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

This program is FULL. Register to join the waitlist.

4 sessions
with Michael Strauss
Questions? Call Mike Strauss, 802-522-9978
E-mail: michael.strauss@uvm.edu  
Fee: FREE to members!

In this online program, learn to see the environment around you more clearly while learning to draw. Discuss the drawing process, share experiences, and improve your eye-hand coordination. Understand drawing as a way to communicate and understand your visual experience. Come to understand drawing as a way of knowing. No previous drawing experience is required. This will not be recorded.

Required Materials: No. 2 pencils and erasers, malleable erasers, TOMBO pens (black) #N-15, 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 Bert Dodson

4 sessions
with Amanda McIntire
Fee: $40

In this online, 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 are encouraged. This session will be recorded.

with Sarah Stewart Taylor
Fee: $15

Join Vermont mystery writer Sarah Stewart Taylor for an online discussion about her new crime fiction series set in 1960s rural Vermont. Learn about her inspiration, research, and writing process, and gain insights into how to start a novel and navigate the path to publication.

Suggested Reading: Agony Hill by Sarah Stewart Taylor, The Maggie D’arcy Series by Sarah Stewart Taylor

with Julia Cavicchi
Fee: $15

Join the Rich Earth Institute for this online program on peecycling—reclaiming human “waste” to fertilize local farms and gardens. Discover how this practice reduces pollution, conserves water, and supports sustainable agriculture. Learn about the community-scale peecycling program, global efforts, and how you can start reclaiming nutrients in your own garden.

3 sessions
with Patty Tashiro
Fee: $30

In this three-part online program, based on the BRIGHT MINDS principles, discover the 11 major risk factors that harm your brain and steal your mind. Learn simple strategies to address each one and get your brain working for you, not against you. While many of us know what we ‘should’ be doing, this program will help you overcome the barriers to actually doing it.

with Andrew Zimbel
Fee: $15

Join Andrew Zimbel in this online presentation for a rare presentation on his father George Zimbel’s iconic photography session with Marilyn Monroe. View images—both famous and unseen outtakes—taken on the set of The Seven Year Itch. Watch a short documentary and gain insights into the artistry and spontaneity behind the shoot. This is only the second time the entire collection will be shown, offering a unique exploration of the intersection of photography, celebrity, and history.

Suggested Viewing: Watch Zimbelism on Amazon Prime

with Kathy Elkind
Fee: $20

Kathy Elkind shares slides and stories from her 1,400-mile walking journey across the GR5 in Europe, through The Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and France. Hear how the adventure became her book, To Walk It Is To See It. Discuss slow travel, long-distance walking, relationship endurance, and the joys and challenges of a 98-day trek at age 58. Reading the book beforehand is encouraged. Held in Shelburne.

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

Suggested Reading: To Walk It Is To See It: 1 Couple, 98 Days, 1400 Miles on Europe’s GR5 by Kathy Elkind (ISBN 1647425255, Available in e-book, audio, and paperback)

4 sessions
with Michael Strauss
Questions? Call Mike Strauss, 802-522-9978
E-mail: michael.strauss@uvm.edu  
Fee: $25

In this four-week online series, explore perception, process, and change as expressed in science, art, poetry, and philosophy. Discuss works by Salvador Dali, Mary Oliver, and Walt Whitman, as well as scientific concepts of evolution, natural selection, Deep Time, and the Illusion of Time. Watch creative films on transformation and change and engage in discussions on these thought-provoking topics. This will not be recorded.

4 sessions
with Nicole Carpenter
Fee: $50

Often, we’re told to take a breath before responding to a tricky situation. Why is this helpful? Explore your nervous system, emotions, and breath in this 4-week online series. Identify your breathing habits, discover tools for self-regulation, and engage in movement. Practice intentional breathing exercises in a space where you can sit, stand, move, and lie down.

with Matthew J Scarborough
Fee: $15

Explore the fascinating world of microbiomes in this online program with UVM Professor Matt Scarborough. Understand their role in human health, pollution reduction, and cutting-edge research aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions through microbiome engineering.

4 sessions
with Amanda McIntire
Fee: $40

In this online, 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 are encouraged.

with Maeve Kim
Fee: $15

In this online program, visit Plum Island, Massachusetts—home to Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and Sandy Point Reservation. Explore its scenic beauty, learn about its history and geology, and get practical tips on driving, lodging, and dining. Enjoy plenty of photos and insider information on this unique destination, all from the comfort of your home.

with Rebecca Starks
Fee: FREE to members! 

Join us online to read and discuss Gender Queer, Maia Kobabe’s 2019 graphic memoir about growing up gender-nonconforming. This frequently banned, award-winning book has been removed from more school libraries than any other in recent years. Delve into the reasons for its banning, the discomfort it may cause, and the insights gained from that discomfort. Limited seats.

