It has been called one of the “best kept secrets” in Orange County, yet Cal State Fullerton’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, also known as OLLI, proved that statement to be inaccurate at its Open House on August 8. Over 700 people attended the event—the largest attendance in OLLI’s history. More than 440 were guests who came to learn more about the organization. While some learned about the event on the OLLI Facebook page or in the Fullerton Observer, many members brought their personal friends – always a compliment to any organization.
The introductory presentation by President Mike Stover and Vice President Bob Kovacev filled the 230-seat Mackey Auditorium to standing room only. Due to the number of guests, the same presentation was added to the schedule a second time to accommodate the overflowing crowd.
The organization began in 1979 as CLE, or the Continuing Learning Experience. In 2006, the Bernard Osher Foundation donated a major endowment, and CLE became the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, an organization that promotes the benefits of lifelong learning. The CSUF-OLLI is the only OLLI in the area that has its own on-campus building, complete with classrooms, an auditorium, a meeting room that can accommodate its membership, a kitchen that supports events, and a central patio perfect for socialization.
Booth after booth lined the OLLI property, displaying numerous classes taught by qualified volunteers. Almost half of the 110 classes taught at the organization were represented in approximately 22 booths with displays from 47 different classes. Some classes are available in person, by Zoom or live stream technology, which has led to new members locally as well as members from other states. One does not have to drive if one is not able.
OLLI members brought their performing groups to the Open House, as well. The Chorale and the Ukulele classes entertained the guests. Line dancers began a series of dances, as did the popular Snappy Tappers. The OLLI Flash Mob kicked up their heels and danced to Happy and Let’s Get Loud.
OLLI attracts curious like-minded adults, but not all adults can join. Members must be at least 50 years of age or older. The OLLI program offers classes and activities that are critical to maintaining key capabilities as people age. Seniors need to continue to learn, socialize, and stay physically active. There are many classes that support continued learning, such as literary arts, writing classes, and book clubs. Current affairs, science and technology are also popular classes. A member could join a Spanish, Japanese, French, or German class, or even a sign language class. Three of the most well-attended classes are the strategy of poker, mah-jong and OLLI’s popular choral.
The learning does not stop with writing or languages, but includes medically oriented topics such as Hypertension, Nutritional Meals and the ABC’s of Medicare. Science classes include several Archaeology classes and a class that examines medical myths, among others.
Maturity is an asset. OLLI members reach out to students, providing support in a number of ways. Seniors understand the importance of work and citizenship and provide mentoring to students on campus. Supporting students through collaboration programs is a commitment OLLI shares with the leadership of CSUF.
To learn more, check the OLLI website at olli.fullerton.edu/join, or stop by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute on campus. OLLI has much to share, and $300 gives a member access to all 110 classes for an entire year or $165 for the 12-week fall semester beginning September 14. Keep moving, keep learning and ward off dementia as you enjoy the benefits of socializing with interesting and active seniors.
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