Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Towson University provides learning opportunities to expand knowledge, gain insights into current events, and access social and cultural activities in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. There are no entrance requirements, just bring your curiosity and love of learning.
Founded in 1999 as the Auburn Society and taking its name from its original home in the historic Auburn House on the Towson University campus, the former Auburn Society became the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in 2006 when it was awarded a grant from the Bernard Osher Foundation. The Osher Foundation supports a national network of lifelong learning institutes on university campuses from Maine to Hawaii.
In spring 2009, The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Towson University was awarded $1 million endowment by the Bernard Osher Foundation after having received $100,000 grants from the Osher Foundation for each of the three preceding years.
Quick Contact: Tracy Jacobs, Director, tjacobs AT_TOWSON, 410-704-3437
2024 Summer Lecture Series
The lecture series begins on June 5 and is open to both Osher members and non-Osher members. Registration is a flat rate of $75 per person for the entire series. Each lecture is ~90 minutes long, including Q & A.
The schedule includes one online-only lecture with the remaining in-person lectures taking place in the College of Liberal Arts (CLA) Building at Towson University unless otherwise noted. Parking in the adjacent Towsontown Garage is included. Registrants will receive directions and parking information before the start of the Summer Series.
View the summer lecture series course list (PDF)
- The History of the Port of Baltimore with Jack Burkert
- Christian Nationalism, the Capitol Riot, and the Growing Threat to American Pluralism with Matthew Taylor
- The Captain, “Pop” Warner, and the Carlisle Indian School with Jacqui Hedberg
- Indigenous Americans in Statuary Hall with Jacqui Hedberg
- Located at Edenwald: History of Ekphrastic Poetry with Michael Salcman
- Online Only: Taking a Bite Out of Pop Culture: 50 Years of “Jaws” with Arnold Blumberg
- Effects of a Changing Climate on Public Health with Michael Allen
- South Africa from a Rural Perspective with David Berger
- The Bollywood Industry: History and Current Trends with Enakshi Roy
Membership fees are $60 per person. Members can participate in all Osher activities and use TU’s Cook Library, University Store and campus dining facilities.
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Contact Information
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Towson, MD 21204