The Commons in Lincoln and Tufts University’s Lifelong Learning Program Begin Partnership
The Commons in Lincoln has launched a new partnership with Tufts University’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) to enrich residents’ access to lifelong learning. OLLI is a membership-based organization designed for lifelong learners.
Residents of The Commons are provided with complementary membership to non-credit courses, lectures, interest groups and special events through the program on The Commons’ campus and remotely.
For the Love of Learning
“At The Commons, a love of learning is woven into the fabric of our community,” said Elyse Golibroda, Independent Living Programming Director.
“Our residents have led incredibly vibrant lives with impressive professional journeys. Each member of our community has a unique background and perspective, and with that, they bring a deep sense of curiosity and intellectual engagement to their daily lives. We are always seeking meaningful ways to nurture and expand those interests. This partnership with Tufts University is a natural extension of that spirit, offering access to high-quality educational opportunities and enriching experiences.”
Fostering the Minds of Adult Learners
According to Tufts University, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute “seeks to engage the minds and foster the well-being of intellectually curious adult learners, over 50 years of age, through a wide variety of membership engagement opportunities.”
There are no tests, no pressure and no grades—just engaging learning experiences. All courses are taught by vetted OLLI members, Tufts graduate students, Tufts faculty and subject matter experts.
“We are so excited to be partnering with The Commons in Lincoln! The Commons and Tufts University Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) share similar values, with both organizations being dedicated to engaging the minds and fostering the well-being of adults committed to lifelong learning,” said Callan Moody, Program Director, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Tufts University.
“Our new partnership is a wonderful opportunity to build on our programs’ strengths and support each other as we continue to grow the communities we serve.”
Courses Designed to Inspire
In addition to the catalog of remote courses available to residents who become OLLI members, several classes will also be offered on-site at the community.
This fall, the courses will include Four Famous Poets: W.B. Yeats, Robert Frost, T.S. Eliot and W.H. Auden, taught by current Tufts OLLI member Ed Dyke; James A. Michener’s Tales of the South Pacific, taught by current Tufts OLLI member Ronald Bernard; and Mind of a Killer, taught by outside instructor John Olszewski.
“I can’t imagine my life without learning every day. I seek out things that will either enhance what I already know or expand what I don’t know,” said Prudy Van Winkle, a resident of The Commons in Lincoln and OLLI student.
“The Commons offers many activities, and now we have this new continuing education opportunity. I think OLLI is an important additional opportunity for our entire community.”