Browse Curriculum

Join us at the Osher Institute for the start of a new semester! Drop in to pick up your name badge and a new parking permit and enjoy our Senior Resources Fair. You can sit in on a session to learn more about Osher and how to get the most out of your membership. There also will be Tech Training sessions to help you navigate your Osher account. Refreshments will be provided. This event is free and open to the public.
Date and time: Tue., Aug. 5, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

These free support sessions will help new and returning Osher members get the most out of their membership. We’ll show you how to access your account, navigate the program catalog and register for Osher courses and Special Interest Groups. Bring the device you use most often, as well as your cell phone. Step-by-step guides will be provided for use during and after the session. All experience levels welcome!
Presenter: Osher Tech Support Committee and volunteers
Dates and times: Tue., Aug. 5, 10:00 a.m.-noon OR 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership
Capacity: 12

Mayor McLean will provide updates on the latest developments in Boise, covering progress in areas such as infrastructure, community projects and public services. She also will highlight the projects that are aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and building a future-ready city.
Presenter: Lauren McLean, Mayor, City of Boise
Date and time: Wed., Aug. 13, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Idaho’s per-pupil funding is less than it was 20 years ago, and the state is ranked dead last in per-pupil spending. Despite these issues, Idaho lawmakers have continued to cut revenue over the past several years. Loss of revenue means less funding available for key public investments in families and public education. This lecture will address the impact 2025 legislative policies will have on the state’s revenue, including how proposals to divert public funding to private schools would impact public education funding.
Presenter: May Roberts, Political Analyst, Idaho Center for Fiscal Policy
Date and time: Thu., Aug. 14, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

Join other Osher members for an entertaining afternoon at the Osher Institute where we will share a staff-selected documentary to enjoy. There will be time to socialize before and after the program. Refreshments are included. This free program has been created just for Osher members, but registration is required.
The selection for this month is “David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet.”
Date and time: Fri., Aug. 15, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

Baron Friedrich von Steuben was a Prussian immigrant whom Washington tasked with achieving the critical transformation of the Continental Army from a ragtag collection of ill-supplied and embittered enlistees into a disciplined and professional fighting force capable of winning a war. Marquis de Lafayette was a French knight who spent much of his political career in Europe yet helped America’s ancestors break free from Britain. This course will explore these two men’s lives and their important roles in the American Revolutionary War.
Presenter: Dr. Richard Bell, Professor of History, University of Maryland
Dates and times: Mon. and Tue., Aug. 18 and 19, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Cost: $30

The historical network of secret routes to freedom known as the Underground Railroad was neither underground nor a railroad. Why is this the name we’ve long used to describe it? We’ll examine the mysterious origins of this term and explain why it caught on so quickly. As the term became commonplace, it helped to build public support for the antislavery cause and push the cause of Black freedom to the center of national debate.
Presenter: Dr. Richard Bell, Professor of History, University of Maryland
Date and time: Tue., Aug. 19, 1:30-3:00 p.m.
Cost: $15

The 2025 conference includes an extraordinary array of speakers from a multitude of industries, including law, film, arts, journalism, academia, government and business. This year’s speakers include actress Esme Bianoc, award-winning author Anna Malaika Tubbs, award-winning director Bridget Hunnicutt, author Dr. Fiona Hill, and many more. Refreshments will be provided daily; lunch is on your own. This conference features two optional evening events as add-ons. Seating is limited for this event, so early registration is highly recommended.
Conference Presenters: Dr. David Adler, President, Alturas Institute, and esteemed slate of speakers
Dates and times: Wed. and Thu., Aug. 20 and 21, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Location: Yanke Family Research Park, Osher classroom 207
Capacity: 230
Cost: Early Bird Rate $165 (until July 11); $199 (July 12-August 1); $225 (if seats still available until August 15)
To register, visit Conversations With Exceptional Women: Conference

This event will feature an evening with author Dr. Fiona Hill. She is Senior Fellow in the Center on the United States and Europe within the Foreign Policy program at Brookings, Chancellor at Durham University in the United Kingdom, and former Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director for European and Russian Affairs on the U.S. National Security Council.
Date and time: Wed., Aug. 20, 6:00 p.m.
Location: Yanke Research Park, classroom 207
Cost: $35
To register, visit Conversations With Exceptional Women: Special Event One

This event will feature a viewing of the film “Breaking the West” and a post-film discussion with the Co-Director, Bridget Hunnicutt and Dr. Fiona Hill, who is featured in the film and will provide commentary on her expertise with European and Russian affairs.
Date and time: Thu., Aug. 21, 7:00 p.m.
Location: The Flicks, 646 W. Fulton St., Boise
Cost: $35
To register, visit Conversations With Exceptional Women: Special Event Two

This lecture will describe the background, science, design, construction and results of four Stream Enhancement Projects constructed on the Shoshone-Bannock tribes’ Fort Hall Indian Reservation in Eastern Idaho between 2009 and 2025. We will discuss the individual projects and track the advancement of the enhancement practices refined throughout the life of the projects. We also will provide an overview of stream enhancement principles while focusing on the lessons learned over these years as each of these projects increased in size and complexity.
Presenters: Michael Homza, PE, River Hydraulics and Habitat Enhancement Engineer, Environmental Science Associates, and Hunter Osborne, Deputy Director, Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Fish and Wildlife Department
Date and time: Tue., Aug. 26, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

The atom is a bit different than what we learned in high school chemistry. It operates by a completely different set of rules than the large world we normally see. We will learn the history of how atoms were discovered, how they operate and their influence on our everyday lives.
PLEASE NOTE: When registering for this program, please choose if you will be attending in person or via livestream.
Presenter: Paul Nelson, retired Senior Engineer, DRAM Research and Development, Micron Technology
Date and time: Tue., Aug. 26, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

This lecture will follow the 15-year legislative battle to create the congressionally designated wilderness for Idaho’s Boulder and White Cloud Mountains. Ten years ago, the Idaho Conservation League’s director stood in the White House Oval Office with U.S. Representative Mike Simpson as President Barack Obama signed the bill into law. They were unlikely partners, united by commonsense conservation and supported by former leaders like Cecil Andrus, Jim McClure and Bethine Church. The story includes the historic 1970 Andrus governor’s race and the reshaping of Idaho conservation politics.
Presenter: Rick Johnson, former Executive Director, Idaho Conservation League
Date and time: Wed., Aug. 27, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

