Campus OLLI: Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) within the Greater Burlington Area

This program is full. Please register to join the waitlist. Spaces often open up.

with Davis Studio
Fee: $68

Cozy up for a morning of color exploration with this hands-on colored pencil workshop. Study plant life from direct observation while learning layering, blending, and burnishing techniques to create vivid, finished drawings. You’ll leave with a completed piece and renewed confidence in your drawing skills—perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike. Held in South Burlington. Activity Level 1.

Class Location: Davis Studio, 916 Shelburne Rd., South Burlington

Important Note: The room where this will take place is on the upper floor and will require the use of stairs.

with Amanda McIntire
Fee: $50

In this online program, introductory class, learn the basics of yoga, including the physical practice (asana), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation. Required equipment: Yoga or exercise mat. Yoga blocks and a yoga strap are encouraged. This session will be recorded. Held Online. Activity Level 2.

Required Materials: Yoga or exercise mat

Suggested Materials: Yoga blocks, yoga strap, blanket

with David Meyer
Fee: $20

In the late 1980s, NASA launched Mission to Planet Earth—a bold effort to study our planet as an integrated system. Learn how decades of satellite innovation and collaboration revolutionized our understanding of Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, and biosphere—and why current budget cuts threaten this vital work at a critical time for our planet’s future. Held Online. Activity Level 1.

Suggested Reading: It would be helpful to browse NASA’s Climate Change material.

with Birds of Vermont Museum
Fee: $20

Explore the fascinating world of Vermont’s winter birds—from hardy year-round residents to migratory visitors and surprise irruptions—all without stepping outside. In this engaging indoor program, you’ll learn how to identify common winter species, understand their seasonal behaviors, and discover how your interest in birds can support important conservation efforts. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne

with Rokeby Museum
Fee: $20

Join Rokeby Museum for an entirely 3D experience through our historic house and outbuildings, once a refuge for freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad. Utilizing the museum’s abundant collection of letters and artifacts, together we’ll unpack the myths and misconceptions about the movement as we discuss the experiences of Rokeby’s historic residents. Share stories from your own lives as we deconstruct the Robinson family’s activism and the lessons it holds for us today. Held Online. Activity Level 1.

with Robert Weibezahl
Fee: $70

In this online program, we move “across the pond” in our ongoing exploration of the art of the story. Together, we’ll delve into The Oxford Book of English Short Stories, discussing some of the finest examples from both celebrated and lesser-known English storytellers of the past 150 years—Dickens, Kipling, Hardy, Woolf, Waugh, Huxley, and many more. Participants read the stories in advance, and we then discuss them within the context of their time, exploring both their distinctive “Englishness” and their universal themes. No prerequisite required. Held Online. Activity Level 1.

Required Reading/Materials: The Oxford Book of English Short Stories, edited by A.S. Byatt

This program is full. Please register to join the waitlist. Spaces often open up.

with Dan Cox
Fee: $20

Ever wonder how professionals evaluate coffee? In this lively workshop, you’ll explore coffees from four major growing regions around the world, learning to assess aroma, flavor, and quality. Bring your senses and curiosity for a guided taste-testing adventure through the complex world of coffee. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Class Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne

Suggested Reading: 21st Century Coffee: A Guide by Kenneth Davids

with Tessa Lawler
Fee: FREE

This workshop introduces the science of stories through an engaging, hands-on case study. We’ll begin with an overview of narrative science and explore innovative tools developed by UVM’s Vermont Complex Systems Center to analyze stories in new ways. Then, we’ll apply these tools to a fascinating case study: English-language translations of Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey. By comparing multiple translations—spanning centuries and millions of words—participants will discover how storytellers shape meaning and influence culture across time. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Class Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne

This program is full. Please register to join the waitlist. Spaces often open up.

with Jacob Holzberg-Pill
Fee: $30

Bundle up and join us to explore the beauty and secrets of Vermont’s winter world. Learn to read the winter woods and practice identifying trees without their leaves. Discuss how local plants and animals survive the cold, and look for signs of wildlife—tracks, scat, and other clues that reveal the hidden stories of predator and prey. And, if snow conditions allow, practice wildlife tracking and trailing skills in the field. Held in South Burlington. Activity Level 4.

