun. The rocks and landscape around Phoenix reflect a long and complex geological history dating back more than 1.5 billion years. From ancient continental collisions to more recent volcanic activity, the physical world around us is the result of our geological past.
Stress Reduction Techniques: This class is a journey that will teach you how to change the way your brain responds to stress. It will provide education so that you understand why stress can alter both mental and physical health and will teach you how to reduce the effect of stress on your mental and physical health and longevity.
The First Amendment: The First Amendment’s speech and press freedoms are cornerstones of American democracy. Their presence - or absence - affects who we are as individuals, as a nation, as a culture, and as a species. A common question arises: Do we stand for principles that encourage or limit these freedoms? Just as journalists ask “Who? What? When? Where? Why? How?” to evaluate a story, we’ll do the same with this topic. Finding answers will take us into the realms of law, history, philosophy, journalism, and politics.
Easy Dessert Decorating: You don’t need to be Betty Crocker or a professional pastry chef to whip up desserts that look and taste amazing. Impressive sweets aren’t reserved for TV kitchens or high-end bakeries. With just a few simple techniques, a dash of creativity, and some basic ingredients, anyone can create stunning treats right at home. A swirl of whipped cream, a scattering of fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of chocolate can completely transform a simple dessert into something eye-catching and elegant. All it takes is a willingness to try, a sense of fun, and maybe a sweet tooth or two to share.
Memory Enhancement: Join Dr. Billie Enz, ASU Emerita professor, in this interactive session. We will discuss our intertwined memory systems, including sensory, working- and long-term memory. We will also review factors that enhance and inhibit memory and review practical ways to strengthen our memory throughout our lives.
The Shape of Movies: Why do some movies fill your entire TV screen while others leave black bars? Why are filmmakers like Christopher Nolan embracing IMAX - a format once reserved for natural history museums? And whatever happened to 3D - was it a fad, or a future that never quite arrived? This lively, visually rich class traces how the “shape” of movies has evolved from early Hollywood to the present day. We’ll explore why studios pushed widescreen technologies in the 1950s, how letterboxing and pan-and-scan transformed home viewing, and why directors like Quentin Tarantino and Paul Thomas Anderson are reviving vintage formats such as 70mm and VistaVision.
Experiences of Holocaust Survivors: What is the definition of a “survivor,” and what were the common denominators for almost all survivors? Certainly, fear, food insecurity/starvation, and trauma. However, it would be erroneous to paint all survivors with the same brush-each experience is unique. This diversity is shaped by pre-war, war, and post-war factors, including age, geography, socio-economic status, family circumstances, and the wide range of wartime experiences. Post-war experiences also had a significant impact on survivors.
Archaeology and Modern Technology: Join Dr. Matthew Peeples, an Associate Professor in the School of Human Evolution and Social Change, for a one-of-a-kind class designed by an OLLI at ASU Intergenerational Learning Service Scholarship recipient. You will be introduced to the fascinating world of archaeology and discover how modern technology is transforming the way we study the past. Throughout this course, you will learn how archaeologists use new technologies to record and collect data from rock markings left behind by prehistoric Indigenous peoples.
Fabulous Female Singers of the Fifties: "Steve Bergsman Presents Fabulous Female Singers of the Fifties" is a 90-minute multimedia presentation that combines discussion of the songs and singers of the 1950s with on-screen visuals and, of course, audio of the era’s greatest tunes. The show is based on two books Bergsman wrote: "All I Want Is Lovin’ You" (about white female singers of the era) and "What a Difference a Day Makes" (about Black female singers of the era). The program moves chronologically. With the recent passing of Connie Francis, Bergsman has updated the presentation to highlight her contributions. It begins with songs like Teresa Brewer’s "Music! Music!
Winston Churchill: Join Randy Otto for a one-hour class and a 90-minute performance portraying Winston Churchill. Whether delivering Churchill’s iconic speeches or engaging in one-on-one dialogues during “Ask Winston,” Otto conveys the essence of quick Churchillian wit, fierce tenacity, and the “never give in” resolve that inspired not only the British people but also rallied the free world in defense of liberty and freedom. Through his dedication, research, and passion for storytelling, Otto brings to life the complexities of this remarkable leader, highlighting the enduring relevance of Churchill’s legacy and the lessons it offers for future generations. During the class, Randy will discuss the history behind Churchill and explain how he prepares and recreates the character.
Bertha Benz's Pioneering Journey: In 1888, Bertha Benz made history as the first person to undertake a long-distance journey by automobile, showcasing the potential of her husband Carl Benz’s groundbreaking invention. Her daring 65-mile trip not only proved the practicality of the automobile but also ignited a global transformation in transportation.
