WELCOME TO OLLI AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN!
DEAR UT OLLI MEMBER,
We are pleased that you have chosen to take advantage of the wonderful learning and social opportunities available to you as a member of UT OLLI. Your membership offers a wide variety of thought-provoking lectures and seminars as well as social activities and special events. As members, we hope you will become actively involved by serving on a committee or supporting a program initiative. Committee work provides an avenue to develop friendships, determine topics to be explored and plan experiential activities and exciting social events.
The purpose of this handbook is to provide basic information about UT OLLI to help you take full advantage of your program. Information included:
• UT OLLI Mission
• UT OLLI Code of Conduct
• Nondiscrimination Policy
• Classroom Etiquette
• University Affiliation
• The Osher Foundation
• UT OLLI Office Information
• Your Membership
• Getting Involved
• UT OLLI Faculty
• Important Policies and Practices
• Registration/Enrollment Tips
• Money Matters
Please take time to review the numerous ways described in this handbook to participate, share skills and expertise, voice an opinion, or ask questions.
The UT OLLI staff are always willing and eager to help with any questions you may have; the office is located on the first floor, suite number 1.108C. Contact us by phone at 512.471.3124 or email utolli@austin.utexas.edu
Thank you for joining UT OLLI. We look forward to getting to know you.
Sincerely,
Julie Martenson, M.Ed., Ph.D. UT OLLI Director
UT OLLI MISSION
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at The University of Texas at Austin (UT OLLI) seeks to provide a variety of engaging education and social opportunities for adult learners from a wide range of backgrounds; where University partners and members work in tandem to enable an environment that fosters meaningful exchange, engenders understanding of self and others while gaining a broader sense of community and global perspective.
UT OLLI CODE OF CONDUCT
UT OLLI strives to create an environment that maximizes enjoyment and the learning experience for all members while in the classroom, collaborating with members in meetings, and during all other UT OLLIhosted activities. Many of our programs offer a forum for the lively and even passionate exchange of views. To that end, our community follows principles of courtesy and mutual respect that promote reasoned discourse and intellectual honesty. Opposing viewpoints are honored and appreciated to preserve the dignity of others.
Code of conduct transgressions include threatening, abusive, or discriminatory language or behavior; disruptive conduct, including preventing listeners from hearing others; harassment; coercing attention; obscenity; defamation; or other violations of University policies.
UT OLLI members or instructors who do not adhere to the principles of courtesy and mutual respect may be removed from the class or denied the privilege of membership or teaching. The University of Texas at Austin reserves the right to decline membership or remove any participant from the program at any time for conduct detrimental to the well-being of other participants or staff who compromise the program’s effectiveness, enjoyment, and value.
COVID INFORMATION
UT OLLI follows The University of Texas at Austin COVID policies and procedures. We recommend that you please stay home when feeling ill.
Access this University of Texas at Austin link for up-to-date COVID information: https://www.utsystem.edu/sites/covid-19
NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY
The University of Texas at Austin (University) is committed to providing an educational and working environment for students, faculty, and staff that is free from discrimination based on race, color, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, gender expression, religion, age, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other legally protected basis. This Policy prohibits such conduct.
More information about this policy can be found at https://catalog.utexas.edu/general-information/appendices/ appendix-i/
CLASSROOM ETIQUETTE
In-Person Etiquette
Classroom etiquette is an important way of showing appreciation for speakers and respect for other UT OLLI Austin members.
• Please arrive on time. If you arrive after the door is closed, please enter quietly, and sit toward the back.
• If seating is limited, please allow registered attendees to seat first.
• Please silence and refrain from using your phone.
• Follow the lead of the speaker when asking questions. Some speakers answer questions throughout, others prefer to hold questions until the end. When there is a large audience, try to make sure everyone has the opportunity to ask questions. Please wait to receive a microphone when asking questions so both in-person and online members can hear the question.
• Use electronic devices sparingly. If you prefer to take notes on a laptop or tablet, please plan to sit closer to the back to reduce the distraction to others.
