The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at University Center

Mission

The mission of OLLI at University Center is to provide intellectually engaging and enriching lifelong learning and personal growth opportunities for people age fifty (50) years of age and better in a university setting. The program is supported by a grant from the Bernard Osher Foundation, in-kind contributions from University Center and outside sponsorships and grants.

Program Description

OLLI provides its members a variety of courses, workshops, seminars and symposia on topics which are membership driven. Examples of topic areas include:

• Mini Medical School: Hot Topics in Medicine, Health and Wellness
• Literature/English/Writing Music Theatre/Drama Art Appreciation/Art History Art Classes
• Retirement Series: Insurance, Financial Planning, etc.
• World Religions/Spirituality Topics 
• Current Events/Politics
• Social Sciences (Sociology, Psychology, etc.)
• Business and Economics
• Cultural Studies History
• Health and Wellness
• Languages Science and Mathematics Study
• Travel Opportunities 
• Annual meetings and open houses

Educational offerings are developed, designed, coordinated and taught by current and retired faculty and people from the community with expertise in course content. The goal of the program is to create an innovative learning environment so that older adults from all backgrounds and levels of education are able to pursue learning simply for the joy of learning and engagement in a University setting. We are limited only by our imaginations and the desires of the members for the kinds of classes and activities that we offer.

Staffing and Structure

OLLI is a membership organization with a Leadership Council advisory to the University Center’s Executive Director's Office and the program Director. It is staffed by a full time Director who reports to the Executive Director, and a Program Assistant. OLLI provides a climate where members are encouraged to participate in the planning, operation and evaluation of the program. Therefore, member volunteers play a vital role in the operations of the program.

Leadership Council

OLLI’s Advisory Board is called the Leadership Council and consists of 15 to 20 individuals with express interest in the program and its goals. Subcommittees of the Leadership Council include Finance, Curriculum, Marketing, Volunteer and Special Events/Social.

Websites

For more information on the Osher Foundation, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute concept and existing programs, please visit:

• http://www.usm.maine.edu/olli/national/
• http://www.osherfoundation.org/