100 Years of Magic: The Disney Legacy and Influence

Dates: July 10 - August 14, 2025
Meets: Th from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Location: Osher Online
Cost:  $75.00

There are still openings remaining at this time.

Date Day Time
07/10/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM
07/17/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM
07/24/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM
07/31/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM
08/07/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM
08/14/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM

OR

Please note: This course program requires membership in a 2025-2026 OLLI at MSU Membership

Description

This program will not be recorded.

How did Walt Disney's life and vision shape the creation of an entertainment empire? How did early challenges influence the company's identity and creative output? And how did Disney grow into a global powerhouse? This course explores these questions and more as we delve into the 100-year history of the Walt Disney Company, tracing its evolution from humble beginnings to a global entertainment giant. Topics include the rise of Disney animation and theme parks, the company's 1990s revival, and the strategic acquisitions that transformed Disney into a media conglomerate. We will also examine Disney's future and gain insights into what it's like to work behind the scenes at the company. Throughout the course, we will consider diverse perspectives-from those who revere the Magic Kingdom to those who critique it and everyone in between. This course comprehensively examines how Walt Disney's vision became a cultural force shaping today's entertainment industry.

About the Osher Online Program

Osher Online programs are provided to OLLI at MSU from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Experience shared online presentations with OLLI members from coast to coast! As part of the Osher Online program, OLLI at MSU members will enjoy national speakers and interact with fellow OLLI members nationwide.

Scholarship

Apply for a needs-based scholarship to take this offering.

Meet the Instructor

Fee:  $75.00

Osher Online

This is a real-time (live) online class that meets at the specified day(s)/time(s) listed.

Maria Massad

Maria Massad is a seasoned marketing leader and storyteller with a lifelong connection to the magic of Disney. Early in her career, she contributed to PBS's acclaimed American Experience, a Walt Disney documentary, helping bring Walt's visionary story to life for audiences nationwide. Massad also served on the leadership team of The Walt Disney Birthplace, where she led digital marketing and strategic partnerships to preserve and celebrate the Disney brothers' legacy. With an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Massad has worked across marketing, media, and storytelling, helping organizations craft impactful campaigns and connect with audiences. Her deep knowledge of Disney's history and her professional expertise offer unique insights into the company's evolution and enduring influence.
Date Day Time Location
07/10/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM Osher Online
07/17/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM Osher Online
07/24/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM Osher Online
07/31/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM Osher Online
08/07/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM Osher Online
08/14/2025Thursday5 PM to 6:30 PM Osher Online