Championing lifelong learning for adults 50 and better

The Bernard Osher Foundation has supported a national network of Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes for more than four decades. OLLI at Hampton University brings that legacy to Hampton Roads with affordable, community-driven programming designed to enrich every stage of life.

OLLI at Hampton University

OLLI at Hampton furthers the pursuit of lifelong learning by offering affordable, accessible, high-quality educational programs for the population 50 and better in the Hampton Roads area.

Programs are conducted in an environment that fosters members’ participation in the planning, execution, and assessment of all programs. OLLI broadens and enriches the lives of its members by challenging intellectual activities that stimulate creativity.

OLLI Advisory Board members at Hampton University.

OLLI members finding a sense of belonging together

A nationwide lifelong learning network

The Foundation supports a national lifelong learning network of programs designed for adults 50 and better; Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes operate on 120+ college and university campuses in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

A larger gathering of the OLLI community celebrating together

A community that grows together

A foundation built for impact

Bernard Osher Foundation, headquartered in San Francisco, was founded in 1977 by respected businessman, philanthropist, and community leader Bernard Osher. The Foundation seeks to improve quality of life through innovative funding in higher education and the arts.

OLLI members engaged in classroom learning

Osher Institute Legacy

Watch the story

View a brief animated video history of The Osher Institute Legacy of Bernard Osher.

Watch the Video

Why OLLI?

Accessible programs with no grades, no tests, and no homework.
Member-led learning shaped by the interests of the community.
Engaging courses, travel, and social activities for lifelong learners.

Learn More

Osher Foundation Hampton University

Spotlight Member

Wayne Keene

Wayne Keene is a retired Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) inspector who played a hands-on role in the original 1976 construction and refurbishment of the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT).

Recognized for his historical legacy in the region, Keene revisited the HRBT Expansion Project Welcome Center to celebrate the infrastructure's ongoing development.

He was featured in the HRBT Expansion Project Newsletter as a local Hampton resident and key contributor to the original 1957 and 1976 tunnels.