Celebrating Community and Lifelong Learning at OLLI’s Year-End Gathering

On May 13, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at NC State hosted its annual End-of-Year Celebration and Instructor Appreciation Event, a tradition now more than two decades strong. The gathering brought together instructors, members, and staff to share stories, laughter, and a sense of belonging that defines the OLLI experience.

OLLI at NC State is more than a program; it’s a community of adults aged 50 and older who continue to explore, question, and connect. With topics spanning the liberal arts and sciences, OLLI encourages learning purely for the fun of learning. Programs range from one-time sessions to multi-week courses, and most are held at the McKimmon Conference and Training Center. 

Since its founding in 1991 as the Encore Program and its transformation into OLLI following a generous endowment from the Bernard Osher Foundation in 2014, the institute has offered a wide range of courses, lectures and events designed to keep minds active and friendships growing. Current enrollment stands at over 1,600 members who participate in over 300 programs annually.

This year’s celebration held special significance. Chancellor Randy Woodson, who will retire on June 30 after 14 years of leadership at NC State, was honored with a lifetime membership to OLLI. The gesture recognized his service to the university and his role in securing a second $1 million endowment from the Osher Foundation, which supports the future of lifelong learning at NC State.

Vice Provost for Continuing and Lifelong Education Mark Bernhard accepted the award on behalf of Chancellor Woodson, who was unable to attend the event. Bernhard expressed gratitude on Woodson’s behalf and echoed remarks from a video message by Steve Thaxton, executive director of the Osher National Resource Center. 

Speaking on behalf of Bernard Osher and Mary Bitterman, president of the Osher Foundation, Thaxton emphasized OLLI’s unique role within the university: “As part of the Continuing and Lifelong Education division of North Carolina’s land-grant university, OLLI at NC State provides intellectually stimulating and enjoyable programs that foster lifelong learning, community involvement and social engagement for individuals aged 50 and older.”

Bernhard also took a moment to recognize the strength of the OLLI community, reinforcing Thaxton’s praise and emphasizing the university’s continued commitment to supporting lifelong learners.

The evening included a slideshow of highlights from the past year, capturing classroom moments, field trips and community events that reflected the spirit of curiosity and camaraderie that defines OLLI.

Volunteers, the backbone of OLLI’s programming and operations, were also recognized during the evening. Their dedication ensures the institute remains a welcoming and supportive space for older adults to learn and grow together. “Since its inception in 1991, OLLI at NC State has been shaped by the collaboration, leadership, volunteerism and community-mindedness of its members,” the video noted.

As the evening came to a close, the message was clear: learning doesn’t end with age; it deepens, especially when shared in the community. Or, as the video concluded, “OLLI at NC State is and will be a welcoming and supportive community that has a transformative impact on older adults in our community and beyond.”