The Osher offices will be closed on Monday to celebrate this bittersweet, end-of-summer holiday. But the Osher team returns to work on Tuesday, busy gearing up for another great fall term. Enrollment so far has been outstanding! Registration deadlines are coming up for Osher Online™️ on September 9 and Fitness with Vivo for Seniors on September 11. Space is still available in many other upcoming classes and special events, and we are hosting a new Continuing Education open house on Saturday, September 26, all featured in depth below. Sign up today if you’d like to participate!
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To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this single-session lecture explores the Declaration of Independence as a revolutionary statement of political ideals, defining America not just as a place, but as a bold ideology rooted in liberty, equality, and the belief in self-government for all people.
Monday September 21 at 4:00 pm
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This course reviews the history of the American Revolution as fought in South Carolina. We start with an overview of the fraught political situation in South Carolina prior to the war, as well as the early battles there, followed by two years of militia in-fighting. Next, we briefly review the northern war which resulted in a stalemate, so the war shifted south. We then review in greater detail the battles which took place in the south involving Continentals and/or militia. We conclude with the brutal fighting that occurred after the surrender at Yorktown, and explain how it affected the eventual terms of the Treaty of Paris.
Tuesday September 22 at 11:30 am
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Come play bridge with us! This is not a structured class, but a comfortable place to come and play with a teacher on hand in case you have questions. These bridge sessions were created with beginning bridge players in mind, but players of all skill levels are welcome, and we are happy to have you join us, with or without a partner.
Tuesday September 22 at 11:30 am
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In a time of increasing division, the ability to engage in respectful, thoughtful conversations is more important than ever (even and especially with those you disagree with!). This course introduces the Living Room Conversations model—an approach to discussing challenging topics in a controlled environment where all voices are heard and valued. Participants will learn how to practice active listening, curiosity, and bridge-building, learning how to navigate difficult discussions with empathy and understanding. Each week, we will cover specific skills and discuss a different topic together, fostering powerful connection and mutual learning.
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Weekly topics will include: Foundations of Civil Dialogue, Navigating Tricky Conversations, Finding Common Ground in Political Discussions, Communicating with Care and Empathy, Writing and Speaking for Impact, and Applying Civil Dialogue in Everyday Life.
Wednesday September 23 at 9:30 am
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Muscle strength and balance are critical to maintaining health and independence as we age. Without additional strength training, most older adults will experience a gradual loss of muscle mass and strength that can negatively impact balance, mobility, and overall function. Vivo is a live, online, interactive strength and balance program designed specifically for older adults. Vivo sessions incorporate cognitive, balance, and strength exercises informed by the latest science and research on healthy aging and exercise.
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Certified personal trainers, skilled in working with older adults, provide modifications to meet each participant's needs and abilities. Whether you are new to exercise or already active, Vivo can help you build strength, improve balance and mobility, and support long-term independence. Classes meet once a week for 45 minutes. For best results, participants are encouraged to register for two class sessions per week and may choose the days and times that best fit their schedule.
Monday through Fridays at 8:00 am or 10:00 am
Registration Deadline September 11
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Discover a fun way to breathe new life into your watercolors! For beginners, intermediate, or advanced painters, woven watercolors are a way to add texture and dimension to your paintings. This course will teach you a few basic watercolor techniques such as wet-in-wet and dry brush, along with various ways to create texture on your paper. There will be a quick instructional on how to set up your paint palette and supplies for most efficient use. You will then learn to plan and execute a woven watercolor painting from concept to finished product.
Monday September 21 at 5:30 pm
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The American Origin story is steeped in mythology, Pilgrims, Colonists, Frontiersmen, Explorers, Traders, the Indian "troubles," the French and Indian War, and the Revolutionary War brought the United States of America into being. Then came the Wilderness Road, Westward Ho, cowboys and Indians, the Wild West, the gunfighters, the gold strikes, the Intercontinental Railroad, the ranchers and farmers and the exploitation of the West. The telling was mythic, the people heroic, their feats legendary. It was a story that captured the imagination of the world. Join us as we explore the mythmaking that attended the creation of a nation, the defeat and subjugation of its Indigenous peoples, and its westward expansion that soon reached from the Atlantic to the Pacific. We examine what purpose this mythmaking served.
Wednesday September 23 at 3:30 pm
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Explore the intersection of psychedelics and human development through historical, scientific, psychological, and spiritual lenses. Examine the cultural roots and modern resurgence of psychedelic substances, learn about their therapeutic uses, and engage with cutting-edge research on their potential to address mental health challenges. Emphasis will be placed on the biopsychosocial-spiritual model of healing, offering a holistic framework for understanding transformation and integration. By the end of the course, class members will have a deeper understanding of how psychedelics can influence identity, healing, and growth--both individually and collectively.
Thursday September 24 at 9:30 am
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Stephen Trimble spent the past several years updating his classic book on the natural history of the Great Basin Desert, The Sagebrush Ocean. His authoritative voice and evocative photographs illuminate our home landscape of sun-struck playas, surprising wetlands, remote canyons, and wind-swept tundra. Today, the once-vast "sagebrush ocean" is an endangered sea, as environmental changes and human development have diminished it by half. This heartbreaking decline drives Trimble's updated text, but he blends loss with reverence for what remains—and urgent insight into what is at stake. In this session, Stephen will share this essential introduction to the ecology and spirit of the Great Basin Desert and tell stories from his fieldwork as writer and photographer.
