Page 46 - South Mississippi Living - January, 2024

The Face of OLLI DIANNE DEWEES
As the face of OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute), Dianne Dewees of Long Beach says lifelong learning is important.
“It’s become more important after COVID-19; seniors need socialization, and it helps in the fight against dementia and Alzheimer’s, according to medical experts,” she said. “The socialization, is what I like most, making new friends, and being mentally and physically active.”
It costs $40 a year for membership, which opens up a plethora of opportunities for classes in person and online, along with field trips and events. Classes range from arts, humanities and literature, natural science, and technology to special interests such as a Zoom book club and crocheting.
Dewees, 78, retired from the state working with senior populations, so being on the curriculum committee and social director of OLLI is a perfect fit for her. A mother and grandmother, Dewees says she comes from a long line of family members who were involved in the community. A Cavalier Spaniel named Bambi keeps her company, but because of low hearing, can not be a therapy dog as her first dog of that breed was. “That dog’s name was Eve, and I learned from her, taking her to the Armed Forces Retirement Home,” she says.
Asked what inspires her, Dewees recalled the late Mary Alice Miner of Ocean Springs, who when asked that question smiled and said, “The sparkles on the water.”
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Park Campus 228.214.3277 | www.usm.edu/olli
46 | January 2024
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