PLATO

PLATO is a series that explores an eclectic curriculum. Sessions may be led by outside speakers or by fellow members. 

Feb. 3 LifeCare Spectrum of Services 

Over the past 45 years, Lower Cape Fear LifeCare has grown from a small local hospice provider to a regional healthcare organization serving thousands of people each year. Jason Clamme, director, provides a brief history and an overview of the programs and services offered by LifeCare.  

Feb. 10 Global Warming: Evolution and Prevention 

OLLI member Mike Thorn traces the sources, long-term development and significant impact of global warming on the climate and sea level. How and why are these changes happening and what significant effects do they have on people, animals, weather patterns, agriculture and forests? What can be done by individuals, communities and countries to prevent the incidence and evolution of these changes? 

Feb. 17 WILMA Leadership: Empowering Women to Lead with Confidence and Purpose 

Celebrating 10 years of leadership this year, WILMA magazine editor Vicky Janowski takes us through the evolution of the WILMA Leadership Initiative, which includes the WILMA Leadership Institute, Women to Watch Awards, networking, board training and mentorship programs in the region. We learn how this initiative empowers women to become leaders in our community and how our community can become actively involved. 

Feb. 24 Heart Disease and Heredity: Understanding Your Genetic Legacy 

Stephanie Turrise, Ph.D., RN, professor, UNCW School of Nursing, explores the genetic foundations of heart disease, highlighting how inherited traits can influence cardiovascular health. She examines how an individual’s health profile, including lifestyle choices and medical history, can impact not only their own heart health but also that of future generations. The session provides actionable strategies for prevention, focusing on the role of nutrition, physical activity, early detection and intervention in breaking the cycle of hereditary heart disease. 

March 3 Federal Reserve and Monetary Policy 

OLLI member Don Anderson discusses how the?Federal Reserve, “the fourth branch of government,” strives to maintain?low unemployment, stable prices and moderate long-term interest rates.?He describes how and why the Federal Reserve exercises monetary policy to achieve specific goals and reviews its record of success.?The Fed has been blamed for inflationary periods, recessions and high interest rates, but also credited with preventing several economic catastrophes and promoting long periods of low inflation and low unemployment. 

March 10 The Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County 

Celebrating its 13th year as the nucleus of Wilmington’s arts community, the Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County supports art organizations, artists and audiences through innovative public/private partnerships. Rhonda Bellamy, president, CEO and founder of the Arts Council, discusses grantmaking, key initiatives and the management of public art projects for area institutions.? 

March 17 Tuning into Harmony: Music Strategies for Mental Health and Caregiving 

Tara Jenkins, board-certified music therapist and founder of Harmony in Dementia, introduces music therapy and its transformative impact on mental health and dementia care. Discover how to create meaningful musical experiences for people living with dementia and explore practical strategies for incorporating music into daily routines to support self-care and wellness.  

March 24   Prevention and Management of Type 2 Diabetes? 

A registered dietitian with more than 25 years of experience, Sonia Kennedy, MS, RDN, LDN, is the founder and owner of Nutrition in Motion, LLC, a private medical nutrition therapy practice. Kennedy shares nutrition strategies to manage blood sugar levels while promoting overall health. Her presentation covers key topics, including nutrition tips, macronutrient metabolism, appropriate portion sizes, carbohydrate counting and practical approaches to maintaining a balanced, sustainable diet.