Class Location: Red Rocks, 4 Central Ave, South Burlington

with Teresa Tinenenji Mungazi
Fee: FREE

Hemp is re-emerging in the U.S. market as a versatile crop with a wide range of uses.This program explores the rising popularity of hemp and the “sustainability hype” surrounding it. We’ll examine how hype cycles shape consumer perception and discuss the impact of marketing messages in a trend-driven marketplace. The goal is to encourage critical thinking and a more informed, thoughtful approach to sustainability claims. Held Online. Activity Level 1.

with Rick Winston
Fee: $25

Many filmmakers have powerfully explored displacement, discrimination, and assimilation—from Mississippi Masala (Indians in the Deep South) to La Promesse (Africans in Belgium) and El Norte (Guatemalans in Los Angeles). Join Rick Winston as he shares clips and commentary from these and a dozen other films that illuminate one of the most urgent human issues of our time. Held in Burlington. Activity Level 1.

Class Location: VTIFF, 60 Lake Street, Suite 1C, Burlington

with Ron Miller
Fee: $60

Thomas Paine, the influential supporter of the American and French revolutions, and Edmund Burke, a respected reformer and orator in the British parliament, gave classic expression to divergent views of culture, human nature and social change. In this program we will consider their “great debate” and how it set the stage for liberal and conservative ideologies in the modern age. Our discussion could help you to better understand, and maybe question, assumptions underlying your own political beliefs. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Class Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne

Suggested Reading: The Great Debate by Yuval Levin (Basic Books, 2014)

with Erik Esselstrom
Fee: $20

Explore the historical relationship between China and the ‘Western’ world (Europe and North America) from the beginning of European exploration in East Asia during the 16th century until the era of China’s ‘rise’ as a global superpower during the 1990s and early 2000s. Our aim will be to examine and critically assess Western perceptions of the Chinese world from a deep historical perspective as a path toward a more sophisticated understanding of tension and conflict between China and the West today. Held Online. Activity Level 1.

with Jennifer Carlo, PhD and Toni Kaeding, MS RN
Fee: $20

Gain a clear understanding of Act 39 and the medical aid in dying (MAID) process in Vermont. Explore the purpose and requirements of the law, along with practical guidance for talking with your doctor and other healthcare providers about your wishes and end-of-life plans. The session offers space for questions, learning, and the sharing of personal stories in a supportive, life-affirming, and empowering discussion. Held Online. Activity Level 1.

with Rebecca Starks
Fee: FREE

Discuss The Autumn of the Patriarch, the book the Columbian Nobel laureate Gabriel García Márquez felt was his greatest accomplishment. Márquez called the 1975 novel about an unnamed, eternal Caribbean dictator “a poem about the solitude of power”; a reviewer called it “A stunning portrait of the archetype, the pathological fascist tyrant.” Be prepared for a complex, fluid narrative of multiple voices—let yourself be carried along and see where it takes you. Held Online. Activity Level 1.

Required Reading/Materials: The Autumn of the Patriarch by Gabriel García Marquez

with Amanda McIntire
Fee: $50

In this online program, introductory class, learn the basics of yoga, including the physical practice (asana), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation. Required equipment: Yoga or exercise mat. Yoga blocks and a yoga strap are encouraged. This session will be recorded. Held Online. Activity Level 2.

Required Reading/Materials: Yoga or exercise mat

Suggested Materials: Yoga blocks, yoga strap, blanket

with Brandon Tieso
Fee: $25

Artificial intelligence is transforming our world-but how, exactly? This discussion-based program explores AI’s real impacts on economics, work, and society. We’ll demonstrate current AI capabilities and unpack topics like algorithmic bias, data privacy, and the concentration of technological power while separating fact from fiction. No technical background needed-just curiosity and an open mind. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Class Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne

Suggested Reading: Optional resource handout provided after class

with Josephine Inserra
Fee: $25

Bring more peace and focus into your daily life through grounding, polarity and protection techniques, guided chakra meditation, affirmations, gratitude journaling and a technique for releasing negative thoughts. These simple yet powerful practices can help you feel more grounded, centered, and positive every day. They are a skill set that anyone can learn. Held Online. Activity Level I.

This program is full. Please register to join the waitlist. Spaces often open up.

with Weston Testo
Fee: $25

The University of Vermont’s Pringle Herbarium is home to nearly 400,000 plant specimens from around the world. Spanning centuries of botanical exploration in Vermont and beyond, it stands as a leading center for research on plant diversity, conservation, and evolution. Discover the rich history of botanical discovery, view rare and unusual plant specimens, and learn how scientists today use this remarkable collection to study biodiversity and the evolution of plant life. Held in Burlington. Activity Level 2.

Class Location: Jeffords Hall, UVM campus, 63 Carrigan Drive, Burlington

with Maeve Kim
Fee: $20

From dramatic coastlines and volcanic peaks to sage deserts and lush prairies, Oregon is a land of striking contrasts. Join Maeve Kim for an armchair adventure through the state’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant communities. As a birder, Maeve will touch on local birdlife, but the focus is on the beauty and uniqueness of Oregon’s habitats. Held Online. Activity Level 1.

