OLLI Shares

July 7, 14, 21, 28 

9:00 – 10:15 a.m. 

Elizabeth Aversa 

Before the music, there were playwrights, poets, and librettists. Throughout the history of opera, texts and music converge, resulting in the great works we see and hear today. Who were the famous folks behind our favorite operas? What were their relationships with the composers? What were their lives like as they created the "little books," the libretti? Among them are a former priest (defrocked and run out of Venice), an arms dealer in the French and American revolutions, and several opera composers. Enjoy the bios and the music! 

July 7 and 14 

1:15 – 2:45 p.m. 

Tom Borcher 

Sitting beside the Marshals, Holmeses, Warrens, Brandeises, and Marshalls were the "also-sat" Justices — the Supreme Court Backbenchers. The Justices you may have never heard of. One Justice sat on the bench while in debtors' prison. Another Justice refused to sit for the annual photo as long as a Jewish Justice was to be in the photo. Hear stories of the lives and philosophies of the lesser-known Justices. 

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July 8

10:30 – Noon

Mike Bunn

Alabama’s territorial and early statehood years represent a crucial formative period in its past, a time in which the state both literally and figuratively took shape. This course will tell the story of the remarkable changes that occurred within Alabama as it transitioned from frontier territory to a vital part of the American union in less than a quarter century. Learn about charismatic leaders, rugged frontiersmen, a dramatic and pivotal war that shaped the state’s trajectory, raging political intrigue, and pervasive sectional rivalry. 

July 8 and 10

1:15 – 2:45 p.m.

Nancy Darnall

Nancy Darnall has been teaching "Soundtracks of Our Lives" since 2020.  Her interest in the music of our times led to explorations of specific artists, the various phenomena of popular music history, and how the styles emerged and merged.  She has served OLLI at UAH in many capacities during the past decade. 

June 3, 10, 17, 24

1:30 – 2:45 p.m.

Dr. Richard Rhone

We stand on the eve of a grand commemoration marking our 250th anniversary of America's Independence. While we all know of heroes such as Washington, Adams and Jefferson, we may forget there are other significant heroes that are less well known. Let's explore the roles of some of these vital and interesting individuals. Join OLLI as we begin the celebration of America's Semiquincentennial!

July 8, 15, 22, 29

1:30 – 2:45 p.m.

Ian Crawford

This class will follow the life and times of Elizabeth Stuart, daughter of King James I, who became the famed “Winter Queen” of Bohemia and was a catalyst for the 30 Years War. The art and palaces of England, Prague, Vienna, The Netherlands and more will be explored as well as the complex relationships and dynamics that far outlast this time period.

July 22, 29

1:30 – 2:45 p.m.

Lee Laska and Jason Miller

This interactive class explores the journey of artificial intelligence from its early beginnings to its current role in society, and its potential future impact. Participants learn how AI has evolved, understand its present applications and discuss future possibilities. The course provides insights into AI’s influence on industries and everyday life.

June 4, 11, 18

9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Alice Novak

Explore how artists from the late twentieth century onward have responded to the world around them through a range of media, techniques, and cultural references. This course focuses on works from the 1980s to the present, highlighting both American and global artists who draw inspiration from past traditions and modern life. Each class includes discussion-based engagement, making it accessible to art lovers of all experience levels.