Peruse this page to see which courses you are most interested in. Then click HERE to go to the registration page.
For a PRINTABLE VERSION and/or a SUMMARY VERSION of the Course Descriptions and Bios – click HERE
MONDAYS
People, Places and Stories from the Silk Road with Dr. Clark Wernecke
Mondays, 9:00 – 10:00
Sun City Ballroom
(In-Person / On-Demand)
For more than 3,000 years, the Silk Road served as a network of trade routes linking China with the civilizations of the West. Along these routes, merchants exchanged not only goods, but also plants, technologies, cultures, and ideas that shaped societies across continents. Much of the trade was controlled by intermediaries who often profited the most while preventing direct connections between Europe and China. Through engaging stories, this course explores the fascinating people, places, and events that made the Silk Road one of history’s most influential trade networks. Join us as we uncover how the Silk Road helped shape the world we know today.
Dr. Clark Wernecke enjoyed a successful business career before pursuing his passion for archaeology and returning to academia. In 2022, he retired as Director of the Prehistory Research Project at The University of Texas at Austin and as Executive Director of the Gault School of Archaeological Research. Throughout his distinguished career, he has contributed significantly to the study and preservation of history and archaeology. Dr. Wernecke currently serves as a director of the Texas Historical Foundation and sits on the editorial boards of several history and archaeology publications. His unique blend of business experience and archaeological expertise brings a fascinating perspective to the study of the past.
Presidents and Their Generals with Dr. Matthew Moten
Mondays, 10:30 – 12:00 (90 Minutes)
Sun City Ballroom,
(In-Person / On-Demand)
Presidents and Their Generals examine how the relationship between civilian and military leaders has shaped American strategy, policy, and governance. As political and military institutions evolved, leadership personalities often played a decisive role in determining success or failure. The most effective partnerships struck a balance between healthy debate and productive collaboration. These relationships were grounded in mutual respect for military expertise and civilian authority. Through historical examples, this course explores how leaders navigated some of the nation’s most consequential decisions.
Colonel (Ret.) Matthew Moten is an Iraq War veteran, military historian, and former head of the Department of History at West Point. He holds a doctorate in history from Rice University and is a recognized expert in political-military relations. Dr. Moten is the editor of Between War and Peace: How America Ends Its Wars and the author of Presidents and Their Generals and The Delafield Commission and the American Military Profession. His scholarship explores the complex relationship between civilian and military leadership in American history. Today, he divides his time among writing, cattle ranching, and enjoying his grandchildren.
Ending Well- Preparing Your survivors for YOUR Afterlife with Ann Evans
Mondays, 1:00 – 2:00
Georgetown Public Library – Hewlett Room
(In Person Only)
Writing Life Stories: a death doula’s guide to memory and meaning
How can writing our life stories lead to self-discovery and encourage us to live more fully?
Join author, educator, and end-of-life doula Laurie Woodford as she delves into the benefits of writing our lived experiences and offers meaningful approaches to doing so. Whether you want to share your story with future generations or gain insight into challenging events in your life, this class will offer key considerations for crafting your life stories onto the page with skill, clarity, and authenticity.
Laurie 
Woodford is a memoirist, novelist, educator, and death doula. Her books include Unsettled: a memoir, The Heart Hitch, Stop and Gogh, and Writing Life Stories. Before writing full-time, she taught college English in the U.S., China, and South Korea and has facilitated writing workshops in public schools, prisons, and senior communities. When Laurie’s not writing, teaching, or spending time with her amazing husband, Bruce, and wonder dog, Journey, she volunteers for hospice as a certified end-of-life doula.
TUESDAYS
Russian Disasters: Lessons in Crisis and Response with Anthony Triola
Tuesdays, 9:00 – 10:30 (90 Minutes)
First Baptist Church of Georgetown – Room E1-216
(In-Person / On-Demand)
Using major disasters from Russian and Soviet history, this course examines how governments and societies respond to catastrophe. Each session tells the story of a significant event while exploring lessons in leadership, planning, communication, and community resilience. Participants will consider how similar incidents might affect our own region and communities. The course also highlights the critical role of local emergency management professionals in preventing, preparing for, and responding to disasters. Through historical case studies, we gain valuable insights into managing crises both past and present.
