Dear OLLI members,    

Center Steering Council Chair Cindy Berryman-Fink and I had the pleasure of attending the Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLI) National Meeting in Colorado Springs this week.  We attended sessions on research, curriculum, inclusivity, civic engagement, and strategic planning.  We were able to meet volunteers and staff members from across the country who are engaged in programming for seasoned adults.  We saw the diversity that characterizes the many programs, but we felt strongly that what binds us together is a shared love of learning and a sense of community that comes as part of organizations that are member-driven and member-led.  We certainly felt that our program at UNC Asheville has a strong history of excellence in programming and governance that will be sustained and strengthened by our connection to the Osher Foundation.

In the spirit of gratitude at Thanksgiving, we want to thank all of you for your participation in our programs.  We have unique opportunities to work together in the coming months and years to sustain our national leadership and local outreach. Our strategic plan sets a high priority on sustaining the programming like the College for Seniors that draws so many people to the Reuter Center but also sets a priority on our continuing to expand our life transitions and civic engagement programs as we continue to enlarge the opportunities for our membership.  We are grateful for the innovation and hard work that have made our program a national leader, and we set a standard of continuous improvement as we move ahead.

With gratitude,

Catherine Frank       

Executive Director