Gold College

GOLD College Spring 2026 Session

Classes begin March 23 and run through May 1.

Spring Kickoff Event

Attend GOLD College Kickoff and hear directly from course professors, register for classes, and more!

Choose 1-2 classes ($75) 3-4 classes ($110). Option to take additional classes for $10 each. Participants can choose to attend classes either in person or via Zoom. Classes offered ‘In Person Only’ are outlined below. Some courses will include nominal fees for supplies.

Class schedule

Please mail in your payment of $75 (1-2 classes), $110 (3- 4 classes), and $10 for each additional class (5+ classes).
Make check payable to: GOLD College, SMSU Foundation, 1501 State Street Marshall, MN 56258
Any course fees to cover supplies will be paid directly to instructors.

Parking permits are NOT required in SMSU parking lots

Class Descriptions

MONDAY
Experimental Arts
Come and join us for the next adventure in trying art materials and techniques! This time around, we will do a couple Native crafts in the form of dream catchers and mini tribal masks. Rock painting was suggested and that’s a lot of fun! We will also do gem wraps again, in some form of jewelry or decorative object. Resin casting was also a material suggested that Michelle is suggesting, often used for making small objects like key fobs or earrings. Our last project is painting with a palette knife! A different method of applying paint, but lots of fun! No previous art experience is needed! The people are always fun and willing to help each other! $10 one-time fee for materials.
Instructor: Michelle Koppien
Mondays 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Watercolors
This class will be a good start to watercolor painting! Here, we will be learning about different types of watercolors, brushes, papers and materials, practice a few, and learn several techniques for controlling water and color application in a painting. Lessons can be guided (working along with the class) or independent (for people with some experience), depending on the students’ comfort level with watercolor. The goal is to get started and get more comfortable with this fun and fluid medium. Materials will be available, but feel free to bring your own marked brushes if you already paint. $10 one-time fee for materials.
Instructor: Michelle Koppien
Mondays 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

The Art of Generational Storytelling and Technology
Every generation holds stories that shape who we are—our values, our identities, our communities. Toni and Jackson will team up to guide learners through the art of intergenerational storytelling, exploring how memory, culture, humor, emotion, and lived experience come together to create powerful narratives. Participants will learn how to transform personal stories into digital keepsakes using accessible tech tools. Jackson brings the lens of a tech-savvy young adult; Toni brings deep experience in education, storytelling practice, and relationships. Together, they create a learning environment grounded in connection, joy, creative expression, and lifelong learning.
By the end of the course, each participant will have created a personal digital story. What story will you leave the next generation?
Instructor: Toni ’95 and Jackson Bladholm
Mondays 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

WWI: Europe in Crisis and Transformation
World War I reshaped Europe—and the world—forever. We’ll explore the “Great War” from a distinctly European perspective, tracing the complex web of alliances, rivalries, and imperial ambitions that pulled the continent into conflict in 1914. Together, we’ll examine the powerful monarchies that dominated pre-war Europe, the social and political pressures that fueled the Russian Revolution, and the immense human and cultural cost of the war. Finally, we’ll study the Treaty of Versailles and other postwar settlements that redrew the map of Europe—laying both the groundwork for peace and the seeds of future conflict leading to World War II. Through illustrated lectures, discussion, and historical documents, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how Europe’s struggle in 1914–1918 transformed modern history and continues to shape global politics today.
Instructor: Rick Purrington
Mondays 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

TUESDAY
iPhone Fundamentals
Join us as we engage in lessons on using our iPhones more effectively.  This is strictly an iPhone course where you will learn photos and camera tips, widgets, iOS info, storage, and other iPhone apps.
Instructor: Marci Petersen ‘92
Tuesdays 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Artificial Intelligence/Streaming
In this course, we will learn what AI is, how it works, and when we should use it. We will also discuss the costs to different AI platforms. Different streaming platforms like YouTube, TikTok and other apps participants are interested in will be included in the class sessions.
Instructor: Marci Petersen ‘92
Tuesdays 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Birds Get Classy
Birds are classified into taxonomic orders based on shared physical characteristics and evolutionary relationships. Modern classification systems divide birds into about 30 orders.  We will study several classifications of birds found in Minnesota and identify those characteristics that place them there.  Class will also include a question-and-answer session on other bird-related topics, and a bird walk at SMSU’s beautiful nature trail.
Instructor: Sue Morton
Tuesdays 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Tiny (mostly) but Mighty: Insects & Other Invertebrates
Biologist E. O. Wilson is credited with saying insects are “the little things that run the natural world.” We agree! As a class, we will share our interest in (or perhaps dislike of) insects and other invertebrates that have had an enormous impact on planet Earth. We will explore biodiversity, evolution, life histories, anatomy, and amazing adaptations. We will learn about ecosystem services they provide and challenges they present to humans. Class content includes brief lectures, discussion, short videos, mini-labs, field work (fingers crossed), and sharing readings and citizen science opportunities. We both are ambassadors for the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. 
Instructor: Candace ‘08 and Will Thomas
Tuesdays 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY
Organizing Made Easy
Organization isn’t merely the act of cleaning out one’s things; it can also be a great tool in simplifying your life and reducing stress. Join us to learn real-life tips and tricks to finally tackle your organizing dilemmas. We’ll touch base on the many realms of organization and even try a hands-on approach to whipping your space into shape. I’ll do my best to keep things simple and fun, all while making your spaces work best for you! We’ll also discuss how to donate our items or sell them online.
Instructor: Angela Fahl ‘04
Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

