The University of Delaware is proud of its nearly 50-year tradition as one of the nation’s earliest and largest lifelong learning programs, UD’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). With locations in Dover, Lewes, Ocean View, and Wilmington, OLLI offers adults aged 50 and older the opportunity to learn, teach, and connect in a vibrant academic cooperative, all without grades, exams, or prerequisites.
Last year, more than 3,000 members from Delaware and neighboring states participated in OLLI classes ranging from American Sign Language and genealogy to investing, current events, history, memoir writing, elder law, artificial intelligence, painting, rock band and more. These programs thrive on the passions and expertise of volunteer instructors and the curiosity of members who value intellectual engagement and community.
Why OLLI matters
Members consistently share that OLLI enriches their lives by fostering friendships, sparking creativity and providing a sense of purpose. Many appreciate the flexibility to explore new interests, while others value the mental stimulation and social connection that come from learning together. For some, OLLI is a way to stay active and engaged during retirement; for others, it’s a chance to teach and share their expertise.
Scholarships make participation possible
As part of its commitment to community outreach, UD OLLI offers partial scholarships to help make lifelong learning accessible for as many members as possible, enabling them to enjoy the benefits of OLLI despite financial challenges.
Recent scholarship recipients have shared how vital this support is. One member explained that rising living costs left no room for extras, making OLLI participation impossible without help. For some, medical bills or other hardships have made enrichment programs feel like a luxury, yet OLLI provides a much-needed outlet for social and intellectual engagement. Others expressed gratitude for the chance to continue teaching and learning, even when membership fees are difficult to manage.
Join the OLLI community
Partial scholarships are available for those who need them, ensuring that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of lifelong learning. Whether you’re interested in art, history, languages, music, or simply connecting with others who share your curiosity, OLLI offers a welcoming environment to explore and grow.
Opportunity to support OLLI scholarships on GivingTuesday, Dec. 2
On Tuesday, December 2, the University of Delaware community, current OLLI members, and friends across the region will have the opportunity to make a difference by contributing to OLLI’s scholarship fund during Giving Tuesday. Every gift helps ensure that financial barriers do not prevent older adults from accessing the benefits of lifelong learning. Donations can be made through these official UD webpages: UD GivingTuesday – OLLI Kent and Sussex Counties and UD GivingTuesday – UD OLLI Wilmington.
Your generosity will help sustain a program that brings joy, knowledge, and community to thousands of adults each year.
Join us for spring classes starting February 2
Over 300 classes are currently being planned for the OLLI spring 2026 semester. Registration begins January 5; classes start February 2, 2026. OLLI open houses are planned in Dover, Lewes, Ocean View and Wilmington, January 5-8.
For more information about OLLI, including scholarship information, how to register and more, visit https://www.olli.udel.edu or email OLLI-online@udel.edu.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Delaware
OLLI is an academic cooperative for adults 50 and over to enjoy classes, teach, exchange ideas and socialize together, with no exams or educational requirements for participation. OLLI welcomes you.
Kent/Sussex | Wilmington
