History

Lifelong learning programs at Bradley began in 1994 with the Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR). In 2008, The Bernard Osher Foundation awarded Bradley a grant that established the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. Through two separate $1 million gifts from the Foundation, OLLI at Bradley is recognized as an Osher program of distinction. 

Since its start in 2001, the network has formed 123 OLLIs with more than 160,000 members. Each is independently operated, but receives support from The Bernard Osher Foundation. Through satellite locations or partner organization locations, these OLLIs offer courses and activities in nearly 380 individual cities and towns throughout the U.S.