Shared Interest Groups
Shared Interest Groups (SIGs) are a great way for OLLI-UO members to continue lifelong learning beyond the classroom! These groups provide new opportunities to form friendships with other members around shared interests. They are independent and self-directed, with members deciding where and when to meet and how the group will function. SIGs are open to current OLLI-UO members only, i.e. those who hold a membership for the current year.
Have an idea for a SIG? See examples of past SIGs, review SIG guidelines, and propose a SIG here.
Dining with Friends
Eugene/Springfield
DESCRIPTION
Dining with Friends combines the enjoyment of cooking and sharing of a social occasion with old and new friends. Dining with Friends meets once a month (alternating between Wednesdays and Sundays) and is not intended to be a gourmet group. To be added to the contact list, email facilitator Rosemarie Smith (see the OLLI-UO Member Directory in the Member Portal).
FACILITATOR
Rosemarie Smith
Expatriates
Eugene/Springfield
DESCRIPTION
OLLI-UO members who have lived at least one year abroad are invited to join the Expatriates group to share experiences and discuss current events in former countries of residence. We meet monthly, with the location decided by the rotating host member. To be added to the group contact list, email the facilitator (see the OLLI-UO Member Directory in the Member Portal).
FACILITATOR
Sherri Lange
French Conversation: Let’s Speak French and Nothing but French
Eugene/Springfield
DESCRIPTION
This SIG is for active OLLI-UO members having fairly solid fluency in French conversation. We will spend some time in small groups discussing random or pre-planned questions. The group meets in person at participants’ homes. To be added to the group contact list, email the facilitator (see the OLLI-UO Member Directory in the Member Portal).
FACILITATOR
Joanna Alexander
T’ai Chi
Eugene/Springfield
DESCRIPTION
T’ai Chi is a gentle exercise/art that teaches patience, stamina, balance, calm readiness, speed, and accuracy in slow circular movements, while dancing the form. T’ai Chi is a moving meditation. Focusing on the postures, you’ll leave behind your troubles and those of the world. This group meets two times a month: once in person and once on Zoom. To be added to the group contact list, email the facilitator (see the OLLI-UO Member Directory in the Member Portal).
FACILITATOR
Bruce Gates
Board Games
Eugene/Springfield
DESCRIPTION
To be added to the group contact list, email the facilitator (see the OLLI-UO Member Directory in the Member Portal.
FACILITATOR
Debbie Black
Genealogy
Eugene/Springfield
DESCRIPTION
To be added to the group contact list, email the facilitator (see the OLLI-UO Member Directory in the Member Portal).
FACILITATOR
Deb Sorensen
Great Decisions 2025
Central Oregon
DESCRIPTION
The Great Decisions program is a national, grassroots foreign policy discussion program started by President Eisenhower for the general public to discuss foreign policy issues. Hundreds of these groups across the country are participating in this activity each year. Participants are not required to have a background in foreign policy, but curiosity and a willingness to read and engage with others.
Participants will purchase and read eight Foreign Policy Association's Great Decisions articles for 2025. For 8 weeks spanning mid-February to mid-May, participants will gather at Judy Hurlburt's house over a light potluck meal to discuss the articles. Group is limited to 14 and a waiting list will be created as needed. To be added to the list, email the facilitator (see the OLLI-UO Member Directory in the Member Portal).
FACILITATOR
Judy Hurlburt