Movie and TV Filming Locations Around the World: From "Jaws" to "The Graduate," "James Bond" to "The Birds," "Midnight Express" to "Breaking Bad," take a journey with a leading travel journalist to explore the places around the world where some of the most iconic movies and TV series were filmed.
Food Idioms: Join Chef Larry Canepa for a flavorful journey into the quirky, colorful world of food idioms! From “bringing home the bacon” to “spilling the beans,” many of the expressions we use every day have surprisingly rich - and sometimes downright bizarre - histories. These idioms often trace back to historical events, cultural traditions, and legendary figures, revealing how food has shaped not just our meals but our language and storytelling. You will discover the origins and meanings behind some of the most curious and creative food-related phrases in English. Along the way, we’ll enjoy tastings of a few delicious favorites that tie into the idioms we explore.
Alaska: Climate, Politics, and Beauty: From the top of Mt. Denali to the Arctic Coastal Plain, Alaska is a place of raw natural beauty and power, home to glaciers, tundra, caribou, and both polar and grizzly bears. Alaska also has a colorful political history that began as Seward’s Folly, progressed to a front line of the 20th-century Cold War, and today serves as a stage where the entire climate change debate plays out on a landscape rapidly experiencing the warming effects of fossil fuel combustion - while also being developed for the extraction of those same fuels.
Indigenous Art at the Heard Museum: Come experience Indigenous creativity at the Heard Museum! Dan Hagerty, Chief Advancement Officer, will welcome you with a 30-minute presentation about the museum. Following the welcome, enjoy a guided tour with Heard Museum Assistant Registrar Roshii Montaño (Diné) of Kay WalkingStick / Hudson River School, which showcases landscape paintings by the renowned contemporary Cherokee artist Kay WalkingStick in conversation with classic works from The New-York Historical Society’s 19th-century Hudson River School collection. The exhibition examines contemporary Indigenous art within the changing discourse of American art history while also sparking critical discussions on land dispossession.
Literary Memoir: This class will cover the basic tools of literary memoir, with a focus on micro and flash memoir - memoirs in the 250-1,000-word range. We'll read, discuss, and write micro-memoirs, which we'll share in class and with your permission, publish on the ASU OLLI Community Blog.
Challenging Ageism: We live in a society that values youth more than the elderly. As a result, older Americans may feel discounted and are likely to experience age discrimination. Mature individuals can be their own worst enemies by buying into the false notion that they have less to offer society. Join Dr. Jack Gilbert, a Clinical Professor in the College of Health Solutions at ASU, to explore ways to challenge these assumptions and learn about pathways for contribution and purpose according to your own wishes. We will focus on valuable research and gain a first-hand appreciation of the challenges faced through Dr.
Global History of the Pacific Ocean: Grand narratives of global history often emphasize human movement across the Atlantic - when they consider oceans at all. Yet the Pacific Ocean has long been a vital arena of human activity, rich in stories of migration, cultural exchange, and ecological transformation. In this engaging talk, Dr. Toby Harper presents the Pacific not merely as a backdrop but as a central force in shaping global history.
Violence and Order in Territorial Arizona: Dr. Eduardo Pagán, Bob Stump Endowed Professor of History at Arizona State University, will delve into the nature of Violence and Order in Territorial Arizona. Taking 1874 as a case study, he explores what essentially was a low‑intensity warfare amid weak civil institutions, which illustrates how violence enforced territorial settlement and mirrored wider Western trends of high per capita homicide rates in sparsely populated frontiers. He also examines spatial patterns to determine where violence is most likely to occur, under what circumstances, and with what means.
Sports and Politics: Sports and politics have always been connected, even when athletes and fans claim they’re separate. From the original Olympics to Jesse Owens competing in Nazi Germany in 1936, to Muhammad Ali’s resistance to the Vietnam War draft, the two have been intertwined - whether we like it or not. This course explores the historical relationship between sports and political movements, as well as how politics has shaped the world of sports.
The Music of America: This four-week series explores the music of America and how it both shaped - and was shaped by - the nation’s identity from its infancy to the present day. We’ll begin by examining what America inherited musically from the European roots of its colonists and how the people and the land they encountered influenced and expanded that musical language. How did different approaches to religious life shape the music used in rituals and ceremonies? Regional influences also played a major role in the development of American music, and we’ll explore those contributions.
Big Band Music: In 1935, with the breakthrough of the Benny Goodman Orchestra, jazz became the most popular music in the United States. Big bands existed before Goodman, and today we have around 100 years of this music to explore, dating back to the 1920s with early e…

