OLLI Fall 2026 Public Programs

Sept. 3

Rebecca Minder

Discover how Alabama Heritage preserves the past while embracing the future. Participants explore its award-winning storytelling journey from magazine pages to engaging podcasts, gaining insight into how history is shared, remembered, and newly experienced through the power of voice.

Sept. 10

Fran Summerlin, Ben Lyon, Mark Smith

In 2023, residents of Chandler Mountain and surrounding communities in St. Clair County faced the possibility of losing their homes, farms, businesses and historic sites to a proposed pumped hydro storage project. In this presentation, members of Save Chandler Mountain, Inc., will share the story of how ordinary citizens organized, built strategic alliances, engaged the media and elected officials, and successfully stopped the project. Presenters Fran Summerlin, Ben Lyon and Mark Smith will discuss the environmental, historical and human stakes involved, along with practical lessons in grassroots advocacy and community action that can inspire others facing similar challenges.

Sept. 17

Elizabeth Wheeler

Experience the magic and customs found along the Danube, traveling from the Black Sea to Vienna with a quick peek into Transylvania. This session takes a look at six different countries: Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Slovakia and finally into Vienna, Austria.

Sept. 24

David Murdock

Attalla, Alabama, has a surprising history as a mining town, railroad hub and “wannabe” tourist location. Come find out more about the “Gateway to the Sunny South.”

Oct. 1

Jackie McClain

Medicare is federal health insurance for seniors and eligible disabled individuals. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free, unbiased counseling to help people understand Medicare benefits, coverage options, costs and enrollment decisions.

Oct. 8

Rev. Anthony Coleman

This presentation examines the difference between the modern and historical views of the seventh president among common people and why there is such a great difference between the two.

Oct. 15

Puddin' McArthur

"Walk Through Time" is held on the third Sunday in October at Forrest Cemetery. For 16 years, modern citizens dressed in period clothing have portrayed some of Gadsden's most interesting citizens from various eras. Portrayers can be seen throughout the afternoon in the chapel. Trolleys transport patrons back in time to the cemetery, where they stroll at leisure. Donations are used to preserve the cemetery.

Oct. 22

Ryan Cole

This presentation explores the settlement of western Etowah County from statehood through the Civil War. Participants examine early communities along Jackson’s Creek War route, including Bennettsville and Bristow Cove, and learn about surrounding rural settlements and historic hubs.

Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22 • Noon-1:15 p.m. Bryant Conference Center

Kandis Snyder, Coordinator

UA's College of Community Health Sciences and University Medical Center host this lecture series, where faculty present a different medical topic each week. The schedule will be sent out later in the OLLI email.

September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; Oct. 7, 14, 21 • Noon-1:15 p.m. Bryant Conference Center

Becky Booker, Coordinator

Enjoy a wide range of topics — from history and travel to the arts, hobbies and local stories. Each week, a different speaker shares their expertise and passion.

• Sept. 2 – Safety at the Capstone: A Community Conversation – Shane Dorrill
• Sept. 9 – Operation Mincemeat – Andrew Houston
• Sept. 16 – Getting to Know Your Area Agency on Aging – Kayla Clark
• Sept. 23 – Saban Center: An Innovative Educational Workforce Campus for the Future – Brandt LaPish
• Sept. 30 – Capstone Men & Women – Lucy Arnold Sikes
• Oct. 7 – Planning for the Future: Understanding Special Needs Trusts and Financial Protection – Lesley Byars & Cindy Fisher
• Oct. 14 – Why and How a History Magazine Began Podcasting – Rebecca Minder
• Oct. 21 – Visit Tuscaloosa – Kelsey Rush & Chelsey Barton Kelly

Sept. 14, 21, 28; Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26; Nov. 2 • 9-10:15 a.m.

Dr. Elizabeth Aversa

This course introduces the history, current state, and future of opera. Designed for the beginner, or as a review for established opera fans, this class will offer great music, beautiful videos, and a bit of opera humor.

Nov. 4 • 1:30-2:45 p.m.

Dr. Abby Horton

Daily aches and pains don't have to be your "new normal." This easy-to-follow webinar will share simple tips to help reduce chronic pain, improve movement, and keep you feeling your best. No special equipment needed‚ just practical ideas you can use right away.