• Please leave back rows open for members with mobility impairment.
• Members are encouraged to wear masks if feeling ill.
Online Class Etiquette
To ensure everyone has an enjoyable online experience:
• If you are attending a meeting: please mute your microphone when not in use. Keep background noise to a minimum.
• If you are attending a meeting: please position your camera properly, making sure your webcam is in a stable position and focused on eye level.
• Please limit distractions and avoid multitasking during the presentation.
• Please wait for instructions from the class monitor or speaker for the process they choose for asking questions.
UNIVERSITY AFFILIATION
In the spring of 1989, Dr. Thomas M. Hatfield, Dean of Continuing Education at The University of Texas at Austin, called together a small group of active retirees and invited them to assist the University in designing a new continuing education learning activity for the Central Texas area. Dr. Hatfield announced that the new program would be devoted to individuals who were fifty-five years of age and older. UT OLLI LAMP (Learning Activities for Mature People) began accepting members and hosting individual lectures on a variety of topics during the 1989-90 academic year. An organizing principle of UT OLLI LAMP was that most of the committee work would be accomplished by volunteers and speakers participating without compensation.
Within five years, UT OLLI LAMP grew well beyond its capacity and developed an extensive waitlist. In 1995, to help meet that demand, UT OLLI SAGE (Seminars for Adult Growth and Enrichment) was launched by the Division of Continuing Education. The program had similar characteristics to UT OLLI LAMP: three, six-week sessions, member-driven, with no compensation for instructors, but the curriculum format was more in-depth, six-week seminars covering a single subject, unlike UT OLLI LAMP’s single lecture series. A UT employee served as a program administrator. A third program, UT OLLI QUEST, was established in 2000. Its unique quality was that it featured both lectures and seminars. Demand for UT OLLI QUEST also grew beyond program capacity so, in fall 2005, the fourth program, UT OLLI FORUM was established, and in 2010 UT OLLI NOVA was created. In 2022 a merge of UT OLLI LAMP and UT OLLI QUEST occurred instating a new program named UT OLLI DISCOVER. This new program offers both seminars and lectures.
UT OLLI SCHOLARS was added in 2019, allowing members to attend all program activities. Additionally we introduced an online-only program in 2024-2025 accommodating members outside the Austin area.
UT OLLI is part of Extended Education Ventures and is housed at the Thompson Conference Center on the University’s main campus.
THE THOMPSON CONFERENCE CENTER
Named for the late Joe C. Thompson of Dallas, an alumnus of the University who, at the time of his death in 1961, was Chairman of the Southland Corporation and a member of The University of Texas System Board of Regents. The Thompson Conference Center (TCC) has served as an academic link between the University and the community since 1970. As the focal point of The University of Texas at Austin’s continuing education efforts, the Center’s mission is to provide excellent conference facilities, services, and programs for people to continue their educational development and personal enrichment.
ABOUT THE OSHER FOUNDATION
Thanks to the generosity of the Bernard Osher Foundation, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at The University of Texas at Austin is part of a network of 125 OLLI programs, located at universities and colleges in all 50 states including the District of Columbia. The Osher Foundation was established in 1977 by Bernard Osher, a respected businessman, and community leader. The Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life through support of higher education and the arts for adult learners who wish to pursue lifelong scholarship and community engagement.
Bernard Osher, a native of Maine, managed the family hardware and plumbing supply business before heading to New York to work for Oppenheimer & Company. He moved to California and became a founding director of World Savings and its parent company Golden West Financial. He bought the San Francisco auction house Butterfield & Butterfield in 1970 and sold it in 1999 to eBay. World Savings merged with Wachovia Corporation in 2006, which was in turn acquired by Wells Fargo in 2008. In 1977 he established the Bernard Osher Foundation, headquartered in San Francisco, which contributes to higher education, the arts, and integrative medical research.
Osher was impressed by the Fromm Institute for Lifelong Learning at the University of San Francisco and approached the Senior Program at the University of Southern Maine (USM) with his interest in supporting noncredit programs for older adults. He awarded USM an endowment grant in 2001 to expand its program, which was renamed the first Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.