Chief Warrant Officer Four (Ret.) Anthony Triola retired from the U.S. Army in 2014 after more than 24 years of active-duty service. He currently serves as an Emergency Management Specialist with the Williamson County Office of Emergency Management, helping the county prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural and manmade disasters. His responsibilities include emergency planning, incident support, and coordination with public safety agencies and community organizations. Anthony also serves as a 2nd Lieutenant with the Apollo Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol at Georgetown Municipal Airport. His extensive military and emergency management experience provides valuable insight into disaster preparedness and community resilience.
AI for Seniors Workshop with Fred Stein
Tuesdays, 9:00 – 10:00
First Baptist Church of Georgetown – Room E2-108-110
(In-Person / On-Demand)
***limited to 12 participants
Are you a Google user who is ready for the next step? Artificial Intelligence apps can easily open a whole new world for you. In this workshop, we will demonstrate two AI apps to help you understand how to use them. It is hands-on: bring your own phone, tablet or laptop. We will set up how you will interact with the apps and the class will use several example questions and procedures to include general subject questions, modifications of a document and editing photos, so bring your own photos and a paragraph to edit.
Colonel (Ret.) Fred Stein served more than 27 years on active duty in the U.S. Army, commanding units at every level from company to brigade. He also held numerous key staff positions, including Senior Communications Officer (J6) for Operation Support Hope in Rwanda and Operation Enduring Freedom in Bosnia. A recognized expert in military affairs and communications, he is the co-author of Network-Centric Warfare. Colonel Stein has taught popular courses at Lifelong Learning Georgetown Texas (LLGTX) on the Ukraine War, Revolutions in Military Affairs, and Information and Disinformation. His extensive military leadership and teaching experience provide valuable insights into modern warfare and strategic communications.
Generative and Agentic AI with Steve Chavez
Tuesdays, 10:30 – 12:00 (90 Minutes)
First Baptist Church of Georgetown – Room – E1-216
(In-Person / On-Demand)
This course explores the rapidly evolving world of Artificial Intelligence, including the key differences between Generative AI and Agentic AI. Participants will learn practical ways to use AI tools to simplify daily tasks, improve productivity, and enhance decision-making. The course also examines how AI is transforming businesses and industries around the world. Live demonstrations will showcase both Generative and Agentic AI, highlighting their real-world applications and value in everyday life. Attendees will leave with a summary of key concepts, practical resources, and a guide to leading AI providers, including free tools available to the public.
Steve is a retired executive from the world’s largest management consulting firm, bringing decades of experience advising organizations on strategy, transformation, and innovation. He has consulted extensively on both generative AI and agentic AI, helping leaders understand and apply these technologies to achieve measurable business outcomes. Steve has trained hundreds of professionals to design and deploy personal AI agents as well as team-based agents that enhance productivity and decision-making. He has deep expertise in the implementation of agentic AI systems across complex enterprises and public-sector organizations. His experience spans large-scale environments ranging from 10,000 to more than one million employees, enabling him to translate advanced AI concepts into practical organizational solutions.
Self-Exploration with Dr. Herman Matthews
Tuesdays, 10:30 – 11:30
First Baptist Church of Georgetown – Room – E2-108-110
(In-Person Only)
***limited to 15 participants
Self-exploration is the practice of self-observation and reflection that leads to deeper self-discovery and self-understanding. In this series, we will examine the roots of self-exploration through the teachings of Heraclitus, Buddha, Lao Tzu, Socrates, and Plato, whose insights continue to shape our understanding of human nature and consciousness. Participants will connect these timeless perspectives to their own personal journeys of inquiry and growth. Before the first session, consider what aspects of yourself, your experiences, or your beliefs you would like to explore. This highly interactive and participatory experience is limited to 15 participants and emphasizes exploration rather than judgment, creating a space for open and thoughtful dialogue.
