Membership
Joining the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at WMU is more than becoming a member—it’s stepping into a dynamic community that celebrates learning, connection, and giving back. Whether you’re exploring fascinating topics, forming impactful relationships, or sharing your expertise, OLLI offers something for everyone.
Looking for a meaningful gift? You can also give the joy of learning by gifting an OLLI membership. Call our office at (269) 387-4157 to get started.
Explore what makes OLLI membership special and how it can inspire curiosity, deepen connections, and enrich your life!
Member Benefits:
- 50% off all OLLI at WMU courses – Pay just $10 per session (vs. $20 for non-members), making it easier and more affordable to keep learning. Most OLLI courses range from one to four sessions.
- Access to Shared Interest Groups (SIGs) – Join dynamic, participant-led groups focused on shared passions and hobbies. SIGs are open to members only!
- Osher Online courses – Dive deeper into fascinating topics with virtual courses taught by top academic and industry experts—available exclusively to OLLI members.
- Free quarterly Osher Online community events – Stay connected and inspired through online gatherings with lifelong learners from across the country.
- Member-only events, tours, and group tickets – Enjoy educational outings, behind-the-scenes tours, and social events designed just for members.
- Discounts at partner businesses and organizations, including:
- Premier World Discovery – Travel around the world with the OLLI at WMU discount on travel packages
- WMU Bookstore Shops – 10% off (excludes sale items and electronics)
- Miller Auditorium – 15% off most tickets when purchased in person
- Gilmore Theatre Complex – 25% off most tickets
- West Hills Athletic Club – Enrollment fee waived
- Monthly e-newsletter – Keep connected with everything happening across your OLLI at WMU community.
Shared Interest Groups
Connect, explore, and have fun with others who share your passions! Shared Interest Groups (SIGs) are a free, members-only benefit that offers informal, participant-led opportunities to dive deeper into a hobby, topic, or curiosity. Whether you're looking to stay active, spark conversation, or learn something new, there’s a SIG for you!
Current SIGs include:
- EDISON: EDucation IS ON – Resident Scholars Group
- German Conversation
- Introduction to Film
- Pétanque – Outdoor French game play sessions
- Readers Theatre Comes Alive
- Photography
Don’t see your interest listed? SIGs are driven by members just like you. If you have an idea for a new group, let us know! We’ll help you get started and connect with others who share your enthusiasm.
Osher Online
Take your learning to the next level with Osher Online, a member-only benefit that gives you access to in-depth virtual courses offered through the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University.
Each course runs for six weeks, with 90-minute live Zoom sessions led by expert instructors from across the country. Topics are diverse and engaging, and you'll join fellow knowledge seekers from Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes nationwide—expanding your knowledge and your network.
- Live, interactive sessions (not recorded)
- Includes access to course materials, discussion boards, and tech support
- Optional pre-course orientation to help you get started
In addition to these paid deep-dive courses, OLLI members are also invited to attend free quarterly Osher Online community events—virtual gatherings that bring together learners from across the country for special presentations, discussions, and celebrations centered around lifelong learning.