$100,000 grant awarded to Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at FIU

Commitment to enrichment education for learners 50+ is acknowledged

In recognition of its contributions to the 50-plus community in Miami-Dade County, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at FIU has received a $100,000 grant from The Bernard Osher Foundation. Under the direction of FIU’s Continuing and Professional Studies, OLLI received the award based on several benchmarks, including community outreach, university support, the success of programs offered and the overall difference that the Institute makes in the lives of its participants.

“We are delighted to provide this support for FIU’s exceptional educational enrichment program for seasoned adults,” said Osher Foundation President Mary Bitterman. “We are impressed with the range and diversity of its course offerings and applaud the thoughtful plans the university has developed to continue to enhance the program and engage new communities in the year ahead.”

This award represents the third grant that OLLI has received from the Osher Foundation. The institute currently serves nearly 900 students and offers more than 150 personal enrichment courses each year. The spring term is just underway and continues through May 29th.

“It is very gratifying to know that through OLLI’s courses and cultural events, we are serving as a catalyst for an inspired and fulfilled life. OLLI provides a vital pathway to healthy aging and engaged living. Our program opens up a new world of discovery and wonderment through personal growth,” said Mercedes M. Ponce, executive director of FIU’s Continuing and Professional Studies.

OLLI at FIU, which is part of a prestigious network of more than 120 OLLIs across the country, offers adult learners 50 and older a broad array of educational opportunities. Members can participate in stimulating programs such as cultural tours, book reviews and personal enrichment courses, including current events forums, creative writing, digital photography, art history and foreign languages, among others. Courses are offered at FIU’s Biscayne Bay Campus and at satellite locations in Bay Harbor Islands and Sunny Isles Beach.

To learn more about or register for OLLI at FIU courses, please visit http://www.caps.fiu.edu/olli or call 305-919-5910.

For more information on the Institute, contact FIU OLLI Executive Director Mercedes M. Ponce at 305-348-1560, or poncem@fiu.edu or Clara Barman at 305-919-5910 or barmanc@fiu.edu.