University of Michigan. Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.

Volunteer group part of the Geriatrics Center that provides continuing educational opportunities for people over the age of 55 through a variety of formats, including distinguished lecture series, study groups, and mini-courses. Established in 1987 as Learning in Retirement and renamed in 2006 after receiving a grant from the Bernard Osher Foundation.

From the description of Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (University of Michigan) records, 1987-2006. (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 122376403

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Michigan is a program established in 1987 by a group of Turner Geriatric Clinic volunteer peer counselors for people over the age of 55 who share the love of learning. Formerly named Learning in Retirement (LIR), the program is designed to enhance understanding of the world, its historic, cultural, and social aspects, through lectures, mini-courses and study groups. LIR was one of the first members of the Elderhostel Institute Network, one of the largest non-for-profit educational organizations for adults over the age of 55.

The first LIR Board was elected in 1989, which adopted a constitution and by-laws the next year. Of the eight board members, four are elected every year for two-year terms. Standing committees include long range planning, curriculum, public relations, membership, finance, nominating, and editorial committees. Each year, OLLI presents a distinguished lecturer series, lecture series focusing on a single topic, mini-courses taught by retired University educators or community experts, study groups led by volunteers, and special presentations including tours. Lectures and the distinguished lecturer series run on the same schedule as the University of Michigan: fall, winter, and spring/summer. A broad range of topics is covered, including philosophy, space exploration, politics, technology and computing, creative writing, government and world culture.

LIR was renamed the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in the fall of 2006 after receiving a $100,000 grant from Bernard Osher, a philanthropist interested in providing older learners with resources. Membership is open to anyone over the age of 55 for a small fee. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute has a website at: http://www.umlir.org/.

From the guide to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (University of Michigan) records, 1987-2006, (Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan)