Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

Dear UCR Osher members and friends of Osher,

Welcome to Osher at UCR’s fall 2023 term. I am so pleased to be joining you all again for a new year and appreciate your continued involvement and interest on our vibrant learning community.

UCR’s Osher program has seen a lot of changes over the last 6 months. With the retirement of UCR Palm Desert executive director, Tamara Hedges, we have now welcomed our new UCR Palm Desert executive director, Agam Patel, who is uniquely qualified for this role. Many of you already know Agam, either from our special events, our programs, or through special events — because Agam had a hand in helping out center thrive ever since he began working here in 2009. He has also been an ardent supporter of Osher since day one, and Osher staff are thrilled he is at the helm.

UCR Osher has also welcomed program coordinator, Rianne Bui, who is leading services to our Riverside campus Osher members under my direction. Rianne is an amazing new part of our team and I hope you will all take the chance to get to know her in class.

Welcome back to continuing Osher members, and greetings to new (and prospective) members! We are adults with wide-ranging interests in history, literature, the natural and social sciences, fine arts and special events. The 2023-2024 membership year will be an opportunity to continue rebuild Osher at UCR with in-person courses and events on both the Riverside and Palm Desert campuses. We will also offer online courses for those who prefer to learn from home or wish to continue taking courses while they are abroad. There is truly something for everyone this fall at Osher at UCR. Please help us continue to offer quality educational programming for mature adults by renewing your membership and signing up for courses today!

We know many of you remain concerned about COVID-19 and in-person courses and gatherings. Looking ahead to fall, as always, the safety and well-being of our community remains a top priority. When on campus, the use of face coverings indoors are strongly recommended for all individuals who are up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations and required for anyone who is not up to date on vaccinations.

Inside you will find a listing of the Fall 2023 courses and events to start the membership year. As John Dewey said, “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself." I look forward to taking this journey with you ...

Johnna Norris

Director, UCR Osher Lifelong Learning Institute