Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes

Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLIs) go by various names and come in many forms, but they share basic characteristics:

• They are vital educational communities for older learners
• Learners create their own college-level programs

OLLIs are a growing, national movement in intellectual and cultural exploration for men and women 50 years of age and better. Individuals of diverse backgrounds share interests and develop appreciation and knowledge in new areas. Seminars are led by volunteer moderators from the community -- retired educators, experts with vocational and/or professional credentials, or those whose avocation has provided them with knowledge they can share with others.

UDOLLI began in 1994 as the University of Dayton Institute for Learning in Retirement or UDILR. Since 2004 we have been proud members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Network, a group of over 100 institutes across the country dedicated to meeting the needs of adult learners over 50 years of age who wish to gather for the joy of learning and personal fulfillment.

Our Mission

The purpose of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Dayton is to offer adults 50 years or better a wide variety of seminars based on the peer-learning concept and designed to be intellectually stimulating in an informal and non-competitive environment.

Our Cooperative Nature

A curriculum committee selects our curriculum on the basis of member requests, the expertise of moderators, variety and balance. Moderators include University of Dayton professors and community professionals who lead peer-to-peer informal discussion seminars.

We rely on the contributions and participation, both in class and out, of each member. Members teach seminars, coordinate lecture series, lead small group discussions, organize activities and volunteer projects, serve on the Board of Governors and committees, act as liaisons, help in the office and volunteer for all other tasks that keep us going.

Your suggestions for seminars and activities are not only welcome, they are necessary.  If you would consider coordinating a seminar or activity, please call Special Programs and Continuing Education (937) 229-2347 or (937) 229-2605. No obligation, just discussion!