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Mondays | Sept. 30 - Nov. 25 | 10 – 11:40 a.m. | Zoom, Recorded*

Join popular SF Symphony and SF Opera speaker Dr. Laura Stanfield Prichard in a fascinating exploration of the life and music of Handel, Mozart, and their colleagues. We will begin with Handel’s youthful Italian period and journey with him to early 18th-century England and Ireland, singing excerpts from his operas, oratorios and anthems (2 classes). Then we’ll follow Mozart’s youthful travels to those same spots, focusing on major works composed in Salzburg, Vienna, and Prague (3 classes). Our final class will meet in person to learn dances of Handel and Mozart’s time, including the minuet, pavane, galliard, and allemande (the sixth class may also be observed by Zoom). 

Mondays | Sept. 30 - Oct. 21 | 2 – 3:40 p.m. | Zoom, Recorded*

Economics plays a central role in the functioning of every aspect of society. This course will address a set of prominent policy issues where economics is at their core. We will explore their origins as policy matters, the underlying data and evidence, and what policy levers are available to deal with them. Lectures will be standalone, taught by a subject matter expert – all of whom have a Ph.D. in Economics. Potential topics include Climate Change, Healthcare Economics, Economic Inequality, and many more. 

Tuesdays | Oct. 29 - Nov. 19 | 10 – 11:40 a.m. | Zoom, Recorded*

All elections are important, but Election 2024 is exceptionally so. With lots of talk about democracy being on the ballot, democracy being under threat, or the general trend of democratic backsliding, it might just be the perfect moment to look anew at the architecture of American democracy to understand how the system is supposed to work. Should we reform the Supreme Court, and if so, who would do that and what would it look like? Does the president have full immunity from prosecution? If we want Congress to do its job, what exactly is that job and how should it be done? Each lecture will situate Election 2024 in the context of fixing American democracy.

Tuesdays | Oct. 1 - Oct. 22 | 2 – 3:40 p.m. | Zoom, Not Recorded

Florida is mostly known as the Sunshine State, a place of escape from cold winters, with its main attractions being its beaches. Much less known is the incredible cultural wealth of the state: the art collections, remarkable architectural gems, and beautiful botanical gardens, created by passionate collectors and philanthropists, many of whom first arrived in Florida looking for its healing climate, realizing business opportunities, real estate investment, or finding just the right location to establish their art collection.

Wednesdays | Oct. 2 - Nov. 20 | 10 – 11:40 a.m. | In-person/Hybrid, Recorded*

From the 18th century to the 20th, France was the creative center of Western art. We’ll look at the art of these exciting years, and at the artists who created it. We’ll see some familiar faces—Édouard Manet, Paul Cézanne, Henri Matisse—but we’ll meet some new faces, new places, and some fascinating cultural connections. Each week, we’ll focus on five or six artists—or one favorite—and wander down curious paths where we’ll find unique French contributions: the jacquard loom, the modern color palette, wigs, cotton dresses, the great cat massacre, the Crocrodrome, furniture music, the “decisive moment” and the little black dress. Meet Hyacinthe Rigaud, Anne Vallayer-Coster, Marie-Guillaume Benoist, Gustave Caillebotte, Claude Cahun, Niki de Saint-Phalle, and more.

Wednesdays | Oct. 2 - Nov. 6 | 2 – 3:40 p.m. | Zoom, Recorded*

Learn about the fascinating lives of the marvelous men of the movie musical who have enchanted us with their fabulous feet and way with a song. Discover which of them was also a classical composer, which was a jazz pianist, which was a lion tamer, and which was a political activist and (closet) intellectual! See rare film footage of these beloved entertainers from their early careers through the heights of their stardom. Performers featured in this series include Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Ray Bolger, Bill Bojangles Robinson, The Nicholas Brothers and Donald O’Connor.

Thursdays | October 3 - 24 | 10 – 11:40 a.m. | Zoom, Recorded*

Why won’t antisemitism die, or at least die down? In the months following Hamas’ attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, antisemitic incidents increased substantially. But from 2019 to 2022, the amount of people with highly antisemitic attitudes in the U.S. had nearly doubled, the ADL found. In Europe, Human Rights Watch warned in 2019 of an “alarming” rise in antisemitism. What is the root of this prejudice? We will investigate with classes on “The Trial of Jesus”, Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice”, “The Dreyfus Affair”, and current day circumstances and issues.

