OLLI Fall 2026_pageturn - Flipbook - Page 19
discussion. Participants will work in small
groups each week to explore the consequences
of the fall of Roe for American women and their
families. Participants are expected to obtain and
read The Fall of Roe: The Rise of a New America
by Elizabeth Dias and Lisa Lerer.
$45 – Facilitated by Dr. Becky Sisk, retired nurse
educator, and Dr. Jenny Tripses, professor emerita
at Bradley University.
Seats available: 20
OLLI members had the opportunity for a private
tour of the America 250 exhibit at the Peoria
Riverfront Museum.
Angelica - For Love and Country
in a Time of War
Thursdays, October 1 – 22
9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Peoria Next Innovation Center
Angelica Schuyler Church was an intelligent,
vibrant woman from a wealthy colonial family
during the American Revolution. Using her social
status and spirited personality, she cultivated
influential friendships in the Colonies, London,
and Paris. Through these connections, she
gathered political insights that she shared with
leaders such as Thomas Jefferson and Alexander
Hamilton. Across cultures, languages, and
national borders, Angelica used her network of
relationships to support the Colonists’ pursuit
of victory and peace. Her story highlights the
important role women could play in politics and
social issues during a largely male-dominated
era. Participants are expected to obtain and read
Angelica by Molly Beer.
$45 – Facilitated by frequent OLLI instructors and
facilitators Missy Salata and Tim Bailey.
Seats available: 20
The Fall of Roe: The Rise of the New America
Mondays, October 5 – 26
1:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Peoria Next Innovation Center
Consider the inside story behind the effort to
overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court
ruling that established a constitutional right to
abortion. This study group will examine the
strategies and processes used by advocates
seeking to reverse Roe v. Wade. Personal
opinions on abortion will not be part of the
How to Make Your Brain Your Best Friend
Thursdays, October 8 – 29
1:00 – 3:20 p.m.
Peoria Next Innovation Center
Discover how to unlock the full potential of
your mind with How to Make Your Brain Your
Best Friend by neuroscientist Rachel Barr. This
engaging guide combines science and practical
strategies to help readers understand how the
brain adapts, protects, and recovers. Together,
we will explore techniques for building resilience,
improving emotional balance, and supporting
everyday mental wellness. Join us as we explore
how understanding the brain can help us live
healthier, happier, and more connected lives.
$45 – Facilitated by Steve and Jayne Richards,
frequent OLLI facilitators and instructors.
Seats available: 18
Writing the Stories of Your Life
Fridays, October 16 – November 20
10:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Peoria Public Library, Main Branch, 107 NE
Monroe Street, Peoria
(Parking is free in the Library lot.)
Hello—this is your life, and no one can tell its
stories quite like you. No one remembers or
understands your experiences the way you
do, so this is your opportunity to write them in
your own voice. Join us to explore memories
and observations through writing, whether for
yourself, your family, or to share with the group.
Bring a notebook or tablet for in-class writing
and discussion. Each week, optional prompts
will inspire a short piece of about 700 words.
Sharing your writing is always optional, but many
participants find it rewarding. No previous writing
experience is necessary.
$45 – Facilitated by Jane Hense and Gary Nelson,
both experienced OLLI Study Group facilitators.
Seats available: 16
STUDY GROUPS
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