Osher Learning Center at University of Delaware-Lewes
There is a place close by for keeping your mind active with opportunities for learning.
Research has shown that cognitive decline is not an inevitable part of the aging process. New findings offer a striking model of aging as a potential time of brain health and growth. Mental stimulation and creative outlets can provide the opportunity to lead better quality lives filled with more knowledge and wisdom—and an increased capacity to contribute to society.
Southern Delawareans can find outlets for mental stimulation and creativity at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Delaware in Lewes and Ocean View. On any given class day, a vibrant and diverse group of adults 50+ can be found at such varied pursuits as learning Spanish, French, and German, drawing for fun and relaxation, comparing Christianity and Islam, discussing the ins and outs of retirement planning, or practicing English country dance or yoga.
Just as the communities of Sussex County are comprised of many ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations and gender identities, the University of Delaware’s Osher program offers an inclusive and welcoming learning environment for all.
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Delaware is open to all participants 50 years of age or older, and the spouses and partners of members at any age. Classes are held at the Fred Thomas Building, 520 DuPont Avenue in Lewes, and at the Ocean View Town Hall and Community Center, 32 West Avenue.
Member-created programs are the key ingredient. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute enables its members to further their intellectual curiosity, to express themselves, and to enjoy these experiences in a friendly, cooperative atmosphere among contemporaries.
Members are encouraged to offer new course ideas, design and teach courses in their areas of interest, and serve as committee members. Or members can simply enroll and take classes.
Instructors are all fellow members and include both active and retired professionals in their fields, and expert hobbyists. For example, in the “Great Decisions” course in Lewes, participants can discuss international affairs topics with fellow member Robert Duncan, whose background includes a Master’s of Public Administration from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard and more than 33 years’ experience as a U.S. Foreign Service officer.
“Beekeeping 101” gives members the opportunity to learn a wealth of information about the intriguing science of honeybees and the beekeeping industry. Field trips to an indoor observation hive and an outdoor hive enrich the experience. The course is taught by veteran beekeeper Dean Hoover and Tom Lord, who holds a doctorate in biology, and taught for over 40 years.
In “Russian Film: 1929 to the Present,” members watch and discuss a little known film opus with instructor Jon Newsom, who retired in 2005 from the Library of Congress. He has written articles on jazz, post-Wagnerian opera, 19th century brass band music, and the invention of the phonograph and has taught courses on music literature and history at Osher as well. His current course delves into an era of Russian films eclipsed in the West by the Cold War.
New courses are offered each semester. “Our curriculum continues to grow in variety, quality and diversity,” says Anna Moshier, program coordinator. “With our outstanding faculty, Osher continues to offer a wide range of courses to help our students stay physically fit and mentally engaged.”
Members may take as many Osher Lifelong Learning classes in a semester as they like and can choose from courses in both Lewes and Ocean View. In addition, members may also audit one University of Delaware credit course per semester and participate in program-sponsored trips and other activities. Other benefits include a student rate on software, and use of libraries and online resources at UD and Delaware Tech.
There are no academic requirements for enrollment in Osher Lifelong Learning. All are welcome, whether their formal education ended early in life or includes advanced degrees. An interest in learning is all that is required.
The University of Delaware’s lifelong learning programs are affiliated with a national network of similar learning-in-retirement organizations. The Bernard Osher Foundation supports lifelong learning programs across the U.S. in all 50 states. Founded by philanthropist Bernard Osher, the Foundation seeks to improve quality of life through support of higher education and the arts. Osher has been listed among the 50 top American philanthropists. Partnering with the network of Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes allows the UD programs to take advantage of online resources, networking opportunities, Institute conferences, and share best practices with their counterparts all over the country. The University of Delaware also offers Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes in Wilmington and Dover.
For more information about the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in Lewes/Dover, visit their website, contact them by email, or call 302-645-4111.