UT OLLI ENDOWMENT
In 2006 The University of Texas at Austin was awarded an initial onemillion-dollar endowment. At that time the University’s existing lifelong learning programs became the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. Another one-million-dollar endowment was granted in 2015 based on program success and proof of sustainability.
USE OF TECHNOLOGY
All members of the University community are encouraged to use electronic communication for University-related activities and to facilitate the efficient exchange of useful information. The UT OLLI office and program leaders regularly send informational correspondence and reminders to members via the provided email addresses.
Scheduled training opportunities in the UT OLLI Workspace will be available for members who would like to increase their comfort and skill when using the internet to research committee work, register for a class, or update their UT OLLI profiles. However, access to the University’s electronic communication services is a privilege, and certain responsibilities accompany that privilege. Members who use the available workstation machines are expected to use them ethically and responsibly, following general guidelines based on common sense, decency, and civility applied to the networked computing environment.
TCC Audio Visual Policies and Procedures
Any A/V equipment and/or setup changes must be done by TCC or UT OLLI staff. Damage to or loss of any equipment may incur additional fees to the member or program. Zoom is the UT OLLI preferred video conference platform and will be utilized for online UT OLLI events to include online classes, committee meetings, and social events. More information about Zoom is included in the following pages.
ABOUT YOUR MEMBERSHIP
The UT OLLI learning community is comprised of four programs:
UT OLLI SAGE, UT OLLI DISCOVER, UT OLLI FORUM, and UT OLLI NOVA; each meet on different days of the week and at different times. A UT OLLI SCHOLARS membership allows attendance in all four program’s curricula offerings, including social events, and committee participation.
UT OLLI annual membership includes one of the four programs, or UT OLLI SCHOLARS, and is comprised of three six-week sessions: fall, winter, and spring; with additional online and summer programming open to all registered UT OLLI members. The membership year extends from September 1 through August 31.
Membership Benefits
• Potential to contribute to and participate in a welcoming community of learners remotely and in person
• Introduction to numerous UT OLLI special interest groups (SIGS)
• Rewarding volunteer experiences
• Access to on-site Under the Oaks Café and other campus eateries: https://housing.utexas.edu/dining
• Annual UT OLLI Butler School of Music spring concert
• Access to recorded seminars and lectures.
• Exclusive opportunities to attend guided tours of various campus departments and collections.
• 10% course discount at The Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center: https://www.wildflower.org/
• Discounted UT Recreational Sports Complex membership
Name Badge
New members will receive a name badge. Members are asked to wear name badges while attending in-person UT OLLI classes, field trips, and socials. Replacement badges may be ordered through the UT OLLI office for purchase. Please note, name badge magnets can interrupt the functionality of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) or pacemakers and should not be worn close to devices. Plastic sleeves may be used as an alternative to holding name badges in place. Please inquire in the UT OLLI office for assistance.
Events
Official events are collaboratively planned by UT OLLI staff and committee members. Events may include dinner and lunch socials, happy hours, off-campus field trips and travel. Field trips can vary from easy, moderate, or strenuous activity levels requiring that members individually determine their ability to participate. Field trip participants are expected to leave and return with the group.
UT OLLI members with food allergies or special diet requirements will be responsible for contacting the caterer or restaurant requesting clarification on food preparation and ingredients. Members must assume responsibility for their safety and dietary restrictions.
Unofficial events and special interest groups are not affiliated with the University and are exclusively organized by members and considered extra-curricular. These groups may include supper clubs, wine tastings, in-town tours, singles clubs, live music outings, and more.
Fees
SABBATICALS: A member may pay $50 to take a one-year sabbatical from the UT OLLI program. Sabbatical membership guarantees priority renewal for the next renewal period.
PROGRAM TRANSFERS: If a member has paid the membership fee for their current program and decides to switch to a different program, there will be a $35 transfer fee, pending availability.
