About Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

OLLI team members in gray shirt smile for a photograph.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI-UM) was established in 1987 by Turner Geriatric Clinic volunteers for people who love learning.

Under sponsorship of the University of Michigan Health, OLLI-UM is affiliated with Elderhostel Institute Network and the Bernard Osher Foundation. The approximately 1,100 members of OLLI-UM oversee and develop an extensive program of top quality lectures and offer a wide variety of study groups, travel excursions,  and weekend and evening events, and social/cultural gatherings.

Learn more about OLLI Programs & Activities

OLLI members are a diverse group drawn from Ann Arbor and surrounding communities. Membership is intended for all enthusiastic learners over age 50, approaching or living in retirement, regardless of previous education. OLLI-UM is dedicated to challenging minds and stimulating the spirit to maintain healthy bodies.

Contact Us
2401 Plymouth Road, Suite C
Ann Arbor, MI 48105-2193
Office: 734-998-9351
Mission

OLLI fosters lifelong learning designed by member volunteers for a diverse community of older adults seeking stimulating discussion, fellowship and wisdom.

 Vision

OLLI will provide enriching experiences that members are inspired to promote to their communities, presenters are eager to share, volunteers are excited to plan, and donors are proud to support.

 Values

OLLI embraces U-M’s values that were developed by the larger university community:

  • Integrity.  We act with honesty and take responsibility for our actions.
  • Respect.  We act in a way that acknowledges the humanity and contributions of each individual.
  • Inclusion.  We create an atmosphere where all can participate, are invited to contribute, and have a sense of belonging.
  • Equity.  We create conditions that provide everyone an opportunity to thrive.
  • Diversity.  We welcome, acknowledge and appreciate our similarities and differences. 
  • Innovation.  We promote creativity and curiosity to tackle challenges and inspire new ideas. 

Additionally, OLLI values:

  • Collaboration.  We plan and execute in a collaborative partnership among OLLI staff, member volunteers, U-M representatives, and the greater community.

History

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at U of M evolved from a program called Learning in Retirement, which was established in 1987 by Turner Geriatric Clinic volunteers at the University of Michigan. The successes of the Learning in Retirement program gained recognition from the Bernard Osher Foundation in the form of substantial grants to enhance and expand programming.

In March of 2007 — in recognition and appreciation of Osher Foundation contributions — the Learning in Retirement Board of Directors changed the organization name to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Michigan and hosted a celebratory program.

In 2012, Learning in Retirement/Osher Lifelong Learning Institute concluded 25 years of service to learners aged 50+. We are pleased to have enabled so many people to enhance their lives. We are proud of our long-term affiliation with the excellence of the University of Michigan Geriatrics Center.

OLLI Staff

Angela Bingham
Director
Phone: 734-998-9356

Ryan Luttermoser
Assistant Director
Phone: 734-998-9357

Wendy Ascione-Juska
Community Outreach Coordinator
Phone: 734-998-7429

OLLI Leadership Council 2026-27

OLLI-UM members elect an 18-member Leadership Council which sets priorities and policies on behalf of OLLI’s more than 1,100 members. Volunteers who serve in a leadership role or as a committee chair enjoy a rich experience. This deep member participation provides opportunities to use expertise developed over a lifetime, apply it in new ways, and form close connections with fellow OLLI members.

Kathleen Ribbens – President

Jim Cameron – Vice President

Diane Knibbs – Secretary

Terry Smith – Past President

Ron Bogdasarian – Member at Large

Jane Spinner – Member at Large

Cheryl Hagen – Member at Large

Gloria Edwards – Member at Large

Robert Stephens – Chair Finance

Katherine Woo – Chair Lectures

Jim MacBain – Chair Lectures

Will Hawk – Chair Study Groups

Lee Pizzimenti – Chair Study Groups

Cathy Maher – Chair Social Interactions

Chris Lerchen – Chair Social Interactions

Mary Sherrill – Chair OLLI Out of Town

Freddi Kilburn – Chair Development

Debbie Torch – Chair Evenings with OLLI

Faye Askew King – Chair Community Engagement

Shared Interest Groups (SIG) – TBD

Strategic Marketing and Communications – TBD

Community Partners