Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Texas Tech University, Highland Lakes

04/23/2026

Design Your Own Hanging Basket

Thursday, April 30 | 1:30 p.m. | Texas Tech University at Highland Lakes

Register: https://registration.olli.ttu.edu/wconnect/ace/CourseStatus.awp?course=26SPOLHL16

You will be designing and planting your own hanging basket. We will have the following plant choices available: coleus, impatients, begonia, potatoe vine, Swedish ivy, and other trailers, etc. Planters and soil will also be included but you can bring your own planter if you would like. Then, take home your creation to display and show off.

Mena Rueffer has background in landscape design and horticulture from the University of Texas. She has been a Highland Lakes Master Gardener since 2018.

04/16/2026

Adaptations to Successful Aging

Wednesday, April 22 | 1:30 p.m. | Texas Tech University at Highland Lakes

Register: https://registration.olli.ttu.edu/wconnect/ace/CourseStatus.awp?course=26SPOLHL15

To age successfully, we must examine and adapt to new challenges that arise. To deny and ignore these issues can result in injuries, inability to socialize effectively, and even earlier onset of dementia. This class will examine adaptations that can allow us to function better as we age by making minor adjustments that help us communicate better, exercise without injury, continue to drive longer, and feel comfortable at social occasions.

Kay Giesecke is a nationally certified speech language pathologist with both a bachelor's and master's degree. Kay worked for Dallas ISD for 12 years before operating a private pediatric practice in Dallas for 25 years and has been a lecturer at both state and international universities and conferences. Now in the Hill Country, she is still providing private therapy for children part-time. Her website is www.apraxiaaustin.com.

04/09/2026

Qatar: From Pearl Divers to Global Mediators

Thursday, April 16 | 1:30 p.m. | Texas Tech University at Highland Lakes

Register: https://registration.olli.ttu.edu/wconnect/ace/CourseStatus.awp?course=26SPOLHL14

Over recent history, the small nation of Qatar has experienced immense changes, transforming from a desert land of pearl divers and traders to one of the richest and most politically influential nations on the globe. This session will review the events, people, and choices that precipitated these changes and introduce you to a world of beauty and promise.

Nancy Allen, Ph.D, is a previous Professor of Education at the only national university in Qatar. In this position, she developed the country's first M.Ed. program and led the College of Education's in achieving international accreditation.

04/09/2026

The Lifeblood of the Hill Country: Groundwater

Wednesday, April 15 | 10 a.m. | Texas Tech University at Highland Lakes

Register: https://registration.olli.ttu.edu/wconnect/ace/CourseStatus.awp?course=26SPOLHL13

Groundwater is the lifeblood of the Texas Hill Country, supporting our communities, springs and rivers. We will explore how our region’s aquifers function, why they are uniquely vulnerable, and how Texas manages groundwater through locally governed Groundwater Conservation Districts (GCDs). With growing population and development adding pressure to limited groundwater resources, this session is well-suited to anyone committed to understanding and navigating the region’s water challenges, and to being thoughtful stewards of the Hill Country’s most precious resource.

Mitchell Sodek is the General Manager of the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District and also a member of Region K and Groundwater Management Area 8 water planning groups.

04/08/2026

Everyday AI: Making Technology Work for You

Wednesday, April 8 | 1:30 p.m. | First Baptist Church

Register: https://registration.olli.ttu.edu/wconnect/ace/CourseStatus.awp?course=26SPOLHL12

Discover how Artificial Intelligence can simplify and enrich your daily life. In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to use AI tools like ChatGPT to research topics, plan trips, manage projects, cook smarter, compare products, and solve everyday problems. We’ll explore real examples and demonstrate how AI can serve as your personal assistant, teacher, and creative helper. No technical experience required—just curiosity!

Whit Holcomb has a degree in Business and works professionally in communications. A lifelong tech hobbyist, Whit enjoys exploring new tools and sharing practical ways people can use Artificial Intelligence to make life easier, more organized, and a little more fun.

03/26/2026

Hearts like yours are .

Thank you to everyone who generously gave to OLLI Highland Lakes during Texas Tech Day of Giving! Because of you, we met (and exceeded) our donation goals.

Without your generosity, we would not be able to carry on our core mission, to provide intellectually stimulating, non-credit courses in a social setting for adults aged 50 or better.

In other words, we could NOT do this without YOU! 🫶

03/25/2026

Texas Tech Day of Giving ends in a few hours!

Your gift helps provide intellectually stimulating courses in a social environment, advancing lifelong learning in the Highland Lakes. Please consider making a donation at the link below or sharing this post with friends.

Thank you!

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Texas Tech University is a vibrant educational community comprised of adults aged 50 or older who are passionate about lifelong learning, connecting, and contributing. For our over 600 active members from Lubbock, Abilene, Fredericksburg, and Highland....

03/23/2026

Texas Tech Day of Giving: March 24 - 25, but you can give early.

A 1,923-minute celebration where Red Raiders come together to support the people and programs that make Texas Tech OLLI, extraordinary. Any amount makes a huge impact towards the OLLI communities we serve.

Learn more & consider donating to OLLI Highland Lakes at the link.

https://dayofgiving.ttu.edu/campaigns/olli-highland-lakes

03/19/2026

Texas Tech Day of Giving is March 24-25, but you can give early. Any amount makes a huge impact towards the OLLI students we serve (adults aged 50+) and our Highland Lakes community.

Your generosity will help us continue to provide intellectually stimulating courses in a social environment, instilling lifelong learning.

Learn more at the link below and consider donating to OLLI at Texas Tech Highland Lakes.

https://dayofgiving.ttu.edu/campaigns/olli-highland-lakes

03/18/2026

Bamboozled by Fraud-Safe Banking for Seniors

Tuesday, March 24 | 1:30 p.m. | Texas Tech University at Highland Lakes

Register: https://registration.olli.ttu.edu/wconnect/ace/CourseStatus.awp?course=26SPOLHL09

Knowledge is your best defense against financial scams. We will highlight the most common fraud schemes targeting seniors— from phone and email scams to identity theft. Participants will learn how to recognize warning signs, take practical steps to secure their personal and financial information, and confidently navigate the digital world. Empower yourself or a loved one to stay informed, stay safe, and outsmart scammers.

Christina Escobar has been with First United Bank for fourteen years and is the Senior Financial Well-Being Specialist serving Central Texas. She proudly utilizes her knowledge and skills in financial literacy concepts to empower communities to “Spend Life Wisely.”