Aerial photograph of the Immaculate Conception Chapel

UDLLI: General Information & Points of Interest

WELCOME to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Dayton

The University of Dayton Lifelong Learning Institute (UDLLI) began in 1994 as the University of Dayton Institute for Learning in Retirement or UDILR.  Since 2004 we have been proud members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Network, a group of over 100 institutes across the country dedicated to meeting the needs of adult learners over 50 years of age who wish to gather for the joy of learning and personal fulfillment.

Our Mission Statement

The purpose of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Dayton is to offer adults 50 years or better a wide variety of seminars based on the peer-learning concept and designed to be intellectually stimulating in an informal and non-competitive environment.

We are a Community

We are adults with wide-ranging interests in art, current events, health and fitness, history, literature, music, religion and science.  A curriculum committee selects our curriculum on the basis of member requests, the expertise of moderators, variety and balance.  Moderators include University of Dayton (UD) professors and community professionals who lead peer-to-peer informal discussion seminars that meet once a week for two hours, for four to eight weeks. The summer session is two one-day sessions.

Our Seminars are Non-Credit

There are neither tests nor grades, nor educational requirements. But participation is essential, ranging from keeping up with assigned readings and contributing to seminar discussion to sharing the results of one’s own research. A majority of the seminars are held in the UD River Campus in Building 1700 (the former NCR World Headquarters Bldg), others on the UD main campus with a few at off-site locations, such as the Boonshoft Museum.

An interactive map of  UD campus can be accessed from the related link below. You may also download and print a campus map in PDF format from the link below.

Campus Map (pdf) >>

UDLLI is a Cooperative Venture

We rely on the contributions and participation, both in class and out, of each member.  Members teach seminars, coordinate lecture series, lead small group discussions, organize activities and volunteer projects, serve on the Board of Governors and committees, act as liaisons, help in the office and volunteer for all other tasks that keep us going.

Your suggestions for seminars and activities are not only welcome, they are necessary.  If you would consider coordinating a seminar or activity, please call Special Programs and Continuing Education (937) 229-2347 or (937) 229-2605. No obligation, just discussion!

Becoming a Member of UDLLI is Easy

Registering for seminars is simple and convenient. Visit our registration page for more information. Once you register for a seminar, you automatically become a UDLLI Participating Member for the current academic year. The term of membership conforms to the academic calendar, beginning in September and ending in June.

Friends of the Institute are individuals donating $80 or more each year to support UDLLI’s goals. Life Members are individuals making a one-time donation of $2,000 or more. Distinguished Service Life Members are individuals giving UDLLI extraordinary service. Life and Distinguished Members may attend seminars at no cost.

We are part of the University of Dayton Special Programs and Continuing Education, under the direction of Julie Mitchell, which sponsors lifelong learning programs and professional development. Founded in 1994 as the University of Dayton Institute for Learning in Retirement, we have grown from the original 98 members to more than 1900 members.

Member Benefits

As a UDLLI member, you are invited to participate in UDLLI activities and related Continuing Education sponsored events—Duane W. Chapman Senior Symposium, Senior Fellows graduate/undergraduate audit program, New Horizons Band, Elderhostel and University programs.

As a UD community member, you are invited to participate in UD sponsored activities - lectures, recitals, art and cultural events and enjoy campus privileges such as, use of the faculty Barrett Dining Room, Roesch Library and RecPlex (membership fee required). You’re welcome to shop the UD Bookstore and eat at the campus coffee bars or ArtStreet Cafeé.  For identification, you’ll use your name badge received at your first seminar.

You May Qualify for a Scholarship

If you meet certain financial criteria, you may qualify for a UDLLI scholarship, entitling you to enjoy all UDLLI member benefits and attend seminars at no cost or a reduced cost.  Call Special Programs and Continuing Education at (937) 229-2347 or (937) 229-2605 for additional information.

Parking, and the RTA

During registration, you may request a parking permit to park on campus. If you need a parking permit, please select the appropriate boxes to indicate your parking needs.  Only one parking permit per household please.  Your cooperation will help reduce expenses.

If you have special parking needs, Special Programs and Continuing Education will provide assistance.

If you wish to ride the RTA, the RTA Ride Line (937-425-8300) can provide schedule and senior discount information.

Off-Site Seminars

You are responsible for transportation to and from a seminar held off-site. A UD parking permit is not required.

Are You Interested in Moderating a Seminar?

UDLLI is grateful to its volunteer moderators who share their knowledge and provide a comprehensive curriculum. Moderators become Friends of the Institute for the academic year in which they teach. They and their spouses enjoy member benefits and may attend seminars during the year at no cost. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a moderator, UDLLI would be happy to talk with you. Call Special Programs and Continuing Education, (937) 229-2605 or (937) 229-2347 for more information.

For Questions and Additional Information

UDLLI is interested in helping you attain your lifelong learning goals. We also ask that you consider giving friends and family an opportunity to participate in our lifelong learning institute. Call 937-229-2605 or 937-229-2347 to be added to our mailing list for more information on our programs and offerings, including gift certificates. When registering, please include your e-mail on registration forms. It proves a great way for us to contact seminar members and to help you stay in touch.

Access

The University of Dayton encourages people with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities.  If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please call Continuing Education at (937) 229-2347 or (937) 229-2605 in advance of your participation or visit.

Refund Policy

If it is necessary to cancel a seminar before the session starts and you want a refund, please request it by January 7, 2013. After that time, refunds will not be issued except for emergencies.  However substitution of participants is always acceptable.

Have You Moved?

If you have an address change to report, please contact Special Programs and Continuing Education at 937-229-2605 or 937-229-2347.

Programs and Services

  • Advising, Services and Programs for adults returning or beginning university study. 
  • Senior Fellows Program (persons 60 and over can audit UD Classes for a nominal fee)  Learn More.
  • New Horizons Band (for persons age 50 and over)  Learn More.
  • Financial Strategies for Successful Retirement Learn More
  • Travel Programs (guided by UD Faculty) Learn More

UDLLI Privileges

Your UDLLI Name Badge give you access to:

  1. University Libraries
  2. Barrett Faculty Dining Room in Kennedy Union
  3. RecPlex (membership fee required)
  4. UD Bookstore
  5. ArtStreet Cafe
  6. Travel with UD Faculty