Fall 2024 Term

Discover ideas, acquire knowledge, and fuel your curiosity through the Lifelong Learning Institute of Ohio Wesleyan University. The Fall 2024 term is scheduled from October 7 - November 15 and offers an array of topics including legacy films of the Hollywood blacklist; archaeology of the Bible; sci-fi films of the 1950s; Ohio Native Americans as astronomers; the 2024 election; public schools under pressure, and much more for your consideration! 

The term begins the week of October 7. Registration for the Fall 2024 Term has closed.

Courses are taught by volunteers, including professors, practitioners, and others in a noncompetitive environment, with each class meeting for approximately two hours. Join the community of lifelong learners 55 and older for the exciting classes presented below.

Lifelong Learning Institute gift certificates are available and make a great gift for a birthday, anniversary, or other celebration. (See tab to the right for more information).

Join other lifelong learners for classes and community this fall!

Class Location: All class sessions will be held in the first-floor Benes Rooms of the Ohio Wesleyan Hamilton-Williams Campus Center except where noted in the individual class descriptions below. The address for the Hamilton-Williams Campus Center is 40 Rowland Ave., Delaware. The campus map can be found here.  

Please note other highlighted class locations include:

• The Strand Theatre, 28 E. Winter St., Delaware
• Parking for classes held at OWU is available in campus parking lots including next to and behind the library and other locations highlighted here.

Be sure to join our email list to be kept up-to-date on LLI happenings.

Legacy Films of the Hollywood Blacklist

Tracey Peyton, Managing Director, Strand Theatre

Mondays, 9 a.m.- noon (October 7, 14, 21, 28, November 4, 11, 18)

Class Location: This class will be held each week at The Strand Theatre, 28 E. Winter St., Delaware.

This class will examine the classic films we know and love that were shaped by artists who were either questioned by, deemed suspicious by, or blacklisted by the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC). We will look at the Hollywood Ten, the history of McCarthyism and how the industry and these artists were affected by The Red Scare.

• The Thin Man (1934 - PG) Director: Dashiell Hammet
  October 7
  
• Citizen Kane (1941 - PG) Director: Orson Welles
  October 14
  
• Woman of the Year (1942 - NR) Director: Ring Lardner, Jr.
  October 21
  
• The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946 - NR) Director: John Garfield
  October 28
  
• The Naked City (1948 - R) Director: Albert Maltz
  November 4
  
• Roman Holiday (1953 - NR) Director: Dalton Trumbo
  November 11 
  
• BONUS: The Usual Suspects (1995 - R) Director: Kevin Spacey
  November 18

Archaeology of the Bible

Dr. Christoper Farrar, novelist and student of biblical archaeology, author of By the Waters of Babylon, and the sequel, Light of Exile

Mondays, 2-4 p.m. (October 7, 14, 21, 28, November 4)

Class Location: This class will be held each week in the OWU Hamilton-Williams Campus Center first-floor Benes Room.

The narratives of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) have been foundational to western civilization. This course will meet in five weekly sessions, exploring archaeological and textual evidence that can shed light on the historicity of several biblical stories: the Exodus; the Conquest as described in the Book of Joshua; the period of the Judges, the origins of kingdom of Judah; its subsequent destruction by the Babylonians and the exile that followed; and the return to the land of Israel under the Persian Empire.

1950s Sci-Fi

Mondays, 6-8:30 pm (October 7, 14, 21, 28, November 4, 11, 18)

Jamie Cretella, Projectionist, Strand Theatre

Class Location: This class will be held each week at The Strand Theatre, 28 E. Winter St., Delaware.

This class features an exploration and analysis of mid-century science fiction movies produced during America's post-war golden age. We will discuss how the decade's cultural touchstones and fears influenced the genre. Recalling how studio films exemplified 50's zeitgeist such as the burgeoning Atomic Age and negative implications of The Cold War. We will take a look back at a select portion of the sci-fi films that encompass everything from Hollywood's best to low budget drive-in fare. Everything from breathtaking iconic planetary invasions to memorable and kitschy futuristic space-age suits, rayguns, and rockets! 

