The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln has been fulfilling the curiosity of adults 50 years and older for more than 30 years.
OLLI will showcase the many opportunities for continued learning through its programs at an open house, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Aug. 4 at the East Campus Union’s Great Plains Room, 1705 Arbor Dr., Lincoln. Attendees of the open house will hear about the benefits of joining a program which offers opportunities to engage the mind and meet others. The open house is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Attendees can come and go as they please, but registration is required. The deadline to register is July 27.
OLLI is a membership program designed for adults 50 years of age and older who value lifelong learning and social interaction. The program gives people who are near, at, or beyond retirement age an opportunity to continue to engage in learning something new, as well as meet others with similar interests.
Each year, OLLI offers more than 300 courses and events. There are no tests and no grades. Travel opportunities provide enriching experiences to local, regional, U.S. and international destinations. The trips and curriculum are built upon conversations started in courses, lectures, and social activities by OLLI members.
“OLLI members have a say in everything we do,” Bob Michl, OLLI director, said. “Committees led by member volunteers make decisions about course curriculum, lectures, travel, interest groups and a lot more.”
Biking, baseball, politics, international affairs and ukulele are among the many interest groups formed and coordinated by OLLI member volunteers. Members are encouraged to start new groups and share a hobby or special interest with others.
OLLI began in 1992 as a non-traditional educational program for adults called Sharing Across Generations for Enrichment. In 2004, OLLI at UNL became a part of a national network of 125 lifelong learning programs at colleges and universities across the United States connected with the Bernard Osher Foundation. Today, OLLI at UNL has over 1,400 members in 73 communities across Nebraska and from 21 states. Courses are offered in-person, live streamed on Zoom, and on demand where people can watch at their convenience from the comfort of home.
“OLLI is affordable, high quality educational and social experiences for older adults,” Michl said. “People simply need to show up and engage in the love of learning. Curiosity is about feeding the mind and the body. Curiosity is a lifestyle and the secret to a happy life.”
