The SVSU-OLLI program was established in September 2001. Since then, we have grown to over 2000 members! Members generally come from Saginaw, Bay and Midland Counties, but we also have members from the Thumb and north of Bay County. We ask that all members are 50 or better. Our original name was the SVSU Institute for Learning in Retirement, but we changed our name in 2005 to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) after receiving a grant from the Bernard Osher Foundation. To date, over 120 schools in the nation have the unique distinction of being supported by this generous foundation. We are proud that we were the first school in the State of Michigan to receive this designation.
In the past seventeen years, we have offered hundreds of classes on such diverse topics as stem cell research to fly fishing. Our class leaders are local college faculty, community professionals, or our own members.
Classes
We offer around 200 classes per year, over the course of four semesters on a variety of topics. Classes generally meet once per week for two hours, or anywhere from three to five weeks. If you are interested in teaching for us, please submit a course proposal form.
OLLI Travel
Our OLLI offers a variety of travel options ranging from one-day motorcoach trips within a few hours of the University to international adventures. You will be traveling with other OLLI members who share a love of learning and a desire to expand their horizons.