UK Lifelong Learning Program Recognized in Money Magazine
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 5, 2010) − Lexington is among the five best college towns in America to retire to and expand your intellectual horizons, according to a recent article in Money Magazine. The magazine cites UK’s strong roots in lifelong learning since 1964 with the Donovan Fellowship and its companion program, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Kentucky College of Public Health.
Mike Smith, executive director of UK’s lifelong learning programs, explains the programs’ continued growth. “We welcome members to a dynamic learning community with the intellectual resources of a supportive college in a major university. Our members contribute the joy of learning, lifetimes of experience, and the belief that curiosity never retires.” The College of Public Health focuses on the wellbeing of whole populations and recognizes the evidence that intellectual activity contributes to health and wellbeing as we age.
Lifelong learning at UK began in 1964 when the university first offered tuition-free registration to local residents age 65 and older. More than 100 Donovan Fellows are now taking university classes alongside younger undergraduate and graduate students. More than 50 students have earned degrees at all levels; others audit classes without the demands of homework and exams.
As the program grew, it began offering non-credit enrichment classes. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute now offers almost 100 courses annually in Lexington, Morehead and Somerset. Members plan, teach, and participate in short courses, field trips, workshops, special interest groups, and forums. They pursue lifelong interests and discover new ones. The OLLI offers constantly changing classes that include culture and cuisine, foreign languages, health and wellness, history and government, performing and visual arts, science and technology, and world religions.
For more information on UK’s lifelong learning programs, contact Teresa Hager at (859) 257-2656.