This program is full. Please register to join the waitlist. Spaces often open up.

with Burlington Taiko
Fee: $25

Experience the power, energy, and rhythm of Taiko drumming—by doing it yourself! This interactive session invites you to explore the dynamic Japanese art form through voice, movement, and drumming. You’ll learn basic rhythms by speaking them first, then bring them to life on real Taiko drums. With live demonstrations, guided practice, and plenty of repetition, you’ll build confidence and skill in a supportive, high-energy environment. No experience needed—just come ready to move, play, and have fun! Held in Burlington. Activity Level 2.

Class Location: 208 Flynn Ave, Suite 3-G, Burlington

with Rebecca Starks
Fee: FREE

Discuss In the Time of the Butterflies by Dominican-American author (and Vermonter) Julia Alvarez. Her 1994 historical novel is based on the story of the Mirabal sisters, revolutionary heroes of the Dominican Republic who opposed Trujillo and helped bring about the downfall of his brutal regime (1930-1961). Held Online. Activity Level 1.

Required Reading/Materials: In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez

with Peter Henne
Fee: $20

In this online program, we explore the concept of “soft power” — a key yet often misunderstood element of U.S. foreign policy. What exactly is soft power? How has the United States used it to influence others? And is it truly in decline, as some fear? Through an accessible discussion of international relations theory and real-world examples, we’ll examine whether soft power has ever really mattered-and what role it might play in America’s future. Held Online. Activity Level 1.

This program is full. Please register to join the waitlist. Spaces often open up.

with Stephanie Robinson-Nigro
Fee: $30

Treat yourself to a morning of creativity and self-care! Learn to make your own natural body scrub, lip balm, and bath tea using simple, plant-based ingredients. You’ll leave with handmade products, new knowledge, and a deeper appreciation for mindful self-care—no experience needed. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Class Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne

Required Reading/Materials: All materials and supplies are provided by the instructor

This program is full. Please register to join the waitlist. Spaces often open up.

with Michael Strauss
Fee: $20

Discover drawing as more than art—explore it as a tool for thinking, learning, and discovery. In this hands-on workshop, participants will explore drawing as a method of inquiry, reflection, and communication. Through visual thinking strategies and sketching exercises, you’ll learn how drawing can deepen understanding, ignite creativity, and enhance teaching and learning—especially in scientific and interdisciplinary contexts. Held Online. Activity Level 2.

Note: This class CANNOT be taken using an iphone. Large ipads may suffice, but a large desktop computer or laptop is preferred, with an adjacent workspace. Also: It is also helpful to learn how to take a screenshot on your device.

Required Reading/Materials:
no. 2 pencils
erasers (regular pink as well as malleable gummy)
TOMBO pens (black) #N-17
watercolor pad of 140 lb. watercolor paper
vine charcoal sticks (soft)
pad of newsprint paper
pad of charcoal paper (not critical as newsprint will suffice)
Watercolor brush (medium)
Small set of watercolor paints
Charcoal pencils (soft and medium)
Paper towels
Container for water

Suggested Reading: Keys to Drawing by Dodson

This program is full. Please register to join the waitlist. Spaces often open up.

with Sylvia Oblak
Fee: $35

Dive into watercolor painting in this beginner-friendly workshop! Choose from a selection of pre-sketched images and learn simple yet effective techniques to create your own beautiful finished painting. Relax, have fun, and discover the joy of watercolor—no drawing experience required! Held in Milton. Activity Level 1.

Class Location: Milton Artists’ Guild, 199 US-7 S, Milton

Required Reading/Materials: All materials and supplies are provided by the instructor

with Chad Ervin
Fee: $25

Join the producer/director of a powerful new documentary, Gone Guys, for a timely conversation about the challenges facing boys and young men today. After viewing the film, participants will explore the growing disconnection many boys face in school, work, and community life—and how that disconnection is reshaping the social fabric in Vermont and beyond. Held in Burlington. Activity Level 1.

Class Location: VTIFF, 60 Lake Street, Suite 1C, Burlington

with Rebecca Starks
Fee: FREE

Dive into Mikhail Bulgakov’s The Master and Margarita, a brilliant satire of Soviet life and artistic struggle written during Stalin’s regime. We’ll explore its intertwining stories of the devil’s visit to Moscow, Pontius Pilate’s moral dilemma, and an unforgettable love story—while reflecting on art, courage, and freedom under authoritarianism. Held Online. Activity Level 1.

