The Bernard Osher Foundation recently gave the U\u2019s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute a $1 million endowment, which will enhance the depth and breadth of the institute\u2019s programs.<\/p>\n

\u201cOsher is a key part of the U\u2019s effort to improve health and quality of life in our community,\u201d said U Osher Director Cathy House. \u201cStudies are showing that social and mental stimulation contribute to good health as people age, and Osher not only benefits students, but our classes are taught by emeritus and current faculty and experts from the community who find it rejuvenating to teach such an enthusiastic group of students who bring lifetimes of experiences and varied perspectives to discussions.\u201d<\/p>\n

Since it began just over a decade ago, the institute has grown from offering 12 courses and six special events to 50 members to offering 60 courses and more than 40 free special activities to more than 1,300 members. Classes range from hands-on art and music to more academic topics such as politics, economics, history, literature, world culture as well as technology-related topics, such as Google Maps and iPad Basics. Special activities include visiting manufacturing companies, museums, theaters and more.<\/p>\n