ANNUAL PROGRAM MEMBERSHIP FEES: A comparison chart for annual membership fees, and program schedules is available at https://olli.utexas.edu/join.
CREDIT CARD FEES: Applicable credit card fees will be included in all credit card transactions. Credit card refunds will be given according to event requirements, and less the credit card transaction fee.
GETTING INVOLVED
Volunteering
Volunteers are the heartbeat of UT OLLI and the reason the organization remains vibrant and relevant to program membership. Volunteering provides an additional way to meet new friends and become engaged in your program. We encourage all members to share their time and talents, as program committees are always seeking new ideas.
Members may choose from a variety of volunteer opportunities, such as serving in a leadership role on one of the standing committees, moderating online lectures or seminars, teaching, taking photos, greeting members, introducing speakers, supporting Q&A during class time, or writing a program newsletter.
Committees are encouraged to meet once a month for an hour during the program year. Program chairs are encouraged to keep calendars clear over the summer months so that everyone serving on committees can enjoy a well-deserved break.
Members who serve on a committee or volunteer in any capacity must be current-year UT OLLI members.
Please see the appendix for Member Website Quick Reference Guide.
Executive Committee
The Executive Committee is a standing committee that serves and represents program membership in partnership with The University of Texas at Austin and UT OLLI administration. The committee is comprised of the Chair, Chair-Elect, Member-at-Large, Secretary, Treasurer, other standing committee chairs, and the UT OLLI administrative representative. The primary role is to facilitate the functions and goals of standing and ad hoc committees; to ensure an enriching and high-quality UT OLLI learning experience. Executive committees are essential components of each UT OLLI program, their members plan and execute programs and activities that comply with and support the UT OLLI mission. Committee members are responsible for understanding applicable UT policies and procedures as well as the committee’s roles and responsibilities. Voting members of the Executive Committee are the officers of the Annual Meeting (chairs of the standing committees, and members at large). Each standing committee is eligible to have one ‘voting’ representative.
To be eligible to be appointed and serve as a member of the Executive Committee, an individual must be a current member of the Program.
*Two co-chairs are recommended, when possible, for all committees, as this divides chair responsibilities between two people.
Key Responsibilities:
• In coordination with UT OLLI administration, the committee sets the dates for Executive Committee meetings.
• Executive Committee meetings must be held on campus or online and include the applicable staff member. Exceptions to this policy must be approved by the UT OLLI Director.
• Supports all standing and temporary ad hoc committee functions.
• Within the policies and practices of the University, the executive committee may provide recommendations for program improvement to the UT OLLI Director and/or membership.
• The Executive Committee shall meet monthly from September through May on a schedule agreed upon by the UT OLLI Director. The Executive Committee, after adequate notice, shall meet at the time and place designated by the UT OLLI office. All official meetings are scheduled annually.
• Approves all Excellence Fund Expenditures and submits associated documentation to the UT OLLI Director for final approval and office processing.
• Executive Committee Chairs preside at meetings of the Assembly and during Executive Committee meetings, including managing other responsibilities common to program roles and associated tasks.
• The Chair, or designee, shall prepare and distribute a written agenda for each meeting of the Executive Committee.
• The committee is responsible for agenda development, minute approval, and publishing on CAMPsite for all program members.
• The committee is responsible for program approval of all Excellence Fund expenditures before submission to the UT OLLI Director for final approval and processing.
• The Chair is an ex officio member of all program committees.
• The Chair or his/her designee attends all UT OLLI Council meetings.
• Assures all committee expenditures are pre-approved, within budget, and supports the UT OLLI Mission and Goals.
• The Chair, in partnership with other Executive Committee members, works to ensure that all activities are within the scope of program roles and comply with the Procedures and Practices described in the UT OLLI Framework document.
Excellence Fund Committee
The Excellence Fund Committee is a standing committee that serves and represents program membership in partnership with The University of Texas at Austin and UT OLLI administration. The committee is comprised of the Chair, Program Treasurer, if applicable, and at least three other program members. The primary committee role is to ensure fiduciary responsibility and stewardship of program excellence funds on behalf of the entire program membership. Excellence Fund committees are responsible for generating sufficient supplemental funding to assure the long-term growth and sustainability of the UT OLLI program.
