Linda Kehres, Director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, was on the job only a few months before the organization was forced to reorganize its program delivery of continuing education programs to area seniors. Face-to-face classes in 2020 were out of the question during the pandemic. The solution was Zoom. Teachers successfully adapted their classes to the popular online platform, and Osher was back in business.
Presently, Osher’s highly-qualified instructors present classes in three weekly 90-minute sessions. There are no tests, grades or homework. Classes are scheduled at various times of the day and the week. There is a $50 fee for each course. The age of the average participant is 74, but there is no age restriction.
Over 100 classes are offered this spring, and 46 of them are new offerings. History topics are the most popular and courses are also offered on literature, art, music, current events, religious studies, film, entertainment and geography. Osher is always look for new teachers, sponsors, and donors.
The program is a great way to expand horizons at a time when travel and contact with others is limited.
The local Osher Institute was established in 2004 and is affiliated with Kansas University. Philanthropist and businessman Bernard Osher established a foundation in 1977 to encourage continuing educational opportunities for seniors. Presently there are over 100 Osher Institutes through out the country.