Thursday September 24 at 3:30 pm
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If you know the basics of photography and use a digital camera, this course is for you. In this highly interactive course, you will learn about landscape composition, exposure, lenses, landscape equipment and accessories, depth-of-field, lighting, time and timing, photographing in different seasons, dealing with flare, shooting in snow, and more. You will receive feedback on your photos, time providing.
Friday September 25 at 11:30 am
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Join Artistic Director of NOVA Chamber Music Series, Kimi Kawashima, in an introduction to chamber music and the composers and music performed at NOVA's upcoming 49th season at Libby Gardner Hall and the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. A renowned pianist and music educator, Kimi will share the history behind NOVA Chamber Music Series and how she curates unique programs for NOVA audiences, performed by the top local classical musicians. Osher members will get a discount code for tickets to the NOVA performance on Sunday, September 27 at 3:00 pm in Libby Gardener Concert Hall.
Thursday September 10 at 1:00 pm
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Lyuba Basin, Rare Books Curator in Special Collections, invites you to get a glimpse of the art and history of the book. Featured items on display from the Rare Books collection will include 4,000-year-old clay tablets, illuminated manuscripts, early print history specimens, and twenty-first century artists' books. After a brief lecture, there will be an opportunity to ask questions and enjoy the treasures found in this collection. This visit previews her more detailed upcoming spring term Osher course, Into the Vault: The Marriott Library's Rare Books Collection.
Tuesday September 15 at 10:00 am
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Step inside one of Salt Lake City's most beautiful and historic sacred spaces for an inspiring afternoon of art, history, architecture, culture, and faith. Join Father George Nikas, Dean of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, for an engaging introduction to the rich traditions of Eastern Orthodox Christianity. Learn about the symbolism woven throughout the cathedral's breathtaking iconography, architecture, and centuries-old worship practices that have remained largely unchanged since the earliest days of Christianity.
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Following the presentation, enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent cathedral and the Hellenic Cultural Museum, home to the nation's first Greek ethnic museum. Discover the remarkable story of Greek immigrants who helped shape Utah's history, explore fascinating artifacts and exhibits, and gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring contributions of Greek culture to our state and nation.
Whether you come for the history, the architecture, the art, or simply the opportunity to learn about a different faith tradition, this welcoming experience offers a unique glimpse into a vibrant community that has been part of Utah's cultural landscape for more than a century. Visitors of all backgrounds are warmly welcomed. Come with curiosity and leave with a deeper understanding of one of Salt Lake City's hidden treasures.
Tuesday September 22 at 1:30 pm
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Join us for a special lecture on World Polio Day by Osher member and retired MD Robert Day. Epidemics of polio in the United States became prevalent in the early 20th century. This discussion will focus on some of the science and characteristics of poliomyelitis and on the many individuals who became known for the great American fight against polio. Included are the pioneer scientists who originated the Salk (injected) and Sabin (oral) vaccines, and President Franklin Roosevelt, himself a victim of polio. The origins and the roles of The March of Dimes, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Rotary International, the World Health Organization, and other groups will be discussed.
Friday, October 23 at 11:00 am
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| Osher Special Events in 2026 are brought to you in part from funding from ZAP
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Calling all dancin’ lovin’ Osher members! The Westerner Dance Hall, Bar & Grill offers line dancing lessons every Wednesday night. Come join in on the fun along with your fellow Osher members on September 9. The $10 entrance fee is due upon arrival at The Westerner.
Wednesday September 9 at 7:00 pm
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Written by Laura Munts (with Reb Fleming and Elaine Jarvik), directed by Julie Jensen, and starring Reb Fleming, this one-woman play is about aging in plain sight—a subject avoided, disguised, or lied about. Sophia is a septuagenarian actor figuring out what she is supposed to be doing between now and when she dies. She is funny, cringeworthy, and ruthlessly honest. She is the wrong person in the right place. The right talent at the wrong age. This stunning and thought-provoking 45-minute performance is followed by a conversation among guests who share in the experience of exploring creative aging, together with the actor who brings it to life.
Thursday September 10 at 3:00 pm
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Join Lesly Allen for a walking tour of the amazing murals of South Salt Lake. Lesly is the founder of the city's Mural Fest and Executive Director for SSL Arts Council. She will share stories, information about the artists, and ideas behind the mural while exploring how public art has helped share the character of South Salt Lake. Take a stroll and come discover colorful artwork throughout the city and learn more about the people and creativity behind it.
