Page 154 - South Mississippi Living - November, 2026

FINAL SAY
PAULA MATHIS
Director, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI)
The phrase “The Golden Years” can evoke stereotypes of rocking
chairs and a quiet winding down—but the vibrant community of
lifelong learners at The University of Southern Mississippi views this
chapter of life as an active beginning, not a conclusion.
The mission at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) is
straightforward: to offer enriching learning opportunities to adults
aged 50 and wiser and to provide welcoming spaces where lasting
friendships grow through good conversation and connection. The
organization operates on the belief that an active mind and body
promote mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Lifelong learning
feeds human curiosity—it is far more than an intellectual exercise; it is
a source of joy and a way to stay passionate about life.
This culture thrives at both OLLI sites, located on the Coast in Long
Beach and on the Southern Miss main campus in Hattiesburg. A single
membership allows participants to take courses on both campuses, as
well as online via Zoom. September marked a major milestone for the
OLLI Gulf Park campus: the anniversary of its dedicated space on the
first floor of the Gulf Coast Library. This space has transformed the
daily experience for coastal members, giving them a welcoming hub
renovated entirely for them—a spot where they can gather for classes,
enjoy a cup of coffee while discussing a great book, and connect in an
atmosphere of warm camaraderie.
OLLI at Southern Miss is one of only 124 institutes across the
country—all endowed by The Bernard Osher Foundation—and
the exclusive home of OLLI programming in Mississippi. Across
this nationwide network, every campus shares a motto: “Come for the
courses—stay for the connections.” Members do not need a college degree
or past affiliation with the university to participate. OLLI is open to
absolutely anyone in the community with a curious mind.
The OLLI fall course guide provides insight into this community,
showcasing a membership with wide-ranging interests. A unique
strength of the program is that members often volunteer their time
to lead courses and special interest groups. The curriculum is further
enriched by community experts and Southern Miss professors who
share their knowledge with the program.
On any given week at OLLI Gulf Park, members might find
themselves painting a watercolor, learning American Mah Jongg,
154 | November 2026 or studying the historic Sultana disaster on the Mississippi River.
Members also take educational boat charters, explore the natural
science of the Coast’s 26-mile beach environment, and demystify
everyday technology like artificial intelligence.
OLLI is an inclusive community that nurtures the mind, body,
and spirit. This season of life calls
for meaningful opportunities
to stay engaged, active,
and connected. Curious
minds are invited to
visit OLLI Gulf
Park, find a topic
that sparks their
interest, and
connect with
others while
experiencing
the sheer joy
of learning
without tests or
grades.
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