*Two co-chairs are recommended, when possible, for all committees, as this divides chair responsibilities between two people.
Key Responsibilities:
• In coordination with the UT OLLI administration, the committee sets dates for Excellence Fund committee meetings.
• The Chair, or designee, attends Executive Committee meetings and provides reports of committee activities and Fund status.
• The committee is responsible for agenda development and minute approval.
• Committee members are responsible for soliciting and making expenditure recommendations on behalf of the membership to the Executive Committee; including drafting proposals that support programmatic activities for final approval and processing by UT OLLI administration.
• In partnership with UT OLLI administration, the committee assures accurate and timely accounting of the financial activities of the Fund, maintaining detailed accounting of gifts, expenditures, and current balance.
• The committee identifies ways to assure adequate fund balances that support appropriate member activities.
• The committee, in partnership with Executive Committee members and UT OLLI administration, works to ensure all activities are within the scope of program roles and comply with the provisions given in the UT OLLI Excellence Fund Guidelines.
Curriculum Committee
The Curriculum Committee is a standing committee that serves and represents program membership in partnership with The University of Texas at Austin and UT OLLI administration. The committee is comprised of a nominated chair who serves a two-year term with other interested volunteers. The primary role of the committee is to solicit, develop, and facilitate content that reflects the interests of program membership.
*Two co-chairs are recommended, when possible, for all committees, as this divides chair responsibilities between two people.
Key Responsibilities:
• In coordination with the UT OLLI administration, the committee sets dates for Curriculum Committee meetings.
• Plans curriculum content that compliments member interests.
• Provides appropriate inclusions in curriculum planning pages that support and assure a quality instructor experience.
• Reviews and adjusts content as appropriate based on the seminar and/or lecture surveys.
• Maintains accurate and timely inclusions, updates, and submissions on the UT OLLI website curriculum planning pages.
• Coordinates plans with the UT OLLI staff representative.
• Committee chairs ensure other committee members are crosstrained and have hands-on experience using curriculum planning pages.
• In partnership with event committees, identify and plan speaker recognition events.
• Recruits other qualified members to lead and serve on the Curriculum Committee.
• Ensures that new and existing members receive appropriate mentoring/training in the processes for recruiting seminar and/or lecture speakers.
• Assures data entry, including seminar and lecture descriptions, course catalogs, and schedules that accurately and comprehensively describe sessions for the membership on the member web pages (CAMPsite).
• The Chair, or designee, will attend all Executive Committee meetings to provide updates, solicit ideas and feedback, and report ongoing progress or need.
• Collaborates and enthusiastically supports other committee members to source and recruit excellent speakers in a wide variety of new, thought-provoking, and interesting curriculum content.
• Collaborates with the Events Committee to identify field trip opportunities that support and enrich curriculum content.
• Assesses the ability of speakers to meet program standards when presenting curriculum content to the membership.
• Submits proposals for new seminars and lectures to the committee for approval. Approves similar proposals from fellow committee members.
• Assures timeliness and accuracy when meeting program deadlines, updates, and postings.
• Collaborates with UT OLLI staff and applicable event committees to invite and appropriately honor speakers at lunches or dinners.
Events Committee
The Events Committee is a standing committee that serves and represents the program in partnership with The University of Texas at Austin and UT OLLI administration. The committee is comprised of an appointed Chair and other interested volunteers. The primary role is to complement and support the functions and goals of standing and ad hoc committees to assure an enriching and high-quality UT OLLI learning experience. Events committees are responsible for planning extra-curricular activities and social events for the membership in compliance with UT OLLI and University policies and procedures. The committee chair will seek to recruit/retain three to five or more committee members with an interest or relevant experience. Committee members are expected to demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to UT OLLI and its goals.
