Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Invites Public to Two Open Houses

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Arkansas will hold two fall open houses in September, the first on Sept. 3 in Fayetteville and the second on Sept. 10 in Springdale.

"We encourage members of the community to take advantage of this opportunity to see all that the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute has to offer people over 50," said Tom Smith, dean of the College of Education and Health Professions.

The open house on Sept. 3 will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. at the University of Arkansas Global Campus, 2 E. Center St. in Fayetteville. It will feature information about fall courses being offered along with entertainment and refreshments. The organization based in the College of Education and Health Professions at the University of Arkansas will recognize current and former OLLI at U of A instructors from Northwest Arkansas during the event.

The Bernard Osher Foundation established more than 119 centers at universities across the United States for the purpose of meeting needs of adult learners. The hybrid organizations are comprised of staff and empowered members who generate peer-led organization and content. They provide valuable opportunities to mature adults to share intellectual interests, make new friends, and explore cultural topics, in a variety settings and ways to exchange ideas with peers.

More than 110 courses are being offered this fall, including five with the theme of Native Americans, which is also the theme of the open house. There will be door prizes and a Native American themed dance performance by the Cardettes of Farmington Middle School.

"OLLI at the U of A has adopted a 2015 motto: Live well. Learn forever," said Susan Tonymon, director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. "Being older is a time to stay active mentally, physically and socially. Our primary goal is to meet the needs of our members by providing resources for stimulating, educational programming that is affordable and accessible.  OLLI is a vibrant learning community where people feel comfortable to explore new subjects alongside others who share their curiosity."

Individuals can purchase a membership, renew their membership and sign up for classes at the open house. In addition, instructors will be available to provide additional information about classes or answer questions.

The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided by the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. People are welcome to come at any time; however, they should be mindful of the possibility of limited parking availability on the Fayetteville square because of First Thursday later in the evening. For parking or other questions, please call 479-575-4545.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute will hold a second open house from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Sept. 10 at the Schmieding Center auditorium in Springdale. Judith Tavano, director of professional development programs for the U of A Global Campus, will present a mini OLLI session called "Lifelong Learning, The New Face Lift." Continuing education credit will available to Schmieding trained caregivers. Refreshments will be provided by Walnut Grove Rehabilitation. The Schmieding Center is located at 2422 N. Thompson Ave. in Springdale and there is plenty of free parking available.

Information will also be available about member benefits and social occasions, including at least four events held each month such as casual tastings, birthday celebrations and book luncheons, and University of Arkansas fall schedule of events.

Fall registration is now open. Registering online is a convenient and secure way to purchase an annual membership, review the fall class offerings and activities, read instructor biographical information or register for classes. Members can then pay for classes online.