Required Reading/Materials: The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov

with Amanda McIntire
Fee: $50

In this online program, introductory class, learn the basics of yoga, including the physical practice (asana), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation. Required equipment: Yoga or exercise mat. Yoga blocks and a yoga strap are encouraged. This session will be recorded. Held Online. Activity Level 2.

Required Reading/Materials: Yoga or exercise mat

Suggested Materials: Yoga blocks, yoga strap, blanket

with Amanda Gustin
Fee: $25

Vermont has been a featured location in Hollywood movies for nearly a century. It has represented many different ideals during that time, and its portrayal reflects both Vermont’s own history as well as American history. Examining those films provides interesting and fun insights into the hold Vermont has had on imagination in the media age. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Class Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne

with Charlie Nardozzi
Fee: $25

Join nationally recognized gardening writer, speaker, radio and tv personality Charlie Nardozzi as he shares smart, safe ways to keep gardening as your body changes over time. Learn about adaptive tools, techniques, and plant choices that help you stay active, comfortable, and creative in the garden for years to come. Note: we will be live streaming this program for those who are unable to attend in-person. Held Online and in-person in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Due to unfortunate and unforeseen circumstances, we are no longer able to offer the online livestream option for this program.

Class Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne

with Jonathan Palmer
Fee: $20

In this interactive, in-person program, explore the fascinating ways music supports healing in medicine—especially in the rapidly advancing fields of neurology and neurorehabilitation. Learn how music helps the brain recover from challenges like aphasia, memory loss, and movement disorders. Participants will also share what music means to them and discover how to harness its power to enhance brain health and strengthen social connection at any age. Held in Shelburne, Activity Level 2.

Class Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne

with Ashley Robinson
Fee: $25

Ever wondered how our own gardens can be a source of real, impactful, positive change? As gardeners, property owners, caretakers and community members we can think differently about how to value our landscapes in support of biodiversity & ecosystem health. Join us as we explore the actions we can take at home to better support these relationships. From designing to sourcing & implementation we’ll discuss the ways we can make a difference, garden by garden, one community at a time! Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Class Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne

Suggested Reading: The Pollinator Victory Garden by Kim Eireman
Bringing Nature Home by Doug Tallamy
The Light Eaters by Zoe Schlanger
Planting in a Post-Wild World by Thomas Reinar & Claudia West
The Living Landscape by Darke & Tallamy

With Erin Talmage
Fee: $25

Get ready for summer birding with this interactive program. Learn techniques for observing, describing, sketching, and identifying birds – tools that will immediately help you become a better birder. Neither bird watching nor drawing experience is necessary–we promise! Participants can visit the Birds of Vermont Museum after the program. Held in Huntington. Activity Level 1.

Location: Birds of Vermont Museum, 900 Sherman Hollow Road, Huntington. Meet in the Museum. Parking available onsite.

with Davis Studio
Fee: $58

Spend an afternoon in the glass studio creating beautiful additions to add to your indoor flower pots and house plants. Participants will learn to cut and shape glass pieces that will be tack-fused together for a textured look. Create unique designs and colorful patterns. No experience necessary. Finished pieces will be ready for pick-up about one week from the workshop date. Participants will receive an email from their instructor when it is ready. Held in South Burlington. Activity Level 2.

Location: Davis Studio, 916 Shelburne Rd., South Burlington. Designated parking available at Davis Studio. The glass studio is located on the lower level which requires the use of stairs.

with Jacob Holzberg-Pill
Fee: $30

Uncover the hidden history of the woods. Join us for a guided walk where you’ll learn to read the forest like a detective. From stone walls and wolf trees to beaver ponds and subtle landforms, the landscape is full of clues waiting to be decoded. Discover how past land use, natural disturbances, and ecological relationships have shaped the forest we see today. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of the land—and a fresh way of seeing the woods around you. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 4.

Location: Shelburne Bay Park, 1467 Bay Rd, Shelburne. Park in the large lot at Shelburne Bay Park. Meet in the parking area.

Activity Level Comments: We will walk less than a mile along trails in the woods at Shelburne Bay Park

with Emily DeAlto
Fee: $20

Join Field Naturalist Emily DeAlto for a walk through the UVM Natural Areas Program’s newest site, Joe’s Pond-Morrisville. We will walk along trails through the forest and along the edge of a peatland, discussing the site’s natural history and how the University will continue to steward and learn from the property into the future. We will also take time to watch and listen for birds, identify plants, and enjoy the views of the Worcester Range. Held in Morrisville. Activity Level 4.

Location: Joe’s Pond Natural Area, 688 Stancliff Rd., Morristown. Parking available onsite. Meet in the parking area.

