Osher Lifelong Learning Institute: A Comprehensive Overview

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) is a network of programs on college and university campuses across the United States designed for adults aged 50 and over. These institutes offer non-credit courses, study trips, and special events in a welcoming environment that fosters lifelong learning. With a focus on learning for the joy of it, OLLI provides opportunities for intellectual engagement, social interaction, and personal enrichment.

The Genesis of OLLI

The seeds of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute were sown in the late 20th century. In the fall of 2000, the Bernard Osher Foundation began exploring programs tailored to mature students whose needs weren't always met by traditional continuing education. These standard curricula often catered to students of all ages seeking degree credits or specific job skills.

The Foundation drew inspiration from successful lifelong learning programs already in existence. In early 2001, the University of Southern Maine (USM) received an endowment grant to enhance its existing programs, and the "Senior College" was rebranded as the "Osher Lifelong Learning Institute," becoming the first of its kind. Shortly after, Sonoma State University (SSU), part of the California State University (CSU) system, became a grantee.

Beginning in the fall of 2002, the Foundation extended its reach by issuing Requests for Proposals to campuses within the California State University and University of California systems.

The Bernard Osher Foundation

The Bernard Osher Foundation, established in 1977 by businessman, philanthropist, and community leader Bernard Osher, plays a pivotal role in supporting the OLLI network. Headquartered in San Francisco, the Foundation aims to improve quality of life through strategic funding in higher education and the arts.

Bernard Osher's background is diverse and impressive. A native of Maine, he initially managed his family's hardware and plumbing supply business. He then moved to New York to work for Oppenheimer & Company before relocating to California. There, he became a founding director of World Savings and a founder of its parent company, Golden West Financial. He also owned the San Francisco auction house Butterfield & Butterfield from 1970 until he sold it to eBay in 1999. World Savings later merged with Wachovia Corporation in 2006, which was subsequently acquired by Wells Fargo in 2008.

Osher's interest in lifelong learning was sparked by the Fromm Institute for Lifelong Learning at the University of San Francisco. This led him to approach the Senior Program at the University of Southern Maine (USM) with the intention of supporting noncredit programs for older adults.

National Reach and Program Diversity

Currently, the Foundation supports 125 lifelong learning programs at universities and colleges across the nation, ensuring at least one grantee in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. The Foundation has adopted a flexible approach, refraining from imposing strict guidelines on the types of lifelong learning programs it supports. However, the Foundation's lifelong learning program is not currently accepting proposals.

Key Features of OLLI Programs

OLLI programs share several common characteristics:

Non-Credit Courses: OLLI courses are designed for personal enrichment and do not offer academic credit, focusing on learning for the joy of it. There are no prerequisites, tests, or degree requirements.
Adult Learners: While programs are primarily designed for individuals aged 50 and over, many OLLI programs are open to adults of all ages and educational backgrounds.
Diverse Course Topics: OLLI programs cover a wide array of subjects in the liberal arts and sciences, catering to diverse interests and intellectual curiosity.
Engaging and Interactive Learning: Courses are typically small, fostering an engaging and interactive learning environment.
Flexible Scheduling: Classes are offered at various times and locations to accommodate the schedules of participants.
Membership-Based: OLLI programs usually operate on a membership basis, with members gaining access to a range of courses and activities.
Community Focus: OLLI fosters a sense of community among its members, providing opportunities for social interaction and connection.

OLLI at the University of South Dakota (USD): A Closer Look

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of South Dakota (USD) exemplifies the characteristics of a typical OLLI program. It offers short-term, non-credit classes designed for individuals aged 50 and over, although classes are open to all ages and education levels. OLLI at USD emphasizes learning for the love of it, with no grades or tests.

Read also: Explore Lifelong Learning

Membership and Registration

To participate in OLLI at USD, individuals must become members. Membership grants access to a wide range of non-credit courses. Registration for classes typically opens at a preset time each term, and members can register online. While most courses are included with membership, some may incur additional non-refundable fees for materials, transportation, or admission.

Course Offerings and Schedule

OLLI at USD offers classes twice a year, in the fall (September-November) and spring (March-May). Classes are held five days a week, with some on Saturdays, at various locations in Sioux Falls, Brookings, and Vermillion.

Policies

OLLI at USD has specific policies regarding refunds and attendance. Membership fees are non-refundable. However, members who change their mind before the start of a term or are unable to attend classes due to a hardship may request a transfer of their membership to another person. Members can still register for classes even if they know they will not be able to attend all sessions. In the event of inclement weather, OLLI classes will be canceled if the public school system cancels classes in the community where the class is being held.

Teaching Opportunities

OLLI at USD provides opportunities for individuals to teach adult learners who are passionate about learning. Instructors are welcome in Sioux Falls, Brookings, Vermillion, and on Zoom. Preference is given to those with significant teaching experience. Class scheduling is flexible, with classes typically meeting once a week for two to four weeks, sixty minutes to two hours per class. Instructors may also choose to offer a single lecture on a compelling topic. Those interested in teaching an OLLI class can submit a course proposal form.

Support and Giving

There are many ways to support OLLI at USD, including introducing friends to the program, providing financial support, and volunteering. Volunteers are essential to OLLI's success and affordability.

Read also: Lifelong learning for adults

The OLLI Model: Growth and Endowment

The Osher Foundation provides significant support to OLLI programs, including endowment grants. Under current practices, an OLLI program that reaches 500 fee-paying members by the end of its fourth year becomes eligible for a $1 million endowment grant from the Osher Foundation. If the program reaches 1000 members, it becomes eligible for an additional $1 million endowment grant.

National Resource Center

In 2004, the Osher Foundation established a National Resource Center (NRC) at USM to disseminate information about effective educational programs for older adults. The NRC provides resources through a website, a research journal, and an annual conference.

Examples of OLLI Programs

Besides the OLLI at USD, other notable OLLI programs include:

OLLI at NC State University: Located in the Triangle area of North Carolina, OLLI at NC State provides non-credit short courses, study trips, and special events for adults ages 50+.
OLLI at KU (University of Kansas): OLLI at KU offers noncredit enrichment courses and events in accessible and innovative learning environments throughout northeastern Kansas and Greater Kansas City, and engages virtually with individuals from across the nation.

Benefits of OLLI Membership

Participating in an OLLI program offers numerous benefits, including:

Intellectual Stimulation: OLLI courses provide opportunities to learn new things, explore different subjects, and challenge one's mind.
Social Engagement: OLLI fosters a sense of community, providing opportunities to meet new people, connect with like-minded individuals, and engage in social activities.
Personal Enrichment: OLLI programs can enhance personal growth, expand horizons, and improve quality of life.
Lifelong Learning: OLLI promotes the concept of lifelong learning, encouraging individuals to continue learning and growing throughout their lives.
Flexibility and Accessibility: OLLI courses are designed to be flexible and accessible, catering to the needs and interests of adult learners.

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