Thursdays | Oct. 10 - Nov. 7 | 2 – 3:40 p.m. | Zoom, Recorded*

Well-known San Francisco political commentator John Rothmann brings a vast depth of knowledge and experience to the political goings-on in the USA.  His comments will be based on up-to-the-minute political news as it unfolds in the last few weeks before the Presidential election. John is always very generous in devoting ample time to questions and answers from the audience. 

Fridays | Oct. 11 - Nov. 15 | 10 – 11:40 a.m. | Zoom, Not Recorded

This workshop will explore Flash Memoir, Flash Fiction, and the Fine Line between them. Flash Memoir highlights the tiny magical moments that have stayed with you for years. You will learn how to craft a mini universe that speaks emotionally, shares your wisdom, and shines. We will also explore techniques of Flash Fiction to give your writing the freedom to be inventive. The Fine Line gives you the freedom to express more of your inner world by changing details, events, and outcomes. Whether you are a realist or a more inventive writer, you are invited to explore a paintbox of writing styles. Each session includes an inspiring writing exercise, followed by the Writer's Toolbox, where you will receive a generous sharing of the techniques that make writing powerful and expressive.

Fridays | Oct. 4 - Nov. 8 | 10 – 11:40 a.m. | In-person/Hybrid, Recorded*

We hear much talk these days about the rising threat of fascism in America. Many pundits in the media are convinced that the menace is very real, while others feel “it can’t happen here.” Surely the necessary conditions for a fascist takeover are absent in America, with our long track record of liberal democracy. But the history of England during the 1930s shows us that fascism can indeed make dangerous inroads even in a free society. Many members of the British upper classes openly admired the Nazi regime, and wanted to install some version of it in England. In this course we examine just how close Britain came to having a swastika sewn onto the Union Jack. 

Fridays | Oct. 4 - Nov. 22 | 2 – 3:40 p.m. | Zoom, Recorded*

This course consists of eight lectures that together investigate the geopolitical forces that shaped the American Revolution and the international consequences of the US break with Britain. It asks how the familiar story of the American Revolution—its causes, course, and consequences—changes when we think about the American Revolution as part and parcel of a titanic struggle among European empires and peoples for control of a vast, resource-rich world? Each lecture tackles a different group of actors—Germans, Frenchmen, Spaniards, South Asians, Prussians, etc.—and situates their experiences at the center of dramatic narratives about the loss of the British Empire’s thirteen golden geese and the birth of the United States.

Mondays | Nov. 4 - Dec. 2 | 2 – 3:40 p.m. | In-person/Hybrid, Recorded*

How do we make sense of what matters? How did we get to this point? This four-week class begins with a very short review of the history of the Middle East conflict. We will examine the issues, who the players are, and what their goals are. We will examine the root causes, when it started, and what triggered some of the major wars.

Is the Palestinian-Israeli dispute and war part of a broader regional conflict between Sunni-Shia confrontation and struggle for power and dominance? Who is Hamas and what is their goal? What was their strategy that led to the war? Who is Hezbollah and what is their goal?  Who supports these terrorist organizations, how and why? What do they want? We will examine the role that the Iranian government is playing in instigating hatred for Israel.  

When did that start and why? We will also examine what is at stake for Israel. What options are available to them? Israel, in a historic move, reached a peace agreement with several Arab countries. We will examine this event, known as the “Ibrahim Accords”, and the “Axis of Resistance" created and supported by Iran to stop this peace process.  

We will examine US foreign policy in the Middle East and the evolution of those policies through key decisions by various administrations. What have been our efforts to bring peace? What happened and why were we not successful? What are our interests and priorities in the Middle East? And finally, we will examine the potential threats and security challenges inside the United States.

Osher Online is a set of online-only (on Zoom, not recorded) courses provided by the Osher National Recourse Center at Northwestern University. Dominican OLLI members may select any number of these for a fee of $120 per course. Premium and Session members pay half price.

To participate:

1. Become a Dominican OLLI member.
2. Review the course/seminar listing below.  

Questions? Contact us at olli@dominican.edu or call at (415) 458-3763,

Course Listing

First Ladies: More Than the Women Behind the Men with Myra G. Gutin, PhD and Diana Carlin, PhD

Mondays | Sept. 30 (6 sessions) | 12 p.m. PDT

Did John Adams listen to Abigail? Was Mary Todd Lincoln depressed? Did Eleanor advise Franklin? Did Edith Wilson really take over for the president? Was Hillary really a co-president? These are questions frequently asked about the first lady. She has no job description and her position is unpaid. There is nothing she is required to do, but much that we expect. From the birth of our country through the present, this course will explore the evolution of the role and the Office of the First Lady. In addition to biographical information, we will explore topics and themes related to the women behind the men. We will examine how they helped shape history and how they left lasting legacies that impact many of us today.

