Calendar

• Fall 2026 Catalog
• Fall 2026 Course Schedule
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September

Monday, September 21
First day of CFS fall 2026 term
Log into the online registration system to view courses and to register.

Monday, September 21
Last day to drop Osher Online courses for a full refund
Visit the Forms page to access the Osher Online Fall 2026 Drop Request form.

Tuesday, September 22, 4:30 p.m.
STEAM Lecture Series: “Perspectives on Consciousness” (in-person + online)
Consciousness has become a major current topic of discussion and debate. We will briefly review the history of the topic and an assessment of where we are in our understanding including the thoughts of those who question whether it a subject for the field of scientific pursuit versus for the field of philosophy in which much of its early consideration lay.
After an academic background in chemical engineering and physical chemistry and a career in synthetic fibers research and development, Don Martin retired to Asheville in 2001. Among his first pursuits were taking and teaching courses in the College for Seniors. Don made a major transition in moving from the physical sciences to the biological sciences, particularly to his 25-year pursuit of the science of the brain. He considers that if he has a current scientific specialty, then it is as an amateur neuroscientist.
Join online via Zoom.

Wednesday, September 23, 7 p.m. | Blue Ridge Audubon
Partner Program: “Confusing Fall Warblers: Helpful Hints and Tricks to Identify Our Wood Warblers in Autumn” (in-person + online)
Many of the Eastern wood warblers show very different plumages in the fall. If you are a little confused as to who is who, then this is the talk for you! Join Blue Ridge Audubon member Kevin Burke for a talk on taking the “confusing” out of fall warbler identification. Kevin will go over most of the area’s fall warblers and how to confidently identify them in the field. Bay-breasted, chestnut-sided, prairie and pine warblers will be a breeze after this presentation.
Join online via Zoom and Learn more on the Blue Ridge Audubon’s website.

Friday, September 25, 11:30 a.m.
Fab Fridays: “Supporting a Loved One with Cognitive Challenges” (in-person + online)
Caring for someone with memory loss or other cognitive changes can be both rewarding and overwhelming. We will focus on practical ways to provide support at home including engagement strategies, communication tips and self-care for caregivers. We will also share information about local programs, respite options and community resources that can help families navigate this journey.
Elizabeth Williams is the executive director of Mountain Aging Partners, a nonprofit formed through the merger of MountainCare and the Council on Aging for Henderson County. With more than 20 years’ experience in aging services and nonprofit leadership, Elizabeth builds sustainable programs that support older adults and their caregivers.
Join online via Zoom.

Friday, September 25, 2 p.m.
OLLI Inclusion Committee program: “Just Films: Between the Mountain and the Sky”
In the wake of being honored as the 2015 CNN Hero of the Year, Maggie Doyne, a devoted CEO, humanitarian and guardian to more than 50 Nepalese children, finds herself in the throes of an unimaginable tragedy. But a serendipitous encounter with a compassionate filmmaker reignites Maggie’s faith in the power of love. They embark on a profound journey to redefine what it means to be a family, navigating the intricate path of rebuilding their lives. The documentary Between the Mountain and the Sky is a poignant tale that delves into the resilience of the human spirit and showcases the enduring strength of a family determined to find hope. The screening will be followed by a moderated discussion.
Registration is requested.

Monday, September 28, 6:30 p.m. | Science Book Club
Partner Program: “The Genetic Book of the Dead: A Darwinian Reverie by Richard Dawkins”
This award-winning book is a joyful meditation on the beauty and complexity of the evolution of animals, relying heavily on the author’s previous ground-breaking books such as The Selfish Gene. Lavishly illustrated by Jana Lenzova, its central theme is that all animals represent their ancestors’ adaptations to long-gone environments; hence modern species are imperfectly adapted to the present. Natural selection is in effect a blind sculptor creating a wonderful array of species with surprising interconnections, such as the relatively close relationship of hippopotami to whales. With the great advances in DNA and epigenetic studies, we can now better understand the remarkable mechanisms by which such diversity is generated. Discussion moderated by Barbara Reynolds.
For more information, email Susan Studlar.

October

Thursday, October 1, 7 p.m. | Astronomy Club of Asheville
Partner Program: “The Early History of SETI” (in-person + online)
Are we alone? This question has occupied the minds of some of the greatest thinkers in history. Our speaker will examine the early history of this fascinating question, from the ancient Greek philosophers to (more-or-less) modern day scientists, along with their search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). Along the way we will meet prescient atomists, a pyromaniacal observatory director, an astronomer who was afraid of the dark and the inspiration for the horror film Altered States.
David Johnston is a NASA solar system ambassador.
Join online via Zoom, and read more on the Astronomy Club of Asheville’s website.

