The University of Delaware’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) has kicked off another spring semester in UD’s cooperative lifelong learning program for age 50-plus. Classes started during the week of February 2 in Dover, Lewes, Ocean View, Wilmington and online — with more classes set to start March 30.
The OLLI community was joined during its welcome activities by visiting UD leadership, including Kimberley Isett, UD Vice Provost for Academic Programs and University Initiatives and professor in UD’s Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy and Administration; and Mark Clodfelter, Associate Dean for UD’s Division of Professional and Continuing Studies (PCS).
“Visiting the OLLI Wilmington program during the first week of classes was a terrific experience,” reported Isett. “This is a really special organization and I am thrilled to be a part of it — the energy and pleasure of the members were palpable. When OLLI became part of UD’s new Center for Innovation in Lifelong Learning and Teaching (CILLT), I knew that OLLI would embody the ‘Lifelong Learning’ part of our name, but being on-site as members came to start their first week of classes made it obvious that this program is so much more.”
“I look forward to my visits to the Dover, Lewes and Ocean View sites later this spring,” added Isett.
“I’ve always been struck by the warm sense of community that can be felt every time I visit OLLI, and this week was certainly no exception,” added Clodfelter. “Meeting the members as they gathered for the launch of a new semester was fantastic. Their energy, curiosity and passion are infectious. I always leave smiling and looking forward to my next visit. It’s such a privilege to be a part of such a great organization.”
OLLI is a learning cooperative with member-volunteer instructors its heart. The expertise from their professional careers, educational backgrounds, avocations and passions provide the source material for the breadth and depth of OLLI’s class offerings, ranging from hands-on art workshops and music classes, to book clubs, history, genealogy, science, health, current events and more.
There’s still time to join OLLI this semester, when spring registration reopens March 16 to April 3 on a space-available basis for OLLI’s second session of 5-week classes. Here’s a sampling of classes taking place March 30-May 1 —
For OLLI members who have already registered and paid for Spring 2026 membership, unlimited additional classes can be added at no cost, thanks to OLLI’s one-fee membership. For those who haven’t yet registered for Spring 2026 classes, registration is still available for a flat fee of $260, allowing you to sign up for as many UD OLLI spring classes as you like, on-site or online, at any UD OLLI location. Prior OLLI membership is not required. Some course descriptions may list an additional fee for supplies, or a partner fee. There is no cost for parking at UD OLLI locations
Financial assistance as well as gift certificates are available. Visit the OLLI website, email OLLI-online@udel.edu or call 302-573-4417 for more information.
Registration open through April 3 |
UD by the Sea, May 19-22 |
Summer classes start June 22 |
OLLI travel opportunities |
Gift certificates available |
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
