Lifelong learning, lasting connections: Inspiring stories from OLLI at LSU

Sponsored by LSU Online & Continuing Education

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at LSU offers an enriching environment where older adults can explore new interests, rekindle passions and stay physically and intellectually active. Through its diverse courses and community, OLLI nurtures the spirit of lifelong learning, helping members connect and remain engaged in the world around them. For those curious about how OLLI has impacted real lives, here are three inspiring stories from participants who have found new opportunities for growth, fun and friendship. Whether it’s learning a new skill, connecting with others, or simply staying active, the impact of OLLI is evident in the lives of its participants.

For those seeking to enrich their own lives with new experiences, OLLI provides a community where the joy of learning never stops. A special $25 OLLI at LSU membership allows you to register for many courses, take field trips, or attend special events within any chapter of OLLI at LSU. Chapters are located in Baton Rouge, St. Francisville/New Roads, Slidell/Covington, and New Orleans. For Spring 2025, class registration opens Feb. 10 and classes begin March 10. Additionally, there are many other benefits that OLLI at LSU offers. Contact OLLI at LSU via e-mail at [email protected].

Pat Heurtin: A pickleball pioneer in St. Francisville

When Pat moved to St. Francisville, she and her husband were eager to meet new people and explore fresh activities. OLLI offered just that. What began as a desire to connect with like-minded individuals soon became a passion project. In 2015, Pat introduced pickleball to the St. Francisville community through OLLI. The response was overwhelming, with hundreds of participants enjoying this low-impact sport. Pat, who already loved staying active, also found a range of fitness classes, including chair exercise, seated yoga, and line dancing. Her involvement with OLLI has not only enhanced her personal well-being and provided her with the joy of helping others discover new physical and social activities.

Carolyn Booker: Exploring hidden talents and making connections

For Carolyn, OLLI has been an outlet for creativity and social connection. After retiring, Carolyn sought ways to stay active and pursue new interests. She has taken various courses, from country line dancing to ukulele lessons, and has dabbled in painting, knitting and even clay hand-building. “I joke that I’m searching for my hidden talents,” Carolyn says. But OLLI has given her more than just new skills—it’s also deepened her social life. One of her favorite OLLI moments came while playing pickleball, when she realized that a fellow participant’s father had been best friends with her father years ago. These unexpected connections have made her OLLI experience truly meaningful. Through OLLI’s courses, she’s also explored her spiritual life and deepened her understanding of her father’s World War II experiences.

Claire Fontenot: A new outlook on health and nutrition

Claire first heard about OLLI while at work, and her curiosity led her to sign up for courses. She found OLLI to be a transformative experience, especially in health and wellness. A nutrition class provided her with knowledge that helped her understand how to make better choices for her long-term well-being. She adds that OLLI courses give her a fresh outlook on life by expanding her knowledge and perspective. The ability to take classes that cater to her health goals and learn from others with similar interests has helped Claire continue to lead a vibrant and engaged life. OLLI’s flexibility and wide range of topics have inspired her to keep exploring new avenues for personal growth.