About us
OLLI is part of a nationwide (and worldwide) movement of so-called Lifelong Learning Institutes (LLI) for learners aged 50 and older who are retired or partially retired. In the United States and Canada, there are over 500 programs, and around the world, more than 1,000 programs known in other countries as Universities of the Third Age. Some of these programs are directly tied to college and university campuses, and others are independent.
Established in 1999 with a University of Massachusetts' Service Endowment grant and with support from the Gerontology Institute of the John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy Studies, OLLI is one of 19 LLIs operating in Massachusetts and is the only program associated with a public university in the city of Boston. In just a few years, the OLLI program has emerged as a large, distinctive, public-service contribution for UMass Boston. OLLI's membership has grown steadily from 147 in the first year to a current membership of almost 700. OLLI members come from over 60 cities and towns, particularly from the South Shore, Quincy, Milton, South Boston, and Dorchester. However, most members have had no previous contact with the University.
OLLI provides a learning experience at a modest cost that will enrich the intellectual, social, and cultural lives of people who share a love of lifelong learning regardless of the extent of their formal education. No academic or other credentials are required. What is essential is an interest in an academic environment, the desire to participate actively in a small course environment with your peers, and an open mind about sharing your skills and ideas. There are no tests, no papers, and no degrees. Most OLLI instructors, called "facilitators," are retirees. A majority of them are retired or current UMass Boston faculty. Many are also OLLI members. Most courses are an hour or two long and meet once a week during the day and might last anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks. Field trips, special lectures, and social events are also included in the offerings. Most seminars are held at the Harbor Campus of UMass Boston. It is a short walk from the Massachusetts Archives building and the John F. Kennedy Library and easy to reach by public or private transportation. Parking is available for a small fee.