Herman Matthews has a PhD in Physics and was on the faculty at four major Universities in the US. He then resigned from academia and was self-employed for 35 years. He was a consultant, produced video and designed and facilitated several hundred workshops and seminars using experiential and non-traditional learning techniques. Herman has worked with many diverse corporations, organizations, cultures, traditions and individuals both in the US and India.
Introduction to the Italian Language with Mike D’Amelio
This class meets Tuesdays AND Thursdays
Tuesdays, 1:00 – 3:00, Georgetown Public Library –Room 206 and
Thursdays, 10:30 – 12:00, The Oscar at Georgetown – 3rd Floor Meeting Room
***limited to 12 participants
This course is for beginners, people with some prior exposure, or people who have been away from the Italian language for a long time and want to pick it up again. We’ll start right from the basics and work our way up. Come join us to learn one of the most beautiful languages in the world, while you prepare for more enhanced and intimate interactions during travels to Italy!
Mike grew up with significant Italian language exposure, then supplemented that with formal training over the years in both the US and in Italy. These days he goes to Italy every year for about 6 weeks.
WEDNESDAYS
Worldwide Travel, Barb Larson, Coordinator
Wednesdays, 9:00 – 10:00
The Oscar at Georgetown – Theater
(In-Person / On-Demand)
October 07: Exotic Indian Ocean Islands– Andy and Michelle Goerdel
Visit the exotic Indian Ocean Islands of Madagascar, Mauritius, Reunion, and Seychelles. Discover the lemurs, unusual birds, culture, scenery, and all you need to know about these exceptional places.
October 14: Where Am I? Part 3–Babs Cape
You will get to identify the destinations as we travel this visual feast of world sites Babs has visited during her years as a travel advisor. Join us for this engaging presentation including anecdotes and interesting information from many of these sites.
October 21: Western Mediterranean Cruise–John Dallen
For John and Frances Dallen, the itinerary for a January cruise around the Western Mediterranean was significantly altered by weather. Yet the changes included adding several more islands to the experience, including Corsica, Sardinia, Malta and Majorca. These, plus other ports such as Tunis, made the journey one of great historical and cultural discovery.
October 28: A Novice Traveler’s Cruise to the Amalfi Coast–Linda Baker
November 04: TBD–Terri Boroczk
Huck Finn Imagined and Reimagined with Dr. Jeffrey Mahan,
Wednesdays, 9:00 – 10:00
The Oscar at Georgetown – 3rd Floor Meeting Room
(In-Person / On-Demand)
Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn stands as one of the great American novels, renowned for its vernacular voice, humor, sharp social commentary, and enduring critique of racism and hypocrisy. Percival Everett’s Pulitzer Prize-winning James retells the story through the eyes of the escaped slave Jim. In doing so Everett both extends and challenges the themes and perspectives of Twain’s classic. Read together, they enrich and reinvigorate our understanding of one of America’s most influential literary works. Mahan will provide background information in the first week, but subsequent sessions will focus on group discussion. Participants are strongly urged to read selected chapters of both novels.
Dr. Jeffrey Mahan is The Ralph E. and Norma E. Peck Professor Emeritus of Religion and Media at Iliff School of Theology. His love of Huck Finn began as a child, hearing his father read it aloud.
Lenses — Your Netflix Survival Guide with Dr. Philip J. Hohle,
Wednesdays, 10:30 – 12:00 (90 Minutes)
The Oscar at Georgetown – Theater
(In-Person Only)
“What on earth was THAT all about?”
– First words often uttered when leaving the movie theater or turning off the television.
This course explores ten different “lenses” through which films and other forms of media can be analyzed and interpreted. Participants will strengthen their media literacy and develop a deeper understanding of how entertainment shapes perception, meaning, and culture. By learning to view films through multiple perspectives, they will gain a greater appreciation for exceptional filmmaking and a sharper awareness of disruptive messages and themes. Each session includes selected film clips and media artifacts for analysis, discussion, and shared discovery.
