News Summary
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) is expanding to the University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus, offering vibrant learning opportunities for residents aged 50 and over. Classes will start in March, providing a chance for seniors to explore various subjects and connect with like-minded individuals. With affordable membership and course fees, this initiative fosters a strong community focus, enhancing both personal growth and social engagement. The program opens doors to new passions, including unique classes such as craft brewing, while emphasizing lifelong learning.
Exciting News for Lifelong Learners in St. Petersburg!
St. Petersburg residents aged 50 and over, get ready for an exciting new opportunity to expand your horizons and enhance your skills! The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) is officially bringing its renowned adult learning program to the University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus. This is a fantastic chance for seniors who are eager to learn and engage with new concepts!
What is OLLI?
The OLLI program has been a huge hit on the USF Tampa campus for more than 30 years, and now it’s setting up shop in St. Petersburg. Tailored specifically for individuals aged 50 and older, OLLI offers high-quality, low-cost learning opportunities that focus on a wide range of topics. Whether you’re interested in history, art, marketing, biology, or perhaps even dipping your toes into craft brewing, there’s something for everyone!
Classes Starting Soon!
Mark your calendars! Classes on the St. Petersburg campus will kick off in March. This is the perfect chance for retirees and other lifelong learners in the area to discover new passions and talents. With experienced USF faculty and staff leading these courses, you’ll be learning from the best!
A Community-Focused Program
USF St. Petersburg is eager to welcome this program with open arms! Caryn Nesmith, who oversees community relations at the campus, believes that OLLI is a perfect fit for the downtown area, serving a community of retirees who are intellectually curious and ready for adventure.
A Legacy of Learning
The naming of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute back in February 2005 came after a generous donation from The Bernard Osher Foundation, which helped pave the way for a vibrant learning community. Today, the OLLI program boasts nearly 1,400 members at the USF Tampa campus, placing it among the top 15 OLLI institutes out of 125 affiliates nationwide!
Future Expansion Plans
Excitingly, there are plans in the works to bring OLLI to the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus, another hotspot for retirees. This means expanding opportunities for learning, socializing, and staying active, an important aspect of retirement life.
Make Connections and Stay Engaged
One of the many perks of being an OLLI member is the opportunity to form social connections with like-minded individuals. This not only enhances the learning experience but also helps seniors stay actively engaged. You’ll not only be expanding your knowledge but also expanding your social circle!
Join Us at the Open House!
Curious to learn more? An open house event for the new OLLI programming at USF St. Petersburg will take place on February 13 from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. in the University Student Center ballrooms. This is a great opportunity to get your questions answered, meet instructors, and find out what the program has to offer. Plus, the open house will coincide with the St. Petersburg Conference on World Affairs, which features a keynote by a USF Psychology Professor about keeping our brains healthy later in life.
Membership and Costs
Wondering about costs? An annual membership for OLLI is just $50, and individual class fees average around $25—truly a bargain for the wealth of knowledge you’ll gain! Even more exciting, classes for the spring 2025 semester will be free for OLLI members on the St. Petersburg campus!
Registration Now Open
If you’re excited about the prospect of lifelong learning, registration for classes is now open! You can find the OLLI catalog online and sign up for the open house. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to enrich your life and meet new friends along the way!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst: USF St. Petersburg Introduces OLLI Learning Programs
- Wikipedia: Lifelong Learning
- Herald Tribune: OLLI at Ringling College Announces Summer Semester
- Google Search: Adult Learning Programs
- The Gabber: Things to Do in Gulfport & St. Pete
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Adult Education
- Bold Journey: Meet Maria Harney
- Google News: Retirement Education
