Focus on OLLI

Program OverviewFocus on OLLI is a KU NV 91.5 FM radio program spotlighting the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UNLV, which offers diverse, non-credit classes for retired and semi-retired adults. Supported by the Bernard Osher Foundation, OLLI features courses in art, health, music, technology, current events, and more. This episode highlights instructors Sonia Feldberg, Linda Edgeworth, and Beth Davis, who enrich their classes with guest speakers from the Las Vegas community and beyond.Class Formats & Guest ProgrammingJazz Appreciation and More (Sonia Feldberg): Features live performances and stories from local jazz artists and community figures, including Jonathan Courant, Chadwick Johnson, Brett Barrett, Clint Holmes, and Rita Lim. Sonia’s class blends education and entertainment, expanding students’ understanding of jazz.Soapbox (Linda Edgeworth): Brings in prominent leaders and experts to discuss current Nevada and national issues, with guests like Sondra Douglas Morgan (Raiders President), Jeff McBride (magician), and state officials. The class uses a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person and virtual participation, and regularly hosts panel discussions on topics like healthcare and privacy.Speak to the Sport & Professor's Choice (Beth Davis): Both classes feature guest speakers from sports and academia, such as Steve Stallworth, Coach Mullen, and Dr. Henry Sun. These sessions foster strong engagement, with many speakers eager to return.Social & Community ImpactOLLI offers social opportunities beyond classes, including tours (e.g., Liberace mansion), book clubs, movie screenings, Mahjong, and board games. Hybrid classes in new facilities allow flexible participation, accommodating both in-person and remote learners, though live music is preferred for jazz sessions due to sound quality.Upcoming Events & Community Radio RelevanceThe summer semester starts May 26, and the fall open house is August 23 with over 100 classes. OLLI’s focus on guest speakers, community engagement, and educational outreach aligns with KU NV 91.5 FM’s public media mission, especially through ongoing collaborations with figures like Jonathan Courant.

Keith McMillen hosts a discussion with Susan Merritt and Niels Clyde, both long-time instructors at UNLV's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). Susan, who has taught 12 different classes over nine years, enjoys creating diverse courses, such as self-defense, antique maps, and the history of breakfast foods. Niels, who has been teaching ukulele since 2012, emphasizes the cognitive benefits of playing stringed instruments and has performed at various events. Both instructors highlight the depth of knowledge among OLLI members and the joy of learning and teaching. They also discuss the challenges and rewards of creating and teaching classes, as well as the impact of COVID-19 on their teaching methods.

Host Keith McMillen announces a new podcast titled "Boomers and Zoomers," featuring intergenerational discussions between OLLI members (boomers) and UNLV students (Zoomers). The podcast aims to explore diverse topics such as music, film, and societal changes. Blaine Benedict and Chris Salinas, key contributors, share their experiences and the inspiration behind the podcast, which will debut in March. The initiative seeks to foster understanding and engagement between different age groups.

The OLLI program at UNLV offers nearly 100 classes across various subjects, including art appreciation, game playing, health and wellness, music and theater, technology, and personal development. These classes are available at the main location on Maryland Avenue and nine satellite locations across Las Vegas and Henderson. The program is supported by the Bernard Osher Foundation. Two instructors, Mel Lazarus and Fran Smith, discussed their satellite classes: Mel's "Fabulous 50s" class at the Aliante library in North Las Vegas and Fran's "Famous Art Thefts" class at Carnegie Heights in Henderson. Both emphasized the convenience and social benefits of satellite classes.

Keith McMillen introduces the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UNLV, supported by the Bernard Osher Foundation. He welcomes three guest speakers: Andy Isaacs, Judd Hodgson, and Bernard Schwartz. Andi Isaacs will teach "Hollywood Lessons and Logistics," sharing her 30-year Hollywood career. Judd Hodgson will explore AI, focusing on hallucinations and practical applications. Bernie Schwartz will discuss famous athletes and the law, examining cases like OJ Simpson and Kobe Bryant. The program emphasizes the community aspect of OLLI, with opportunities for lifelong learning and social engagement. An open house is scheduled for January 13.

This episode discusses changes at UNLV's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). Dr. Nicole Hudson, the new Executive Director, highlights her background in online education and workforce development. The rebranding to UNLV Lifelong Learning aims to support learning at all life stages. OLLI members will have more opportunities to engage with the university, including mentoring students and teaching classes. The LiFE framework (Learning, Innovation, Flexibility, Empowerment) will guide these initiatives. Fundraising efforts have raised $35,000, and new personal enrichment courses are being developed. Class schedules are adjusting to better align with campus hours.

The program at UNLV's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) engages retired and semi-retired individuals in civic activities and lifelong learning, supported by the Bernard Osher Foundation. Nursing and nutrition students from UNLV interact with OLLI members to learn about healthy, active aging. Nursing students gain exposure to healthy older adults, while nutrition students present research on functional foods and diets like the Mediterranean diet. OLLI members are active, competitive, and curious, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Upcoming projects include lifestyle medicine and digital literacy workshops to enhance independence and social connections among older adults.