Friday, October 2, 11:30 a.m.
Fab Fridays: “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” (in-person + online)
Route 66: the main street of America, the mother road, the road immortalized by song, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, television series and even the inspiration for Pixar/Disney cartoon movie Cars. Since its establishment in 1926, route 66 has been the symbol of all things American and made the West truly accessible to millions of Americans. As route 66 celebrates its 100th anniversary, we will learn a little about the history of the road and some of the present-day things to see along this iconic highway.
Ann Jones enjoyed three careers—teacher, consultant and real estate broker—before she retired in 2019, moved from Chicago to Asheville in 2021 and became an enthusiastic OLLI member.
Join online via Zoom.

Tuesday, October 6, 7 p.m. | World Affairs Council
Partner Program: “Trump 2.0 Meets China Shock 2.0: Geopolitics, Global Trade and the American Dream” (in-person + online)
The U.S. and China are both redefining their roles in the world, with consequences that reach far beyond Washington and Beijing. Under the second Trump administration, the U.S. has pulled back from many long-standing international commitments including foreign aid, immigration and refugee policies, alliances, trade arrangements and multilateral institutions. At the same time, China has become an economic and technological powerhouse, commanding a growing share of global production and supply chains in strategic industries. China no longer relies primarily on low-cost manufacturing; it is now a major player in advanced technology, infrastructure, clean energy and global trade networks. Some analysts warn of a “China shock 2.0,” a new wave of economic disruption tied to China’s strength in strategic industries and supply chains. How are U.S. allies, developing countries and middle powers responding to these shifts? Will they turn increasingly to China, remain aligned with the U.S. or seek a path between the two?
Dr. Katherine Palmer Kaup is James B. Duke Professor of Asian Studies and Politics & International Affairs at Furman University.
Join online via Zoom.

Wednesday, October 7, 7 p.m. | WNC Sierra Club
Partner Program: “This Fall’s Election: What’s at Stake?” (in-person + online)
Ken Brame, WNC Sierra Club’s political co-chair, will talk about what is at stake in this year’s election – nationally, in North Carolina and locally. We will learn more about which races will be most competitive, what the political climate looks like, what the potential outcomes are, the implications for the environment and how you can get involved and make a difference.
Ken Brame is the former chair of both the national Sierra Club political committee and the NC Sierra Club political committee.
Join online via Zoom, and read more on the WNC Sierra Club’s website.

Friday, October 9, 11:30 a.m.
Fab Fridays: “Human Sexuality and Aging: Intimacy, Desire and the Changing Body” (in-person + online)
Sexuality is a natural part of the human experience throughout the lifespan, yet it is often overlooked or misunderstood as we age. We will provides an overview of sexuality and intimacy in later life including how normal aging and hormonal changes can affect the body, sexual function and desire. We will explore common misconceptions about sexuality and aging, the influence of health conditions and medications, and the many ways intimacy and sexual expression may evolve over time. We will also briefly discuss practical approaches to common concerns and the importance of maintaining open conversations about sexual health as part of healthy aging.
Golnosh Sharafsaleh is a geriatrics physician at Golden Oak Medicine in Asheville and is board-certified in geriatrics and family medicine. She serves as the program director of the geriatric fellowship at UNC Health Blue Ridge. Golnosh earned a graduate degree in gerontology prior to medical school, where she focused on the psychosocial aspects of aging. Her areas of interest are aging well and cognitive disorders.
Join online via Zoom.

Friday, October 9, 2 p.m. | Asheville Art Museum
Partner Program: “Warp, Weft and the Grid” (in-person + online)
Join Asheville Art Museum head of learning and engagement Julie Levin Caro for a presentation on the exhibition Warp, Weft and the Grid. This exhibition highlights the artistic significance of early 20th-century Southern Appalachian coverlets, exploring how the designs of these handwoven textiles anticipated many of the same visually arresting motifs at the heart of modernist geometric abstraction in later 20th-century art. It offers new perspectives on the experimental ethos of weavers in the region. This lecture is open to all and will also provide valuable background for anyone who registers for the field trip to the exhibition on Saturday, October 17 or visits on their own time.
Join online via Zoom, and read more about the exhibition on the Asheville Art Museum’s website.

