The Bernard Osher Foundation, based in San Francisco, donated $100,000 last year to establish the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) in UNLV’s Division of Educational Outreach.
The institute enhances the division’s existing programs for senior citizens. UNLV has been offering lifelong learning programs for the past 14 years, with approximately 300 Las Vegas seniors enrolled each fall in more than 20 study groups designed and conducted by the seniors themselves.
The funds allowed the learning institute to install new sound systems and infrared audio systems in its large lecture rooms for hearing impaired students; purchase a laptop, a projector, and a document camera to improve the visual presentations made in the OLLI classes; and advertise UNLV’s senior programs to attract new students.
In addition, the Osher Foundation funded the costs for a key staff member of educational outreach to attend a conference with other Lifelong Learning Institute programs throughout the West. The goal was to promote information sharing among the institutes on how to manage, develop, and expand programs.
Another major contribution of $50,000 this year from the Osher Foundation allowed the UNLV Jean Nidetch Women’s Center to establish the Osher Re-entry Scholarship. The scholarship will assist up to 10 people per year. It is targeted at adults whose academic pursuits had been interrupted for five or more years.