Medieval Science with Ilya Dines, PhD

Mondays | Sept. 30 (6 sessions) | 4 p.m. PDT

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of medieval scientific thought, encompassing various disciplines such as medicine, astronomy, and geography. We will delve into the groundbreaking insights and theories proposed by influential figures like Alhazen and Hildegard of Bingen. Through in-depth analysis and interactive discussions, we will uncover the complex network of scientific inquiry that defined the medieval era. This journey into medieval science promises intellectual enrichment. Additionally, it offers a unique opportunity to engage with historical methodologies and scientific concepts, fostering a deeper understanding of the medieval worldview. Join this enlightening exploration, as we discover the wonders of medieval science.

Fundamentals of Psychology with Andrés Gvirtz, PhD

Tuesdays | Oct. 8 (6 sessions) | 8 a.m. PDT

Welcome to this introductory course designed to provide a broad, yet insightful, glimpse into different areas of psychology. We will learn more about how psychology can help us understand humans’ individual personalities, as well as group dynamics. We will look at the influence of geography on psychology, and what psychology can learn by becoming more cross-cultural. Whether this is your first step into the world of psychology, or you are looking to deepen your existing knowledge, the discussions around classic studies, as well as the presentation of novel research findings, promise something new and exciting for everyone.

Wellness From Within, with Mónica Gómez

Tuesdays | Oct. 8 (6 sessions) | 12 p.m. PDT

This course explores mental, spiritual, and physical health and wellness through interactive discussion, brief meditation, creative writing, reading aloud, and plenty of humor. The workshops explore universal human issues while offering valuable techniques for enhancing both written and oral communication. Classes are low-tech, focusing on meaningful interaction, and a satisfying shared experience. Topics include managing stress, creative self-expression, the power of words, the value of self-care, adapting to change, and establishing healthy boundaries.

Art Movements from the Roaring 20’s to the Swinging 60’s, with Eleanor Schrader

Tuesdays | Oct. 8 (6 sessions) | 4 p.m. PDT

The 20th century was a time of social and political changes that brought about varied responses in the art world. The social changes manifested during World War I and its aftermath were felt in the cutting-edge art movements that questioned the existing world order. Through the broken planes of Cubism to the jazzy images of the Harlem Renaissance, artists found their voices through varying degrees of despair in an attempt to capture the awakening spirit of the 20th century. In the aftermath of World War II, artists rallied to make sense of the changes brought about through post-war shifts in society to a new prosperity in consumerism. Through the confusing images of the Abstract Expressionists to the playfulness of Pop Art, we will explore how artists challenged and knocked down the walls of not only traditional art but the heretofore avant-garde art forms of the earlier 20th Century.

Architecture, Engineering, Design, and Technology: Case Studies from the Past, Present, and Future, with John Zukowsky, PhD

Wednesdays | Oct. 2 (6 sessions) | 8 a.m. PDT

This course presents case studies in the history of architecture, civil and structural engineering, and industrial design. Specific design and building types will be discussed and include: computer aided design; skyscrapers; airports and aircraft factories; spacecraft and launch facilities, sci-fi dreams and reality; and museums and exhibitions that deal with those and related tech subjects. In each session we will explore the past, present, and future possibilities. Those case studies will refer to design and construction technology of their eras and place them in socio-cultural and political contexts. Sessions will generally be in a pro-seminar format with each lecture followed by discussion. The course will examine instances where architecture, design, and engineering are impacted by technological advances catalyzed by rivalry and conflict -- military, political, or economic/commercial -- and overall motivations related to wealth and power as much as to design, scientific, or engineering advances.

The Power of Introverts, with Jeri Bingham

Wednesdays | Oct. 2 (6 sessions) | 4 p.m. PDT

“Introverts are hermits. Introverts don’t like people. Introverts can’t hold a conversation.” These are some of the myths associated with introversion, the highly misunderstood personality type. In a society where the most extroverted are celebrated and rewarded, how do introverts fit in? For those who acknowledge and embrace their introversion, they know how to create a space for themselves. For those who are masquerading as extroverts, they are exhausted because they haven’t mastered how to be their true, authentic selves. For others, they don’t even realize they are introverts because of the stigma attached to the word - - who wants to be associated with such negative descriptions? In this course we will unpack this together and discuss the power of introverts, the beautiful balance of relationships with extroverts, how we support and honor both personality types, and much more.

