Fridays, January 30, February 27, March 27
10:30 to 12:30
Cunningham Memorial Library Room 028
Cost: $20 Limit: 45

The OLLI Spotlight Series features some of Indiana State University’s most popular and engaging professors in a collection of one-time lectures designed to inform, inspire, and entertain. Each presentation stands on its own, but together they form a rich tapestry of learning. Participants may register for individual sessions or enjoy the full series for a deeper experience—just like choosing between a single ticket or a season pass. The Spotlight Series celebrates the joy of learning and the extraordinary educators who make OLLI at Indiana State shine. This semester, the Spotlight Shines on Indiana State University Professor of History, Dr. Linda Maule.

January 30: Stranger Things Revisited
Dr. Maule returns to the Upside Down for an engaging discussion of the newest season of Stranger Things. After watching Season 5 over the holidays, participants share insights on its twists, Easter eggs, and nostalgic nods to the 1980s. The discussion explores evolving themes of friendship, fear, and science fiction, along with the show’s cultural and historical accuracy. Attendees will enjoy lively conversation and Stranger Things-themed snacks. Prior participation in earlier sessions is not required.

February 27: The Ethics of Harry Potter
Dr. Maule leads an exploration of the moral universe within J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series and the ethical debates surrounding it. The discussion will examine values such as friendship, loyalty, prejudice, and the use of power, alongside broader controversies involving the author. Participants will consider how the series raises questions of justice, identity, and personal responsibility that extend beyond the wizarding world, offering thoughtful reflection on the intersection of art, morality, and contemporary cultural discourse.

March 27: Cases from the Supreme Court
Dr. Maule presents a timely and insightful examination of key cases before the United States Supreme Court during the 2025–2026 term. Using legal precedent and doctrinal analysis, the session explores how upcoming decisions may influence constitutional interpretation and public policy. Among the featured cases is Chiles v. Salazar, addressing whether Colorado’s ban on “conversion therapy” violates the Free Speech Clause of the First Amendment. Additional cases will be discussed to illuminate themes in judicial reasoning, constitutional law, and the ongoing balance between individual rights and governmental authority.

Members who cancel a program registration will only receive a full refund if the following criteria are met: cancellation is received in the OLLI office 15 business days prior to the first meeting of any Course or Osher Online Course, cancellation is received in the OLLI office 30 business days prior to the event for a Special Event and/or 30 business days prior to the departure date for all day trips and overnight trips.