Required Reading: Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe

with MaryAnn Paterniti
Fee: $15

Join storyteller MaryAnn Paterniti for a captivating program of traditional and literary tales. Hear stories of love, desire, betrayal, and hope, as engaging characters navigate the light and dark places of the heart. Prepare to be thoroughly entertained by these timeless and deeply human stories. Held in Burlington.

Class Location: Robert Miller Community and Recreation Center, 130 Gosse Court, Burlington

with Maeve Kim
Fee: $15

In this online program, escape Vermont winter to the warm, sandy beaches of Jekyll Island and a tiny island just north of it. Enjoy stunning nature photography, a bit of history and geology, and practical travel advice on lodging and destinations. This virtual journey is your ticket to sunshine.

with Michael DeBonis
Fee: $15

Join Green Mountain Club Executive Director Mike DeBonis, in this online program, as he shares captivating images and stories from his experiences hiking and managing America’s oldest long-distance hiking trail. Explore the beauty and history of the Long Trail, all from the comfort of your home—no bugs, rocks, or wet socks required! This engaging program brings the adventure to you.

with Chad Ervin
Fee: $25

This documentary follows social scientist Robert Putnam, whose influential “Bowling Alone” research explores the decline of community in America and its impact on democracy. Featuring voices like Hillary Clinton, Pete Buttigieg, and Vivek Murthy, it addresses key questions about democracy’s current crisis and highlights inspiring efforts to rebuild community connections, offering hope for a more united and resilient future. Join or Die‘s film editor and local Vermonter Chad Ervin will lead a discussion at the end. Held in Burlington.

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

3 sessions
with Davis Studio
Fee: $110

Explore the exciting medium of kiln formed glass fusing techniques! Express your creativity using a variety of materials, colors, techniques, and projects in this 3 part series. Held in South Burlington.

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

4 sessions
with Amanda McIntire
Fee: $40

In this online, 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 are encouraged.

6 sessions
with Robert Weibezahl
Fee: $70

Continue your exploration of The Best American Short Stories of the Century in this six-week online series. Focus on mid-century stories (1940-1970) by both well-known and lesser-known authors. Discuss themes like immigration, race, social change, and individuality, and examine these stories in the context of their time. No prerequisites; participants read stories in advance. This program will not be recorded. Book purchase required; see below for details.

Required Reading: The Best American Short Stories of the Century by John Updike

6 sessions
with Ron Miller
Fee: $70

Explore the protests, social movements, and countercultural expressions of the 1960s in this class. Understand the rise of a conservative movement opposing these developments and discuss how this cultural divide has shaped modern-day polarization. Lively lectures will be interspersed with engaging conversations about the lasting impact of this turbulent era. Held in Burlington.

Class Location: Robert Miller Community and Recreation Center, 130 Gosse Court, Burlington

with Mark Isselhardt
Fee: $20

Trace the history of maple sugaring from its pre-colonial roots to modern production techniques. Learn about innovations that have made the maple industry more efficient and explore current research that continues to shape the industry. This seminar dives into the rich tradition and cutting-edge trends in maple sugaring. Held in Burlington.

Class Location: Robert Miller Community and Recreation Center, 130 Gosse Court, Burlington

with Rebecca Starks
Fee: FREE to members

Read and discuss Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic, Alison Bechdel’s 2006 graphic memoir, in this online Banned Books Club. The book chronicles Bechdel’s childhood and complex relationship with her father, who died by suicide. Winner of multiple awards, this LGBTQ+ themed memoir is frequently banned. Analyze the reasons for its challenges, reflect on any discomfort it evokes, and explore its deeper value.

Required Reading: Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel

with Jacob Holzberg-Pill
Fee: $20

Discover the best trees and bushes to transform your yard into a delicious and beautiful landscape. Learn about cold-hardy, low-maintenance plants you can grow at home, including lesser-known fruits that are as attractive as they are tasty. Perfect for anyone interested in creating an edible ecosystem filled with abundance. Held in Burlington.

Class Location: Robert Miller Community and Recreation Center, 130 Gosse Court, Burlington

with Peter Henne
Fee: $15

Many states try and use religion as a tool in international conflicts, but it is unclear whether this ever works out for them. In this talk, Peter S. Henne of the University of Vermont will discuss his latest book, which explores the mixed and complicated impacts of appeals to religion in international power politics. He will provide an overview of historical cases as well as what they mean for current US foreign policy.

Class Location: Robert Miller Community and Recreation Center, 130 Gosse Court, Burlington

Suggested Reading: Religious Appeals in Power Politics by Peter Henne

3 sessions
with Barry Snyder & Rick Winston
Fee: $45

Join film historians Rick Winston and Barry Snyder as they screen and discuss three art house classics: François Truffaut’s Shoot the Piano Player (1960), Luis Buñuel’s The Exterminating Angel (1962), and Tony Richardson’s A Taste of Honey (1961). Explore the historical and cultural contexts of these films, their place in the art house movement, and their lasting impact on cinema. Popcorn and coffee/tea provided. Held in Burlington.

