Travel back to 1777 Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where the Marquis de Lafayette is recuperating from injuries he sustained at the Battle of Brandywine as a major general helping the Continental army fight the Revolutionary War. We will study the culture, history, and traditions of this time in our country as we discuss The Bookmark by Anne Supsic. Each member of the class will have the opportunity to share a book they've read by giving a ten-minute presentation to the class.

REQUIRED BOOK: The Bookmark by Anne Supsic

They say if you don’t like the weather in Illinois, wait 10 minutes and it will change. Similar to its volatile weather, Illinois has experienced vast geological change - albeit on a scale of millions of years! Geologic evolution continues today, but at a very slow pace. Naturalist Lisa O’Brien will explain the changes Illinois has undergone, much of which has created our bedrock and soils. She will highlight the state's current glacial topography and ecosystems and describe forest preserves where you can experience our geological phenomena up close.

Co-Facilitator: Karen Christensen

Discover the extraordinary life and legacy of Scottish scientist Mary Somerville (1780-1872). One of the most influential minds of her era, she was often referred to as "The Queen of Science." Somerville defied societal expectations to become a well-respected figure within the British scientific community. Course participants will gain insight as to how her groundbreaking achievements in math, astronomy, geography, science, and social justice inspired future generations and why her legacy and courage remain relevant today.

Dr. Roger G. Johnston, our guest presenter, has conducted extensive research and development in applied physics. In addition to work at both Los Alamos and Argonne National Laboratories, he holds multiple patents and has received numerous awards. He has lectured in ten countries, and teaches at WCC, North Central College, Aurora University, and Lewis University.

Discover the folk tales and mythologies from around the world that explore the themes of the Wild Woman archetype, the forces that stand in the way of female self-awareness, and the necessary growth cycles of life, death and rebirth. Author Clarissa Pinkola Estes, a Jungian psychoanalyst, theorized that the woman and the wolf share a primordial bond. She attempts to realign the psyche of her female patients with the creative, instinctual, passionate and fierce aspects of their own natures embodied in the female archetype. We will explore stories about Vasalisa and Baba Yaga, LaLoba, Bluebeard, St. Lucia, La Llorona, The Little Match Girl, Baubo, The Crescent Moon Bear, the Woman With Hair of Gold, The Ugly Duckling and more! Everyone welcome...join our discussion!

This class will cover Chapters One through Six in the book.

Guest Speaker: Laura Meredith, Waubonsee Instructor of Psychology

Required Book: Women Who Run With The Wolves By Clarissa Pinkola Estes

Co-Facilitator: Kim Carew

Participants will explore the fascinating world of seeds and their profound impact on our planet in this engaging course based on Nancy F. Castaldo's, The Story of Seeds. Through a combination of readings, discussions with the author, and hands-on-activities, together we will gain a deeper understanding of the role seeds play in biodiversity, food security, and environmental sustainability. Join us on a journey to uncover the secretes of seeds and their vital importance in our world.

REQUIRED BOOK: The Story of Seeds by Nancy F. Castaldo

Co-Facilitators: Evelyn Porter, Carl Hays

This class will be led by Waubonsee Economics Professor Elior Iseli. It is an overview of the tariff system of the United States since 1920. We will explore the latest changes that have occurred under the Trump Administration.

The Tao Te Ching, has been translated into the English language more often than any other piece of world literature. The 81 verses are a slim volume of several paragraphs per page focusing upon foundational, universal life issues. The faciliator is eager to explore the sayings of the Tao translated from Chinese by Stephen Mitchell, with the first ten LLI members who sign up for this round-table discussion.

Course prerequisites: an open mind, and intention to have fun. Join us. What is there to lose?

A copy of the text, Tao Te Ching by Lao-tsu, translated by Stephen Mitchell, will be provided at our first session to the participants.

Co-Organizer: Susan Foody

Ever wonder what's really happening when ice melts, bread bakes, or fizzing bubbles rise in a glass? In this hands-on science class, you'll explore the fascinating world of chemical and physical changes using everyday materials. Conduct safe, simple experiments, observe surprising reactions, and learn how to tell whether change is temporary—or something totally new. No science background needed—just curiosity! Come ready to mix, melt, fizz, and explore the science behind the challenges all around us.

Registration Deadline 2/25/26 Activity Level: easy going