Celebrating 35 years of lifelong learning

In an era where retirement often evokes images of leisure and relaxation, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Cincinnati stands as a beacon for intellectual curiosity and social vitality. Founded in 1990, OLLI at UC has been empowering adults aged 50 and better for three and a half decades, fostering a community where learning knows no age limit. As the program marks its 35th anniversary in 2025, it's a fitting moment to reflect on its rich history, vibrant offerings, and enduring impact on the Greater Cincinnati area.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UC began in 1990 as one of the pioneering programs in what would become a nationwide network dedicated to non-credit education for mature adults. Predating the formal Osher branding—which emerged in the early 2000s through endowments from philanthropist Bernard Osher's foundation—OLLI at UC quickly established itself as a model of success. It was among the earliest and largest initiatives of its kind in the United States, drawing on the University of Cincinnati's resources to create accessible, engaging learning opportunities.

From modest beginnings, the program has grown exponentially. What started as a volunteer-driven effort has evolved into a robust operation serving nearly 2,000 participants annually. Today, it operates under the umbrella of UC's College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies, with classes held at three convenient central locations, including the university's Victory Parkway Campus. The informal, grade-free environment emphasizes peer learning and discussion, allowing members to explore topics at their own pace without the pressures of traditional academia.

OLLI at UC's mission remains steadfast: to provide outstanding opportunities for lifetime learning and social interaction for the mature residents of Greater Cincinnati. This dual focus on education and community has been key to its longevity, helping participants not only expand their knowledge but also build lasting friendships and a sense of community.

While OLLI at UC predates the national network, its success aligns perfectly with the vision of the Bernard Osher Foundation. Established in 1977, the foundation has since 2001 awarded endowments to over 120 university-affiliated lifelong learning institutes across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. These programs, collectively known as Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes, share a commitment to intellectual stimulation for adults 50+, offering non-credit courses, lectures, and events without tests or grades.

At UC, the Osher affiliation has amplified the program's reach, providing financial stability through an endowment that supports program expansion and quality enhancements. OLLI at UC's predominantly volunteer-driven model — bolstered by a full-time director and administrative support — exemplifies the network's ethos of community involvement. Members and local experts, including many retired UC professors, lead most courses, ensuring a varied, peer-oriented experience that resonates with the foundation's goal of improving quality of life through education.

What sets OLLI at UC apart is its varied and expansive curriculum, designed to cater to a wide array of interests. Each term, the institute offers nearly 200 courses, ranging from one-time presentations to eight-week seminars. Topics span traditional academic subjects like philosophy, literature, history, and science, to practical and leisure-focused areas such as financial planning, healthcare, opera, technology skills, meditation, and gardening.

Classes are held in a relaxed, informal setting, encouraging open dialogue and shared insights among participants. No prior knowledge is required, making it ideal for lifelong learners at any stage. Beyond the core curriculum, OLLI at UC enriches its offerings with special trips, volunteer opportunities, and social events. For instance, members can join guided tours to destinations like Charleston or New York City's theater scene, or contribute to committees in areas like curriculum development, marketing, and fundraising.

The program's accessibility is another hallmark. With free parking at all locations and flexible registration options — online, by phone, or mail — OLLI ensures that learning is barrier-free. Course catalogs, complete with class descriptions and moderator bios, are available as downloadable PDFs, helping members plan their schedules with tools like the "Schedule-at-a-Glance."

OLLI at UC's success is a testament to the power of community-supported education. While volunteer efforts form the backbone, donations through the University of Cincinnati Foundation are crucial for maintaining high-quality programming and expanding access. As one of the oldest and most successful OLLIs in the nation, the program continues to inspire, with plans for fun and informative events, trips, and courses that reflect evolving interests.

In a world that often sidelines older adults, OLLI at UC reminds us that curiosity is timeless. For 35 years, it has transformed retirement into an era of discovery, proving that learning — and living — truly is a lifelong adventure. Whether you're a prospective member or a longtime supporter, the institute invites you to join in this celebration of knowledge and connection. For more information, visit the OLLI at UC website or contact them at 513-556-9186.

Featured image at top: Chris Hanlin and Kathleen Smythe, authors of “Bicycling Through Paradise,” took OLLI students on tours of historic sites in Cincinnati, via bicycle. Photo/provided.