Around the Cracker Barrel - Lifelong Learning, Endless Curiosity: Inside OLLI UA’s Green Valley Program (Aired 01/02/2026)

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, host Guy Atchley welcomes listeners to a conversation about lifelong learning in Southern Arizona through OLLI UA. Guy is joined by Lynn Janklow and Janelle McCormick, volunteers from the Green Valley campus of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Arizona (OLLI UA).The discussion highlights how OLLI UA provides enriching, curiosity-driven educational opportunities for adults age 50 and better, with no tests, grades, or pressure—just learning for the joy of it. The guests explain the wide range of in-person, online, and hybrid classes available in Green Valley and Tucson, along with affordable membership options that allow participants to take as many courses as they wish each semester.Listeners also learn about the social side of OLLI UA, including field trips, discussion groups, special one-session “OLLI Talks,” and even new travel opportunities such as group trips to the Canadian Maritimes and Ireland. From topics like artificial intelligence and current events to music, history, spirituality, and Southern Arizona exploration, the program offers something for nearly every interest.The show wraps up with details about Discover OLLI, an upcoming open house designed to help prospective members learn more, meet volunteers, and register for classes. As emphasized throughout the conversation, OLLI UA is not only about education—it’s also a welcoming way to connect with others, stay mentally active, and remain engaged in the community.