• The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951 - G)
  October 7
  
• The War of the Worlds (1953 - G)
  October 14
• This Island Earth (1955 - NR)
  October 21
  
• Earth vs. the Flying Saucers (1956 - NR)
  October 28
  
• Plan 9 from Outer Space (1957 - NR)
  November 4
  
• Invasion of the Saucer Men (1957 - NR)
  November 11 
• BONUS: Mars Attacks! (1996 - PG-13) 
  November 18

LLI Potpourri - Tuesday

Tuesdays, 10 am - noon (October 8, 15, 22, 29, November 12)

Class Location: This class will be held each week in the OWU Hamilton-Williams Campus Center first-floor Benes Room.

• Patty Hearst and the Troubled Seventies, with Dr. Mike Flamm, Professor of History
  October 8 
  Fifty years ago, the Symbionese Liberation Army (SLA), a tiny group of urban radicals committed to violent revolution, kidnapped Patty Hearst, a young heiress who was living quietly in Berkeley, California with her fiancée. Two months later, "Tania" announced that she had joined the SLA and brandished an assault rifle in an armed bank robbery. Was she a willing accomplice or a brainwashed victim? What does the public reaction to her controversial saga and subsequent trial suggest about U.S. politics and culture in the 1970s? In this multimedia presentation, Michael Flamm will explore these questions and more. 
• Ohio Native Americans as Astronomers, with Dr. Barbara Andereck, Professor Emerita of Physics and Astronomy, Ohio Wesleyan University
  October 15
  In 2023 UNESCOincluded the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks in Ohio in the World Heritage list. Among these sites is the Newark Earthworks, which includes remarkable alignments related to the directions of the extremes of lunar rise and set. As Chief Glenna Wallace said of her ancestors in her UNESCO acceptance speech, "They had to be genuises..." We will explore their remarkable observations and constructions and try to observe one of the moonsets that happen only around the 18.6 year swing cycle maximum. 
  
  Note: In addition to this October 15th class, there will be an opportunity to observe an extreme moonset on Monday, October 21st at 12:30 p.m. Dr. Andereck will provide more information on this moonset in the October 15th class.
• From Tippecanoe to Freedom: How Campaign Songs Have Energized We The People, with Nancy Gamso, Professor Emeritus of Performing Arts, Ohio Wesleyan University
  October 22
  OWU Professor Emeritus, Nancy Gamso returns to the LLI with an exploration of the popular music genre, presidential campaign songs. Join us as we explore how music has served the candidates and simultaneously informed, riled and gotten out the vote for 236 years.
• Social (In)Security and Medicare: WIll They Be There for Me? with Dr. Bob Gitter, Professor Emeritus of Economics, Ohio Wesleyan University
  October 29
  Over the next decade both the Social Security and Medicare Trust Funds are predicted to become insolvent. What are the causes of this, what will this mean for benefits, and what can we do about this?
• No class - Election Day!
  November 5
• Prelude to Independence with Dr. Barbara Terzian, Associate Professor of History, Ohio Wesleyan University
  November 12
  Prelude to Independence: George Washington starts a World War!
  Prelude to Independence: Was the "Boston Massacre" a massacre?

A Matter of Balance

Colleen Zombek, Community Education Coordinator, SourcePoint

Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m. (October 8, 15, 22, 29, November 5*, 12, 19, 26, December 3*)

Class location: This class will be held each week in the OWU Hamilton-Williams Campus Center first-floor Benes Room.

The award-winning A Matter of Balance program emphasizes practical strategies to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels. Participants learn to set realistic goals to enhance activity, change their environment to reduce fall risk factors, and use exercise to increase strength. 

Note: *Enrollment is limited to 16. This is an 8 week course. Attendees will take a vote at the first class to determine if the class will be held on November 5*, Election Day.  If Yes, the class will conclude its 8^th week on November 26.  If No, the class will hold its eighth class on December 3*.

Paleopathology: Physical Evidence of the Character and Origin of "Modern Diseases"

Bruce Rothschild, M.D.

