The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Eckerd College offers curious adults life-enriching courses (non-credit), lectures, excursions and experiences—throughout the year— complimenting an individual’s journey to learn about, engage with, and contribute to the world around them.
Our Mission
To provide affordable, high-quality, noncredit educational programs and experiences, enabling participants to enjoy learning and share cultural and social activities in an interactive and welcoming environment.
In January 1997, Senior College at Eckerd College was developed to provide affordable, engaging non-credit courses and travel programs for adults in the Tampa Bay area.
In 2005, the Bernard Osher Foundation recognized Eckerd College’s Senior program as an “exemplary lifelong learning program” and provided a generous grant for support.
The Bernard Osher Foundation, headquartered in San Francisco, was founded in 1977 by respected businessman, philanthropist, and community leader Bernard Osher. The Foundation seeks to improve quality of life through innovative funding in higher education and the arts.
The Foundation supports a national lifelong learning network of programs designed from adults 50 and better; Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes operate on 120+ college and university campuses in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. View a brief animated video history of The Osher Institute Legacy of Bernard Osher.
The National Resource Center for Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (Osher NRC) is a non-governing center of excellence, hosted by Northwestern University, benefiting older adults through the national network of OLLIs.
Get to Know OLLI of Tampa Bay
