OLLI at the University of New Hampshire (OLLI at UNH) stands as an engaging, member-driven educational initiative tailored for individuals aged 50 and over, fostering a spirit of “learning for the fun of it.”

Rooted in volunteerism, this lifelong learning program offers a diverse array of over 300 courses annually, extending beyond the classroom to encompass events, trips, social activities and volunteer opportunities, all aimed at enriching the experiences of its members.

Since its inception in 2004, OLLI at UNH has been a catalyst for intellectual, social and cultural enrichment. It has cultivated an environment where friendships flourish, and ideas and life experiences are shared mutually. The advantages of lifelong learning for older adults are manifold, ranging from heightened social connectedness to improved cognitive and physical health along with a reduced risk of dementia.

The course offerings at OLLI at UNH vary each term, spanning arts and humanities, history, personal enrichment, science and technology and social sciences. These courses are conducted in person, either in a classroom, at an offsite host facility or amidst the picturesque landscapes of New Hampshire. Additionally, a selection of courses is available online via Zoom, accommodating diverse preferences and schedules, spanning from single-class sessions to multi-class programs.

During our spring 2024 semester, OLLI at UNH is presenting a captivating lineup of over 30 courses in the Concord area. Among these offerings are titles such as “Spies, Lies, & Sunken Ships,” “Old North Cemetery Walk & Talk,” “Lewis Hayden: Fugitive Slave, Underground Railroad Leader, State Legislator,” “Tour of Franklin Falls Dam & Lighthouse,” and “Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing: What’s It All About?”

The OLLI experience extends beyond formal courses with the inclusion of Special Interest Groups (SIGs), offering an additional benefit to members. These SIGs provide a platform for like-minded individuals to gather regularly, whether it be for book and movie clubs, craft groups, or outdoor and community adventures.

An annual membership to join OLLI at UNH is priced at $40, with course registration fees starting at $20. OLLI at UNH is part of a broader network, being one of 125 Osher Institutes affiliated with colleges and universities nationwide, all partially supported by funding from the Bernard Osher Foundation.

For more details, please visit unh.edu/OLLI or contact (603) 255-3553.

Tori Berube is the program manager for OLLI.