Wednesdays, 10 a.m.- noon (October 9,16, 23, November 6, 13)

Class Location: This class will be held each week in the OWU Hamilton-Williams Campus Center first-floor Benes Room.

The diseases which afflict us today are not actually new, but are identified in both archeologic sites and in the fossil record. Utilizing a critical thinking approach to primary reports and actual examination of the skeletons of afflicted individuals, a "dictionary/atlas" is established for recognition of diseases, the spectrum of their osseous impact and their origins and evolution. Discussion will include, but not be limited to rheumatoid arthritis, infections including tuberculosis and syphilis, and cancer. We are not very different from dinosaurs with respect to our disease susceptibility and behavioral responses.

Note: Enrollment is limited to 30.

Raise Your Spirits

Wednesdays, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. (October 9, 16, 23)

Class locations:

• October 9 - Oak & Brazen Wine Company, 38 East Winter Street, Delaware

• October 16 – Standardized Brewing, 5920 Evans Farm Dr. Suite A, Lewis Center

• October 23 - Clo Wine Gallery and Lounge, 27 N. Sandusky Street, Delaware

Note: Each class will be held at the respective winery or brewery. Enrollment is limited to 40 participants.

Democracy and the 2024 Elections

Thursdays, 10 a.m. - noon (October 10, 17, 24, November 14)

Class Location: This class will be held each week in the OWU Hamilton-Williams Campus Center first-floor Benes Room.

• The Rise of Autocratic Regimes and the Impact of Democracy with Dr. James Franklin, Kernan Robson Professor of Politics & Government; Department Chair, Ohio Wesleyan University 
  October 10
  Some experts and major political figures have voiced growing concerns about the rise of authoritarian regimes and the threats to democracy.  This class will look at how political scientists identify and classify democracies and at historical trends in democracy around the world.  We will also look at factors that encourage democracy and whether current conditions indicate major changes.  Particular authoritarian regimes and countries of democratic concern will be discussed along with recent cases that show the resilience of democracy.
• The Citizens Not Politicians Amendment: What It Is, How It Would Work and Why It Matters with Mia Lewis, Associate Director of Common Cause Ohio
  October 17
  Join us for a deep dive on the Citizens Not Politicians amendment, a measure Ohioans will be voting on in November. Mia Lewis of Common Cause Ohio,a non-partisan organization, will be with us to talk about why gerrymandering hurts democracy and go through the ins and outs of how the Citizens Not Politicians amendment would work.
• Reforms Considered: The Electoral College and Beyond with Dr. Franchesca Nestor, Associate Porfessor of Politics & Government, Ohio Wesleyan University
  October 24
  Most Americans are dissatisfied with the Electoral College, though the possibilities for reform are not without challenges. More broadly, most Americans are dissatisfied with our political system writ large in one way or another, though they may not know why or what to do about it. In this session, you will learn about multiple areas in the US political system that may be ripe for reform, some possibilities for reform that exist, and the challenges posed by those possibilities. 
• The 2024 Election: A Post-Mortem with Dr. Paul Beck, Professor Emeritus and Academy Professor of Political Science, The Ohio State University
  November 14
  This talk will focus on the results of the 2024 election and their implications for the future.  While the hotly contested presidential election dominates, attention will also be paid to the results for the U.S. Senate and House, where control of both chambers is within reach for both parties, and to the results in Ohio, including the outcome for whatever issues make the November ballot.

LLI Potpourri - Thursday

Thursdays, 2-4 p.m. (October 10, 17, 24, November 7, 14)

Class Location: This class will be held each week in the OWU Hamilton-Williams Campus Center first-floor Benes Room.

• AMAZING BIRDS: Owls of Ohio, Whoo Whoo Whoo Gives a Hoot with Richard Vail, self-described "Owl Nut"
  October 10
  This is a light-hearted, yet informative presentation about the incredible and unique capabilities of owls. The session focuses on the physical characteristics of owls that makes them such interesting birds to study. The session also provides a close-up look at eight owls that make Ohio part of their home territory.  Photos, diagrams, and charts related to owls projected on to a BIG screen provide visual insight and understanding of these magnificent birds of prey.
  