Dr. Philip J. Hohle of Parabolic Media is a leading scholar in the study of how people respond to movies. Hohle studied Radio-Television-Film at UT and earned a Ph.D. in Communication Studies from Regent University. He has published and presented on this topic through the International Society for the Cognitive Studies of the Moving Image (SCSMI). He has also taught film criticism at the university level. Currently, he hosts an occasional series at Film Alley titled Faith and Film.
Rogers & Hammerstein Movie Musicals with Vic Figurelli
Wednesdays, 10:30 – 12:00 (90 Minutes)
The Oscar at Georgetown – 3rd Floor Meeting Room
(In-Person / On-Demand)
Few creative partnerships shaped American culture as profoundly as Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Their movie musicals did more than entertain—they redefined what film storytelling could be. Blending memorable melodies, rich characters, and deeply human themes, their work continues to resonate across generations. This course invites lifelong learners into the golden age of movie musicals to rediscover why Rodgers & Hammerstein remain one of Broadway and Hollywood’s most influential songwriting teams.
Vic Figurelli has been a member of Senior University since its early years in 1998. He served on the first operating board as vice president and facilities coordinator and went on to serve a total of five years as president across three separate terms. He has also served on several nonprofit boards in Georgetown. Over the past several years, Vic has presented programs on musicals for Senior University. & Lifelong Learners GTX.
Fascinating Potpourri I, Various Presenters
Wednesdays, 1:00 – 2:00
The Oscar at Georgetown –Theater
(In-Person / On-Demand)
October 07: Introduction to Investigative Genetic 
Genealogy – Rhonda Kevorkian
Rhonda Kevorkian is an investigative genetic genealogist who specializes in giving nameless stories back. Formerly an Executive Director of the DNA Doe Project, she co-founded Compass IGG & Advocacy to prioritize victim-centered resolution. With six years and dozens of cases under her belt, Rhonda uses complex DNA analysis to solve the “unsolvable.” She’s a firm believer that while DNA provides the map, it’s advocacy that paves the way home. Rhonda has presented with Lifelong Learners GTX with positive feedback.
October 14: Your Best Life: Lessons from My Grandmother & Mom – Kris Hooks
If you would like practical strategies, you can apply immediately to help you live your best life; this session is for you. You will learn 5 tips highlighted by real life illustrations from the presenter’s maternal grandmother and mother. A short video will be shown of an interview with Grandma Esther; it was first shown as a surprise at her funeral.
Kris Hooks is a seasoned presenter, mental health professional, and health and well-being coach. This session promises to be lively and fun while incorporating research-based findings in Positive Psychology on how to live your best life regardless of your age and health.
October 21: Yachts of the Russian Oligarchs – Paul Ballett
Former yacht captain Paul Ballett takes audiences inside the extravagant world of superyachts and the powerful men behind them. Blending maritime experience with fascinating stories, Paul explores how Russian oligarchs rose to immense wealth after the fall of the Soviet Union and why yachts became the ultimate symbol of status, privacy, and power. From floating palaces with helipads and submarines to yacht seizures tied to international sanctions, this entertaining presentation offers a rare behind the scenes look at luxury, geopolitics, and some of the largest private yachts in the world.
Paul Ballett brings a unique perspective shaped by an extraordinary career that spans finance, ocean racing, and the world of superyachts. Born in a small fishing village in southwest England. Before entering wealth management over 25 years ago, he founded a successful yacht management company and spent more than a decade captaining and managing some of the largest private yachts in the world for wealthy families across Europe and beyond.
October 28: Oil and Gas: Then and Now – Sam Pfiester
A brief history of oil and gas exploration, including milestones and energy transitions.
Sam L. Pfiester began his career in the oil business in 1972 as a landman for Clayton W. Williams, Jr. In 1982 he started Pfiester Oil and Gas. He has drilled dry holes in Texas, New Mexico, California, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Florida.
November 04: The 5 Biggest Financial Mistakes Retirees Make – Patrick Deist
The 5 Biggest Financial Mistakes Retirees Make
Session focuses on the small financial decisions in retirement that can quietly cost people significant money over time. Rather than investment theory, we’ll cover practical areas where mistakes tend to happen about taxes, withdrawal strategies, required minimum distributions, account complexity, and planning for what comes next.
