The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Richmond combines intellectual stimulation and civic engagement with a vibrant community of like-minded students age 50 and better on the campus of the University of Richmond.
Established in 2004 at the University of Richmond through an endowment from The Bernard Osher Foundation of San Francisco, our membership organization offers an extensive array of courses in the liberal arts in the fall, spring and summer semesters. These offerings are a combination of undergraduate credit courses for audit, special interest mini-courses, free lectures, community service projects, performing arts events and more.
Our Osher Institute is part of the network of Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes across the United States, meeting the needs of older learners who want to learn for the joy of learning and personal fulfillment. The UR Osher Institute is one of 125 institutes across the country, all supported by the National Resource Center.
There are no entrance requirements, no tests and no grades. In fact, no college background is needed at all. It’s your love of learning that counts. And you can become an Osher member for as little as $75 per year.
Review information about the Osher Institute’s strategic planning process along with progress reports and member survey results since the strategic plan was implemented.
The Osher Institute staff and volunteer leaders are available to talk to groups, civic associations, and other organizations about the history, benefits, and activities of our lifelong learning institute. For more information contact Peggy Watson at margaret.watson@richmond.edu or call (804) 287-6344.
The Osher Leadership Council takes an active role in shaping the work of the Institute. Members select topics for courses, recruit faculty, plan trips and gatherings, and lead project teams of Osher members for Curriculum, Marketing, Membership and Osher Give Back volunteering.
If you are interested in serving on an Osher project team, please contact the office at (804) 287-6344 or by email.
The Osher Institute hosted Vino and Trio, a wine and music event featuring tenor Pablo Talamante, soprano Margaret Woods, and pianist Charles Staples, on November 7.
The Osher Institute invited a number of people influential in establishing and supporting the Osher Institute at the University of Richmond to its 20th Anniversary Celebratory Luncheon on October 8, 2024, on the Richmond campus.
The Osher Institute launched its year-long 20th anniversary celebration with its annual Fall Back-to-School Mixer on September 17. Members enjoyed good food while mixing with fellow members along with Osher, and SPCS staff. Interest Group leaders also hosted tables to share information about their groups.