*Two co-chairs are recommended, when possible, for all committees, as this divides chair responsibilities between two people.
Key Responsibilities:
• In coordination with the UT OLLI administration, the committee sets dates for Events Committee meetings.
• The Chair, or designee, attends Executive Committee meetings as a voting member and provides reports of committee activities.
• Plans appropriate experiential activities based on curriculum and for building the UT OLLI community.
• Works closely with the UT OLLI Events Coordinator by planning events that comply with all UT Policies and Procedures.
• In partnership with curriculum committees plan appropriate events that recognize speakers’ contributions to the UT OLLI program and members.
• Assures events are within budget and support the UT OLLI Mission and Goals.
• Informally gathers opinions from UT OLLI members on the value and quality of events and social activities.
• Responds to and supports executive committee-assigned tasks for specific purposes or events.
Webmaster Committee
The Webmaster Committee is a standing committee that serves and represents the larger program membership in partnership with The University of Texas at Austin and UT OLLI administration. The committee is unique in that it is comprised of a representative from each of the four UT OLLI programs. The primary role is to facilitate the use of technology that supports the functions and goals of standing and ad hoc committees; to assure an enriching and high-quality UT OLLI learning experience.
*Two co-chairs are recommended, when possible, for all committees, as this divides chair responsibilities between two people.
Key Responsibilities:
• In coordination with UT OLLI administration, the committee sets dates for Webmaster Committee meetings.
• The committee is responsible for agenda development and minute approval.
• Committee members identify problems and solicit ideas to enhance and improve the functionality of web pages (CAMPsite).
• Committee members collaborate to identify solutions and work closely with programming staff and UT OLLI administration to follow any proposed change through development, testing, and implementation.
• Plan, develop and assist in establishing training opportunities for program leadership and members to encourage full use of the website functionally that supports UT OLLI programmatic functions and goals.
• Enables program leadership to provide timely and accurate information to members that support UT OLLI programmatic functions and goals which may include course catalogs, schedules, and registration for socials, field trips, and special interest groups.
• Attends and reports on projects and activities at monthly Executive Committee meetings.
Membership Committee
The Membership Committee is a standing committee that serves and represents the larger program membership including new and prospective members in partnership with The University of Texas at Austin and UT OLLI administration. The committee is comprised of an appointed Chair and other interested volunteers. The primary role is to support the enrollment of current and new members including planning and implementing new member orientation events, ongoing mentoring, assimilating members into the UT OLLI community, and hospitality. Membership Committees are responsible for attracting and retaining members by assessing interests and recommending activities that encourage participation in all aspects of UT OLLI, including fostering a welcoming community among the program and prospective members.
*Two co-chairs are recommended, when possible, for all committees, as this divides chair responsibilities between two people.
Key Responsibilities:
• In coordination with the UT OLLI administration, the committee sets dates for Membership Committee meetings.
• Conducts activities to inform and welcome current and prospective members that encourage ongoing membership and contribution to UT OLLI.
• Plans and assists in activities to greet and inform new members.
• Contacts members, as needed, to create, promote and sustain a friendly, and welcoming community.
• Assists in recruiting new members.
• Responds to and supports executive committee-assigned tasks for specific purposes or events.
• Assures all committee expenditures are approved, within budget, and support UT OLLI Mission and Goals.
• Recruits other members to serve on the Membership Committee.
• Facilitates opportunities that welcome, inform, and engage new members.
• Plans, develops, and assists in establishing a welcoming and informative New Member Orientation at the beginning of the fall session.
• Pools resources and ideas with Executive Committee members to plan a New Member Orientation that is fully representative of the program.
• Collaborates with UT OLLI staff to provide quality and comprehensive informative materials, including packets for new members.
• Collaborates with other committees to facilitate new member connections and involvement beyond orientation.
• Establishes plans and practices that encourage community within and across UT OLLI programs.
• Chairs, or their designees, are expected to attend and report at monthly Executive Committee meetings.