Most retirees have done a great job saving; the challenge now is making sure everything works together efficiently. My goal is to provide simple, actionable insights to help you retire.
I have worked at Fidelity, Merrill Lynch, UBS and currently with Oakwell Private Wealth
I have a degree in Finance from Auburn University and have been in Wealth Management for over a decade.
I hold multiple financial licenses including my CFP and CRPS.
Fascinating Potpourri II, Various Presenters
Wednesdays, 2:15 – 3:30
The Oscar at Georgetown –Theater
October 07: Everything You Wanted to Know About Jewish History – Michael Raileanu,
(90 Minutes)
(In-Person / On-Demand)
Everything You Wanted to Know About Jewish History (But Were Too Afraid to Ask).
Can you really fit 5,000 years into an hour and a half? Educator Michael Raileanu says yes. In this high-energy, humorous presentation, you’ll race through the highlights and hurdles of Jewish history with a guide who has spent 35 years mastering the material. It’s strictly educational, slightly breathless, and entirely entertaining. No sales pitches—just the story of a people.
El Paso native Michael Raileanu has been in the classroom since age 15. With 35+ years of experience and a master’s in education, he has taught everyone from preschoolers to government officials and has won multiple awards for excellence. Michael blends historical expertise with pop culture and humor. When not teaching, he’s listening to Willie Nelson, or cheering for the back-to-back World Champion Dodgers, the Longhorns, or the Cowboys.
October 14: Cyber Scam Prevention for Seniors (and everybody!) – Robert DuCharme
(90 Minutes),
(In-Person Only)
Cyber scams are everywhere, and seniors are targeted the most! This presentation will give tips and tricks to help ensure that you do not become a victim of a cyber scam.
Robert DuCharme is a recently retired cyber security specialist. He also retired from the US Air Force after serving for 17 years. Robert worked for Cisco Systems, Breaking Point Technologies, Ixia, and Keysight Technologies in many varied roles. He mostly did training and education for customers and spoke at many security conferences around the world.
Robert is married with 4 children and 5 grandchildren and enjoys playing golf in his leisure time.
October 21: WOMEN OF THE NEW DEAL – Jann Alexander
(75 Minutes),
(In-Person Only)
WOMEN OF THE NEW DEAL
How Three Women Were Pivotal to the Success of Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal During the Great Depression and Dust Bowl:
FRANCES PERKINS – THE ONLY WOMAN IN THE ROOM
DOROTHEA LANGE – THE WOMAN BEHIND THE CAMERA
ELEANOR ROOSEVELT – THE PRESIDENT’S EYES AND EARS
Jann Alexander is the best-selling author of the historical novel, UNSPOKEN, her first book in The Dust Series. With a dozen years of research into Texas history, she’s a speaker on its little-known stories, including The Hidden History of The Texas Dust Bowl. She’s passionate about sharing women’s history, especially from the New Deal era and beyond. Jann always brakes for historical markers.
October 28: Exploring an End-of-Life Choice: VSED – Dr. Rita Casey
(In-Person Only)
Voluntarily stopping eating and drinking (VSED) is a deeply personal end-of-life choice legally made by some individuals who wish to allow death to occur naturally by choosing to forgo food and fluids, including artificial nutrition or hydration. This presentation explores what VSED is, why some people consider it, and how it can be approached thoughtfully and compassionately.
We’ll discuss how VSED fits within a range of end-of-life options and the importance of informed decision-making grounded in one’s personal values, beliefs, and faith.
Rita Casey PhD Psychology, has volunteered with End-of-Life Choices California, helping individuals and families understand their end-of-life options in ways consistent with their values and beliefs. Her ongoing interest emphasizes living fully, preparing thoughtfully, and engaging in open conversations about how we wish to approach life’s final chapter.