Friday, October 16, 11:30 a.m.
Fab Fridays: “One Person/One Vote: Popular Voting” (in-person + online)
We will cover the history of the League of Women Voters’ position on election of the president, history and problems of the electoral college, the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact as a better way to use the electoral college, activities in North Carolina including the North Carolina for the National Popular Vote coalition of nonpartisan, pro-democracy organizations, and resources for more information.
Following a career at the National Institutes of Health, Suzanne Fisher’s volunteer activities have included multiple library groups, historic preservation groups, property owners’ association committees and board, and the League of Women Voters. She is currently the president of the Asheville-Buncombe County League of Women Voters, secretary of the League of Women Voters North Carolina and leader of the National Popular Vote Action Team for Asheville-Buncombe County and the statewide Action Team for Election of the President by Popular Vote.
Join online via Zoom.

Friday, October 16, 2 p.m. | Alzheimer’s Association – Western North Carolina Chapter
Partner Program: “Advances in Treatment for Alzheimer’s”
In the United States, a new person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease every 65 seconds. Join us for this informative presentation to learn about the latest FDA-approved treatments in the fight against Alzheimer’s. We will review the benefits and side effects of treatments and discuss pathways to treatment access. We will also provide resources offered through the Alzheimer’s Association.

Friday, October 16, 4:30 p.m.
Member Social: “Fall Social”
Join your OLLI friends in the Reuter Center’s lower level to socialize! Enjoy a casual cookout style supper (including vegetarian and vegan options), drinks and music with friends old and new. Make sure that your OLLI friends know about the event and are registered, and bring a friend if you would like to introduce them to the OLLI community.
Register to attend.

Friday, October 16, 5 p.m. | Death Café
Partner Program: “Death Café”
Death Café is an engaging gathering with storytelling and conversation about a topic that too often alienates people in our death-phobic culture. At Death Café, participants break into small groups of five or six people and discuss personal stories related to the death of loved ones; loss of jobs, relationships or marriages; or loss or death of parts of ourselves. These programs are facilitated by Karen Sanders, Greg Lathrop and Saïd Osio from Third Messenger. Learn more about Death Café by visiting the Death Café website, the Third Messenger website, or facebook.com/deathcafeasheville. If you have questions about meetings of Death Café at the Reuter Center, please contact Karen Sanders at 828-778-8882.

Saturday, Ocotber 17, 3 p.m. | Asheville Art Museum
Field Trip: “Warp, Weft and the Grid”
Join fellow OLLI members for a private guided tour of the exhibition Warp, Weft and the Grid, which highlights the artistic significance of early 20th-century Southern Appalachian coverlets, exploring how the designs of these handwoven textiles anticipated many of the same visually arresting motifs at the heart of modernist geometric abstraction in later 20th-century art.
Space is limited; registration is required. Cost (includes private guided tours/discussions of special exhibitions; does not include transportation or parking): $15. To register through October 15, log into our online registration system.

Sunday, October 18, 2:30 p.m. | The Autumn Players
Partner Program: “Last of the Red Hot Lovers by Neil Simon”
Barney Cashman, married and middle-aged, wants to join the sexual revolution before it is too late! Directed by Ellen Pappas.
Read more about  and purchase tickets online via the Autumn Players’ website for $11; any remaining tickets will be sold for $11 (cash only) at the door beginning at 2 p.m. prior to each performance.

Thursday, October 22, 2 p.m.
College for Seniors Information Session: “You Too Can Teach!” (in-person + online)
Are you interested in (or curious about) teaching a course at the College for Seniors? You may have never thought that you could be an OLLI instructor, but you too can teach! Our instructors run the gamut from retired teachers and professionals to those with deep knowledge of a certain topic. The common thread with all our instructors is passion for their subject matter and a desire to share it with peers. The process of becoming an instructor is not daunting. Current CFS instructors will introduce what teaching at OLLI is all about and demystify the process from having an idea for a course through creating a good proposal. All of your questions about teaching will be answered!
Register to attend in-person or online via Zoom.

Friday, October 23, 11:30 a.m.
Fab Fridays: “Pelvic Health as We Age” (in-person + online)
We will provide an overview of what pelvic health actually means from the perspective of a pelvic-health physical therapist. We will cover common issues both men and women experience through their lifespan, what the pelvic floor is and how we can address these issues.
Annie Barnes is a physical therapist who specializes in orthopedic and pelvic-health physical therapy. She has worked with patients of all ages to help them feel good and move well without holding back due to the quiet suffering that often comes with pelvic-health issues.
Join online via Zoom.

Friday, October 23, 3 p.m.
OLLI Life Transitions Program: “Advance Care Planning Workshop”
The workshop will feature a panel whose members are experienced in addressing end-of-life issues. Discussion will include communicating your treatment wishes to loved ones and to medical personnel, ethical and legal issues, and the uses of advance directives. Ample time will be reserved for questions. Assistance will be provided for anyone wishing to complete a legally valid advance directive including the notarization required in North Carolina. This workshop is a project of OLLI’s Life Transitions programs with additional support provided by Four Seasons and McGuire Wood & Bissette Law Firm.
Register to attend.