Community Outreach Committee
The Community Outreach Committee is responsible for identifying and helping to broaden UT OLLI membership and curriculum. The Community Outreach is comprised of one representative from each program, UT OLLI SAGE, UT OLLI DISCOVER, UT OLLI NOVA, and UT OLLI FORUM.
*Two co-chairs are recommended, when possible, for all committees, as this divides chair responsibilities between two people.
Key Responsibilities:
• The committee chair will seek to recruit and retain four committee members with interest and/or relevant experience.
• Will work to identify individuals from a range of cultures, groups, and backgrounds to speak to the UT OLLI membership.
• The Community Outreach in partnership with the UT OLLI Curriculum Coordinator will schedule, implement, and facilitate appropriate lectures that support the Mission and Goals of UT OLLI and the University.
• The committee will plan a maximum of one lecture during each program session (fall, winter and spring), additional content must be prior approved by the UT OLLI Director.
• Content must be respectful and cognizant of the interests and sensitivities of the UT OLLI community.
• Responds and supports executive committee-assigned tasks for specific purposes or events.
• Assures all committee expenditures are approved, within budget, and support UT OLLI Mission and Goals.
MEMBER INPUT
UT OLLI Council
UT OLLI Council is a non-governing collaborative body composed of the Chair and Chair-Elect from each program: UT OLLI SAGE, UT OLLI FORUM, UT OLLI DISCOVER, and UT OLLI NOVA, including UT OLLI administration. This advisory council is tasked with promoting programs and teaching methodologies that augment overall program quality. This is achieved through the utilization of relationships, facilities, and program resources. Their ultimate objective is to identify and support educational and institutional issues of importance to members of all UT OLLI programs.
Executive Working Group (Chairs Meeting)
The Executive Working Group is composed of the current Chair, or a designee, from each UT OLLI program: UT OLLI SAGE, UT OLLI FORUM, UT OLLI DISCOVER, and UT OLLI NOVA, in addition to the UT OLLI Director. Meetings are scheduled as necessary. The small structure of this group allows for increased engagement and collaboration to support the functions and goals of standing and ad hoc committees, therefore representing the larger program membership; to assure an enriching and high-quality UT OLLI learning experience.
Collaborative Workdays
Collaborative workdays are organic as far as content and schedule and are determined by need and interest. Workdays include representatives from all programs and appropriate UT OLLI staff. Attendance is by invitation and based on the topic and the individual member’s area of expertise. Workdays provide a greater opportunity to meet new people, share ideas, and collaboratively plan; to facilitate the functions and goals of standing and ad hoc committees, therefore representing the larger program membership, and to assure an enriching and high-quality UT OLLI learning interest.
Ad Hoc Committees
Ad hoc committees are created to address a single project. These committees may be limited in scope and disband once their task is accomplished. The committee composition is typically based on interests or project. The committee may exist at the program level or work across UT OLLI programs to accomplish more inclusive tasks.
Program Assembly Meetings
Assembly meetings are conducted by all four programs in the spring. During meetings, Executive Committee Chairs deliver brief annual reports and present the nominated slate of new officers for a final vote of approval by current members.
UT OLLI FACULTY
Who are our speakers?
UT OLLI faculty and presenters are comprised of faculty members from The University of Texas at Austin, other local universities and colleges, subject matter specialists throughout the state, and among UT OLLI members.
Who chooses our speakers?
Each UT OLLI program has curriculum committees that select speakers.
Are speakers compensated?
All speakers volunteer their time to organize, prepare, and deliver presentations. Speakers benefit from sharing information, experiences, and expertise with uniquely engaged audience members. UT OLLI membership conscientiously works to acknowledge the commitment of these special volunteers and express appreciation for their contributions.
• Reserved parking is provided for each speaker at the Thompson Conference Center during scheduled presentations.
• Presenters who serve as seminar directors are recognized at Speaker Appreciation events.
• Speakers are encouraged to sell their original works after a lecture or seminar. Books by authors, CDs from musicians, and even works of art may be made available for sale through special arrangements with the UT OLLI office.
