University of Montana ‘Happiness Course’ a Bright Spot for Local Residents During Pandemic

“Old age is not an easy road to travel in the best of times,” said 87-year-old Missoula resident Lidia Donahue.

But during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Donahue experienced what she calls a “bright spot” while enrolled in the Art and Science of Happiness course at the University of Montana.

The course, developed by UM counseling Professor John Sommers-Flanagan and Professor Emerita Rita Sommers-Flanagan, aims to help learners of all ages understand the myths and truths of a well-lived life. The goal at the conclusion of the course? Provide students with the education needed to develop a better map to pursue a happy life.