The Debbie & Neal Smatresk OLLI After Five Series

Naming Ceremony and Inaugural Lecture

Thursday, Sept. 8, 5:30pm - 7:00pm Robson Ranch Clubhouse

Debbie and Neal Smatresk will be our guests of honor for this very special evening, which will begin with a brief naming ceremony. Following the ceremony, art crime expert Professor Laura Evans will give the first official Debbie & Neal Smatresk OLLI After Five lecture.

President Neal J. Smatresk joined UNT in 2014 with a vision for leading the University of North Texas to national prominence as the largest, most comprehensive university dedicated to meeting the needs of the dynamic North Texas region. At that time, our lifelong learning program was not yet affiliated with the Bernard Osher Foundation. Within two years, we were approved as the nation's newest Osher Lifelong Learning Institute thanks in large part to the extraordinary efforts of President Smatresk and his incredible wife, Debbie. The Smatresks know well the value of lifelong learning, having been intimately involved with the OLLI program at their previous university. President Smatresk advocated on our behalf to Bernard Osher himself and has always ensured that the program receives the university's full support. Debbie, who is a former OLLI director, has provided invaluable guidance to our staff and has also served on our program's advisory body.

As of this fall, our OLLI After Five lecture series will bear the Smatresks' names, reflecting their steadfast dedication to our members and their commitment to enriching the North Texas community through the joy of lifelong learning. These evening lectures are curated by our Senior Director and are available to all OLLI members at no additional cost. The events include a complimentary selection of wines, beers, cheeses, and crackers.