UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Penn State has included an array of courses to its spring offerings that take place after normal business hours.
With classes that take place in the evening, "OLLI After Hours" courses are designed to provide more opportunities for active adult learners of today, said Spring Younkin, program specialist for OLLI at Penn State.
“We often hear from our lifelong learners that they are busy during the day. They have their set schedules. So, creating more learning opportunities is a win-win,” Younkin said. “For current OLLI at Penn State members, it provides more time for learning. For those with a busy schedule or are still working, After Hours creates a time for them to learn, grow and connect with peers.”
OLLI at Penn State is a Penn State Outreach program that offers community members aged 50 and above the opportunity to learn, explore and connect through educational experiences, travel, social and volunteer opportunities
OLLI member Jan Yoder serves as co-chair of the OLLI at Penn State Curriculum Committee. She said volunteers on the committee are always mindful of the wide-ranging interests and preferences of OLLI at Penn State members.
“It is in this spirit that we launched OLLI After Hours to make our programming accessible to members who need, or simply prefer, learning opportunities during the evening,” Yoder said.
OLLI After Hours courses for spring 2025 include:
- An Evening with the American Woodcock at Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center
April 15 | 7 to 9 p.m.
The life of an American Woodcock has fascinated birders and non-birders for centuries and has been a sweet sign of the approaching spring season. Learn more about the natural history of American Woodcocks and for a chance to observe their annual “sky dance.”
- Planning for Your Backyard Chickens
April 30 | 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Planning for the adventure of laying hens in your backyard is half of the fun. Learn some pointers and help with planning for your future flock will make the process successful and rewarding.
- Unlocking the Power of AI: Understanding Large Language Models
May 15 | 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing business, from enhancing customer experiences to driving operational efficiencies.
- Keystone of War: Altoona and the Civil War
May 21 | 6:30 to 8 p.m.
This engaging course brings to life the dramatic tales of railroaders, soldiers, southern sympathizers, enslaved freedom seekers, governors, and Underground Railroad conductors during that volatile era in national history. This course is offered in person or online.
The OLLI After Hours courses are just a few of OLLI at Penn State’s spring semester offerings that include courses on topics such as history, art, nature, technology and more. Course information and registration is available here or by calling 814-867-4278.