Where Curiosity Never Retires
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute is an association of, by, and for people in the Washington DC area who wish to continue to study and learn. OLLI is dedicated to the proposition that learning is a lifelong process and that curiosity never retires.
OLLI operates very much like a small liberal arts college. What makes us unique is that the basic concept is that of peer learning and teaching. Members come from varied backgrounds, and what they have in common is genuine interest in continuing their learning experiences and intellectual stimulation in an organization of like-minded people. Members participate fully in study groups, either by leading them or attending them. There are no tests and no grades; members participate purely for the joy of learning. The goal is a high quality learning experience accessible to all.
We have a fall and spring semester that each run from 8-10 weeks. For a membership fee, participants may take up to 3 study groups that run during the day for just under two hours a week.
In addition to study groups, OLLI has a Tuesday lecture series during the semester, and extended lecture series in January and June. Membership in OLLI provides an opportunity for social interaction, new friendships, and collegiality.
The OLLI program is planned and administered by a small staff under the direction of a volunteer elected Board of Directors. As an egalitarian organization, OLLI depends on the volunteer services of its members. Members are strongly encouraged to become actively involved as study group leaders and with other programs and administrative activities necessary to the success of the Institute.