The 21st century observes an increasing number of populist leaders and authoritarian tendencies that threaten political systems. This lecture aims to reveal the institutional dimensions of these trends, which tend to be ignored because of the hegemony of economic analysis. Whereas many researchers assume that populism results from adverse economic effects of neoliberal policies, we will argue that populism is a corollary of neoliberalism’s preference to make all normative discussions impossible under the banner of the scientific method.
Presenter: Dr. Emre Balikci, Lecturer, Department of Economics, Boise State University
Date and time: Thu., Aug. 28, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Learn how plant-rich eating is good for your health and can help reverse global warming. We’ll discuss “drawdown” with respect to greenhouse gas emissions; review existing, practical solutions to reverse climate change; and explore how plant-rich eating can be a solution to our climate change challenge if applied on a global scale. We’ll also give planning and preparation tips, protein sources, and resources to up your game with your plant-rich meals and explore how to participate in the four levels of action and commitments.
PLEASE NOTE: When registering for this program, please choose if you will be attending in person or via livestream.
Presenters: Mark Masarik, member, Boise Community Climate Action Committee, and Ellen Bush, retired educator and philanthropist
Date and time: Thu., Aug. 28, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

A brief overview of the history and philosophy of yoga will be discussed to provide a foundation for understanding of the practice. In addition, a discussion and demonstration of yoga poses will be provided, allowing participants to experiment with techniques and gain an understanding of how a yoga practice might be useful in daily life.
Presenter: Carolyn Sauer, Psy.D., Clinical Psychologist and Certified Iyengar Yoga Instructor
Date and time: Tue., Sept. 2, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

The gravestones of our ancestors are filled with symbols and emblems, the meanings of which have become lost over time. The symbols were a shorthand that revealed if the deceased were male or female, faithful, worthy of love and respect, a member of a fraternal organization or religion, or even had a sense of humor (or not). Learn how to interpret the cryptic signs and symbols found on the monuments of the dearly departed. We’ll view photos of gravestones and monuments taken from all over the world.
Presenter: David Habben, volunteer, Idaho Historical Society
Dates and times: Tue., Sept. 2 and 9, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $25

Today, many Americans turn to news sources aligned with their political beliefs. But in the 1960s and ‘70s, most tuned in to Walter Cronkite and the CBS Evening News for his trusted, unbiased news report. This lecture will discuss Cronkite’s career. He first came to prominence as a war correspondent for UPI in World War II. His coverage of Watergate helped convince Americans—and ultimately Richard Nixon himself—that the President should resign. Cronkite covered the U.S. space program, the Vietnam war, civil rights and assassinations, winning Emmy Awards and becoming “the most trusted man in America.”
Presenter: Blaine Davies, retired Professor of History, Boise State University
Date and time: Wed., Sept. 3, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Through exploration of real cases in everyday, humanitarian and combat settings, this lecture will explore trauma surgery, the oldest surgical specialty that originated in the Stone Age. By tracing its origins and evolution to modern day, we will demonstrate how trauma surgery serves as a mirror for society, both then and now, and what it can tell us about where we are headed.
PLEASE NOTE: Some content and visuals may be uncomfortable for some audience members.
Presenter: Rishi Rattan, MD, Trauma and Critical Care Surgeon, Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
Date and time: Wed., Sept. 3, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

This lecture provides an introductory exploration into family history research. Participants will learn to organize research through file-naming best practices, saving records with online organizations (including digitizing personal archives) and creating research logs. Participants will learn to develop research questions, build a research plan and use the FamilySearch Wiki. We also will analyze data using Genealogical Proof Standards and common beginning record sets for U.S. research.
Presenter: Kristy Thieme, Digital Curator and Senior Research Specialist, Wilford Woodruff Papers Foundation and professional genealogist
Date and time: Thu., Sept. 4, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

The American origin story and relentless westward expansion is bolstered by western mythology. This course will explore tales of taming the wilderness, settling a nation, cowboys and Indians, and lawmen and outlaws that support the inevitability of Manifest Destiny. How has the mythic imagination shaped our view of ourselves and our country? What might those myths, legends and folklore reveal of the American psyche? What can we learn from the heroes we made of frontiersmen and explorers, and the legends we made of the Indigenous peoples to serve our purposes?
Presenter: James Pagliasotti, author and retired columnist, The Denver Post
Dates and times: Thu., Sept. 4, 11, and 18, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $35

From Animism to Buddhism, from Judaism to Hinduism, this course will explore religions and belief systems of the world’s major civilizations from antiquity to approximately 1500, providing a breadth of materials and understanding about the ways religion has evolved and adapted over millennia. By the end of the course, participants will be better prepared to understand the place of such belief systems in the world around them and throughout the world.
Presenter: Dr. Lisa McClain, Professor of History and Gender Studies, Boise State University
Dates and times: Fri., Sept. 5, 12, and 19, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: $35

We will tour the Boise High School Museum and explore the school’s archives with the museum’s creator. The creation of the museum and its efforts to preserve the high school’s long and distinguished history and its community also will be discussed.
PLEASE NOTE: This event is offered twice; please select ONE option only.
Presenter: Sandie Waters, Economics Teacher, Boise High School, and former archaeologist, USFS
Dates and times:
Option 1: Sat., Sept. 6, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Option 2: Sat., Sept. 13, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Location: Boise High School, 1010 W. Washington St., Boise
Cost: $15 each tour
Capacity: 50 each tour

Recent technological advances now allow us to examine the connection between gut microbes and brain diseases. This lecture will explore the interplay between the gut and the brain, specifically in multiple sclerosis (MS). Combined genetic and environmental factors are proposed to cause MS; one of those causes could be gut microbes. Using mice, studies show that changing microbes affect disease severity. Interestingly, the disease also alters the gut walls and microbes. What comes first: are microbes impacting disease? Or is MS changing our guts?
Presenter: Dr. Javier Ochoa-Repáraz, Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences, Boise State University and recipient of 2025 Osher Faculty Grant award
Date and time: Mon., Sept. 8, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

This lecture will share data and insights into Idaho’s electorate and election results. Through examining voter trends throughout Idaho and the western U.S., participants will come away with a better understanding of Idaho’s election environment.
Presenter: Phil McGrane, Idaho’s Secretary of State
Date and time: Tue., Sept. 9, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

