September   

Ever since its earliest offering during the 2008 financial crisis, the Economic Roundtable has strived to better understand the tumultuous economic environment of the last 18 years. The Fall 2026 class continues its mission with a focus on considering the potential for a future recession, the current state of the labor market, and the impact of the Federal Reserve’s efforts to stop inflation. Please join us in discussing what are often conflicting economic signals and political rhetoric in a quest to better understand the current economic environment.

Ever since its earliest offering during the 2008 financial crisis, the Economic Roundtable has strived to better understand the tumultuous economic environment of the last 18 years. The Fall 2026 class continues its mission with a focus on considering the potential for a future recession, the current state of the labor market, and the impact of the Federal Reserve’s efforts to stop inflation. Please join us in discussing what are often conflicting economic signals and political rhetoric in a quest to better understand the current economic environment.

This 7-session class features stretching and dynamic exercises, music, games, dance, and volleyball. Bring a towel and your swimsuit. Exercise equipment such as water buoys and noodles are provided. You do not need to know how to swim to participate in this class. All fitness levels are welcome.

Thursdays, September 3, 10, 17, 24, October 22, 29, November 5: 10–11 a.m.

Join Sam Wormley as he reviews the basic function and operation of the Mac operating system, essentials, and capabilities. Also emphasized will be privacy, security, interoperability with other Apple products, and addressing your needs.

Wednesdays, September 9, 16, 23, 30, and October 14, 21, 28 (7 weeks, with no class on October 7): 10–11:30 a.m.

This class is offered in conjunction with OLLI at ISU. This class runs for 7 sessions.

Join us for the OLLI at Drake Book Club this fall as we read and reflect on four new books by award-winning authors. All four books feature themes and points of view that will not only challenge our perceptions of the world – but also our place in that world. Engaging and meaningful discussions are guaranteed! Join those discussions online each month.

Discussions will take place online each month. The schedule looks like this:.

September 10: Vigil by George Saunders 
October 14: Go Gentle by Maria Semple
November 11: One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This by Omar El Akkad
December 9: Python’s Kiss by Louise Erdrich

Join Ellen for a monthly update on the current happenings in international relations and European politics. This class examines the resurgence of a world organized in major poles – three at this time – who contend with each other for dominance. The unipolar world centered around the United States from 1989 (the end of the Cold War) to roughly 2008 is gone. The United States faces major challenges from Russia and China, each of whom has global ambitions. Their goals will be examined and we will look to the future in this fast-evolving situation.

Join Ellen for a monthly update on the current happenings in international relations and European politics. This class examines the resurgence of a world organized in major poles – three at this time – who contend with each other for dominance. The unipolar world centered around the United States from 1989 (the end of the Cold War) to roughly 2008 is gone. The United States faces major challenges from Russia and China, each of whom has global ambitions. Their goals will be examined and we will look to the future in this fast-evolving situation.

This class is offered in conjunction with OLLI at ISU – 8 sessions.. 

Mike Meetz and Sam Wormley team up to provide a lively discussion with OLLI members about Science in the News. A deep understanding of science is not required to share and discuss recent Science in the News.

Thursdays, September 10, 17, 24, and October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 (8 weeks): 9–10:30 a.m.

Join our Knitting & Craft Group! Calling all lifelong learners and creative minds! Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just eager to try something new, our friendly group is the perfect place to unwind, share skills, and spark inspiration. Bring your knitting, crochet, embroidery, or any craft you love—along with your curiosity and conversation! Come create, connect, and learn together. This group will meet every two weeks at the Drake Alumni House.

Thursdays (every 2 weeks) , September 10 through November 19: 12–1:30 p.m.

Join us for the OLLI at Drake Film Discussion group. Films include two documentaries: A Girl in the River: A Lesson in Forgiveness (an attempted honor killing), and For Sama (a woman and her family in war-torn Syria). Films to be discussed will be: Secrets and Lies – a film which explores the consequences of adoption. Two Family House, is a true story of complications that arise from an unusual situation. Fatal Attraction is a modern horror film. Focus will be on discussion, after viewing the films on your own.

Enhanced by slides and videos that contextualize the great music from Europe’s past, course attendees will experience music they perhaps have never heard, and will delve more deeply into repertoire that may be among their favorites. Examples will be drawn from over 800 years of music ranging from 1200 CE to the present. We will explore the music in detail in order to understand the minds of the human beings who composed the notes.

**Materials needed for the class will be provided free of charge at the first class. This class meets twice per week.

 There are many claims about the positive benefits of Tai Chi, and it is our hope that with regular practice, you will notice a difference in overall flexibility, fitness, and your ability to relax. This course is advanced in the sense it is a continuation of the Beginning OLLI Tai Chi course the instructor taught. Rather than learn forms and routines from scratch, as in the beginner’s class, we will begin with a week or two of thorough review. Videos from past classes will also be made available. Depending on the interest of the class, new material may also be introduced. Beginners are very welcome, although you should contact the instructor (at daniel.alexander@drake.edu) in advance to discuss whether the class is right for you – if you have a spirit of adventure (and are comfortable learning to swim by swimming) or have any experience with Tai Chi, you should be ok. This course is taught with the spirit that any movement is good movement. If any parts of our routine are not comfortable, you do not need to do them. If you have any health concerns about taking the class, we recommend that you consult your physician.

Tuesdays (12-1 p.m.):
  September 22, 29, October 6, 20, 27
  November 3, 10, 17, 24, December 1, 8

Fridays (12-1 p.m.):
  September 25, October 2, 16, 23, 30,
  November 6, 13, 20, December 4