Senior University – May Class Highlights and June Sneak Preview

In May learn about wearable art, resilience and aging, intermittent fasting and much more!

Thursday, May 7
Wearable Art with Kristin Tollefson

Come learn about the work of artist Kristin Tollefson, which encompasses jewelry, wearable art, performance and sculpture. Stay and explore materials she’s developing for her latest body of work and contribute feedback and design ideas of your own. Participants are invited to make a small piece to take away at the end of the session.

10:00 am, Tobey Jones Parlor

Friday, May 15
Discussions of Resilience and Aging

What is the meaning of “resilience”? How does the concept of resilience apply to the aging process?  We will present highlights on the topic of resilience in aging and consider participants’ personal experiences in this process.

2:00 pm, Bristol View 1^st Floor Bowditch Room

Tuesday, May 19 & May 26
Intermittent Fasting: A Commune Course

In this co-hosted course with Senior University and Holistic Wellness, watch pre-recorded presentations over 4 weeks (running May 19 – June 9). Intermittent fasting is so much more than a weight-loss tool — it is a scientifically validated method to reduce inflammation, improve metabolism, and increase energy. When practiced mindfully, intermittent fasting also cultivates intuitive eating and “food peace.” Over the course of these presentations, Dr. Will Cole guides you through a simple, flexible approach, including what foods support your fast, how to best break your fast, and how to navigate common challenges. Also learn how to personalize your fast for your unique biochemistry, and how to use fasting as a spiritual practice.

2:00 pm, Tobey Jones Parlor

Wednesday, May 27
Revolutionary Points of View: A Living History Performance by Karen Haas

Join Karen Haas to learn about the American Revolution from the point of view of 2 tavern keepers’ wives. The American Colonists in 1776 were deeply divided: many were in favor of rebellion, many wanted to stay part of England and many just wanted to be left alone. Karen brings this pivotal era for our nation to life as she portrays Patriot Susannah Foote of Boston and Loyalist Eliza Fowler of New York. Their contrasting points of view shine a light on the past that can help us see our modern times more clearly. This program made possible by a generous donation to Senior University.

2:00 pm, MJ Wicks Wellness Center

June Class Sneak Preview

Friday, June 5, June 12, June 19, & June 26
Discover Drums! Learning Percussion and Drum Circle

Join us to experience what music making can be like as part of a real drum circle! No prior experience is needed, and all instruments and materials are provided by the Tacoma Youth Symphony Association. Through these classes, you’ll learn the basics of playing percussion instruments, try out instruments such as a djembe, frame drum, talking drum, and more! Grow your drum skills in this fun and engaging environment.

10:00 am, Bristol View 1^st Floor Bowditch Room

Wednesday, June 10, June 17, & June 24
Fairytales in Opera

An overview of fairytale operas including discussion of familiar tales, traditions of different countries, and modern inventions.

10:00 – 11:30 am, Bristol View 1^st Floor Bowditch Room

Thursday, June 11
Blacks in Rembrandt’s Time: The Culture of Race in 17th-century Dutch Art

This talk aims to recover an aspect of art history that has long been neglected or suppressed. It focuses on Africans who were often depicted in 17th-century Dutch art as the racial “Other.” Some of these Dutch portraits and genre paintings show blacks as stereotypical commodities: accessories to a luxurious way of life. Can it be coincidental that during this period the Dutch became heavily involved in the slave trade? Yet other artists, such as Rembrandt in his Two Africans (1650s), represented black figures in a nuanced, sensitive manner, after life.  This talk explores the various lenses that 17th-century Dutch viewers may have used, when confronting these unusual artworks. What sorts of lenses might we use, in light of our current climate of divisiveness and ideological conflict?

3:00 pm, Bristol View 1^st Floor Bowditch Room

Thursday, June 18
Great Decisions: Ukraine and the Future of European Security

With reduced U.S. support for NATO and Ukraine, Europe faces strategic uncertainty. The Trump administration has signaled an intention to reduce its security role in Europe. What are America’s stakes in NATO and Europe’s strategic dilemmas, and how might Europe respond?

2:30 pm, Zoom (Pre-register to receive the Zoom link)

Registration required for all classes. To register please call 253-756-6219 or email Jana at jwennstrom@franketobeyjones.com

For a full class and activity list, click here