Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Ringling College Announces Its 2020 Summer Semester

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Ringling College (OLLI at Ringling College) will offer its summer semester courses online from June 1-July 24. Registration opens on May 5 for Gold Members and May 12 for the general public. The summer semester features approximately 15 classes covering a diversity of subjects, including health and wellbeing, current events, literature, stress management, and memoir writing. To register, visit www.OlliatRinglingCollege.org or call 941-309-5111.

According to Janna Overstreet, the executive director of OLLI at Ringling College, the school adapted quickly to the COVID-19 crisis. “We felt it was vital to continue offering courses during this period of social distancing,” says Overstreet. “Lifelong learning enhances our understanding of the world around us, improves our quality of life, and boosts health and longevity. That’s true in the best of times—and even more important in a time of social isolation. The distance learning model

provides the perfect solution.” Overstreet adds that they’ve posted instructions on the OLLI website about how to use the Zoom platform and instructors will work with students to make sure they’re comfortable with it.

According to Overstreet, OLLI’s upcoming summer courses include “Breathing Through the Covid Crisis,” “Stress Management and Meditation,” “Survival Skills for Mind, Body and Life,” and “Happiness is an Inside Job.” She notes that, “These mind-body survival skills are especially relevant now. But other courses will be pure entertainment—and that’s important now, too. For example, Tony Moon will be teaching ‘The 27 Club: Rock & Roll Heaven,’ a discussion series exploring the short lives of artists like Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and Amy Winehouse.”

Overstreet says that her team has been actively planning for the fall semester, which starts in late September. “For now, we’re full steam ahead. We’re adhering to CDC guidelines and will decide as we get closer if courses will be offered via Zoom or in-person.”