row1
AUBURN, Ala. - As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Americans are reflecting on the people, ideas, and events that shaped the nation. To mark this historic milestone, OLLI at Auburn University is offering a series of programs that explore the founding era, the evolution of American institutions, and the enduring questions that continue to define our national identity.
On July 8, economist Mark Thornton will present Gold and Years: A Short History of Money in America at 11:30 a.m. at Sunny Slope (1031 S College St). Thornton will trace the evolution of American money and monetary policy from the nation's founding to the present, highlighting how the gold standard and other forms of "sound money" have influenced economic development and public policy decisions. This presentation is free and open to the public.
Beginning in September, OLLI will offer courses focused on unique aspects of our nation’s history. Caroline Gebhard and Ann Beale will host a discussion group for Auburn’s 2026 Common Book selection Ben & Me: In Search of a Founder’s Formula for a Long and Useful Life. Few historical figures embody the ideal of lifelong learning better than Benjamin Franklin. In this year’s common book, author Eric Weiner explores the curiosity, experimentation and commitment to self-improvement that defined Franklin’s life. OLLI members will explore how those same qualities can inspire a purposeful and engaged life at every age. Copies of the book are available at Sunny Slope.
In What Is an American?, retired English and literature instructor Mary Ann Rygiel invites participants to examine one of the nation's most enduring questions posed in Crevecour’s 1770 work Letters from an American Farmer. Through reading excerpts from colonial and early American literature, members will explore evolving ideas of identity, citizenship, and community. From John Winthrop’s description of the colonies in 1630 as a “city on a hill” to Mary Rowlandson’s war captivity narrative to the letters between John and Abigail Adams about the challenges of the early republic, each excerpt paints a picture of different facets of early American society.
Tyler Wilson brings a touch of intrigue with his course The History of American Espionage. Wilson, a graduate student in history, was competitively selected for a graduate student teaching position as part of OLLI’s intergenerational collaboration. His course delves into the clandestine agents who gathered vital evidence that influenced every major political or military event in U.S. history beginning with the American Revolution.
In The Legacy of Our Founding Documents Larry Gerber, a retired professor of history at Auburn, will examine the people and events that produced the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and other foundational texts that shaped the United States. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of the presidency, he will also explore how generations of American leaders have interpreted and invoked these documents to address the challenges of their times. Participants are invited to discuss the ideals put forth in these documents and how they continue to shape our nation.
OLLI at Auburn University is a membership program of Auburn University Outreach offering lifelong learning opportunities. As a member-led, member-driven organization, OLLI strives to enhance the quality of life for people over fifty through intellectually stimulating courses, workshops, social experiences, physical activity, and volunteerism.
Learn more about OLLI and how to join its community of curious lifelong learners.
