OLLI Winter 2026_pageturn - Flipbook - Page 27
President’s Letter
Our Fall session was a huge success and, as you know, the classes, study groups, learning trips and other
OLLI offerings are a fascinating mixture across many disciplines.
OLLI recorded its highest membership ever -- 1,292 members -- from September 2024 through August
2025. Give yourself a pat on the back. The no-stress, no-hurry registration system is taking root, as you are
navigating the best way to prioritize your preferences and select interesting programs.
The response to our Fall offerings was so strong that most study groups and trips experienced waiting
lists. Unfortunately, we couldn't accommodate all of your requests. Classes and OLLI Originals have space
available, but the Executive Committee would like to meet the needs of more of you.
To do so we need your help. Fifteen study groups were available in the Fall and another 10 this Winter.
We’d like to increase that in the future to make more learning opportunities available to you. But we need
more members to volunteer to facilitate, moderate and lead these discussions. You don’t have to be an
expert in any subject. All you need is an interest in a topic and a willingness to step forward.
If you’re interested in being a study group facilitator, please contact our SG chairs: Gary Nelson at
garynelson1018@gmail.com or Denise Hocker at seanchai7769@yahoo.com.
I’ll thank you in advance because I’m con昀椀dent that together we can make OLLI even bigger and better.
From our family to everyone in the OLLI family, I wish you a happy holiday season and healthy new year.
Shelley Epstein, OLLI President
OLLI was awarded the
Turner Center for
Entrepreneurship's
2025 Community Partner
of the Year.
Chris Youngmark, Director
of Peoria Next, announced
the award, describing
OLLI members as thinkers,
travelers, teachers, and
doers who don't just learn,
but explore.
OLLI President Shelley
Epstein and Vice President
Laurie Bailey were joined
by Past Presidents Gary
Nelson and Diane Rock to
accept the award.
PRESIDENT’S LETTER
27
