OLLI Curiosity Never Retires
Photos courtesy of Olli
Membership in the Osher Institute of Lifelong Learning, OLLI for short, is an exciting way to learn new things and meet new people. This non-profit education program offers a rich array of classes and learning opportunities designed for people 50 or older and open to all adult learners. Established at Pacific, this program is one of 124 institutes across the country founded with an endowment from the Osher Family Foundation. If you are seeking intellectual stimulation, like to experience new and creative ways of self-expression, or want to build new friendships, I encourage you to join the more than 400 current members who are taking part in the diverse programming offered at OLLI.
Many studies have shown that a strong social network and frequent social interaction act as significant predictors of longevity. Not only that but they increase our happiness and contribute to better overall health. According to Steven Crane, a Stanford social engagement research scholar, “Our relationships form a lattice of support that constitutes the largest single factor in the overall well-being of most people.” We became keenly aware of this during the COVID-19 pandemic, when social isolation and loneliness had many detrimental effects. Even during the pandemic, OLLI was able to maintain connections to its members and continue to offer innovative online programming to keep people engaged.
A wide variety of classes are offered each semester through OLLI, and according to Director Jennifer Juanitas, they are always looking for suggestions for new courses to add. Members enjoy classes on health and wellness such as chair yoga, strength training for seniors, tai chi qigong, meditation and stretches. Students leave these classes more relaxed, energized and feeling good. One of the most popular new classes is pickleball basics. Pickleball is fun, social and friendly. People get hooked on this sport because it’s easy to learn but can develop into a fast-paced, competitive game. If you’ve been looking for a way to get started with pickleball, join the fun bunch at OLLI.
Another popular new course in the area of arts, culture and cuisine is ceramics. This course is open to all levels and enables students to explore their creative side in a supportive environment. Other creative offerings include drawing basics, watercolor and French Film: The 7th Art. Multiple cooking classes are offered in several locations including Bread Baking and Cheese 101. Nature lovers will enjoy Birding 101, an ongoing class taught by avian expert and author David Yee. His popular class helps bird enthusiasts appreciate, enjoy and identify birds in our area. Or learn about vegetable and herb gardening and sustainable gardening practices in the course Growing Food: Nourishing People and Planet. There are classes on computers and technology, social sciences and more.
Perhaps the most widely attended OLLI programs are the educational lectures that are offered both in person and on Zoom. Topics are varied and there is sure to be something to pique your interest. Recent offerings include Climate Change Policy, The Magic of Motown, Unwrapping the Charms of German Christmas Traditions and Touring the Black Hills National Parks. There are shared interest groups in which members plan their own activities each semester such as knitting, walking, writing and travel and specific topic discussion groups. EdVentures incorporate experiential learning as members pursue activities that get them out into the community such as tours of museums, bird sanctuaries, wineries and other unique community locales.
OLLI also sponsors travel experiences that are open to everyone. The exciting destinations for 2025 are Spain and Portugal, South Dakota, Scotland and Ireland, Niagara Falls to New York City and the French Riviera. With so many activities and learning opportunities available, OLLI is truly a gift to our community. According to Juanitas, OLLI enjoys a close relationship with the University of the Pacific that provides in-kind support to the program. As a result, members enjoy benefits on the campus including free Pacific library privileges, free admission for two to the Conservatory of Music concerts for the year and the eligibility to join the fitness center and pool, among other discounts. There are various membership levels depending on the activities you choose, and OLLI offers financial assistance to those who need it. They do not want the cost of membership to prevent someone from becoming an OLLI member.
For more information, please visit pacific.edu/olli.