Activity Level Comments: The distance of the trails is a bit more than a half-mile. The trails are not too difficult to traverse (not steep for more than a few feet at a time) and are well maintained. Not likely wheelchair accessible.

with Amanda McIntire

In this online, introductory class, learn the basics of yoga, including the physical practice (asana), breathing techniques (pranayama) and meditation. Activity Level 2.

Required Reading/Materials: Yoga or exercise mat

Suggested Reading: Yoga blocks, yoga strap, blanket

with Amanda Broder
Fee: $20

Discover the vibrant world of public art woven throughout the University of Vermont campus on this guided walking tour. You’ll encounter a diverse collection of sculptures from bold abstract forms to pieces inspired by nature, science, and campus life. Along the way, you’ll learn about other notable installations by UVM alumni and renowned artists, how these pieces relate to the university’s history and landscape, and the stories behind their creation and placement. Held in Burlington. Activity Level 3.

Location: UVM Campus, Dudley H. Davis Building, 590 Main St, Burlington. Park in the UVM Jefford’s Lot. Meet outside Davis Center, 3rd floor, Bookstore level.

Activity Level Comments: We will be walking around the UVM campus, mostly on paved pathways but there will be some grassy areas.

with Juliana Neira
Fee: FREE to members

Explore how everyday economic transactions impact our planet, how mainstream policy solutions fail to be truly environmentally friendly, and degrowth as the roadway to meet the challenges of an ever-growing economic system. Engage in enriching discussions and eye-opening activities to imagine different pathways to more sustainable living. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne. Parking available at St. Catherine. Meet in the program space.

with Michael DeBonis
Fee: $20

Join the Green Mountain Club’s Executive Director, Mike DeBonis, for a hike on the Short Trail! Learn more about hiking in Vermont, the Long Trail and the Green Mountain Club, and seasonal hiking tips and recommendations as we explore the 0.5 mile loop at GMC’s headquarters. Held in Waterbury Center. Activity Level 3.

Location: Green Mountain Club, 4711 Waterbury-Stowe Rd, Waterbury Center. Parking available onsite. Meet outside the GMC Headquarters.

Activity Level Comments: Distance – 0.5 mile loop. Trail through field and forested terrain.

with Ashley Eaton
Fee: $40

While aboard a research vessel on Lake Champlain, participants will be guided by UVM Watershed Educators as they learn about the unique properties of the lake and gather data that will help us understand the dynamic nature of the lake. Participants will learn about ongoing research being conducted based out of the University of Vermont and SUNY Plattsburgh. This program is an opportunity to gain experience with science on the lake and deepen our understanding of the interaction between the many physical, biological, chemical, and cultural variables that contribute to the health of the lake and our watershed. Held in Burlington. Activity Level 2.

Location: R/V Marcelle Melosira, 3 College Street, Burlington. Paid parking is available before you get to the ECHO Center/Rubenstein Lab or take a left just in front of the ECHO Center/Rubenstein Lab and park to the south of the building. Please arrive at the dock (3 College Street) a minimum of 15 minutes prior to the time of departure.

Required Reading/Materials: Participants should come prepared with rain gear, sun hats, sunscreen, warm clothes (it can be significantly colder on the water than on the land), water, and closed-toe shoes. Note that wearing closed-toe shoes is a safety requirement and therefore is not optional. Everyone participating will need to sign a liability waiver before boarding the boat.

Suggested Reading/Materials: Lake Champlain Basin Program – State of the Lake Report

with Luis Gonzalez
Fee: $20

Participants will use binoculars to observe local birds and learn to recognize their behaviors in the field. We’ll explore the key features—such as size, shape, coloration, and field markings—that help distinguish different species, and practice using field guides to identify what we see. The program will also introduce helpful birding apps and digital tools that make bird identification easier and more engaging for beginners and experienced observers alike. Held in Montpelier. Activity Level 3.

Location: North Branch Nature Center, 713 Elm St, Montpelier. Parking available at North Branch Nature Center. Meet in the parking area. Note: Bathrooms are available in the main building where we can take shelter in case of inclement weather.

Required Reading/Materials: Downlaod the Merlin App from Cornell University on your phone and bring it.

Suggested Reading: If you have a pair of binoculars, please bring them.

Activity Level Comments: We have an universally accesible trail that is flat and wheel chair accessible.

with Jacob Holzberg-Pill
Fee: $30

Join us for a hands-on workshop where you’ll discover how to identify the trees that make up our local landscape. Through interactive lessons and field-tested techniques, you’ll gain the skills to confidently recognize and differentiate a wide variety of native tree species.Held in Burlington. Activity Level 2.

