OLLI Mason Ideas Festival Schedule

OLLI Ideas Festival: An Open House for Curious Learners

Music Sampler

Friday, 10:00–11:00, May 8
Coordinator: Linda Apple Monson

This session highlights examples of the musical talent that abounds at George Mason University. The Dewberry School of Music, accompanied by their most promising students, will generously share their musical gifts in a presentation that is varied, lively, informative, and entertaining.

Linda Apple Monson, International Steinway Artist, serves as director of the Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music in the College of Visual and Performing Arts at George Mason University where she is a University Distinguished Service Professor. She has performed and lectured throughout the world.

Sew and Learn

Friday, 10:00–11:00, May 8
Instructor: Priscilla Godfrey

Let’s sit and sew while learning about James Monroe! Your kit will include all materials and pattern for Courthouse Step Block.

Priscilla Godfrey is a nationally certified quilt judge who makes and exhibits her quilts in several quilt shows every year.

Watercolor Is Playful

Friday, 11:10–12:10, May 8
Instructor: Marni Maree

You will learn many serious watercolor techniques in a playful way.

Marni Maree’s teaching style is relaxed, encouraging, and full of heart. She helps students build confidence and develop their own artistic voice, whether they’re picking up a brush for the first time or looking to deepen an established practice.

Investment Forum

Friday, 11:10–12:10, May 8
Coordinator: Al Smuzynski

The Investment Forum is a long‑running, retiree‑focused group that meets weekly to discuss current economic and market developments, share member presentations on a wide range of investment topics, and review participants’ recent trades in a collaborative discussion format.

Walk and Talk Club

Friday, 12:10–1:40, May 8

Walk over to George Mason University campus for a wonderful tour of the public art, exhibits, and collections located throughout the GMU campus. This will be an approximate 2.6‑mile round‑trip walk. The activity will be canceled in the event of poor weather.

Mah Jongg

Friday, 12:40–1:50, May 8

Come see why this challenging game of skill and luck has become all the rage. Players of all levels are welcome. Mah Jong sharpens memory, concentration, and decision‑making skills while fostering camaraderie and fun.

Anthropology of a Multicultural Nation

Friday, 1:50–2:50, May 8
Instructor: Tom Carroll

The 250th anniversary of the United States provides an opportunity to reflect on our multicultural heritage and the role immigration plays in shaping identity, culture, and community.

Tom Carroll, Ph.D., is a cultural anthropologist and former Peace Corps volunteer who served in Lesotho and later worked at the U.S. Department of Education.

Meet the Restauranteur

Friday, 1:50–2:50, May 8
Instructor: Dina Daniel

Meet Dina Daniel, founder and chef behind the first Egyptian restaurant in the DMV. From a humble food truck to multiple locations, she will share her immigration journey and insights as a woman entrepreneur.

Before the Sound of Music: Captain von Trapp

Friday, 3:00–4:00, May 8
Instructor: Peter Ansoff

Explore the remarkable naval career of Georg Ritter von Trapp and examine the historical realities behind the famous musical.

Peter Ansoff is retired from a career supporting U.S. Navy logistics and has taught multiple OLLI courses on maritime and aviation history.

Chair Yoga

Friday, 3:00–4:00, May 8

Chair yoga is a gentle, accessible form of yoga practiced while seated or using a chair for support. It improves flexibility, balance, and relaxation without requiring floor work.

Yeah, There’s a Pill for That

Saturday, 10:00–11:00, May 9
Instructor: Michele Romano

Learn how to safely navigate prescription drugs, over‑the‑counter medications, supplements, and herbals—and how to keep everything organized for yourself and your healthcare providers.

Board Games

Saturday, 10:00–12:10, May 9

Explore modern board games that combine strategic thinking, stress relief, and community‑building fun.

Nature Poetry Writing

Saturday, 11:10–12:10, May 9

Guided by poet Danielle Badra, participants will explore OLLI’s natural spaces and transform their observations into vivid poetry. All experience levels are welcome.

Artist Hour

Saturday, 12:40–1:40, May 9
Instructor: Brianna Camp

Join Brianna Camp as she creates large‑scale oil paintings, discusses her upcoming exhibition, and offers a painting demonstration.

Tea Ceremony

Saturday, 12:40–1:40, May 9
Instructor: Jenny Yu, The Blooming Hour

Experience an authentic Chinese tea ceremony with guided tastings and demonstrations of traditional brewing techniques.

Fun & Games: An Improvised Showcase

Saturday, 1:50–2:50, May 9
Instructor: Steve Pilloff

Students perform a fully improvised showcase using audience suggestions to create playful, collaborative scenes.

Tai Chi for Relaxation and Rejuvenation

Saturday, 1:50–2:50, May 9

Tai Chi is a slow, meditative practice that supports balance, relaxation, and overall well‑being.

Global Perspectives on Longevity

Saturday, 3:00–4:00 PM, May 9
Moderator: Staci Alexander, Vice President Thought Leadership, AARP

Panelists: Emily Ihara, GMU Department of Social Work, Niyati Dhokai, Program Director, Veterans and the Arts Initiative, and Dr. Yaodong Hao, Chinese Medicine and Accupuncture

Panelists will discuss how do different cultures and countries view longevity and lifelong learning, what can we learn from other cultures about aging well, and other countries approaches to lifelong learning.