Sunday, October 25, 3 p.m. | Asheville Senior Chorus
Partner Program: “The House We Live in: Broadway Celebrates America at 250”
The United States turns 250 this fall, and Broadway has been throwing the party for more than a century. Every one of the songs we will sing has a story. Some of the stories are funny, a few are heartbreaking and at least two involve Irving Berlin putting something in a drawer. The program runs in seven chapters, like a parade moving through town. Twice, the parade stops. Then it picks back up and marches home.
Admission is free, but donations are happily accepted. Read more about the concert.

Friday, October 30, 11:30 a.m.
Fab Fridays: “‘Not Gauguin’: The Dramatic Story of a Self-Exiled German Artist in Tahiti” (in-person + online)
Wolfgang Wolff fled Nazi Germany with his wife in 1934, becoming a successful artist in Tahiti. With the onset of World War Two, Wolff was incarcerated with fellow “enemy aliens” by the French, where he documented that prison experience. In 1948 Wolff left for California with his wife and son. There he designed textiles that were the popular “Hawaiian” fabrics of the 1950s that continue to be in demand by collectors.
Goetz Wolff was born in Tahiti, then immigrated to and grew up in the United States. After completing graduate school at Yale University, he first taught at UNC Asheville, then taught at the University of California Los Angeles until he retired and returned to settle in Western North Carolina.
Join online via Zoom.

November

Sunday, November 1
Last day to submit CFS spring 2027 course proposal
Visit the Forms page to access the CFS Spring 2027 Course Proposal form. Instructors may choose to proposal a course on the term’s theme, “USA at 250: Revolution, Evolution, Innovation, Inspiration“; read more about the theme term.

Sunday, November 1, 3 p.m.
Center for Jewish Studies Program: “Kierkegaard Meets the Rabbis: The Surprising Origins of Jewish Existentialism”
Sponsored by OLLI and the Center for Jewish Studies at UNC Asheville.

Friday, November 6, 11:30 a.m.
Fab Fridays: “Reclaim Healthcare” (in-person + online)
Join North Carolina Senator Julie Mayfield as she leads a panel discussion with Kathey Avery, Miriam Schwarz and Bruce Kelly on reclaiming healthcare.
Join online via Zoom.

Friday, November 13
Last day of CFS fall 2026 term

Friday, November 13, 11:30 a.m.
Fab Fridays: “Objects & Meaning: What is Craft?” (in-person + online)
In 20th century America, volumes were written about art with discussions of craft often an afterthought. Art history’s use of painting as a singular standard has left three-dimensional objects to adjust to a language largely written from a flattened, two-dimensional perspective. With frustration, scholars and writers attempt to apply a language structured upon the painted image to volumetric form. This talk examines how academic disciplines and cultural institutions have assigned meaning to expressive objects over time. The talk challenges today’s art world vision of the arts and is sure to spark a lively debate.
Anna Fariello spent 10 years as a professional ceramist before earning graduate degrees in museum studies and art history and shifting her career toward research, writing and curation. Her textbook Objects & Meaning (2003). was one of the first books that looked at the history and theory behind craft practice, while her exhibition of the same year, Movers & Makers, focused on the Appalachian Craft Revival. Fariello has been an associate professor at three state universities where she curated traditional and digital collections.
Join online via Zoom.

Friday, November 20, 2 p.m. | Alzheimer’s Association – Western North Carolina Chapter
Partner Program: “Comfort & Joy: Navigating the Holidays with Dementia”
The holiday season can bring both joy and added challenges for families caring for someone living with dementia. This presentation offers practical tips to help reduce stress and create meaningful experiences, covering topics such as safety, travel, managing traditions, gift-giving, and setting realistic expectations. Participants will leave with simple strategies to help make the holidays more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Friday, November 20, 5 p.m. | Death Café
Partner Program: “Death Café”
Death Café is an engaging gathering with storytelling and conversation about a topic that too often alienates people in our death-phobic culture. At Death Café, participants break into small groups of five or six people and discuss personal stories related to the death of loved ones; loss of jobs, relationships or marriages; or loss or death of parts of ourselves. These programs are facilitated by Karen Sanders, Greg Lathrop and Saïd Osio from Third Messenger. Learn more about Death Café by visiting the Death Café website, the Third Messenger website, or facebook.com/deathcafeasheville. If you have questions about meetings of Death Café at the Reuter Center, please contact Karen Sanders at 828-778-8882.