Gender and Law, with Lauren Andersen, JD

Thursdays | Oct. 3 (6 sessions) | 8 a.m. PDT

This course will explore the legal history of gender and the law, understanding gender in its broadest sense including sex, sexuality, and gender identity. We will discuss sex discrimination under the Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution as well as under federal laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972. By focusing on US Supreme Court decisions and gender equality advocates, we will explore the relationship between law and justice in many areas that affect gender minority lives, including employment, schools, health care, family, and beyond. The work of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Brenda Feigen, Sandra Day O’Connor, and Pauli Murray will be discussed. Some film clips will be used in class.

The Capable Consumer: Finding Your Purchasing Superpower, with Susan Loyd

Thursdays | Oct. 10 (6 sessions) | 12 p.m. PDT

Navigating the online marketplace can indeed be challenging. Unfortunately, e-commerce tips the advantage away from the consumer and towards very sophisticated marketers. Whether dealing with a small business on Main Street or a giant firm on Madison Avenue, it is difficult to know who to trust or how to discern a true bargain from a real rip-off. How do you sort fact from fiction and take control of your purchasing power? Most importantly, how do you protect yourself from being duped out of money or having your identity or account information stolen by hackers? In this course, we will cover critical aspects of being both a transactional and a relational shopper. We will discuss factors that can affect information perceptions and good buying decisions. And we will offer a variety of resources to enhance your ability to make safe, sharp, and savvy purchasing decisions with sellers you can trust. We will hear from expert speakers, learn about valuable resources, and engage in helpful discussion. Being a capable consumer will change how you respond to social media messages and how you approach online shopping experiences for products and services big and small. You will gain confidence and clarity through six enlightening discussions.

The Great Con: The Talented Mr. Ripley in Literature & Film, with Heather Brown, PhD

Fridays | Oct. 11 (6 sessions) | 8 a.m. PDT

American writer Patricia Highsmith first published The Talented Mr. Ripley in 1955. The story is told from the point of view of Tom Ripley, a man who is young, clever, and has a knack for fraud. A case of mistaken identity earns him a ticket abroad to a scenic coastal village in Italy, a far cry from his hardscrabble life in New York City. He soon becomes obsessed with Dickie Greenleaf, heir to a shipbuilding fortune and embarks on a series of deceitful and sinister acts that beget more of the same. Highsmith’s story builds its suspense as the reader traverses Tom’s physical and psychological journey through an affluent world too obtuse to recognize the extent to which he is a threat. The Talented Mr. Ripley has been adapted from book to screen multiple times, with the most notable being the 1999 film directed by Anthony Minghella, starring Matt Damon and Jude Law. Such is the influence of the story that it has invited comparison to the 2023 film Saltburn, whose main character commits a similar subterfuge on a wealthy British family over the course of a summer in their country castle. As stories of frauds and scammers endure across popular media, Tom Ripley’s is one that confronts the reader to examine how far they would go to gain access into a world whose entry requires reinventing oneself to the point of moral collapse. In this course, we will study the Highsmith novel as well as the 1999 film adaptation. We will close out the course with a discussion of Saltburn, which is indebted to the novel.

The Season of Sports Journalism: Tackle Media Coverage of the Summer Olympics Evolving into Fall Athletics Across the Globe, with Annie Krall

Saturdays | Oct. 5 (6 sessions) | 8 a.m. PDT

As the world watches the best athletes on the planet at a voracious rate during the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, learn what it is like to cover those competitors from the proverbial press box.  What research do sports reporters need to have at the ready to understand the psychology and business of the best teams in the NFL, MLB, or NHL? Where do journalists get it right or wrong when writing or editing features in a rapidly changing gender dynamic of college athletics as Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Women's Basketball team proved? How do we understand from outside the ropes the familial and financial dynamics at play when talking about controversies like the PGA vs. LIV saga which is lighting the world of golf on fire? Answer these questions and more with Professor Annie Krall, a sports and news broadcaster. This course is for those who are regularly glued to their sports channels and those who simply like knowing who to root for during the big games. Yes, in the world of heroes and villains there is always more at play on and off the court.