The OLLI program at UNLV, supported by the Bernard Osher Foundation, offers lifelong learning and social activities for retired individuals. The program features various game classes, including Frank Daveo's recreational card playing, Esther Shube's Asian Mahjong, and Susan Waldman's American Mahjong. Frank's class, which started in 2017, averages 30 participants, while Esther's class has grown from a small SIG to a formal course. Susan's American Mahjong class caters to both beginners and experienced players. The program also includes social activities like "Ollie at the Movies" and an upcoming art walk on October 24.

The OLLI program at UNLV, funded by the Bernard Osher Foundation, offers lifelong learning opportunities for retired individuals. The program features classes on food, wine, and tobacco, taught by experts like Tori Kolinsky, Ken Moser, and Fred Amodeo. Kolinsky teaches wine classes, Moser offers healthy cooking classes using air fryers, and Amadeo instructs on cigars. They discuss the importance of food and wine pairing, the impact of climate change on wine production, and the versatility of cigars. They also highlight the benefits of roasted vegetables and orange wine, and provide tips for newcomers to cigars and wine, emphasizing the enjoyment of these experiences.

The OLLI program at UNLV, supported by the Bernard Osher Foundation, offers a variety of classes for retired or semi-retired individuals, including sports and fitness classes. Doug Verb's sports business class has grown to 70 participants, while Esther Schube and Anne Mason lead popular pickleball sessions. Beth Davis' upcoming "Speak to the Sport" class will feature various sports executives and coaches. The program also includes hybrid classes and collaborations with other Osher Institutes. The popularity of pickleball is attributed to its accessibility and social aspects, with participants ranging from 21 to 81 years old.

The program highlights the Bernard Osher Foundation-supported Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. Guests Bruce Ewing, Danielle Hartnett, and Blaine Benedict discuss their experiences with the OLLI program. Bruce Ewing, a musical theater enthusiast, shares his journey into theater and organizes Broadway trips. Danielle Hartnett, a film expert, emphasizes the historical significance of cinema and teaches diverse film classes. Blaine Benedict, a former gaming executive, values OLLI for its intellectual growth and varied offerings. The program also promotes upcoming events, including the fall open house on August 19th.

The OLLI program at UNLV, funded by the Bernard Osher Foundation, offers lifelong learning opportunities for retired individuals. Ed Ort, an instructor, discusses the variety of history-related classes, including 15 in the last semester. Wayne Rohrbaugh, an instructor, shares his passion for the American Civil War, debunking misconceptions like the South winning many battles. Noell Everhart talks about her class on major historical events, including the Boston molasses flood. Tony Kouffman, a long-time OLLI member, highlights the social and educational benefits of the program, including high-profile speakers and a supportive community. An open house is scheduled for August 19 to introduce new members to the program.

The OLLI program at UNLV, supported by the Bernard Osher Foundation, offers lifelong learning opportunities for retired individuals. Art classes are particularly popular, with offerings like diamond painting, watercolor, and photography. Teachers like Rita Ballejos and Teri Malburg emphasize the hands-on, therapeutic aspects of art. The program also includes a community-wide creative writing project titled "Make Good Trouble," which invites contributions on aging experiences. The deadline for submissions is July 31, 2025, with a goal of publishing the book by November 2025. The project aims to empower older voices and showcase their wisdom.

The "Focus on Olli" podcast discusses the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UNLV, which offers health-related classes for retired or semi-retired individuals. Dr. Carolyn Yucha, a retired nurse with a PhD in physiology, teaches anatomy and physiology, emphasizing aging effects on the body. Dan Mysliborski, an OLLI instructor and student, shares his experiences with meditation and Alzheimer's classes. Selene Pulido, a doctoral student, will lead a movement class series during the OLLI break, focusing on fall prevention, joint health, and nutrition. The program highlights the benefits of teaching and learning at OLLI, including social engagement and personal growth.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UNLV, funded by the Bernard Osher Foundation, offers a variety of music-focused courses, including jazz appreciation, guitar, and ukulele. Sonia Feldberg, a jazz appreciation instructor, and Chadwick Johnson, a guest speaker, discussed the program's emphasis on improvisation and the integration of diverse music styles. Diane Haworth, a ukulele workshop participant, highlighted the instrument's cognitive benefits and the progression from beginner to advanced classes. The program also includes special events like performances by Clint Holmes and a focus on brain health through music. OLLI aims to engage retired individuals in lifelong learning and community activities.

The OLLI program at UNLV, supported by the Bernard Osher Foundation, offers lifelong learning opportunities for retired and semi-retired individuals. The program features a variety of classes, including a popular speaker series called Soapbox, which will be offered both live and online for the first time this spring. Soapbox hosts prominent community figures and covers topics like media integrity and mass deportations. The program also collaborates with organizations on brain health initiatives, offering screenings and discussions. Additionally, OLLI offers social engagement activities, such as book clubs and hiking groups, and plans to expand its online offerings to enhance accessibility.