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Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Network

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) Network is a dynamic consortium of more than 120 lifelong learning institutes dedicated to serving adults aged 50 and better. Funded in part by The Bernard Osher Foundation, each independent Institute is affiliated with a college or university, offering intellectually stimulating, non-credit courses and learning opportunities tailored to meet the diverse interests and needs of their local communities. Since the establishment of the first Institute in 2001, the network has expanded to all 50 states and the District of Columbia, serving more than 300 towns and cities across the nation. Courses, study groups, social events, and educational travel opportunities foster a culture of joy in learning and personal fulfillment without tests or grades.

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Quick Facts

01.

There are 120+ OLLIs

02.

Learning and social opportunities designed for adults age 50+

03.

No tests, no grades, no homework. Learning simply for the joy of learning

04.

125,000+ members nationwide; Nearly 180,000 participants total

National Resource Center

Helping OLLI by:

Connecting, Collaborating, Consulting, and Celebrating

The National Resource Center for Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (Osher NRC) is a non-governing center of excellence, hosted by Northwestern University, benefiting older adults through the national network of 120+ Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLIs).

 

The mission of the Osher NRC is to help OLLIs thrive by connecting OLLIs to each other and to resources, collaborating with OLLIs and partner organizations, consulting with OLLI leaders to find solutions, and celebrating the successes, camaraderie, and growth of OLLIs and their members.

The Bernard Osher Foundation

The Bernard Osher Foundation, headquartered in San Francisco, was founded in 1977 by respected businessman, philanthropist, and community leader Bernard Osher. The Foundation seeks to improve quality of life through innovative funding in higher education and the arts.

 

The Foundation supports a national lifelong learning network of programs designed for adults 50 and better; Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes operate on 120+ college and university campuses in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

 

View a brief animated video history of The Osher Institute Legacy of Bernard Osher.

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