Furman University
EN-7: Continuing Education

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute https://www.furman.edu/osher-lifelong-learning-institute/

OLLI @ Furman is a learning opportunity targeted to senior adult learners that inspires its students to stay intellectually and physically active through its many course offerings for lifelong learning, health and well-being, personal connection, creativity and enjoyment. Each term (there are four within an academic year) more than 2600 people in the Greenville community enjoy the opportunity to make new friends and pursue educational interests on the Furman campus. We now offer approximately 120 courses, 40 bonus trips, and events during each of three terms, with approximately 30 courses offered during an additional Summer term. Our enrollment has grown every year with the 2022-2023 enrollment at more than 2250 members.

Course Descriptions https://www.furman.edu/osher-lifelong-learning-institute/member-resources/courses/

SNM1099 Global Warming and Climate Change: Science, Impact, & Mitigation Monday, 9-10:30 a.m., Herring Center, Vick Seminar (HC102), IP This class provides an overview of global warming and climate change. It examines what greenhouse gases (GHGs) are, how their release into the atmosphere causes increases in global temperatures, how these increases in global temperatures give rise to changes in the Earth’s climate, and the resulting environmental, human, and societal impacts. The course examines the principal sources of GHGs and how this relates to energy use in the U.S. and the world. The course concludes by examining technologies and government policies that can reduce (and possibly reverse) global warming and climate change. The course is principally based on the 2022 International Panel on Climate Change Sixth Assessment Report. No background in science is assumed.

SNM1102 The Story of the Great East African Rift Monday, 1:30-3 p.m., Herring Center, Graham (HC005), IP This course will provide a visual and intellectual journey through the geologic history and evolution of the Great East African Rift and its impacts at the local and global scale. The topics covered include geologic history, tectonic processes and associated landform development (think Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa), natural resources, biodiversity, climate and culture. The instructor will bring first-hand experience and field photographs from Tanzania and Malawi to explain the large-scale geologic processes and their consequences. This four-week course begins March 25 and ends April 15. Suresh Muthukrishnan, Ph.D., is a professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Furman and has led travel programs to countries including Iceland, Tanzania and India.

SNM1107 Earth, Wind and Fire + Water – Environmental Law in SC Thursday, 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Herring Center, Huff (HC105), IP South Carolina is a beautiful state with an abundance of natural resources from the coast to the Piedmont. The world knows that now and many new people are coming here to stay. There are federal and state environmental laws and regulations that are in place to help protect human health and the environment. This course will provide insight into environmental law and water law in South Carolina, placed in the context of the state’s geology, climate, air, water, natural resources and population. We will begin with a brief history of environmental law. We will also review a bit of environmental chemistry (don’t worry about a test; there won’t be one) to help understand the most common contaminants of concern as well as emerging contaminants. We will look at the application of environmental law in S.C., current issues, including the in-progress division and reorganization of the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control, renewable energy and sustainability, and future issues.

BTE1183 Shi Institute for Sustainable Communities Tour Feb. 23, 11 a.m.-noon, IP Join us for a tour of the Shi Institute for Sustainable Communities on the Furman University campus. The Shi Institute was originally built in 2007 as a Southern Living Showcase home to feature green building practices. Since 2009, the Shi Institute has served to promote sustainability on the Furman campus and in the community. During the tour, attendees will learn about the building's sustainable features (such as recycled building materials and 35 solar panels) while getting an overview of some of the Shi Institute's current projects and the Furman Farm's organic gardening practices. Mary Frances Shelato, presenter of this event, is the Administrative Coordinator for the Shi Institute.