This lecture will give participants a glimpse into a Boise State Blue Thunder Marching Band rehearsal. We will explain what students are doing on the field and what goes into planning, teaching and practicing for performances.
Presenter: Dr. Joe Tornello, Director of Athletic Bands, Boise State University
Date and time: Wed., Sept. 10, 11:30 a.m.-1:50 p.m.
Location: Boise State University Keith and Catherine Stein Band Hall, 1201 W. Cesar Chavez Ln.
Cost: $15
Capacity: 150

Jazz musicians create music in the moment, building off themes, interacting in creative new ways and drawing upon a deep knowledge of harmony. Understanding this music’s complexities and the artist’s creative freedom will enhance the listening pleasure of both jazz aficionados and non-fans. In this lecture, we’ll convey some history and permutations of jazz through musical examples from local musicians and recordings.
Presenters: Dr. John Ottenhoff, retired Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty, The College of Idaho; Sandon Mayhew, tenor saxophonist; and Chuck Smith, pianist
Date and time: Thu., Sept. 11, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Join other Osher members for an entertaining afternoon at the Osher Institute where we will share a staff-selected documentary to enjoy. There will be time to socialize before and after the program. Refreshments are included. This free program has been created just for Osher members, but registration is required.
The selection for this month is “Downwind.”
Date and time: Fri., Sept. 12, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

Join us for a conversation with award-winning author Tony Doerr. Mr. Doerr has won acclaim for many of his works, including novels, short stories and a memoir. His novel All the Light We Cannot See won the Pulitzer Prize, the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence and the Alex Award; was a Finalist for the National Book Award for Fiction; and was adapted into a four-part miniseries on Netflix. Rediscovered Books will be in the lobby for this event, and Mr. Doerr will sign books that are purchased there.
PLEASE NOTE: No guest passes are available for this program.
Presenter: Tony Doerr, award-winning author
Date and time: Mon., Sept. 15, 1:30-3:00 p.m.
Cost: $15

Enhance your quality of life through knowledge, connection and empowerment. This dynamic event brings together leading experts across diverse fields to share cutting-edge research and practical tools for vibrant living. Featured topics include: Smart Nutrition and Brain Health; Strength, Fitness and Mobility; Emotional Wellness and Resilience; Aging With Purpose; Compassionate Cultivation Training; Technology and AI for Seniors; and so much more! Symposium fee includes healthy lunches catered by Zupas. (Please note: If you have dietary restrictions and preferences, you are encouraged to bring your own lunch.)
Presenters: slate of community experts
Dates and times: Tue. and Wed., Sept. 16 and 17, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Cost: $99

This lecture will offer data-driven research and practical policy perspectives on the role of unauthorized immigrants in Idaho’s economy. It will explore their contributions as workers in Idaho industries, as well as their economic impact as taxpayers and consumers. Participants will hear key research findings from the University of Idaho’s McClure Center for Public Policy Research and policy perspectives from the Idaho Dairymen’s Association and the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation, providing a broad look at how unauthorized immigrants contribute to Idaho’s economy.
Presenters: Liz Bageant, Economist, McClure Center for Public Policy Research, University of Idaho; Rick Naerebout, Chief Executive Officer, Idaho Dairymen’s Association; and Zak Miller, Chief Executive Officer, Idaho Farm Bureau Federation
Date and time: Mon., Sept. 22, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

We will pull back the curtain on Opera Idaho’s fall production of Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd. Participants will meet the designers of the show and see how the magic of opera comes to life. They also will experience a live performance of the music of Stephen Sondheim from Opera Idaho artists and learn about musical theatre’s most revered and influential composer-lyricist and the “Father of 20th-century American Musical Theatre.”
PLEASE NOTE: The first session will be held at the Osher classroom, and the second session will be held at the Boise Philharmonic Rehearsal Hall. Registrants will receive location information for the second session. Both sessions will start a half hour earlier than usual.
Presenter: Stacey Trenteseaux, General Director, Opera Idaho
Dates and times: Mon., Sept. 22 and 29, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Cost: $25

This course will discuss important historical Indian (Native) state and federal policies. We will analyze federal policies of tribes and individual tribal members that are akin to treaty rights and the Constitution.
Presenter: Dr. Phillip Allen, retired professor, Northwest Indian College
Dates and times: Tue., Sept. 23 and 30, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: $25

How does the shape of a musical instrument affect its sound? Why does a clarinet sound different from a saxophone? Starting from the basics of sound, we will review resonances, reflections of sound waves, standing waves and modes of vibration to understand how these musical instruments work. Why can’t a piano/pipe organ/harpsichord, etc. ever really be in tune? We also will explore musical intervals and how they’re used to construct scales to discuss musical temperament—the compromises we make in tuning musical instruments.
Presenter: Dr. Daniel Steck, Professor of Physics, University of Oregon
Dates and times: Tue. and Wed., Sept. 23 and 24, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

This lecture will cover essential topics in eye health; complex eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration; and vision correction options such as LASIK. Participants will learn how these conditions affect the eyes, the latest advances in treatments and practical tips for maintaining healthy vision as we age. Participants will gain a better understanding of common eye diseases and modern options for improving vision.
Presenter: Michael Merkley, MD, Ophthalmologist and Refractive Surgeon
Date and time: Wed., Sept. 24, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Christian nationalists want to make America a theocracy, and with the current president, they think they have their best chance to see their fundamentalist ideas turned into policy. Movement leaders want to disenfranchise women, bar non-Christians from holding office and criminalize LGBTQ Americans. This lecture will discuss how we are in an era of extremism, with Idaho at the center. The state has produced key figures not only in Christian nationalism, but also the militia, anti-vaccine movements and the explicitly racist, antisemitic fringe.
Presenter: Heath Druzin, former war correspondent and host, Extremely American podcast
Date and time: Thu., Sept. 25, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

Humans are mammals. What can our fellow mammals teach us about ourselves? We share similar genes, anatomical systems, physiological mechanisms and many behaviors. Learn about their (our) incredible origin, adaptations, diversity, behaviors and ecological interactions. This course will explore the main groups of mammals, including primates, and implications for Homo sapiens. This is an updated version of an earlier course; previous participants will gain new information and insights.
Presenter: Dr. Eric Yensen, Professor Emeritus of Biology, The College of Idaho
Dates and times: Mon., Sept. 29, Oct. 6, 13, and 20, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: $45