Additional Learning Opportunities at ASU

Beyond OLLI, ASU offers a wealth of learning opportunities for individuals of all ages, including:

Online English language and university preparation courses: ASU's online English language and university preparation courses provide high-quality content that is innovative, fun, and challenging.
Health and Wellness Courses in partnership with Mayo Clinic: Dive deep into the science and habits of a healthier lifestyle at your own pace. In partnership with Mayo Clinic, ASU reveals the latest in health and wellness.
Global Climate Change Course: Become an expert on global climate change and receive a digital badge from ASU while you’re at it. In this course, you’ll explore the impact of climate change with climate science dating as far back as the 1800s.
Media Literacy Resources: In the age of information overload, learn how to spot misinformation, assess credible sources and claims, explain how the professional news media operate and use media to participate in your community.
Water Stewardship Programs: Empower good water stewardship through systems, policies, and community water resilience.
Financial Literacy Guides: Build your own roadmap to financial freedom with monthly tips, tricks, and methods to successfully manage your personal finances. If current events have you concerned about your financial future, this guide can help - free advice and tips for staying financially secure.
Sustainability-Themed Activities: These engaging activities introduce students to central themes in sustainability science.
Resources for Arizona Teachers: Helping Arizona teachers thrive in the new reality where online instruction is a part of every school plan.
Career Resources: Whether you’re looking for your first job or the next step in your career, these resources will help you find the right opportunity, perfect your resume and nail your interview.
Data Analytics and Visualization Courses: Elevate your skills in data analytics and visualization to uncover insights that drive results. Master essential analytics tools and visualization techniques to make data-driven decisions and communicate with impact.
World War II Resources: If you are fascinated by World War II, the resources here give you the opportunity to discover new insights into the war and its legacies.
Distinguished Innovation Fellows (DIF) Program: Distinguished Innovation Fellows (DIF) provides a collaborative, structured opportunity for late-career/post-career adults to design and develop a project aimed at improving communities.
Citizen Science Projects: Through citizen science projects, you can help scientists answer questions they cannot answer alone. Share observations, analyze data and play online games to advance important research from astronomy to zoology.
Space Exploration Resources: Be part of a new generation of explorers as you learn what it takes to make space missions a reality.
Creative Tools for Challenging Times: Tools used by artists, designers and other creatives to adapt their process for these challenging times.
Resources for Informed Citizens: This rich library of resources is designed to help you be an informed and engaged citizen in American politics and democratic society.
Sun Devil Athletics Updates: Stay up to date and active with Sun Devil Athletics, even while you’re staying home.

Mirabella at ASU

Mirabella at ASU is a university-based retirement community where learning, connection, and exploration continue every day. Located on Arizona State University’s Tempe campus, it offers residents access to classes, cultural events, and campus life - all in a setting designed for comfort, inspiration, and future-ready care.

Read also: Lifelong learning for adults

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