What is OLLI at American University?
Download a two-page brochure about OLLI.
MEMBERS & STUDY GROUP LEADERS
Drawing on the talent and experience of older people in the Washington, DC area, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at American University (OLLI) offers a unique opportunity to continue learning at the university level. Members and Study Group Leaders come from varied social, economic and career backgrounds, ranging from business, academia, and homemaking to education, the arts and government service. What they have in common is genuine interest in continuing their learning experiences and intellectual excitement by participation in an organization of like-minded people. A college degree or education is not a prerequisite for membership. For information on SGLs please refer to the catalog. As we are a peer taught organization, we encourage and support our members to become Study Group Leaders.
LEARNING COMMUNITY
The basic concept of the program is that of peer learning and teaching. Members participate fully in study groups through preparation for and involvement in discussions of a wide variety of subjects. There are no tests and no grades; members participate purely for the joy of learning. Members are invited to discuss the possibility of leading a study group with the Curriculum Committee.
MEMBERSHIP INVOLVEMENT
Activities are planned and operated by members. Members become involved, not only as study group leaders or representatives, but also as participants on an elected board and appointed committees.
As a democratic membership organization, OLLI depends on the volunteer services of its members. Volunteering brings involvement in the Institute in meaningful, satisfying ways. Members are strongly encouraged to participate in one or more of the following ways:
The Board and its various committees develop and implement policies, procedures, and activities designed to enhance the overall program.
Study Group Leaders are members with special expertise or interests who wish to share these with other members by designing and leading study groups.
Study Group Representatives provide liaison between their study group and the OLLI administration. They facilitate member participation, make announcements, and assist Study Group Leaders.
HOW IS OLLI ORGANIZED?
OLLI is an independent, nonprofit organization incorporated in Washington, DC, located at American University and is part of the OLLI Network and the Elderhostel Institute Network.
OLLI leases space from the University for its administrative operation. OLLI members are eligible to use the university library, parking, campus store, and dining facilities, and join the Fitness Center at a reduced rate. (See the American University Maps page for more information.)
Most educational activities of OLLI take place in classrooms leased to OLLI by the Temple Baptist Church at 3850 Nebraska Avenue, NW, as a service to the community. The Church provides classrooms as well as office space, hallways, rest rooms and common areas. Special parking is available for handicapped members.
SUPPORT OF OLLI
OLLI is a part of the Osher Lifelong Institute Network. Membership fees (full--$400 or one-half year--$225) support OLLI. OLLI is further supported through gifts and endowments. The Cohn Fund, endowed by Harryette and Marcus Cohn, provides funds to further our cultural and educational objectives. The Wallace Scholarship Fund offers scholarships to qualified members and the OLLI Endowment Fund provides for special needs. We welcome donations to OLLI at any time. Donations are tax-deductible.