Saturday September 19 at 1:30 pm
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Experience something very few people in the world have experienced—Rattlesnake Painting. You will not handle a snake, but will direct the rattlesnake wrangler on how you would like the snake to paint your art. You will choose the artist (snake), size and type of paper, color palette, wet or dry method of watercolor; and direct the wrangler where you want the paint and snake on the paper. Since you are dealing with a living animal, you never know how the painting will look. It is a fun and interesting experience and you will go home with a very unique work of art. Folks have said that it is actually a very relaxing experience to watch the process. The paint used is safe for the snakes; the instructor, has consulted with a world-renowned venom researcher who approved the paint as well as the process. Snakes are not being harmed in any way. Kim, the instructor, is a Certified Venomous Safety Instructor. You will never be near the snake, except when it is safely locked in its case. The snakes stay in their cases except when creating art. The $40 special fee is due upon arrival and will be donated to the Asclepius Snakebite Foundation. Please be considerate of the instructor who is buying all the materials and do not cancel last minute.
Registration Deadline Sept 22
Friday September 25 at 11:00 am
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Located in Cottonwood Heights, this class will introduce you to the sport of canine scent detection. Bring your dog for a fun session to start teaching them to purposely search for a target odor. Our target odor will be essential oils on Q-tips paired with a treat. It's fun to enter their world and see how they get to the source of the odor we're having them look for. Your dog will get a great workout while you don't have to break a sweat! And the dogs LOVE the game! One dog per registrant please. The $15 special fee is due upon arrival.
Registration Deadline Sept 29
Friday October 2 at 11:00 am
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Enjoy a tour of the KUER and PBS Utah public media stations. Peek into the control room and be part of an in-studio audience during the taping of The Hinckley Report. Meet Jason Perry, Vice President for Government Relations and Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics at the University of Utah; Kelton Wells, PBS Utah Executive Producer; and their team and guests for a brief question-and-answer session following the taping. Please note: Limited guest/visitor parking; carpooling strongly encouraged. Additional parking instructions will be provided to registrants.
Friday September 18 at 9:00 am
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Osher members are invited to a new monthly gathering designed to spark ideas, build connections, and help shape future Osher special events. This informal gathering is an opportunity for members to come together, share ideas, and collaborate on creative possibilities for future Osher events. Following our discussion, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through Red Butte Garden together. Whether you love brainstorming, planning, or simply connecting with fellow lifelong learners, we’d love to have you join us. No registration needed, please just show up and have fun!
Wednesday, September 23 at 2:00 p.m.
Red Butte Garden Plaza
For questions or more information, contact Sandi Greene: sandi@sandigreene.com
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For anyone who would like a little extra support learning how to take an idea through the Special Event application process, members are also invited to attend the upcoming Osher Behind the Scenes: Special Events class.
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Do you love attending Osher Special Events each term? Are you curious about how we select and organize our many varied fun events and who is responsible for planning them? This single-session free class will give you a behind-the-scenes tour of how Osher staff and volunteers run this very special and unique aspect of our program. Volunteerism is the foundation of Osher and especially of Special Events. Come learn how it's done and maybe even plan a new special event yourself for your fellow Osher members or share your ideas for fun places for Osher to visit.
Wednesday September 30 at 10:00 am
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You joined Osher and paid your membership dues for a year of fun. Now what? This single-session free class will welcome new members, provide a "meet and greet" opportunity to socialize a bit with others new to Osher, and show you the ropes of how to get involved. We will cover the material in our Member Handbook, letting you know how you can get the most out of your membership benefits...everything from where to get your U of U student ID card, to where to use it for discounts, to the many campus amenities available to Continuing Education students. Our program becomes stronger with each new member!
Tuesday September 15 at 11:30 am
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Did you know that we share our Osher building with seven other programs? Continuing Education will be hosting a program-wide open house on Saturday, September 26 at 540 Arapeen Drive. We'll have demos and workshops, including watercolor, bridge, and photography. We'll have fun for all ages, so bring your whole family! Osher instructors Joon Bae, Jennifer Love, Marcie Collett, Charlie Belusa, Jonathan Duncan, David Stillman, and Amy Hargreaves-Judzis will represent the Osher program. You can enroll in their classes or join us to enjoy a day of fun conversations with all programs open house style.
about the joys of learning!
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- Jennifer Love – Watercolor Demonstration
- Marcie Collett – Marcie's Movie Club Film Review
- Charlie Belusa – Bridge Demonstration
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Joon Bae – Korean Ink Painting: Chrysanthemums
- Jonathan Duncan – The History and Future of the Great Salt Lake with Q&A
- David Stillman
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Travelogs: Patagonia
- Travelogs: Patagonia Bhutan
- Travelogs: Patagonia Mexico
- Amy Hargreaves-Judzis – Sip and Stitch
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Saturday September 26 from 12:00 to 5:00 pm
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Our previous newsletters and podcasts are saved in an archive on our main website, so you never have to worry about missing a thing.
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Stay Connected by Joining Us on Social Media |
The Osher Instagram and Facebook pages are a great way to stay connected. We highlight the accomplishments of Osher instructors and members. Special Events are updated, posted, and featured here too. Please like us to stay up to date and share with your friends who would enjoy all that Osher has to offer!
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Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
801-581-6461 | osher@utah.edu
osher.utah.edu
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Continuing Education at the University of Utah | 540 Arapeen Dr Rm 210 | Salt Lake City, UT 84108 US
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540 Arapeen Drive | Salt Lake City, UT 84108 US
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