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

4 sessions
with Nicole Carpenter
Fee: $40

Support your own health and vitality in this online, 4-week series building upon basic Tai Chi and Qi Gong principles. By moving the body in a rhythmic and gentle way, we’ll help the body relax, connect to your breath, and settle the mind. We’ll end each class with breathwork, self-massage, and/or visualizations. All our welcome to join, no experience needed. Movements can be done in a chair or standing.

with Hannah Shafer
Fee: FREE to members! 

Grasses cover 40 percent of Earth’s land, yet many are unfamiliar with grass biology. Learn to identify common Vermont grasses and explore the role of grasses in ecosystems and agriculture. Through this engaging lecture, gain a deeper appreciation for this essential part of Vermont’s natural landscape. Held in Shelburne.

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

with Natalie Carr
Fee: $40

Join us for a fun afternoon of painting landscapes and mountains at VT Cider Lab. No art experience needed. Create a 12×16 canvas masterpiece while you enjoy laughs with friends and peers. Program includes canvas, materials, and instruction. Food and drinks are available for purchase. Held in Essex.

Class Location: Vermont Cider Lab, 25 Essex Way, Essex Junction

Important Note: Acrylic paint stains so wear something that inspires creativity and can handle a little paint (just in case).

2 sessions
with Jay Sherwin
Fee: $35

A legacy letter allows you to share life lessons, express values, and pass on blessings to future generations in just a few pages. Writing one is a rewarding experience that creates an enduring gift for family and loved ones. This online program includes discussions and brief writing exercises to help you reflect on your life and explore your values. Gain practical advice, encouragement, and a simple model to begin crafting your own legacy letter.

with Rebecca Starks
Fee: FREE to members

In this online program, read and discuss The Bluest Eye, Toni Morrison’s first novel. Set in the 1940s, it follows a young African American girl who internalizes her community’s racism and wishes for blue eyes, believing they would free her from her struggles. Since its 1970 publication, the book has regularly appeared on the ALA’s most banned list. Explore the reasons behind its banning, any discomfort it provokes, and the value in that discomfort.

Required Reading: The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

4 sessions
with Amanda McIntire
Fee: $40

In this online, 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 are encouraged.

with Gordon MacFarland
Fee: $20

Explore the benefits and challenges of running after age 50. Review core anatomy and biomechanics principles affected by aging, and understand why older runners become “experiments-of-one.” Learn basic at-home strength and flexibility exercises to support your running, and consider training strategies to adopt. This interactive session is for current runners and includes ample time for discussion. Loose, comfortable clothing recommended. Held in Burlington.

Class Location: Robert Miller Community and Recreation Center, 130 Gosse Court, Burlington

Suggested Reading: Chapter One of the Senior Distance Running Essentials series found on www.theseniorrunner.com.

with Liza Baker
Fee: $15

Get ready for spring with the freshest foods! Join health coach and cookbook author Liza Baker for an online class exploring creative spring salads. Expand your understanding of what these dishes can include and discover new ways to enjoy seasonal ingredients.

with Brian Lindner
Fee: $15

In this online class, delve into the rich history and evolution of ski patrols, from their humble beginnings to their national and military significance. Explore the origins of alpine skiing in Vermont and discover how a pivotal injury on Stowe’s Toll Road led to the creation of America’s oldest ski patrol. Learn about the formation of the Mt. Mansfield Ski Patrol, which inspired the National Ski Patrol and planted the seeds for the 10th Mountain Division—America’s elite ski troops in World War II.

Suggested Reading: C. Minot Dole’s book Adventures in Skiing (1965), Skylar Bailey’s book Heroes in Good Company (2022)

with David Meyer
Fee: $20

On October 24, 1946, the U.S. Air Force launched a V-2 rocket that captured the first photos of Earth from space. Join former Head of NASA Goddard Earth Sciences Data and Information Services Center as he explores NASA’s evolving missions that use light, radar, and gravity to monitor Earth’s climate, ecosystems, and more. Gain a better understanding of how space-based instruments help us grasp the planet’s complexities. Held in Shelburne.

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

with Dan Quinlan
Fee: $15

Built on a lifetime of work as a clinical psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and academic studying philosophy, literature, epistemology and much more, Iain McGilchrist’s book “The Matter with Things” offers a compelling and intriguing set of answers about the state of humanity. And further, what it will take for us to extricate ourselves from the mess we find ourselves in. We will have a conversation about some of the major conclusions of the book in hopes that students will want to learn more about this intriguing man and his ideas.

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