It’s the season for new resolutions, and if your New Year’s list included a goal of “learning something new,” the Osher Lifetime Learning Institute (OLLI) at LSU has got you covered.
This spring, the program, which is designed for adults ages fifty and older, is offering a robust slate of courses ranging from health and wellness to the visual arts, to history, and far beyond. And for a limited time, new members can take advantage of the special spring membership rate of just $25, valid through June 30th, 2026. That's half the usual membership rate!
Here’s a small sampling of some of the (dozens of) courses offered this spring:
Basic & Intermediate Drawing/Color Theory
Crescent City Chapter
• Tuesdays, February 24–March 31
3 pm–4:30 pm at Broadmoor Arts & Wellness Center, New Orleans
Join local artist and educator Lee Thomson-Yood for a six-week drawing course—which will focus on mastering concepts like line, shape, form, value, and perspective using graphite and colored pencils. You’ll learn to hone your observational skills, develop strategies for rendering three-dimensional objects as two-dimensional artworks, and explore the intricacies of color theory. The course will feature a combination of instruction and hands-on exercises. Course Fee is $45 ($40 for early bird) + cost of supplies (under $35).
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Exploring Cajun & Creole Cuisines
Camellia City Chapter
• Tuesdays, February 24–March 31
11:30 am–1:30 pm at The Rivers Retreat Center, Covington
Join Louisiana food blogger, David Howson for a six-week course on all things Cajun and Creole cuisine. Before you even get to the flavors (and, trust me, you will), Howson will facilitate discussions on the history and cultural significance of several local dishes, exploring regional variations and the use of seasonal ingredients. He’ll also demonstrate the traditional techniques and skills behind legendary local flavors. Students should expect hands-on demonstrations, delicious tastings, and plenty of recipes to take home. $100 ($95 for early bird).
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Louisiana food blogger David Howson leads the popular course Exploring Cajun and Creole Cuisines
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Food blogger David Howson with students of his class Exploring Cajun and Creole Cuisines
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Yoga for Strength and Flexibility
Felicianas Chapter
• Wednesdays and Fridays, February 25–May 1
9 am–10 am at the West Feliciana Parish Library, St. Francisville
• Tuesdays and Thursdays, February 24–April 30
9:30 am–10:30 am at the Pointe Coupee Parish Library, New Roads
Establish a new morning wellness practice by joining a dynamic, hour-long yoga class offered twice a week in St. Francisville. Instructor Jane Simmons, who has more than twenty years’ experience as a yoga teacher, will guide students through low-impact flows designed to enhance strength, balance, and mobility over time, while strengthening the upper body, hips, and core. Students will receive an introduction to the range of lasting mental health benefits yoga offers, too! $75 ($70 for early bird).
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AI Made Simple
Lagniappe Chapter & Felicianas Chapter
• Wednesdays, February 25–April 1
9 am–11 am at Broadmoor United Methodist Church, Baton Rouge
• Mondays, February 23–March 30
1:30 pm–3:30 pm at West Feliciana Parish Library, St. Francisville
Designed for folks who are curious about the quickly advancing possibilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI), but are unsure about where to start—this course will focus on introducing practical applications for various AI tools. Students will learn how to use AI to assist with tasks including writing, creating images, brainstorming ideas, and exploring new hobbies. $45 ($40 for early bird).
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World of Italian Wine
Lagniappe Chapter
• Tuesdays, April 14 & May 5
6:30 pm–8 pm at Matherne's Market, Highland Road, Baton Rouge
Be transported to the hills of Tuscany during two evening classes led by Italian wine specialist, Antonio Molesini, who will introduce the finer points of wine appreciation. Learn to identify the distinct qualities of various wine varietals while sampling different styles, and discover the historic traditions and culture that have shaped the Italian wine industry through the centuries. A light meal will be served to complement the wines and enhance the tasting experience. $85 ($80 for early bird).
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Learn more about OLLI at LSU at https://ce.lsu.edu/olli, or dive into the Spring 2026 course catalog by clicking HERE. Early course registration runs from January 26–February 8, with regular registration from February 9—March 4.
