Berkeley professors Paul Pierson and Eric Schickler, authors of Partisan Nation: The Dangerous New Logic of American Politics in a Nationalized Era, will discuss the disturbing authoritarian tendencies of the current presidential administration, the limited resistance from the other two branches of the federal government, and the uneven responses of major civic institutions. They'll be joined in conversation by professor Henry Brady. In addition to examining the causes of this "democratic backsliding," the panelists will assess the current situation and offer thoughts on the prospects for effective steps to reassert meaningful checks on executive power.
[Free and open to all • Learn more and register]
Join us for a docent-led tour of Berkeley's Latino Community: A Story of Pride and Resilience (1900–2025), an exhibit presented by the Berkeley Historical Society & Museum that celebrates the vital role Latinos have played in shaping Berkeley’s social, political, and cultural landscape. Spanning more than a century, it traces the resilience, activism, and creativity of the Latino community — from early migrant laborers and railroad workers to student organizers, artists, educators, and community leaders.
[For members only • **Full**]
Spring registration opens on Monday, February 9 at 9 AM. Many classes — in person in downtown Berkeley and online — start the week of March 30 with a second wave launching in mid-April. A head's up . . . if you're hoping to snag a spot in one of our small writing or photography workshops, we strongly encourage you to register right away. Those courses have limited spots, and fill up quickly. Not an OLLI member yet? Learn about all the benefits of membership — access to courses, speaker events, field trips, town halls, workshops on healthy aging, socials, and more! — as well as our special offer for new members and our fee assistance program.
Staying up to date on vaccines is especially important for older adults. Yet today, recommendations about which vaccines to get — and when — has been blunted and blurred. At this month’s Vital Aging gathering, Dr. Deborah Gold will discuss the key vaccines for older adults, followed by ample time for Q&A.
[For members only • Learn more and register]
As we approach four years since the start of Russia’s war on Ukraine, join us for a timely and illuminating conversation that examines both the human and economic stakes of the conflict. This talk with Berkeley professors George Breslauer and Yuriy Gorodnichenko will explore the resilience of Ukraine’s economy amid the immense costs of war, consider plans for postwar recovery, and probe the strategic thinking behind Vladimir Putin’s decision to invade — including how his mind-set has evolved over the course of the conflict.
[Free and open to all • Learn more and register]
What exactly does the US Constitution say about the relationship between politics and religion? How does the US compare to other countries on this issue? Many people are expressing concerns that religion is exerting a greater influence in American politics than it should. Is this concern justified, or is it unfounded? This Words Over Time intergenerational dialogue between OLLI members and Cal undergraduates is intended to forge a civil discussion that is engaging, innovative, transformative, and empowering. Facilitated by Berkeley's Darren Zook.
[For members only • Learn more and register]
Food Politics and Policy 2026: A Conversation brings together two leading voices in food policy and public health. Join nutrition scholar and author Marion Nestle and health equity advocate Marion Standish for a timely discussion of the forces shaping what we eat — from industry influence and government policy to access, equity, and public health — and what lies ahead for building a healthier, more just food system.
[Free and open to all • Learn more and register]
Step inside a century of Cal history with a guided tour of California Memorial Stadium. Opened just in time for the legendary 1923 Big Game, the stadium roared to life before 73,000 fans as Cal shut out Stanford, 9–0. Built as a living memorial, it honors students, alumni, and Californians who lost their lives in World War I. From storied rivalries to solemn remembrance, discover the powerful history, architecture and moments that make this stadium more than a field of play. Join us for a free behind-the-scenes tour and experience the place and history for yourself.
[For members only • Learn more and register]
Join OLLI at UC Berkeley for a high-octane celebration of the anthems that defined a generation’s fight for a better world. Belt out dozens of classics by greats like Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Joan Baez and others, plus get a kick out of inspiring backstories and fun pop quizzes. Led by The Quarry Persons (Joe Cadora, Carol Curtis, Lisa Goulder and OLLI rockstar Pete Elman), come amplify the power of our collective voice in this multi-generational music fest. Grab your friends and family — let’s fill The Freight with unity, resolve, hope, and heart! 🎶