“Let’s Be Golden!”
Students will read, savor, and experience the heartwarming novel, THEO OF GOLDEN, by Allen Levi. The novel follows the kind actions of an elderly Portuguese man who arrives in the town of Golden and discovers 92 pencil portraits displayed at a local coffee shop. He embarks on a mission to purchase these portraits and give them to their subjects, whom he considers to be the works’ “rightful owners,” and his “bestowals” create profound connections across the community. The novel explores the main theme of the transformative power of kindness, generosity, and human connection. Readers will laugh and cry as they become energized and motivated to do acts of kindness as Theo did.
Instructor: Janet Ellingworth
Wednesdays 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

From Stained Glass to Painterly Abstraction
This course is a sequel to the Fall course (From Cave Painting to Stained Glass).  It begins with Gothic art, then travels through the European Renaissance, Baroque, and Neo-classical periods.  Art of the 19th century showcases Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism, and Post-Impressionism.  Art Nouveau nicely transitions from the 19th century into the 20th century, which encompasses a compelling variety of styles.  Among them are American Regionalism (and WPA), realism, and abstractions.
Instructor: Pat Hand ‘77/’96
Wednesdays 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

The Best Yes Bible Study
In this Bible study, we will learn how to manage time, reduce stress, and various strategies for making wise daily decisions while focusing on a biblical understanding of the command to love. Join us as we discover how to build a best yes legacy moving forward!
Instructor: Katie Serbus ‘15
Wednesdays 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

THURSDAY
Criminal Justice
Explore aspects of the criminal justice system through story and conversation. This class will read the same book SMSU students do who take the Introduction to Justice and Society Course. Professor Franson has a new textbook she is eager to try out, and since she will be on sabbatical, she would appreciate having a class of GOLD College students to hear their thoughts about the book. This course will also allow you to ask any questions you may have about the justice system.
Instructor: BC Franson
Thursdays 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Unsung Heroes
This class presents several historical figures unfamiliar to many people in 2026.  Some were significant in their time and have been forgotten; some are more obscure. But they all have a powerful story to tell. The schedule is as follows:
  March 26:  In honor of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, Professor Joan Gittens will speak on the brilliant and controversial Revolutionary propagandist Thomas Paine.
  April 2:  Professor Anita Gaul will speak on three notable African American women: Shirley Chisholm, Ida B. Wells and Opal Lee.
  April 9:  Dr. Vince LaPorte will speak on African American medical pioneer Vivien Thomas.
  April 16:  Professor Jeff Kolnick will speak on Walter Reuther of the United Auto Workers, labor leader and civil rights and human rights activist.
  April 23:  Professor Pat Brace will speak on Sophia Hayden, the architect who designed the Women’s Building at the Chicago 1893 World Columbian Exhibition.
  April 30: Professor Joan Gittens will speak on Virginia Durr, an influential white civil rights activist from Alabama.
Instructor: Joan Gittens
Thursdays 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Painter’s Palette
Join in with a wonderful, friendly group that enjoys painting.  No experience necessary! We will begin with a spring-themed start-up project (materials provided).  After that, there will be a variety of “inspiration” ideas to select from to put together your own composition to paint on canvas.  Acrylic paints and brushes are available for use in class.  Stretched canvases (11”x14”) may be purchased for $2.00 each.  You may also opt to bring your own supplies.
Instructor: Pat Hand ‘77/’96
Thursdays 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Google Workspace: Sheets, Docs, Slides, and More
In this class, we will explore in-depth the Google Workspace, which can be accessed with a free/personal Google account. The focus will be on office applications work created in Sheets, Docs, and Slides. Other apps explored include Maps, Drive, and Photos.
Instructor: Kari Howey ‘00
Thursdays 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

FRIDAY
Vintage Videos
This class is a bit vintage itself. This is its 4th season. The idea is to show older documentaries about American history that are excellent but not very available. This year, in honor of the 250^th birthday of the United States, Dr. Gittens will be showing a six-part series called “Liberty: The American Revolution.” It was done in 1997; It goes from about 1763 to the writing of the Constitution. Each episode is about an hour long, so we will have time for class discussion. This series is distinct from the Ken Burns series “The American Revolution” which premiered in November, 2025; it is much shorter but very complete and engaging.
Instructor: Joan Gittens
Fridays 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Fascism, Communism, and Democracy Between the Wars
The onset of the Great Depression made people around the world think that both capitalism and liberal democracy had failed.  Many considered that communism or fascism were more effective in establishing order in society and providing a dignified livelihood—after all, everyone had a job in Stalin’s Soviet Union, while there was no disorder permitted in Mussolini’s Fascist Italy.  Meanwhile, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “New Deal” tried to sustain democracy and capitalism amid the overwhelming economic crisis.  This course will examine how the struggle over fascism, communism, and democracy played out in Europe (especially in Germany and Spain), in East Asia (Japan and China), the United States, and in the rest of the Americas in the 1930s.
Instructor: Tom Williford
Fridays 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

• An exciting program for adults seeking lifelong learning opportunities and social connection

• Includes non-credit, 90-minute classes held once a week over a six-week term

• No grades or tests, just experiential learning

• Topics may include: agriculture, art, critical thinking, current events, health, history, music, philosophy, physical activity, writing & more!

• Adults who are looking for lifelong learning opportunities

• Individuals who want to explore new interests, learn new things or make new friends

• Adults whose formal education may have ended early in life or those who have obtained advanced degrees and anyone in between