This lecture will explore how blending scientifically proven Chinese medicine practices such as acupuncture, herbal remedies and mind-body therapies, with modern Western medical care can create a powerful path to better health. Attendees will gain insight into how this integrative approach can help manage chronic conditions, improve quality of life and foster long-term wellness. By examining the science behind these practices and their practical applications, participants will leave empowered to make informed decisions about their health.
Presenter: Dr. Stacey Whitcomb, acupuncturist and Chinese herbal medicine practitioner
Date and time: Wed., Oct. 1, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Join Boise artist Jon Swarthout as he discusses his work and the fulfillment of his dream to build a center for learning in the arts for children and their families. Participants will learn about his artistic philosophy and teaching methods, and what might be next to take his dream to the next level.
Presenter: Jon Swarthout, Founder, Treasure Valley Institute for Children’s Arts
Date and time: Thu., Oct. 2, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Location: Treasure Valley Institute for Children’s Arts (TRICA), 1406 W. Eastman St., Boise
Cost: $15

This course will explore a wide range of topics on Shakespeare, such as the Shakespeare Authorship controversy, Shakespeare’s subliminal use of Chaucer, perspective art, a suspected madrigal, the art of railing and sacred numerology in the First Folio. We’ll also discuss monsters, cheesy dinosaur movies, the grim Western worldview regarding reptiles, distortion of “survival of the fittest” and medieval reptile mythology.
Presenter: Dr. Michael Delahoyde, professor, Washington State University
Dates and times: Thu., Oct. 2 and 9, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $25

Explore the collaborations of four seminal choreographers with leading composers and visual artists: modern dance choreographer Martha Graham with composer Aaron Copland and sculptor Isamu Noguchi; ballet choreographer George Balanchine with composer Igor Stravinsky; modern dance choreographer Merce Cunningham with composer Jan Cage and visual artists Robert Rauschenberg and Jasper Johns; and choreographer Jerome Robbins with composer Leonard Bernstein. This course will focus on the interconnections of dance and other art forms while providing the history and background of each artist.
Presenter: Kay Braden, choreographer and freelance instructor
Dates and times: Fri., Oct. 3 and 10, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: $25

The U.S. healthcare system is complex, often disjointed and difficult to navigate. When it works well, it delivers some of the best healthcare in the world, but too often there are serious issues with patient safety, quality and cost of care and a lack of patient focus. This lecture will discuss the specific actions seniors can take to become better patients that will improve their interactions with the healthcare system and their outcomes of care.
Presenter: Paul Miles, MD, former Chief Quality Officer, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Date and time: Mon., Oct. 6, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

Have you ever wondered why activities like connecting with loved ones, practicing mindfulness and spending time in nature are recommended to help people cope with stress and live richer, more meaningful lives? We’ll review the science of positive affect, a collective term for positive emotions and moods. We’ll also learn about the research supporting each strategy and how to effectively implement them using practices drawn from evidence-based psychotherapies.
Presenter: Dr. Meghan Vinograd, Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Health Sciences Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego Health Sciences
Date and time: Tue., Oct. 7, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

Is anti-Asian violence a modern-day occurrence? Not at all. Fear, hatred and racism toward the Chinese and Japanese began in the mid-1800s, culminating with the incarceration of more than 125,000 Japanese at the beginning of WWII, two-thirds of whom were U.S. citizens. From the perspective of a third-generation Japanese-American (Sansei), we will discuss the how, when and why racism landed Japanese Americans in what is more accurately described as prison camps, and what we can do to ensure current events do not allow this injustice to happen again.
Presenter: Denny Kato, retired restaurant manager and retired 1LT in Military Intelligence, U.S. Army
Dates and times: Wed., Oct. 8, 15, and 22, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: $35

Startups create most new jobs. To have a robust economy, we need to have an entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports startups, including sources of risk capital, primarily from venture capital firms and angel investors. We will discuss what angel capital is, how it is deployed and the potential returns that may accrue to angel investments. In addition to research-based data, we will examine both good and bad examples.
Presenter: Dr. Kevin Learned, Principle, Loon Creek Capital Group and Director Emeritus, Venture College, Boise State University
Date and time: Wed., Oct. 8, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

Join us for an overview of the Boise Police Department. Chief Dennison will share how critical incidents are deescalated and the tools and training that officers receive to respond. He will discuss critical incidents from initiation to conclusion, including limitations and challenges. The investigative process and debrief of these incidents include wellness programs that are utilized to help police officers overcome traumatic events.
Presenter: Christopher Dennison, Chief of Police, Boise Police Department
Date and time: Thu., Oct. 9, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

This mid-semester session will empower Osher members to navigate both the Osher website and their member accounts. We’ll cover how to browse the website, view your personal class schedule, review your program history and access links to recorded sessions. Bring the device you use most often and your cell phone, and learn how to make the most of your membership. Step-by-step printed guides will be provided for use during and after the session. All experience levels are welcome!
Presenter: Osher Tech Support Committee and volunteers
Date and time: Thu., Oct. 9, 10:00 a.m.-noon OR Wed., Oct. 15, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership
Capacity: 12

Join other Osher members for an entertaining afternoon at the Osher Institute where we will share a staff-selected documentary to enjoy. There will be time to socialize before and after the program. Refreshments are included. This free program has been created just for Osher members, but registration is required.
The selection for this month is “The Greatest Night in Pop.”
Date and time: Fri., Oct. 10, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

This course will provide an historical perspective of the birth of Rock ‘n Roll in the mid-1950s. What led to Rock ‘n Roll? Who were the main architects of this new and exciting style? What societal factors helped this genre flourish and succeed? Explore and reminisce about the glory days of rock.
Presenter: Dr. Kim Ganong, Adjunct Professor, Department of Music, Boise State University
Dates and times: Mon., Oct. 13, 20, and 27, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $35

This lecture will present the history of the Idaho State Capitol building, from its start in Lewiston, Idaho, to the Territorial Capitol building, to the present-day building.
PLEASE NOTE: A separate onsite tour of the Capitol will be held on Oct. 23.
Presenter: Doug Rutan, former educator, school administrator, superintendent, and education coordinator
Date and time: Thu., Oct. 16, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

A common mode of explanation in physics is to identify dynamical laws that predict the future based on the past. This procedure is often remarkably successful. However, it runs into challenges with fundamental questions about why the basic constants, initial conditions and dynamical laws are what they are. Using the provocative question, “Why is the Universe just right for sentient life?” as a guide, this lecture will explore how we might change our perspective to include a new type of explanation that is more amenable to these deeper questions.
Presenter: Dr. Todd Duncan, Associate Professor of Physics, Pacific University
Date and time: Thu., Oct. 16, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