PPG1320 The Psychology of Poverty Monday, 1:30-3 p.m., Herring Center, Vick Seminar (HC102), IP Rather than learning about current poverty in Greenville, this class looks at underlying issues, factors and causes of poverty to understand why people who are poor may think and act as they do. Class participants will decrease judgment and increase compassion by enlarging their understanding. This course will include interactive exercises, clips from DVD, the poverty simulation and books written by the instructor. This four

SNM1108 Gene Editing and our Food Wednesday, 1:30-3 p.m., Z You may have heard of a geneediting technique called CRISPR that is being used to treat inherited genetic disorders and even to make designer babies. But did you know it’s also being used to improve both the sustainability of food production and the nutritional value of our fruits and vegetables? The first products have been approved for sale in the U.S. this year. Will you eagerly adopt or shun these modified foods? Through lectures, videos and discussion, learn about CRISPR technology and the alternative ways that it is being used to change our food. This four-week course ends April 10.

CEB1782 Advocating with Local Government Tuesday, 1:30-3 p.m., Herring Center, Campbell (HC004), IP Discover the heart of democracy in action with our Local Government Advocacy OLLI course. You will learn the essential elements of community involvement, empowering you to make a tangible impact on your local government. Through engaging discussions and expert-led sessions, you will learn the ins and outs of effective advocacy. Understand the policymaking process, hone your communication and lobbying skills, and explore the tools and strategies that drive positive change in your neighborhood and beyond. Whether you are a seasoned activist or just beginning your journey in local politics, join us to amplify your voice, exercise your civic rights, and be the change you want to see in your community. Join experienced advocates Katy Pugh Smith, the executive director of Greater Good Greenville, Erin Predmore, the executive director of Greenville Connects, Frank Mansbach, the executive director of Bike Walk Greenville, and a leader from Greenville Organized for Accountable Leadership to learn how to be an effective advocate. This four-week course ends April 9.

BTE1150 Affordable Housing Investing in the Upstate Jan. 19, 1 p.m.-3 p.m., HC110, IP Brian Albers and Mario Brown, presenters of this event, are the founders of Affordable Upstate, a mission-driven multifamily investment firm. Affordable Upstate's mission is to modernize and preserve naturally occurring affordable housing in the upstate of South Carolina by investing in communities that are as equally fulfilling for our residents as they are strategic for our investors. We believe that building and sustaining strong communities helps everyone. We revitalize apartment complexes that have declined due to indifference bycreating local partnerships with investors, lenders, nonprofits, contractors, brokers and vendors that share our vision for building strong, healthy and sustainable communities. We acquire affordable and mixed-income properties throughout the Southeast and we partner with nonprofit owners of affordable housing in unique and flexible ways. Our aim is to provide resources and solutions that develop, preserve, and revitalize residences to ensure top quality and performance. Alignment on mission and championing long-term collaborative partnerships are the keys to our success.

BTE1600 Tour of Feed and Seed Food Hub Jan. 26, 10 a.m.-noon, IP Through networks, programs, and facilities, Feed and Seed Co. strives to improve the health and well-being of all citizens by increasing access to nourishing local foods and establishing a truly sustainable food system built on profitable farms and independent markets. Our community-rooted Food Innovation Hub plays a central role in the Feed and Seed Co. mission. Designed as a multipurpose facility to support our local farmers and the community, it’s a space that provides food growers and makers with the infrastructure and support systems needed for success. As a one-stop- 33 shop, we act as a “concierge,” filling the gaps and increasing access to fresh, affordable local food within the Upstate food and nutrition system. This event, led by Celia Castellano who is Education and Outreach Coordinator from Feed and Seed Co., will be an introduction followed by a tour of the processing, cooking, storage and packaging areas. Distance from Furman: 5.5 miles.

CEB1742 Impacts of Income & Wealth Inequality Thursday, 9-10:30 a.m., Herring Center, Campbell (HC004), IP This course will explore the causes and impacts of income and wealth inequality in the US and globally. Topics will include how inequality is measured, the historical beginnings, and the impact of inequality on families, businesses, and society. Specific examples will include gender and racial disparities, economics in the sports and corporate world, and how government tax and regulatory policies affect inequality. Class will discuss the question of "is inequality harmful to society," and if so, what steps can be taken to mitigate its effects? The course format will include lectures, short videos, and class discussion. This four-week course ends Feb 1.