About Osher Lifelong Learning Institute of the University of Oregon

An active mind never stops learning. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Oregon (OLLI-UO) offers provocative noncredit courses, informative programs and exciting cultural events for mature adults. No exams, no grades, just learning for the pure joy of learning.

Expand your mind in a lively learning community of engaged adults who know that curiosity is ageless. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute of the University of Oregon, is conveniently located in Bend, Oregon, offering interactive study and discussion groups, short courses, and lecture sessions on a broad range of subjects including philosophy, the arts, science, literature, history, current events, technology and foreign languages.

OLLI-UO Is part of the thriving network of 120 university and college-based programs supported in part by the Bernard Osher Foundation. Established in 1993, the UP lifelong learning program continues to serve the educational interests of members at program sites in Eugene/Springfield and Central Oregon.

Get Involved – It’s Fun! Do you have special interests, skills or experiences you would like to share? Osher Lifelong Learning Institute of the University of Oregon members play a vital role in program design and operations. They plan and organize courses and special events, lead discussion and study groups, and serve on committees and task groups at each site.

Do you enjoy volunteering? Members also participate in special projects and behind-the-scenes tasks. Let us know how you would like to get involved. Volunteer opportunities are plentiful at Osher Lifelong Learning Institute of University of Oregon. We’re happy to help you customize your engagement level as it suits you.

Membership is open to anyone eager to learn with a community of dynamic, curious and engaged mature adults. Previous affiliation with the University of Oregon is not a requirement for member. Become a member today and gain year-round access to a variety of lectures, short courses, peer-led study and discussion groups, and educational tours!

History of OLLI-UO

OLLI in Eugene/Springfield was originally established in 1993 as Learning in Retirement. A sister site was established in Central Oregon in 2003 as the Silver Sage Society. Our anniversary in April 2018, will celebrate twenty five years in Eugene/Springfield, and fifteen in Central Oregon.

In June 2004, the San Francisco-based Bernard Osher Foundation selected the University of Oregon to become the first Northwest institution in the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute network. The Bernard Osher Foundation awarded a million-dollar endowment to the University of Oregon in 2008 to provide annual supplemental funding for the lifelong learning program.

At present, there are 119 Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes on university and college campuses in all fifty states. To find an OLLI program near you, visit the Osher National Resource Center.