This lecture will explore the poets, singers, songwriters and musicians who have contributed to cowboy poetry and western music. Some artists work as teachers, as steel workers, in the agriculture business and every other job you can think of from every state. Some performers were brought up on ranches, others in cities. There are women and men who have been performing for years, and some who just started yesterday. The themes for the songs and poetry they write include horses, ranching, mountains, deserts, their own stories and those they heard from other people.
Presenter: Sam Matisse, singer, songwriter, poet and musician
Date and time: Fri., Oct. 17, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Join other Osher members for an entertaining afternoon at the Osher Institute where we will share a staff-selected documentary to enjoy. There will be time to socialize before and after the program. Refreshments are included. This free program has been created just for Osher members, but registration is required.
The selection for this month is “Rather.”
Date and time: Fri., Oct. 17, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

This lecture will discuss Idaho community colleges and how they provide open access and affordable educational opportunities to all who apply. With a focus on serving current residents who generally seek employment within the community upon graduation, they also serve as powerful economic drivers. Currently, more than 90,000 learners enroll at Idaho community colleges annually, and their impact is realized statewide.
Presenter: Gordon Jones, President, College of Western Idaho
Date and time: Tue., Oct. 21, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

This lecture will compare areas where streets have been designed to make communities more livable and economically resilient with those where they haven’t. Drawing on decades of work in state and local public service and community organizations, Jim Hansen will share examples, particularly in Ada County, and suggest strategies for individuals to use their own experiences to advocate for streets that strengthen the health, wealth and well-being of a community.
Presenter: Jim Hansen, retired commissioner, Ada County Highway District
Date and time: Tue., Oct. 21, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

A concern with territory may seem anachronistic in the face of our increasingly interconnected, fast-changing world. Yet in many places, borders are hardening, the movement of people is becoming more limited and state nationalism is gaining ground. This lecture will discuss how understanding the tensions that exist between territorial and extraterritorial ideas and arrangements is of fundamental importance if we are to make sense of the changing geopolitical landscape of the 21st century.
Presenter: Dr. Alexander Murphy, Professor Emeritus of Geography and former James F. and Shirley K. Rippey Chair in Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Oregon
Date and time: Wed., Oct. 22, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

Join us for an onsite tour of the Idaho State Capitol building, where participants will learn the significance of artifacts along the way.
PLEASE NOTE: A separate lecture about the Capitol will be held in the Osher classroom on Oct. 16.
Presenter: Idaho Capitol docent
Date and time: Thu., Oct. 23, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Location: Idaho State Capitol Building, 700 W. Jefferson St., Boise
Cost: $15
Capacity: 63

George Gershwin’s music spans both popular and classical genres, containing memorable melodies, fresh harmonies and toe-tapping rhythms. This course will discuss Gershwin’s life and work, from his humble beginnings to being a writer of Broadway musicals, to his shift to composing renowned operatic and orchestral classics. We’ll focus on his best-known piano music, including short jazz-infused classical works, several song transcriptions and excerpts from Porgy & Bess and An American in Paris. After discussing the origins and significance of each piece, the course will culminate in a live performance of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue.
Presenter: Dr. Del Parkinson, Professor of Piano, Department of Music, Boise State University
Dates and times: Thu., Oct. 23 and 30, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Location: Morrison Center Recital Hall, 2201 W. Cesar Chavez Ln., Boise
Cost: $25

This lecture will discuss the role of religion and faith communities in defining and responding to the critical issues of our time.
Presenter: Daniel Fink, Rabbi Emeritus, Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel
Date and time: Fri., Oct. 24, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Around the world, local governments are taking the lead in addressing climate change. The City of Boise is a national leader in climate action. This lecture will provide an overview of key climate considerations and innovative projects happening in Boise, how we’re engaging the community in the work and what future challenges lie ahead.
Presenter: Steve Burgos, Public Works Director, City of Boise
Date and time: Tue., Oct. 28, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Increasingly we find our nation, our families and our friends in a polarized political climate. Braver Angels is a national organization with a local Idaho chapter that promotes civility in our political discourse. Skills for disagreeing better will be explored and involve role playing. Opportunities for further participation in depolarization also will be discussed.
Presenters: Bob Fontaine, retired teacher, principal and superintendent and Osher Advisory Council member, and Mark Buchanan, Professor Emeritus and former Chair, Department of Management, Boise State University
Date and time: Wed., Oct. 29, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership
Capacity: 40

This lecture will introduce the extreme amphibian biodiversity present in the Neotropics and factors behind its alarming decline. Furthermore, we will explore how bioacoustics are studied, their importance in the context of frog communication and how bioacoustics can help in conservation efforts of Neotropical frogs.
Presenter: Dr. John Cossel, Professor and Chair, Biology Department, Northwest Nazarene University
Date and time: Thu., Oct. 30, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

This course will survey the burgeoning field of planetary astronomy and how these discoveries have revolutionized the search for extraterrestrial life. We also will explore cultural and historical connections with astronomy and how astronomical discoveries have shaped and been shaped by the societies in which they occur.
Presenter: Dr. Brian Jackson, Professor of Astronomy, Boise State University
Dates and times: Sat., Nov. 1, 8, 15, and 22, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: $45

Electric aircraft. Flying drones. Satellites that will create a wireless network in space. What do all these products have in common? They’re made by a thriving manufacturing ecosystem that exists in Eastern Washington, Idaho, Oregon and Montana. Join us for an overview of manufacturing and next-generation technology within the inland Northwest ecosystem, from laser and photonics in Bozeman, Montana, to the new advanced aerospace materials tech hub in Spokane, Washington.
Presenter: Mark Norton, Executive Director, Northwest I-90 Manufacturing Alliance
Date and time: Mon., Nov. 3, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

This lecture will offer an in-depth look at autism through all life stages and within professional settings, stressing empathy and inclusion. We will cover the basics of autism, challenges and strengths from childhood to aging. We will explore stereotypes, self-disclosure and autistic contributions in academic and professional contexts. Activities will guide participants on inclusive communication and sensory considerations, with resources and support networks provided.
Presenter: Dr. Gundars Kaupins, Professor of Management and former Chair, Department of Management, Boise State University
Date and time: Mon., Nov. 3, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

Boise Parks and Recreation maintains more than 97 developed parks across the city, approximately 220 miles of Ridge to Rivers trails in the Boise Foothills, 25 miles of the Boise River Greenbelt pathway and 5,000 acres of open space. This lecture will discuss stewardship and management of Boise’s parks for generations to come.
Presenter: Sara Arkle, Parks Resources Superintendent, Boise Parks and Recreation
Date and time: Tue., Nov. 4, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