November 04: An important photographer you don’t know. – Les Wollam
(In-Person / On-Demand)
I was an assistant to photographer Arnold Newman for 2 years when I was starting out as a professional photographer in the 1970s. Newman was one of the greatest portrait photographers who ever lived. He photographed all sorts of people (mostly famous artists or politicians) from Picasso to LBJ. Often his portrait of that person becomes the way they are thought of – during their lives and after their passing. Yet few people haven’t heard of him. I would like to shed some light on his career and importance.
Les Wollam has a BFA in photography from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. He did a nearly 50-year career as a professional photographer – 9 years in New York City and 40 years in Dallas, Texas. Some of his talks for LLGTX can be seen on YouTube by putting his name in the search box.
THURSDAYS
The U.S. Constitution: What it means – with Dr. John Ray
Thursdays, 9:00 – 10:30 (90 Minutes)
The Oscar at Georgetown – Theater
(In-Person / On-Demand)
The U.S. Constitution is the foundation of our government and democracy. It protects our rights and provides order, stability, and the rule of law. While most Americans express strong support for it, many have not read the Constitution and are not familiar with its provisions. This lack of civic knowledge poses challenges for a healthy democracy.
This course will:
- Examine the theoretical foundations, justifications, assumptions, and history of the Constitution.
- Explore different interpretations of its articles.
Dr. John W. Ray is an emeritus professor of political science and public policy at Montana Tech of the University of Montana where he taught for 47 years. He has made numerous presentations on the topic of the meaning of the U.S. Constitution and has published extensively also on the Constitution. He received his PhD in political philosophy from the University of Wisconsin. Dr. Ray has also offered several courses for Lifelong Learners GTX on political science and political theory and ethics.
Introduction to Genealogy including DNA Research with Alan Rabe
Thursdays, 10:30 – 11:30
The Oscar at Georgetown – 3rd Floor Meeting Room
(In-Person / On-Demand)
This course begins at the novice level with an introduction to genealogy, including DNA research. It then gradually increases complexity, guiding participants through how to locate, document, and verify their ancestors. The course concludes with an overview of DNA testing and the growing field of genetic genealogy.
We will begin with FamilySearch, a free and widely used platform, and then explore additional genealogy resources. Personalized recommendations will be provided based on each participant’s own family history research.
Alan Rabe started doing genealogy 55 years ago and has the Rabe line back to 1638 in Germany. He is past president of the Williamson County Genealogical Society and teaches their monthly DNA Special Interest Group. He is also director of the FamilySearch Center in Georgetown. He is familiar with all genealogy websites and DNA companies.
Unheralded Treasures from the Earth with Dr. Dave Weinberg
Thursdays, 10:30 – 12:00 (90 Minutes)
The Oscar at Georgetown – Theater
(In-Person / On-Demand)
This five‑session course explores three essential natural resources that we often take for granted. Yet without them, life would be extremely difficult — and in one case, impossible. Each session begins with the geologic foundations of the resource, followed by an examination of its historical development and the profound impact it has had on shaping the modern world.
Dave Weinberg earned his PhD in geology at Texas A&M University and has worked for several major oil companies. In 1995, he was doing research for various petroleum-industry-related projects at DOE’s Idaho National Laboratory. Starting in 2002, Dave spent 14 years in and consulting with the Department of Homeland Security on issues of energy and infrastructure security. He has taught adult education classes since 2009.
Community Leaders, Various Presenters
Thursdays, 1:00 – 2:00
The Oscar at Georgetown – Theater
(In Person Only)
Look to the Community Helpers—As Mr. Rogers said;
October 08: Officer Cesar Salinas – Has served with the Georgetown Police Department since 2011, beginning his career after graduating from the Williamson County Nighttime Police Academy. After nearly a decade on patrol, he joined the Community Engagement Division in 2019, where he supports major events such as Chase the Chief, Blue Santa, National Night Out, and Law Enforcement Field Day. Fluent in Spanish, he plays a key role in building strong relationships with Georgetown’s Hispanic community and promoting trust with Spanish‑speaking residents. Officer Salinas is dedicated to representing the department’s values and showing citizens that their police officers serve with honor and protect with vigilance. Outside of work, he runs a construction and real estate business, enjoys church, family activities, outdoor hobbies, cooking, and has been married for 32 years with two daughters.