  
• Connecting Central Ohio through Innovative Planning with MORPC with Elliott Lewis, MORPC Principal Planner and Emma Strange, MORPC Mobility Coordinator
  October 17
  Join MORPC (Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission – that includes Delaware County)  in a presentation and discussion of exciting initiatives and plans such as LinkUS, the Regional Mobility Plan, and Rapid 5. Central Ohio is one of the fastest growing regions in the country, on track to reach 3.15 million residents by 2050. LinkUS is Central Ohio Transit Authority's initiative to address that growth through expanding our transit system and making historic investments in sidewalks, bikeways, and trails. As we grow, Rapid 5 strives to connect people with nature and our five major waterways, ultimately promoting wellbeing, mobility, and economic vitality. Lastly, speakers from MORPC will cover the Regional Mobility Plan which addresses the growing need for mobility options for older adults and people with disabilities as they age in place and travel across county lines.
• "Wax"ing Nostalgic? with Todd Engen, Retired IBM engineer
  October 24
  Wax, vinyl records, once seeming to be dead has made a huge comeback. New vinyl records are now outselling CDs. Most of us still have a collection of LPs around. In this class you will learn how to copy your favorite albums (or 45s and maybe 78s) to play on your phone, computer or other digital device. This session will show how to digitize your vinyl collection or your cassettes using your computer. If you want to embrace vinyl again, we'll discuss current record players and proper maintenance of your vinyl.
• Ohio Wesleyan's 1964 GE College Bowl Experience with Bob Holm '60, LLI Steering Committee Co-chair 
  November 7
  In the spring of 1964 OWU was invited to appear on the GE College Bowl on NBC TV. During my first year on the OWU University Relations staff I was asked to serve as Assistant Coach and was involved in selecting and training the 4 team members and planning the travel to New York. The team won for 5 consecutive weeks and retired as undefeated champs. My presentation will include many photos and newspaper articles about the team and will conclude with a video of the OWU-UCLA game.
• Public Schools Under Pressure: Confronting Today's Challenges with Dr. Sarah Kaka, Associate Professor of Education, Ohio Wesleyan University
  November 14
  Join Dr. Sarah Kaka, chair of the OWU Education Department, for an in-depth examination of the significant challenges facing public schools in America today. We'll delve into such issues as funding disparities, teacher shortages, and curriculum debates. Gain a deeper understanding of how these obstacles impact students, teachers, and communities. This talk will also highlight the ongoing efforts and innovative approaches aimed at overcoming these hurdles, including OWU's Bishop Scholars program which worked to get K-8 students back on track academically after the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether you're an educator, parent, policymaker, or concerned citizen, this discussion will shed light on the critical issues shaping the future of our public education system.

Writing a 'Legacy Letter'

Jay Sherwin, Creator, Life Reflections Project

Thursday, 2-4 p.m. (October 31) 

Class Location: This class will be held on Zoom.

A legacy letter (also called an "ethical will") is a written document that allows you to share your life lessons, express your values and transmit your blessings to future generations. A legacy letter is shorter than a memoir, typically just a few pages. Writing one is a rewarding experience that creates an enduring gift for family, friends and other loved ones. This introductory workshop includes discussion and brief writing exercises to help you examine your life history, explore your values and capture important insights. It offers advice, encouragement and a model structure to help you draft and complete your own legacy letter. Note: This class will be held on Zoom with the Zoom link sent to participants close to the date of the class.

Note: Enrollment is limited to 30.

Socrates Cafe

Jane Ewers, R.N. 

Fridays, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. (October 11, 18, 25, November 1, 8, 15)

Class Location: This class will be held each week in the OWU Hamilton-Williams Campus Center first-floor Benes Room.

In an atmosphere of a relaxing Coffee Cafe, this class uses the "Socratic Method" which is a form of dialogue between individuals based on asking and answering questions, leading to a thinking person's guide to a better life, and is one of Socrates greatest achievements.  The Socratic Method is an Ethic of patience, inquiry, humility and doubt, (and fun).  Attendees will vote on a topic to discuss each week.