Founders Bernard and Barbro Osher designed Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes to be member-driven and member-led. They endowed 124 such programs in all 50 states. Designed for adult learners ages 50 and better, these programs operate in conjunction with universities and colleges to offer noncredit courses available simply for the joy of learning.
Mr. and Mrs. Osher, now in their 90s, are investment bankers, business people, and philanthropists in San Francisco. Barbro is Swedish and grew up with this kind of educational program, which is commonly offered to older adults in Europe. Bernard took a class at “Senior University” in his home state of Maine when he was in his 50s and quickly became hooked on the idea of continuing education classes for mature adults.
Osher at the U
At the University of Utah, we enjoy one of the country’s largest and fastest-growing Osher Institutes. Osher changes lives every day, offering continuing education courses in a supportive community of curious adults who highly value education.
Our Osher program is built on special relationships. We support passionate instructors who give their time and expertise, sharing what they care about most. We gather curious class members who ask illuminating questions and stimulate each other’s curiosity. We benefit from the skills of dedicated volunteers who recruit instructors, create engaging activities for their fellow members, and help spread the word about this life-changing program. Sharing our joy of learning with each other creates a magical and symbiotic win/win/win for everyone.
What does Osher do?
We are a community of peers and seasoned adults who bring a wealth of life experience and knowledge to the classroom and this special program. We offer courses, lecture series, tours, and educational field trips during four terms each year: six weeks each in fall, winter, spring, and summer. We serve individuals as far north as Logan, as far south as St. George, as young as 50, and as old as 99.
In addition to the courses we offer, Osher offers an engaging, interesting series of six Lunch and Learn lectures for our members and the wider community via Zoom Webinar during fall, winter, and spring terms. These free talks help introduce the valuable learning and connections Osher provides. Anyone can join us. Sessions are recorded and freely available on our website archives.
We recently had our biggest spring term ever, with more than 1,275 enrollments for spring 2025. We are growing and need your help to keep it up!
Does Osher offer scholarships?
Yes! The Osher Scholarship Program provides opportunities for community members to enroll in Osher courses when financial assistance is needed. Scholarship funding is offered through the generosity of our members; many of them donate so others can enjoy the same wonderful benefits they so happily experience at Osher.
Where does Osher’s funding come from?
Our Osher program receives administrative support from the University of Utah, with 65% of our budget from membership dues and tuition, individual donors, sponsors, and partners, and 35% provided by The Bernard Osher Foundation.
How can you help?
You can make a meaningful difference by donating today. Your donation supports Osher programming, classes, special events, scholarships, and so much more! We need your support to guarantee that our life-enhancing program remains vibrant and strong today, tomorrow, and beyond.
There are three main ways that you can give to Osher: donation, legacy giving, and volunteering.
- Donate: Every donation helps us create outstanding new courses, support our dedicated instructors, plan exciting events, and more! Your contribution ensures Osher’s continued growth in building our community.
- Legacy Giving: There is no single way to make a legacy gift. The approach you choose will depend on many factors, such as your goals and objectives, family situation, and stage in life.
- Volunteer: Learn more about volunteering for Osher by taking one of our free classes each term, Osher Behind the Scenes. Look for these classes in our course listings.
Thank You
Thank you for helping; your generosity allows Osher to thrive. We greatly appreciate you and your support. Become an Osher legend and donate today!