Location: Oakledge Park, 11 Flynn Ave, Burlington. Park in the Upper Lot at Oakledge Park. Oakledge is free to enter, but there is a fee for parking in the lot. Meet at the large upper pavilion, not the small pavilion by the entrance.

Activity Level Comments: We will walk less than 100 yards on ADA accessible sidewalks

with Ron Miller
Fee: $20

The United States is a nation of contrasts—born from bold ideals that have inspired generations, yet shaped by persistent cultural and political challenges. In this session, participants will explore the Declaration of Independence as we approach its 250th anniversary. Through a combination of presentation and guided discussion, we’ll examine different perspectives on its meaning: Was it, as Thomas Paine said, an opportunity to “begin the world over again,” or, as Martin Luther King, Jr. described it, a “promissory note” the nation has yet to fulfill? Participants will engage in thoughtful conversation, reflect on the document’s relevance today, and consider how its promises and contradictions continue to shape American society. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne. Parking available at St. Catherine. Meet in the program space.

with Brenda April
Fee: $35

Discover the meditative, artistic world of Zentangle® created in 2004 by Maria Thomas and Rick Roberts. It is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns (tangles). This class will guide you through the process, from a brief history of Zentangle, through the 8 basic steps of the method, to creating patterns with combinations of lines, dots, and simple curves. Zentangle art is non-representational and unplanned so you can focus on each stroke and not on the end result. But the outcome will surprise you! You will have created a beautiful abstract tile. No artistic experience is required. All materials will be provided by the instructor. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne. Parking available at St. Catherine. Meet in the program space.

with Jennifer Vaughan/K9 Harley and Stella Richards/K9 Mookie
Fee: $20

Join two K9 handlers from North Country Search Dogs as they share their experiences training and working with Wilderness Airscent search dogs to locate missing individuals. Learn about the scope of their search efforts, the challenges they face, and the remarkable scenting abilities that make these dogs such extraordinary partners. Through stories and demonstrations, the handlers will highlight how these canine skills fit into larger search operations and share the passion that drives their work in rugged and unpredictable terrain. And don’t be surprised if the stars of the show are their calm, charming, and utterly irresistible dogs! Held in Burlington. Activity Level 2.

Location: UVM Campus, Jeffords Building, 63 Carrigan Drive, Burlington. Park in the UVM Jefford’s Lot. Meet in Jeffords Hall, Room 110.

with Prophecy Chocolate
Fee: $30

Prophecy Chocolate proudly presents the ultimate hands-on chocolate drink making workshop led by founder Mateo. Participants will learn about the history of cacao cultivation and processing and chocolate drink making. Leave with the knowledge and confidence to create epic chocolate drinks including iced chocolate drinks to wow your friends and family, anytime, anywhere. Chocolate drinks will be made and samples shared! Held in Burlington. Activity Level 1.

Location: UVM Campus, Jeffords Building, 63 Carrigan Drive, Burlington. Park in the UVM Jefford’s Lot. Meet in Jeffords Hall, Room 110.

with Shelagh Connor Shapiro
Fee: $20

Join us for a lively exploration of Margaret Atwood’s 1988 novel Cat’s Eye, which she has described as a “fictional autobiography.” While Elaine Risley is not Atwood herself, their lives echo one another—shared experiences of childhood, family, friendships, and the challenges of growing up. In this discussion, we’ll pair Cat’s Eye with Atwood’s Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts, examining how the author weaves her own truths into fiction and inviting participants to reflect on the blurred lines between life and story. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne. Parking available at St. Catherine. Meet in the program space.

Required Reading/Materials: The presenter will provide a PDF of relevant passages to all participants ahead of time for anyone who would prefer to read just one of the books.

Suggested Reading: Cat’s Eye (Margaret Atwood)
Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts (Margaret Atwood)

with Tom Alario
Fee: $40

Experience a guided tour of Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea’s coffee roasting facility paired with a curated specialty coffee tasting with a professional barista. This sensory experience will take you on a journey from farm to cup. Learn and experience how a coffee’s origin, processing, roasting, and brew method all contribute to flavor in a coffee comparison tasting. Your expert barista will illustrate the nuances of three different brew methods and guide you though a curated tasting of three distinct specialty coffees. Held in Waterbury Center. Activity Level 3.

Location: School of Coffee, 11 Cabin Lane, Waterbury Center. Parking available onsite. Meet in the main lobby.

