2026 Osher Institutes National Conference

Plenary Session Descriptions

 

Monday, 4 - 5:15pm 

Welcome to the 2026 Osher Institutes National Conference

Catch the energy and excitement of the 2026 Osher Institutes National Conference. Hear inspiring words from The Bernard Osher Foundation. Gain insights as we share the “State of the OLLI Network.”  Get inspired by the exciting programs happening around the Network as we present the first set of Woo-Hoo! entries. Learn all you need to know to have a successful and engaging conference experience.

Presenters

Mary Bitterman, President, The Bernard Osher Foundation 

Kari Fagin, Associate Director, National Resource Center for Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes

Steve Thaxton, Executive Director, National Resource Center for Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes 

 

Tuesday, 1:10 - 2:15pm

Keynote Address
Unretirement: Finding Purpose in the Next Chapter

Retirement is being rewritten. Today’s older adults are redefining what comes next, seeking purpose, connection, and continued contribution well beyond “traditional” retirement. Journalist and author Christopher Farrell explores the rise of “unretirement,” drawing on data, research, and stories to illuminate how Baby Boomers are reshaping later life. Farrell shares insights from his reporting and books, offering a deeper understanding of the motivations driving this shift and a fresh perspective on how lifelong learning programs can support purpose-driven engagement in this evolving stage of life.

Presenter

Christopher Farrell
Senior economics contributor, Marketplace and Minnesota Public Radio
Author of Purpose and a Paycheck, Unretirement, The New Frugality
Columnist for PBS Next Avenue, Star Tribune, and host of the Office Hours podcast

 

Wednesday, 11:30am - 12:45pm

Tell Me a Story: Narratives that Strengthen Your OLLI

Storytelling is one of the most powerful ways OLLIs can promote their programs, strengthen community, and demonstrate their value. In this engaging closing session, national award-winning storyteller and coach Scott Whitehair will share practical strategies for finding, shaping, and delivering authentic stories that resonate with prospective members, university leaders, and community partners. He will show how storytelling can become a core organizational strategy, not just a marketing tool. A panel of OLLI directors will share examples of how stories highlight their Institutes’ impact, strengthen university connections, and transform lives. The session will also include the announcement of the Newt Minow Award winner, recognition of the final “Woo-hoo” winners, and inspiring closing remarks. Stay through the end—you’ll leave energized, inspired, and ready to share your story.

Presenter:

Scott Whitehair
Award-Winning Storyteller & Storytelling Coach
Teacher, Event Producer, and Founder of Story Lab Chicago