The old cliché about the best camera being the one you have with you is no longer just a saying. The performance of the cameras in today’s smartphones put most point-and-shoot cameras to shame. Learn the tips and tricks that will take your ordinary smartphone snapshots to the next level. This workshop will combine classroom instruction with hands-on experience to guide you on your journey.
Presenter: Patrick Stoll, photographer and Certified Idaho Master Naturalist
Dates and times: Tue., Nov. 4 and 11, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $25
Capacity: 30

This course will explore the origins, evolution and impact of the exercise of judicial review, an American contribution to the world of law and political science that elevated the judiciary to a status higher than courts in other countries. History reveals a narrative of the exercise of judicial power that has at once advanced and stymied the cause of American Constitutionalism, liberty and the rule of law. The challenge of balancing judicial independence and accountability is enduring and requires fresh thinking if the historic view of the Court is to survive.
PLEASE NOTE: When registering for this program, please choose if you will be attending in person or via livestream.
Presenter: Dr. David Adler, President, Alturas Institute
Dates and times: Wed., Thu., and Fri., Nov. 5, 6, and 7, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: $35

For centuries, civilizations have turned to art to reflect their deepest beliefs, power dynamics and cultural bedrocks. Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping our modern landscape, challenging our understanding of creativity. We will explore the creative application of AI tools and their integration into our lives. We will trace developments of robots and AI to understand critical milestones and technological advancements, as well as the societal and ethical implications for human creativity and its potential to redefine cultural paradigms in the 21st century.
Presenter: Hugh Leeman, artist and lecturer
Dates and times: Wed., Nov. 5, 12, and 19, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $35

The three Baltic countries—Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia—are a beautiful and captivating, if often overlooked, part of Europe. While today they are often mentioned in the same breath, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are historically, culturally, ethnically and linguistically very different from one another. These differences in history, language and religion made each of the three Baltic countries unique in terms of architecture, traditions and even cuisine. Join us for a fascinating virtual trip to the three Baltic countries.
Presenter: Dr. Asya Pereltsvaig, linguist, author and educator
Dates and times: Thu., Nov. 6, 13, and 20, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $35

[PLEASE NOTE: This program is canceled for the Fall 2025 semester. It will be offered in the Spring 2026 semester.]
Siberia constitutes three-fourths of Russia’s territory, but only one quarter of the country’s population lives there. Yet, the role of Siberia in making Russia a wealthy empire should not be underestimated. We will discuss Siberia’s role in the rise and possible imminent dismantling of Russia as a unified state; Siberia’s economic importance, both historically and today; the region’s indigenous peoples and their cultures; its role as a penal colony throughout history and how that function transformed the region; and its importance for environmental issues and relations with China.
Presenter: Dr. Asya Pereltsvaig, linguist, author and educator

Columnist Judy Ferro and former candidate Toni Ferro will reflect on how Democrats in Idaho’s second-largest county keep motivated—or not—without a victory.
Presenters: Judy Ferro, columnist, Idaho Press and Toni Ferro, former Democratic candidate and columnist, Idaho Press
Date and time: Mon., Nov. 10, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Jim Jones and Mark Stewart will discuss their in-country experiences during the Vietnam War and their impressions of the Vietnamese people. They also will share how and why they decided to pour much of their subsequent careers into public service.
Presenters: Jim Jones, former Idaho Attorney General and Idaho Supreme Court Justice; Mark Stewart, Executive Director, East Meets West Foundation; and Gary Richardson, former Idaho Public Television producer and reporter
Date and time: Mon., Nov. 10, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

The City of Boise views water as a singular resource, connecting surface water, groundwater and recycled water to support long-term resilience. We will highlight how Boise is advancing sustainable water management by integrating water quality and quantity efforts. From safeguarding the Boise River’s health through innovative restoration to implementing the Assured Water Supply requirements, these initiatives reflect a holistic strategy. We will explore how this comprehensive approach ensures clean, reliable water while fostering environmental, economic and community well-being.
Presenter: Haley Falconer, Senior Manager for Water Renewal Programs, City of Boise
Date and time: Wed., Nov. 12, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Advance Care Planning is the process of thinking and talking about future medical decisions in case of a sudden event, such as a car accident or illness, when a person cannot advocate for themselves. This lecture will discuss key factors in making these decisions and provide a sample Advance Care Directive for Healthcare.
Presenter: John McGown, Lawyer, Hawley Troxell
Date and time: Thu., Nov. 13, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

This lecture will discuss toxic stress, stress-related illnesses, and the Stress Response System. We will explore options for measuring simple, moderate and complex stress, as well as ways to retrain the dysregulated Stress Response System. Examples also will be given for managing specific common illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.
Presenter: Lawson Wulsin, MD, Professor of Psychiatry and Family Medicine, University of Cincinnati
Date and time: Fri., Nov. 14, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

Join other Osher members for an entertaining afternoon at the Osher Institute where we will share a staff-selected documentary to enjoy. There will be time to socialize before and after the program. Refreshments are included. This free program has been created just for Osher members, but registration is required.
The selection for this month is “The Mind Explained: Memory, Dreams, Anxiety, Mindfulness, and Psychedelics.”
Date and time: Fri., Nov. 14, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

Men and masculinity have increasingly come to the forefront of public discourse in the U.S. Historically, men have been in positions of power and privilege, occupying most leadership positions in business, government and academia. Alternatively, evidence suggests that many boys and men are struggling, as indicated by high rates of suicide and substance use disorders, as well as notable gender gaps in college enrollment and completion. We will look more closely at current research focused on gender and health disparities and discuss cutting-edge interventions.
Presenter: Dr. Matthew Genuchi, Associate Professor, Department of Psychological Sciences, Boise State University
Date and time: Mon., Nov. 17, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

From historic preservation to urban renewal, this lecture will examine the history and emergence of Boise’s neighborhood associations over time.
Presenter: Emily Fritchman-Mahaney, public historian and Professor, Department of History, Boise State University
Date and time: Wed., Nov. 19, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

