Frequently Asked Questions

 

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UConn Waterbury

 

What is lifelong learning?

Lifelong learning is an educational philosophy that embraces a comprehensive definition of human inquiry—educational activities can and should be available through all stages of life for the achievement of various personal goals. Lifelong learners, for our purposes, are people who choose to engage in life to the fullest and explore learning for enjoyment, fulfillment, intellectual stimulation, peer interaction, mentoring, or other related reasons. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) is geared toward helping members, people usually aged 50 and over, achieve these goals.

Why is it important to have a lifelong learning program?

Lifelong learning programs are important because they improve the quality of life in communities and they help foster overall good health, particularly brain health, and personal achievement. Studies have demonstrated that intellectual stimulation is a cornerstone of ongoing good health and the prevention of disease.  Lifelong learning institutes are also a place to socialize, meet other individuals with similar goals, and participate in inter-generational programs.

How is lifelong learning programming different from senior center programming?

The traditional senior center often provides a stronger offering of “hands-on” activities, whereas lifelong learning institutes generally offer programs and courses that are academic in nature. There are no hard and fast rules, these are just general trends, differences and similarities depend on locations.

Why is there an annual fee to belong to OLLI and not my local senior center?

Local senior centers and their programs are usually funded through city or town budgets (tax dollars) similar to a public library.  While OLLI is housed at a public university (UConn), it is a self-sustaining organization within the University through fees. The Bernard Osher Foundation provided funding for start-up and development and the University provides specific in-kind services and space.

In order to maintain our relationship with the Bernard Osher Foundation we must demonstrate an ability to be fiscally sound through other sources of revenue such as fees and donations.

Will OLLI fees increase in the future?

OLLI is subject to the same increases in expenses as any other program or department; fees will likely increase in future years.  OLLI has maintained the same annual fee structure since its inception. As we move forward, we plan to maintain the reasonable fees that have been established. OLLI at UConn has one of the lowest fee structures among the OLLIs in New England.

Why is the membership cycle for one full year and not a semester?

Much like any other organization to which people belong, annual membership provides for stability, continuity, and planning. We have an annual membership fee which covers four sessions (winter, spring, summer and fall).

What is the vision for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Connecticut?

OLLI at UConn is designed to be a self-sustaining, member-driven learning community that is focused on providing non-credit teaching and learning activities for older adults.  OLLI members generally want to engage intellectually, expand their knowledge and experience, share their wealth of accumulated knowledge, and enrich their lives and the lives of those around them.

Why is the University of Connecticut involved in this type of programming?

“As our state’s flagship public university, and as a land and sea grant institution, we promote the health and well-being of Connecticut’s citizens through enhancing the social, economic, cultural and natural environments of the state and beyond.”The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UConn is, and will remain, the only Osher Institute in Connecticut and one of 125 institutions in the U.S.    

What is The Bernard Osher Foundation?

Bernard Osher has been listed among the most generous philanthropists in the United States. The Osher name is used to honor the foundation that provided substantial financial support for the start-up of this Institute. The Bernard Osher Foundation was created in 1977 by Bernard Osher, a successful businessman and community leader.

The Leever Foundation, founded by Harold Leever in 1991 to benefit Greater Waterbury, provided initial funding to bring the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute to the area. The Connecticut Community Foundation, which administers The Leever Foundation, oversaw an assessment to determine interest in the region and helped establish advisory committees of area residents.

What is unique about OLLI courses?

Lifelong learning institutes across the nation provide courses and programs geared toward older adults and generally offered at a lower cost than traditional university courses. These programs tend to be led by retired or semi-retired professionals or educators who reside in the community (although non-retired guest speakers and presenters sometimes become involved). The curriculum is member-driven with assistance from the university administration. The course format is usually guided discussion, rather than lecture-driven, allowing for the opportunity for lively discussion.

How is participation in an OLLI course different from enrolling in a traditional UConn course with a senior citizen waiver?

At UConn, in order to qualify for the senior citizen waiver you must be 62 year of age or older; Osher courses are generally designed for people 50 years and older. Under the waiver policy, you can register for traditional classes on a space available basis for auditing purposes. Ordinarily registration can only occur after credit-earning students have completed their registration and subsequent changes—usually after the first full week of classes in a given semester. The format of these courses is generally designed with credit-earning, degree-seeking students in mind. The learning objectives are geared toward this population of students and the courses generally meet on a traditional sixteen-week fall or spring calendar. Osher courses are offered on a shortened schedule with the older adult learner taken into consideration in the design of the courses. Enrolling in an Osher course is also part of a broader experience related to being part of a community of learners with common goals.

Where are OLLI courses held?    

Courses and events are primarily held at the UConn campus at 99 East Main Street in downtown Waterbury, with a few off-site course locations each session. The campus is a state-of-the-art facility with an attached secure parking garage with proximity to arts and entertainment organizations, retail establishments, and restaurants.  Our in-person courses meet on Fridays. We also offer online courses Monday – Thursday.

How do I get involved?

There are many opportunities to get involved in the UConn OLLI; active member involvement in OLLIs across the nation has proven to be one of the most significant aspects of OLLI success.  The following standing committees may be seeking members: Curriculum, Marketing and Community Outreach, Tech, Membership, Travel, Editorial, and Special Interest Groups.  You can get involved in these committees by providing your name and contact information to osher@uconn.edu.