Activity Level Comments: Participants will be on a walking tour of our Roasting Warehouse and will be standing  during the Tasting portion of the event. Seating is available in the tasting space, but it is preferred for guests to stand for a better experience.

with Robin Schatell
Fee: $20

Participants will visit Cold Hollow Sculpture Park for a guided tour of the landscape, where more than 70 sculptures are currently on display. As we explore the grounds, participants will cultivate aesthetic awareness through close observation and discussion, discovering the subtle relationships between art, nature, and the human-made world while engaging with the park’s mission to bridge the arts, sciences, and humanities. Held in Enosburg Falls. Activity Level 3.

Location: Cold Hollow Sculpture Park, 4280 Boston Post Rd, Enosburg Falls. Parking available onsite. Meet in parking area.

Activity Level Comments: The grass walk ways are slightly hilly.

with Sage Farm Goat Dairy
Fee: $60

Meet a small, exceptional herd of Alpine dairy goats and discover the art of cheesemaking at this award-winning farm. Sage Farm Goat Dairy takes pride in crafting artisanal cheeses using only milk from their highly productive goats. Beyond cheese, they also produce maple syrup and fresh eggs from their pasture-raised hens. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to interact with the goats and other farm animals while learning about Sage Farm’s sustainable farming practices, including their rotational grazing and milking systems. You’ll also get an inside look at their cheesemaking process, with a peek into the cheeseroom. The experience concludes with a guided cheese tasting, showcasing the delicious variety of cheeses made right on the farm. Held in Stowe. Activity Level 3.

Location: Sage Farm Goat Dairy, 2248 W Hill Rd, Stowe. Parking for farm tours is at the bottom of the FIRST farm driveway, at 2248 West Hill Rd. Do not park at the farm store, which is down the SECOND farm driveway at 2346 West Hill Rd. Colleen will meet you in the driveway and begin the tour at the dairy barn.

Activity Level Comments: less than 1/4 mile, dirt driveways, relatively flat grassy lawn and dirt paths, stairs to enter barn. The walking tour will take you up and down barn steps and over rough, uneven ground. Please wear appropriate footwear and be forewarned that goats like to nibble on clothing!

with Rokeby Museum
Fee: $30

Join Rokeby Museum on a journey through our outbuildings and farm-to-forest nature trail as we trace the history of Vermont’s agricultural industry. Learn how four generations of the Robinson family adapted to change and how their story reflects statewide trends. A discussion on preserving historical sites will follow the tour. Held in Ferrisburgh. Activity Level 3.

Location: Rokeby Museum, 4334 US-7, Ferrisburgh. Parking available at Education Center. Meet at the Education Center.

Activity Level Comments: Accessing the farmyard and outbuildings requires walking up an uneven incline. All historical buildings will have limited accessibility. There will be places to sit in the historic parlor but not for the majority of the tour.

with Maria Avery
Fee: $20

Join UVM Libraries Community Outreach Manager Maria Avery for an interactive introduction to today’s leading AI tools and platforms. In this hands-on session, participants will learn how to craft effective prompts and then experiment with AI in a supportive, low-stakes environment. Guided practice, group discussion, and dedicated reflection time throughout the workshop will allow participants to share experiences, ask questions, and build confidence using these emerging technologies. Held in Burlington. Activity Level 1.

Location: UVM Campus, Howe Library, 538 Main St, Burlington. Park in the Jeffords Lot. Meet in front of the Jeffords Building and you will be escorted to the library. Please arrive by 1:15 so that there is time to walk to the library and start the program on time. Late arrivals will need to get to the library on their own.

with Sylvia Oblak
Fee: $35

Dive into watercolor painting in this beginner-friendly workshop! Choose from a selection of pre-sketched images and learn simple yet effective techniques to create your own beautiful paintings. Relax, have fun, and discover the joy of watercolor—no drawing experience required! Held in Milton. Activity Level 1.

Location: Milton Artists’ Guild, 199 US-7 S, Milton. Parking available onsite. Meet in the main lobby.

with Devin Colman
Fee: $25

Join Devin Colman, Director of the UVM Historic Preservation Program, on a walking tour of the University Green National Register Historic District. From the Federal Style to the Colonial Revival, this program highlights the history and architecture of some of UVM’s oldest and most prominent buildings, and how they continue to serve the university today. Held in Burlington. Activity Level 3.

Location: UVM Campus, University Green, 85 S Prospect St, Burlington. Park in the UVM Waterman Lot, 70 South Williams Street or any lot that will requires a Green Permit. We will provide a parking pass.Meet in front of the Waterman building main entrance on the Prospect Street side of the building.

Suggested Reading: University Green Historic District National Register of Historic Places Nomination form.