America is preparing to commemorate its 250th birthday on July 4, 2026. As part of the celebration, the City of Boise reflects on its past as it also looks to its future. What does it mean to be American in Boise? Conversely, how does Boise contribute to the meaning of being American? This lecture will analyze and frame each of five commemorative themes as they relate to the capital city: Unfinished Revolutions, We the People, Doing History, Power of Place and American Experiment. Programming information on Boise’s planned commemorative activities also will be provided.
Presenter: Dr. Jennifer Stevens, Director, Department of Arts and History, City of Boise
Date and time: Wed., Dec. 3, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Cost: Included with membership

These free support sessions will help new and returning Osher members get the most out of their membership. We’ll show you how to access your account, navigate the program catalog and register for Osher courses and Special Interest Groups. Bring the device you use most often, as well as your cell phone. Step-by-step guides will be provided for use during and after the session. All experience levels welcome!
Presenters: Osher Tech Support Committee and volunteers
Date and time: Mon., Dec. 8, 10:00 a.m.-noon OR 1:30-3:30 p.m. OR Tue., Dec. 9, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost: Included with membership

Celebrate the end of another successful fall semester and the holiday season with the Osher Institute! Mingle with friends and make new ones while enjoying refreshments, a short program and live music. This event is free, but registration is required.
Date and time: Wed., Dec. 10, 3:00-5:30 p.m.
Location: Boise State University Stueckle Sky Center, 1200 W. University Dr.
Cost: Included with membership

Paul Newman, the embodiment of charisma, captivated movie audiences with his iconic baby blue eyes, striking features, and powerful screen presence. Known for his multiple Academy Award-nominated performances in films like Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), The Hustler (1961), and Absence of Malice (1981), Newman ultimately won an Oscar for The Color of Money (1986), the sequel to The Hustler. Alongside his acting career, he pursued a parallel path as a race car driver and dedicated significant time to entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors. This course will trace the timeline of Newman’s remarkable career, from his legendary collaborations with Robert Redford in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) and The Sting (1973) to his final roles in Road to Perdition (2002), Empire Falls (2005), and Cars (2006), where he voiced the retired race car Doc Hudson.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: Dr. Arnold Blumberg
Dates and times: Tue., July 8 – August 12, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: July 2
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

Historians, beer enthusiasts, and curious minds alike will enjoy this exploration of the history of brewing. We will begin in the distant past with the invention of beer around 4000 BCE. Then we will journey through time to the modern rise of craft brewing. Along the way, we will dive into fascinating topics including medieval brewing, beer in Shakespeare’s era, colonial brewing, Prohibition, indigenous brewing traditions worldwide, and the evolution of beer commercials. This course meets during happy hour, so feel free—nay, encouraged—to raise a glass and toast to history while we learn.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: Dr. Karl Brown
Dates and times: Tue., July 8 – August 12, 5:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: July 2
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

This course will explore the history of Manhattan, emphasizing the unique traits that drew into its harbor millions of immigrants and millions more tourists seeking its many resources, rich culture, and complex history. Together, we will explore the history of New York City’s parks, city shopping, entertainment venues, museums, and concerts. We will also discuss the social and arts movements that grew out of the city. Gain an appreciation of what the city has to offer its visitors and an insight into the history behind the tourist attractions.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: Adam Kocurek
Dates and times: Wed., July 9 – August 13, 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
Registration Deadline: July 7
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

Energy is essential for both national and economic security, underpinning all aspects of life. Yet discussions of energy security often exclude the public, reducing complex issues to simplistic narratives like “Green is Good” or “Oil is Evil,” which provide little actionable insight. In this course, you will engage in a comprehensive examination of energy’s role in human development. Topics include the unmatched importance of hydrocarbons (oil and more); advancements in electricity, the past, present, and future of nuclear energy; and the potential of renewables. We will explore how these energy sources impact national security, economic stability, industrial production, transportation, and daily life. Join this course for a balanced, realistic assessment of energy security, a critical issue of our time.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: Beth Hill-Skinner
Dates and times: Wed., July 9 – August 13, 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: July 7
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

Architectural history follows a canon of both traditional and eclectic styles from ancient to contemporary times. But what happens when a mix of whimsy, eccentricity, humor—and sometimes the creator’s genius—insert themselves into the mix? Occurring throughout time and in various parts of the world, these unconventional structures exist to serve the cultures they were created for, from ancient religious sites to modern car-culture merriment. This course explores a myriad of structures set against the backdrop of the societies in which they existed, the construction methods used, the patrons for whom these structures were constructed, and the notions of the builders and architects who created them.
Presenter: Eleanor Schrader
Dates and times: Thu., July 10 – August 14, 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: July 8
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

The post–World War I era saw a dramatic shift away from traditional 19th century architecture, as architects, designers, and social thinkers embraced modern aesthetics, new materials, and evolving societal needs. Each architectural movement responded to social and political changes, influencing both residential and commercial structures. This course explores the inspirations and innovations behind major architectural styles, including the Bauhaus, the International Style, Art Deco, Midcentury Modernism, and Postmodernism. Through these movements, we will examine how architecture has continually adapted to shape and reflect the built environment.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: Eleanor Schrader
Dates and times: Mon., Oct. 6-Nov. 10, 5:00-6:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 2
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

African Americans have served in every US military conflict, fighting for both their country and their own rights. From Black patriots in the Revolutionary War to the 180,000 African Americans who fought for the Union in the Civil War, their contributions have shaped American history. After the war, Black soldiers gained congressional approval to enlist in the peacetime Army, leading to the formation of the “Buffalo Soldiers.” This course traces their service from the War of 1812 to World War II, highlighting their valor in conflicts abroad and their struggle against segregation and discrimination at home. It is the story of their resilience, sacrifice, and fight for equality in a nation that often failed to recognize their service.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: John Langellier
Dates and times: Tue., Oct. 7-Nov. 11, 5:00-6:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 3
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

Become educated, entertained, and empowered to become more effective stewards of the natural world. Through real-life conservation stories—drawn from the instructor’s personal experiences and her time as host of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom—we will highlight the impact of passionate individuals working together to address complex environmental challenges. This course explores how diverse perspectives and unique skills contribute to conservation efforts, offering participants practical ways to take meaningful action in protecting wildlife and ecosystems.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: Stephanie Arne
Dates and times: Wed., Oct. 8-Nov. 12, 3:00-4:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 6
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