The OLLI Leadership Council

The OLLI Leadership Council is a primary driving force for the Institute and its members. The Council serves to advise the program director, carries out the curriculum planning process, and fosters the growth of and sustainability of membership through advisory and volunteer activities. The University is solely responsible for all legal, financial/budgetary, and administrative oversight of the OLLI. The OLLI Council functions as a voluntary advisory group governed by self-adopted, University-approved, OLLI Guidelines.

Leading an OLLI Course

OLLI courses are generally led by retired or semi-retired educators, professionals, entrepreneurs, artists, writers, and others. Non-retired educators and working professionals may lead some programs or serve as guest speakers at events. UConn faculty members are already fully committed to teaching and research assignments, but on occasion may lead courses or provide consulting to OLLI for programs or events.  Experience with teaching and group facilitation is not required, but is preferred.  Information and coaching can be provided to first-time presenters (course leaders). OLLI presenters will receive other privileges for their participation. Access the course proposal form online by clicking HERE, or contact OLLI staff, at 475-222-6232 or osher@uconn.edu.

It’s my first day, where do I go?

1. On Fridays, go to the Information Table in the main concourse, check your classroom number, pick up the weekly newsletter, and ask any questions you may have. Members of the Membership Committee are on hand every week to assist you. On Monday-Thursday, please call 475-222-6232/6261 or email osher@uconn.edu.

2. Find your classroom location. A campus floor-plan is available at the Information Table. Enjoy your class! NOTE: Course numbers begin with letters; classroom numbers begin with a 1, 2, or 3.

Where do I park?

UConn Parking Garage: OLLI Members have Friday access to the UConn parking garage located at 49 North Elm Street entrance, on a space available basis, on Levels 2 and 3 ONLY. Do not park on Level 1 – this is reserved for UConn faculty/staff.

Click here to purchase a permit: https://park.uconn.edu/olli-parking-information/  (This link currently displays parking permit information for Winter 2023).

PLEASE NOTE: When departing the UConn parking garage, the wooden arm (gate) will go up automatically upon close approach; you will then exit the campus onto North Elm Street.

See https://olli.uconn.edu/parking-and-directions/ for more details.

 

Where are the restrooms?

First Floor: 1) next to the garage entrance 2) past the library on the left and 3) at the end of the corridor, across from Room 102.

Second and Third Floors: 1) near elevators 2) past library, on the left 3) at the end of the corridor, across from rooms 201-203; 301-303.

Where do I go for help on campus?

A) Room assignments, newsletter, general information: On Fridays, the Information Table. On Monday-Thursday, please call 475-222-6232/6261 or email osher@uconn.edu.

B) Problems, concerns, and ideas: On Fridays, the OLLI office, Room 103. On Monday-Thursday, please call 475-222-6232/6261 or email osher@uconn.edu.

C) Registration, brochure-related issues: On Fridays, the OLLI office, Room 103. On Monday-Thursday, please call 475-222-6232/6261 or email osher@uconn.edu.

D) Emergencies: Contact the University Police: “Code blue” phones are located on each level of the building in the stairwells and in the parking garage. Contact University Police at 203-236-9950 or at their emergency number, 203-236-9978. For life-threatening emergencies, you may also dial 911 from a cell phone (8-911 from campus phone). During an evacuation (FOR ANY REASON) when elevators cannot be used, the University Police should be contacted to assist individuals with disabilities who are unable to rapidly exit the building on their own. The Campus Police sub-station is located on the first floor, adjacent to the Information desk.

E) Lost and Found: OLLI Office (Room 103) and Campus Information Desk in the main lobby.

Can I drop a course?

Yes. Please fill out an Early Course Feedback form. Remember, there are no refunds for dropping a course.

What if my course is cancelled?

Fees are non-refundable, but in some cases members will be entitled to a voucher for a course in the next semester. Unique situations will always be given full consideration.

Is it safe to walk outside the UConn campus?

The campus is located across the street from the Palace Theater and it is a well-lit area. UConn (State) Police will escort you to your car upon request.

Can I use the UConn Library?

Yes, OLLI members have library privileges. Library Info can be found on the following page of our website: http://olli.uconn.edu/library-privileges/

How will I know if a class gets cancelled?

In most cases, members are notified by phone or email. If there is not enough time, the Info Table will post the cancellation. If the possible cancellation is weather-related, OLLI staff will do their best to notify the membership as soon as possible. Please check local news/radio stations for “UConn Waterbury Campus”. If UConn classes are cancelled or delayed, OLLI courses will be cancelled for the day.

I have a concern with one of my courses. What should I do?

Make arrangements to speak with OLLI Administration through the OLLI Office by stopping by (Room 103), calling 475-222-6232, or emailing osher@uconn.edu.

Is there a wheelchair available?

Currently, OLLI has one wheelchair available. If you need to reserve one for weekly use call 475-222-6232.

 

* Excerpt from the MISSION AND PURPOSES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT, adopted by the Board of Trustees on April 11, 2006 and amended on June 20, 2006.