October 15: GISD Superintendent Padavil
October 22: Director of Communications and Media Relations for Williamson County – Connie Odom
October 29: Sheriff Matthew Lindemann – Completed the Central Texas Regional Police Academy in March of 1985. Since then, he has served as a Deputy Sheriff, State Trooper, Texas Ranger, DA Investigator, Constable, and Sheriff of Williamson County as of January 1, 2025. He specializes in weapons and tactics, firearms instruction, digital police photography, dignitary protection, and reconnaissance. He and M’Lissa have been married for thirty-six years; they have two married children and three grandchildren.
November 05: Wilco EMS Chief
Fascinating Potpourri III, Various Presenters
Thursdays, 2:15 – 3:30
The Oscar at Georgetown –Theater
October 08: The Mysteries of the Human Brain, Pt. 1 – Dr. David Niesel
The human brain is a wonder! It distinguishes us from all other animals on Earth. Recent research has unveiled some amazing insights into how the brain functions as the ultimate command and control center. This talk will focus on discoveries on how we store memories and the “unique” ways the brain communicates with our bodies.
David W. Niesel, Ph.D., joined the UTMB faculty in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology in 1983. He was appointed chairman in 2000. Dr. Niesel received his Ph.D. in 1980 from North Carolina State University. In 1997, he was named Vice Dean for the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, becoming Dean in 2013 and the UTMB Chief Research Officer in 2015. He retired in 2021 and remains an Adjunct Professor. Dr. Niesel currently lives in Georgetown, TX.
October 15: But I don’t Speak Italian?! A Beginner’s Guide to Opera – Charles Carson
October 22: Diplomatic Security and Chinese Basketball – Christy Wolf
(In-Person / On-Demand)
A collection of memories and gifts from 1975-1979, from a former US Dept of State Special Agent, while protecting dignitaries from around the world.
Christy began her federal career in 1975 as a Special Agent with the US Department of State, Office of Security, protecting Secretaries of State and Foreign Dignitaries, conducting background investigations and passport/visa fraud investigations. She joined the Central Intelligence Agency and eventually became an Operations Officer with a specialty in Counterintelligence. Completing a war zone tour in Afghanistan and a tour in Africa, she retired in 2016, receiving the Career Commendation Medal. Christy began a new life adventure in Texas and is loving it. She has two sons, two wonderful daughters-in-law and two extraordinary grandsons.
October 29: The Western as American Story of Origin – Dr. Jeffrey Mahan,
(In-Person / On-Demand)
Before the West was fully settled, Americans were reading dime novels about the region and the people who settled it. Westerns have changed over time, sometimes taking a more nuanced or less heroic look at the settling of the West. This course treats them all as “stories of origin” that seek to explain the American nation and character.
Dr. Jeffrey Mahan is The Ralph E. and Norma E. Peck Professor Emeritus of Religion and Media at Iliff School of Theology. His love of Huck Finn began as a child, hearing his father read it aloud.
November 05: A Partnership that Changed the World – Fred Stein, (In-Person / On-Demand)
Saint Benedict and Saint Scholastica
This is a continuation of the 5 parts I did in the Fall
Colonel (Ret.) Fred Stein served more than 27 years on active duty in the U.S. Army, commanding units at every level from company to brigade. He also held numerous key staff positions, including Senior Communications Officer (J6) for Operation Support Hope in Rwanda and Operation Enduring Freedom in Bosnia. A recognized expert in military affairs and communications, he is the co-author of Network-Centric Warfare. Colonel Stein has taught popular courses at Lifelong Learning Georgetown Texas (LLGTX) on the Ukraine War, Revolutions in Military Affairs, and Information and Disinformation. His extensive military leadership and teaching experience provide valuable insights into modern warfare and strategic communications.
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For a PRINTABLE VERSION and/or a SUMMARY VERSION of the Course Descriptions and Bios – click HERE