Activity Level Comments: Walking tour will be approximately one mile in distance on sidewalks.

with Jessica Wikle
Fee: $25

Join UVM Forest Manager Jess Wikle for a woods walk at UVM’s Jericho Research Forest. Through the course of this walk, we will discuss the geological and land-use history of Jericho Research Forest, learn about forest ecology, and visit some current research projects taking place on the forest. Held in Jericho. Activity Level 3.

Location: UVM Jericho Research Forest and Conservation Center, 127 Tarbox Rd, Jericho. Parking is available onsite. Meet in the parking area.

Activity Level Comments: Over the course of 90 minutes, we will walk approximately one mile on established trails and forest roads. There is some uneven terrain, but no major hills.

with Shakira Abisola Iyanda
Fee: FREE to members

Explore how green chemistry offers real solutions to the urgent challenges of climate change. Many everyday materials rely on rare and costly transition metals that threaten long-term sustainability. In this program, participants will discover how using simpler, earth-abundant metals can transform the way we create materials, reducing environmental impact while maintaining innovation. Discover where chemistry meets sustainability and learn how rethinking the elements we use today can help shape a cleaner, more resilient future for all. Held in Shelburne. Activity Level 1.

Location: St. Catherine of Siena Church Hall, 92 Church St., Shelburne. Parking available at St. Catherine. Meet in the program space.

with Osher Online
Fee: $70

What makes an Oriental rug so captivating – elegant design, intricate pattern, or mysterious origins? In this richly illustrated course, we will discover the stories woven into these textiles. We will trace the history and artistry of carpet weaving across Asia and North Africa, with examples dating from the 4th century BCE to the nineteenth century. Using expert insights and vivid images, we will explore carpet-making from Anatolia, Iran, Transcaucasia, North Africa, and Central Asia, and learn to spot weaving traditions, historical periods, purposes, and production. Held online. Activity Level 1.

Note: This program will not be recorded. Learn more about Osher Online Courses below.

with Osher Online
Fee: $70

The Declaration of Independence shaped Americans long after the Revolution. This course will examine how people in Washington, D.C. invoked the Declaration and its ideas after independence – from city planners shaping the capital to Union soldiers defending it during the Civil War. We will explore how the Declaration was used to advance causes and define the nation’s civic identity. Featuring museum artifacts from the Albert H. Small Washingtoniana Collection, this course will trace D.C.’s early history through. Held online. Activity Level 1.

Note: This program will not be recorded. Learn more about Osher Online Courses below.

with Osher Online
Fee: $70

Musicals have shaped American theater, from Tin Pan Alley-driven comedies of the early twentieth century to the integrated classics of midcentury. In this course, we will explore book musicals, concept musicals, and the rise of European mega-productions. We will spotlight influential composers, lyricists, writers, choreographers, directors, and performers. With the help of audiovisuals, we will study landmark shows including Oklahoma!, My Fair Lady, Show Boat, Guys and Dolls, Hair, Cabaret, Rent, Wicked, Hamilton, and more.

Note: This program will not be recorded. Learn more about Osher Online Courses below.

with Osher Online
Fee: $70

What makes an Oriental rug so captivating – elegant design, intricate pattern, or mysterious origins? In this richly illustrated course, we will discover the stories woven into these textiles. We will trace the history and artistry of carpet weaving across Asia and North Africa, with examples dating from the 4th century BCE to the nineteenth century. Using expert insights and vivid images, we will explore carpet-making from Anatolia, Iran, Transcaucasia, North Africa, and Central Asia, and learn to spot weaving traditions, historical periods, purposes, and production. Held online. Activity Level 1.

Note: This program will not be recorded.

with Osher Online
Fee: $70

The Declaration of Independence shaped Americans long after the Revolution. This course will examine how people in Washington, D.C. invoked the Declaration and its ideas after independence – from city planners shaping the capital to Union soldiers defending it during the Civil War. We will explore how the Declaration was used to advance causes and define the nation’s civic identity. Featuring museum artifacts from the Albert H. Small Washingtoniana Collection, this course will trace D.C.’s early history through. Held online. Activity Level 1.

Note: This program will not be recorded.

with Osher Online
Fee: $70

Musicals have shaped American theater, from Tin Pan Alley-driven comedies of the early twentieth century to the integrated classics of midcentury. In this course, we will explore book musicals, concept musicals, and the rise of European mega-productions. We will spotlight influential composers, lyricists, writers, choreographers, directors, and performers. With the help of audiovisuals, we will study landmark shows including Oklahoma!, My Fair Lady, Show Boat, Guys and Dolls, Hair, Cabaret, Rent, Wicked, Hamilton, and more.

Note: This program will not be recorded.