University of Richmond Osher Institute Receives Third Year of Funding

August 9, 2006

The Bernard Osher Foundation has awarded a $100,000 grant to University of Richmond to fund a third year of its Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, a membership organization for adults 50 and older.

The Osher Institute, administered by the School of Continuing Studies, provides liberal arts courses and activities in the fall, spring and summer semesters. Offerings include undergraduate credit courses for audit, special interest mini-courses, community service projects, performing arts events and more. There are no entrance requirements, tests or grades. No previous college background is needed.

“We are impressed with the array of courses you are offering and pleased that you have such a good mix of faculty and peer leaders as instructors and facilitators,” said Mary Bitterman, president of the Bernard Osher Foundation, in the grant renewal letter. “Your goal of weaving the institute into the fabric of the institution has certainly been met.”

Membership in the Osher Institute tripled in less than one year, now totaling more than 350 members toward a goal of 500. Reaching that goal will make it eligible to apply for a $1 million endowment from the foundation.

The Osher Institute is “part of a network of 93 Osher Institutes located throughout the United States,” said Jane Dowrick, program coordinator. “The foundation plans to fund at least 100 such institutes at colleges and universities across the country.”