Summer 2026 Leisure Learning
July 27-31, 2026
For early access to your favorite course, considering joining the Doel Reed Society. Members of the Doel Reed Society enjoy access to early enrollment in leisure learning classes along with many other donor benefits.
Learn more about joining this group of annual supporters who further the mission of the Doel Reed Center by visiting the Doel Reed Society page.
Course fee for classes other than fly fishing: $650, fly fishing course fees are listed below.
Adventures in New Mexico
Instructor: Jennifer Lynch
Experience the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of the region through guided hikes (1–3 miles on moderately challenging terrain), scenic rafting excursions, and visits to museums, historic landmarks, and local wineries. This course offers a dynamic way to connect with the natural beauty and cultural depth of northern New Mexico, blending outdoor exploration with cultural discovery.
Max enrollment: 10
Jennifer Lynch, is a master printmaker, painter and art educator based in northern New Mexico. She has been involved in the art communities in Taos and Santa Fe for 30 years. An avid outdoorsperson, she shares her love of local sites and trails and the many hidden gems of northern New Mexico.
Tony Hillerman: On Screen and Off
Instructor: Ryan Slesinger
Experience northern New Mexico through the eyes of Navajo Tribal Police Detectives Jim Chee and Joe Leaphorn. We will read excerpts of Hillerman's writing, and watch selections from TV and film adaptations of Hilerman's work. Leisure learners in this course will investigate their own whodunit, exploring the town of Taos and the surrounding region with a Chee and Leaphorn-style murder mystery scavenger hunt. This course is perfect for long time readers of Tony Hillerman and newcomers alike.
Max enrollment: 10
Ryan Slesinger is a Teaching Assistant Professor of English at Oklahoma State University where he enjoys teaching a wide range of literature, writing, and film courses for the English Department and the Honors College. His deep love of northern New Mexico has driven much of his teaching and research, leading him to begin working with the Doel Reed Center in Summer 2023. Since then, he has lead multiple classes for leisure learners and academic credit courses for OSU students.
Taos as an Artist Colony in the 20th Century
Instructor: Dr. Amy Von Lintel
Explore the rich legacy of art in Taos. Delve into the themes and subject matter of the Taos School painters, the Taos Moderns, and the artists who followed, gaining insight into how the region’s unique landscape and culture shaped their work. The course includes field trips to museums, galleries, and the breathtaking outdoor locations that inspired these artists, offering a deeper connection to their creative processes. Through lectures, discussions, and on-site learning, participants will develop a nuanced understanding of Taos’s pivotal role in American art history.
Max enrollment: 10
Please email doelreedcenter@okstate.edu for enrollment information.
Beginning Fly Fishing
Instructor: Nick Streit, Taos Fly Shop
Learn about the skills and equipment needed to become a fly fisherman — basics of the fly rod and reel, casting, pond and stream ecology, matching the hatch (identifying what fly to use when), knot tying, fish identification, ethics, rules and regulations and safety.
You will have the opportunity to learn and implement your new skills on local ponds, lakes and rivers, all while traveling the scenic drives through beautiful northern New Mexico. Distance to the fishing areas will be dependent on water levels and water conditions. Expect to drive or carpool with another class participant to the fishing areas.
Course fee: $795. The course fee includes boxed lunches and a $100 credit towards the purchase or rental of fly fishing equipment or gear.
Fly fishing can be a fun and relaxing experience, but please keep in mind that participants will be required to do some light hiking and wading in streams, some of which will be rough, rocky terrain. Additionally, most fishing locations are above 8000 feet in elevation, so consider your fitness level before signing up. Polarized glasses are highly recommended, as well as sun protection.
You will be expected to purchase a New Mexico fishing license. This cost is not included in the class fee.
Max enrollment: 6
Intermediate and Advanced Fly Fishing
Instructor: Nick Streit, Taos Fly Shop
This class is designed for the more advanced fly fisher who wants to improve their skills on the water.
Intermediate and Advanced fly fishermen/women will have a chance to review their skills in this class. Four full days of fishing, including one day on private water will provide ample time for anglers to put their skills to the test in the local ponds, lakes or rivers with our highly skilled local guides. Be prepared to provide a bio about your fly fishing experience. This will assist the instructors/guides to know what your abilities are, and how to best tailor this learning experience for each of you.
Expect to drive anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour and a half depending on water and weather conditions. You will be expected to furnish your own ride. However, we encourage you to carpool with other class participants.
You will be asked to inform your instructor about your previous fly fishing experience and any underlying health, and or mobility issues that you may have. This information will be kept confidential, but it is needed for your safety and well-being, as well as for the safety of others in the class.
Course fee: $900. The course fee includes boxed lunches, and a $100 fee towards private water fees. You will also be required to purchase a one-day Colorado fishing license. Your New Mexico and Colorado fishing licenses are not included in the class price.
Max enrollment: 6