Impressionist painters revolutionized art with a new style that emphasized changing atmospheric effects and luminous color harmonies. Their unblended brushstrokes of pure color and simple compositions broke dramatically with traditional pictorial techniques. Rejecting historical, mythological, and religious themes, they instead focused on the rapidly shifting aspects of modern life—capturing scenes from the countryside, the home, and the city. This course examines the work of Monet, Renoir, Degas, Cassatt, and Morisot from the 1860s to the 1910s, exploring their stylistic and technical innovations, personal lives, and the cultural forces shaping their artistry. Participants will gain an enhanced ability to experience nature and artistic depictions of it with a newly developed sensory, coloristic, and immersive awareness.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: Dr. Lauren Weingarden
Dates and times: Thu., Oct. 9-Nov. 13, 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 7
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

Economics plays a central role in every aspect of society. This course examines the causes and potential solutions to inequality in the US from an economic perspective. We will explore the history of different types of inequality, the underlying data and evidence, and the policy levers available to address these issues. Each lecture, led by a subject matter expert with a PhD in economics, will stand alone. Topics may include climate change, healthcare economics, economic inequality, economic mobility, discrimination in public policy, and the wealth gap.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: Dr. Geof Woglom
Dates and times: Tue., Oct. 14-Nov. 18, 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 8
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

Have you ever felt like scientists are constantly changing their minds? Do you wonder when research can be trusted to guide decisions about health, behavior, or the environment. This course offers a behind-the-scenes look at the scientific process, exploring how modern science developed, what scientists actually do, and what makes research reliable. We will examine the strengths and weaknesses of scientific methodology, uncover common pitfalls, and identify red flags for pseudoscience and untrustworthy findings. Rather than relying on blind faith in science, we will learn how to evaluate research critically—and find trust in the process.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: Dr. Johnnie Hendrickson
Dates and times: Tue., Oct. 14-Nov. 18, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 8
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

Whether you’re in Macon, Memphis, Muscle Shoals, or Massapequa, music matters, and our varied musical heritage is one of the best ways to understand crucial moments in American history. This course will explore Indigenous expressions, colonial invasion, forced African migration, and the cultural shifts of the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries. Through the interplay of genres and traditions, we’ll examine how music captures the evolving American experience.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: Dr. Matt Jennings
Dates and times: Tue., Oct. 14-Nov. 18, 3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: October 8
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

Explore Motown’s golden era from the late 1950s to the 1970s, a period marked by groundbreaking songwriting, iconic artists, and profound social influence. Discover how Motown’s innovative production methods shaped its timeless sound, broke racial barriers, and adapted to shifting cultural landscapes to achieve worldwide acclaim. Featuring legendary artists and curated tracks and videos, this course concludes with a celebration of Motown’s transformative first 25 years. Join us to experience the enduring magic of Motown and its lasting impact on music and culture.
Livestream Only via Zoom; Classes are not shown in the Osher classroom and are not recorded.
Presenter: Mike Agron
Dates and times: Tue., Oct. 28-Dec. 2, 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
Registration Deadline: October 24
Cost: $65
Note: Osher Online programs are not refundable. Following registration, members will receive an email from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Contact osheronline@northwestern.edu for assistance after registration.

Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are member-led opportunities for learning and engagement outside of the classroom.

Join us to explore both current bestsellers and somewhat older books in a new and creative format. Participants should commit to reading the books before the session. Two sections are available – please choose one: “Memoirs and Other First-Person Accounts” and “Stories From Beyond Our Borders.” This SIG is partnering with Rediscovered Books in Boise and will have a section in the store. SIG members can pre-order reading list copies with a 10% discount.
Facilitator: Carolyn Russ
Meetings: Section One – Memoirs and Other First-Person Accounts: Mon., Aug. 25, Sept. 15, Oct. 27, Nov. 24, & Dec. 15, 1:30-3:00 p.m.
Meetings: Section Two – Stories of the West and Northwest: Fri., Aug. 22, Sept. 26, Oct. 24, Nov. 21, & Dec. 12, 10:30 a.m.-noon
Location: Yanke Building
Capacity: 12

Come socialize with other Osher members before the start of class on Thursday mornings at the Yanke building. This SIG is for Osher members only, and registration is required.
Facilitator: Mark Eubank
Meetings: Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Location: Yanke Building
Capacity: 30

Join Osher members for a monthly meetup at a Treasure Valley brewery to sample various local craft beers. There will be knowledgeable people on hand to introduce members to the world of craft beer and various styles of local beer to enjoy. Beer is at members’ own expense, but the company, conversation, and discovery are included at no charge. Information on the brewery, address, and links will be provided in advance.
Facilitators: Steve Easley and Todd Fraser
Meetings: One Wednesday or Thursday a month, times TBD
Location: TBD
Capacity: 40

Explore Boise’s Ridge to Rivers trail system on moderately strenuous hikes of one-and-a-half to two hours in duration. Start from a different trailhead each week to experience the beauty of the open space surrounding our city. Hikes can be lengthy and challenging. Information with details on date, time, and location will be emailed to registrants in advance of the planned hike.
Facilitator: Dennis Hynes
Meetings: Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m.-noon
Location: TBD
Capacity: 120

This SIG is a group of Osher members that meets every month in a seminar. Each member, in rotation, presents on a topic they have researched to the group. Topics cover a wide range of subjects, such as literature, history, sociology, and technology.
Facilitators: Gail Robb and Lucia Haet
Meetings: Second Friday of each month, 12:30-3:00 p.m.
Location: Smoky Mountain Pizza, 1805 W. State St., Boise
Capacity: 20

Join Osher members who enjoy films — both foreign and American — by gathering at The Flicks, Boise’s premier independent movie theater. Following each film, members will have the opportunity to meet in the theater for a short discussion. The Flicks utilizes best practices for social distancing and safety issues.
Please note: Due to robust interest in this SIG and the limited size of the theater, the film may sell out.
Facilitators: Bob and Toni Fontaine
Meetings: One Monday a month, around 4:30 p.m.
Location: The Flicks, 646 W. Fulton St., Boise
Capacity: Theater capacity

Join Osher members who are interested in personal writing (memoir, essays, etc.) in a supportive setting. Each meeting is peer led and will focus on a specific area of personal writing or a theme. No prior writing experience is necessary.
Facilitator: Tom Baerwald
Meetings: Every other Friday, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Location: Yanke Building
Capacity: 25

Take part in the beauty of the Boise River Greenbelt with other Osher members who want to get exercise while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. Moderate to brisk walks that begin and end at the Yanke building will be at the core of this SIG.
Facilitators: Diane Ronayne and Sharon Bixby
Meetings: Fridays, 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Location: Meet on the east side of the Yanke building
Capacity: 45