Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

Are you 50 or older, with a curious mind and a keen interest in learning-just for the love of it? You are invited to join with more than 900 like-minded Portland-area older learners who are members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, known as OLLI, at the University of Southern Maine in Portland.

Renew your enthusiasm for learning in the relaxed atmosphere of OLLI classes. During class, you'll engage in discussions on course material, enjoy lectures or presentations from the instructor, and contemplate life's questions-and answers. After class, join your classmates for lunch in the University cafeteria where a light meal is served, and the room buzzes with lively interaction and vibrant conversation.

History

OLLI started as Senior College in 1996 at the University of Southern Maine. A very generous endowment gift from the Bernard Osher Foundation in 2000, encouraged expanded programming opportunities. In recognition of the Osher Foundation's gift, the organization's name was changed to Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, or OLLI, with its wise owl mascot.

Membership

OLLI is a self-sustaining, self-governing organization, supported through an annual membership fee of $25. There is a nominal fee for classes and other learning and social opportunities. Additionally, as a member of OLLI, you qualify for a special OLLI Card, which gives its holders discounts for a number of University of Southern Maine-sponsored events, the bookstore, and the library. Membership in OLLI extends through the fiscal year, July 1st through June 30th, each year.

OLLI members connect outside the classroom through special lecture series, social events, and extracurricular activities including local and international trips. OLLI's extracurricular activities include:

Senior Adult Growth Exchange (SAGE) is a regular lecture series that offers a dynamic approach to learning in history, science, the arts and current events. Lecturers are from the community or the University of Southern Maine faculty. Osher Distinguished Lecture occurs in the Spring and Fall terms and the lecturers are scholars or practitioners of special note.
OLLI's writers, poets, and artists showcase their talents in the literary journal, Reflections. The annual four color professional publication features creative works by OLLI members and is edited and published by a volunteer committee of members.
The Senior Players is a group of OLLI members interested in the theater and dramatic arts. The Players originated in a theater class in the fall of 1999 and continue to present both standard and original productions each semester.
Events and field trips offer OLLI members a chance for socializing with classmates. There is a monthly adventure sponsored by the walking club. Organized activities have included trips to the theater, art museums, and historical sites.
In addition, OLLI promotes and facilitates participation by its members in USM programs for older learners, such as Lifeline, Elderhostel, and credit courses.

Volunteer Opportunities

The organization is run by volunteers who develop the curriculum, write and publish the newsletter, staff the office at USM, and design OLLI's extracurricular activities. Expand your involvement through teaching, committee work, office staffing, and social or special function planning.

Course Location

OLLI activities are offered on the University of Southern Maine's Portland campus bounded by Bedford and Falmouth Streets and Forest and Deering Avenues. Campus parking is available in surface lots and the parking garage nearby. Public transportation is encouraged.

Courses

As a member of Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, you may choose from among an extensive array of courses in the liberal arts and sciences. The courses are peer taught, there are no entrance requirements or grades and tests—it's your experience, and your love of learning that count, no college background is needed.

Courses are offered in the fall and spring terms on Fridays on the Portland campus of the University of Southern Maine. Class subjects are extensive—from music and art to history and science. Each winter and summer, shorter, special interest sampler sessions provide a shorter look at a variety of topics.

OLLI professors have a deep love and knowledge of the subject they are teaching. While many have teaching experience, most importantly, they want to share insights and perspectives on the subject with their peers.

Full and partial scholarships are available through a simple, friendly confidential process.

Summer 2008 Classes

Classes begin March 7, 2008

For More Information

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
University of Southern Maine
101 Payson Smith Hall
96 Falmouth Street
Portland, ME 04104

By email: olli@usm.maine.edu

Online: usm.maine.edu/olli

By phone: (207) 780-4406 or toll free (800) 800-4USM ext. 4406

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