Call to curiosity

At a particular age, when people assume that they have left their formative learning years behind them, alumni and inquisitive individuals alike gather at UD not to achieve a degree, but for sheer curiosity. 

At the University of Dayton’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, adults aged 50 and older can return to the classroom for both academic and creative disciplines. From music history to computer technology, there is something for everyone. 

“You can really find whatever you’re looking for here in a seminar, from something highly academic to something just totally fun and silly,” said Katie Reynolds ’23, executive director of special programs, continuing education.

The OLLI program offers about 80 seminars each term across fall, winter, spring and summer sessions. Most courses are held in person, while some are available via Zoom which allows participants from anywhere to tune in. For one membership fee, participants can enroll in multiple seminars.

Seminars are taught by people from diverse backgrounds such as retired executives, former university faculty, graduate students and more. Many instructors bring their own real-world experiences to the lectures, whether it's teaching something within their academic discipline or exploring a new subject. Instructors do not need formal credentials in a topic, they only need passion, knowledge and an interest in educating others. 

Though the program is open to all, a large percentage of participants are UD alumni. Alumni find that OLLI provides a new and personable way to reconnect with the UD community. 

“It really gives members an opportunity to come learn about things that they never had a chance to before - either in school or in their professional career. Maybe they never had the opportunity to teach either, but now they can share their experience and expertise to educate their peers,” Reynolds said. 

OLLI seminars go beyond just structured courses; they cultivate an atmosphere for both community and connection, Reynolds said.

“It’s just been very heartwarming to see folks who are isolated to brighten up again with light,” she said.

“I love to see people really having a compassion for one another alongside an ambition for learning.”

Reynolds encourages interested or curious participants to try one seminar, attend a special event or even just explore OLLI’s catalog. 

UDOLLI is the program at UD where a student can stay engaged with the university in a learning environment long term over several years, or even decades.