Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

O S H E R L I F E L O N G L E A R N I N G I N S T I T U T E | 3 | F A L L 2 0 2 3 C O U R S E C ATA L O G O S H E R LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS Welcome to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Arkansas! OLLI at the University of Arkansas was established in 2007. It is one of 125 Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes across the United States and is the only OLLI in the state of Arkansas. These lifelong learning programs are partially funded through the Bernard Osher Foundation, and each is dedicated to providing non-credit courses and continuing education opportunities to adults. Our Mission and Values The mission of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Arkansas (U of A) is to provide a community of adults with a lifelong learning venue that promotes intellectual and cultural growth through exploration and discussion via diverse, high quality and affordable educational programs. High Quality Programs and Engaging Courses The OLLI curriculum committee annually develops hundreds of stimulating courses in a variety of fascinating topic areas. Programs range from one-time lectures, tours, workshops, and day hikes to eight-week seminars or study groups. Courses are engaging, innovative, lively, hands-on, informative, and offered in a variety of settings. There are no prerequisites required, no tests or exams, and no age restrictions. OLLI courses provide the ideal environment for learning. Exceptional Instructors Along with university professors and other educators, those who facilitate OLLI courses include experienced professionals, passionate hobbyists, researchers and distinguished scholars. OLLI instructors are there both to educate and to engage, and they love sharing their knowledge, expertise and fascinating stories. Special Events and Programs In addition to regular courses, OLLI members enjoy the opportunity to engage in monthly social and cultural events, special programs, special interest groups, and much more. These special programs provide an opportunity to take the discussion outside the classroom, meet new people, and engage in unique experiences only offered through our institute. Welcome to the 16th year of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Arkansas! I have been with the organization since the spring season of 2016, and I can't tell you how honored I am to be a part of a thriving, energetic and valuable organization. Instead of taking this space to promote all the great things we have coming up this Fall (the catalog does a great job of that already), I want to use this as an opportunity to say THANK YOU! Thank you to all of our members! OLLI is a membership driven organization and membership dues directly support our daily operations. Membership is the best way to maximize your experience and support OLLI. Thank you to all of our volunteers! We have a dedicated but very small staff. Without volunteer support we would not be able to operate. Whether you participate on a committee, act as a class ambassador or help at a one-time event, your talent and time is greatly appreciated! Thank you to all of the instructors who volunteer time and share their knowledge and expertise! The level of quality that instructors present information and engage participants is what makes OLLI different from other programs. Thank you to everyone who takes a class! When you take a class, or two, or three, you are experiencing OLLI at its best. Class fees fund the largest percentage of our annual budget, but participation in our programs and activities is invaluable. The interaction between instructors and the participants creates the ideal learning environment! If this is your first introduction to OLLI, I highly recommend taking a look through our listing of opportunities, and find at least one to participate in. Whether you take a class, attend a social event, or just get a taste of OLLI by volunteering, I ensure you will find your time and experience fun and worthwhile. I look forward to seeing and meeting you all soon! Best wishes, Josh Raney, OLLI Director Josh Raney and family Director, OLLI at the U of A All About OLLI 481 S. Shiloh Dr., Fayetteville, AR 72704 Weekdays 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. olli@uark.edu www.olli.uark.edu 479-575-4545 @ OLLIatUofA Courses listed in this catalog are offered in the spirit of academic freedom. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and the University of Arkansas do not endorse any creed, concept, service or product that might be presented by the instructors.

• Cover