• On occasion, honoraria or grants to colleges, departments, or other entities are provided, following University policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Speakers are granted a one-time guest pass to attend a session of their choosing, valid only during the same program year and pending availability.
IMPORTANT POLICIES
& PRACTICES
Recorded Content
Select online lectures and seminars will be recorded (provided permission from the speaker) for the enjoyment of UT OLLI members. Speakers will be given advance notice before any use outside of this stated purpose.
Other uses may include sharing portions of recordings for marketing or communications purposes. Content outside of the originally stated purpose would only be used following given permission. Publications of any type affiliated with UT OLLI must be approved by the UT OLLI office prior to distribution.
Members are asked to please refrain from sharing links to live webinars or recorded sessions with non-UT OLLI members.
• Our volunteer speakers have graciously signed written agreements that current UT OLLI members may enjoy live sessions and recorded content.
• Additional use must be cleared by the office as it could be in violation of that agreement and damage our partnerships with speakers.
• Sharing links compromises program security.
Cancellations and Delays
CANCELLATIONS DUE TO WEATHER OR EMERGENCY
Emergency closures of the University can result in cancellations and delayed starts of UT OLLI programs. Whenever The University of Texas at Austin decides to close the University for the day or delay the start of classes due to inclement weather or other emergencies, the details of the closure are posted online at https://emergency.utexas.edu/.
Additionally, local news stations typically announce and broadcast University closures.
In the event of a closure, scheduled UT OLLI programming will be canceled for the day, and future programming will remain on schedule. In the event of a delay, any programming that is scheduled to begin before the end of the delay will be canceled while all programming scheduled to begin after the delay will remain as scheduled.
Every attempt is made to provide make-up opportunities when programming is interrupted by a University closure or delay. However, it is not always feasible to provide make-up sessions and there is no guarantee of rescheduling.
SESSION CANCELLATIONS NOT DUE TO WEATHER OR EMERGENCY
On rare occasions, there may be a cancellation of a lecture or seminar due to unforeseen circumstances. Rescheduling will be determined based on speaker and scheduling availability.
Special Enrollment Provisions
The spouse or partner of a current member may join a UT OLLI program at any time during the program year. The membership fee will be determined at the discretion of the UT OLLI Director if the Special Enrollment Provisions circumstance is applied.
A seminar coordinator that is a non-member (someone who has organized a six-week seminar either by speaking throughout the session or by organizing other speakers around a common theme) may request membership during the next renewal period and is determined based on program availability.
Supplemental Class Materials
To implement best teaching andragogy there are several tools available that support academic instruction and provide for a quality student learning experience. By prior arrangement, classrooms are equipped with document cameras, projectors, computers, laser pointers, whiteboards, and flip charts.
Hearing assist devices are available in the UT OLLI office and may be checked out at no cost for the program day.
CAMPsite is a proprietary database created and used exclusively by UT OLLI that supports lecture, seminar, event planning, class registration, supplemental materials, and announcements to registered members.
To conserve resources supplemental materials may be provided online. Printed materials may be available in limited quantities upon approval by the UT OLLI Director.
UT OLLI is part of the University and is required to follow all policies related to protecting intellectual property. For more information: https://deanofstudents.utexas.edu/conduct/.
Refunds
PROGRAM REFUNDS
A member may request a refund of the annual membership fee, less a $35 processing fee at any time through September 15. Refunds will not be processed after September 15.
EVENT AND TRIP REFUNDS
Many events and trips are available at an added cost to UT OLLI members. If an event or trip is canceled due to weather, campus emergency, or lack of participation refunds will be granted when possible.
A member may request a refund for an event or trip by contacting the UT OLLI office. A $10 processing fee will be assessed, and the remainder refunded. No refunds will be granted after the published deadline for an event or trip.
Scholarships
Limited scholarships are available through participating UT OLLI programs. Full scholarships are awarded by application and approval, based on availability. Applicant names are kept confidential. A scholarship application may be found on the UT OLLI website at https://olli.utexas.edu/. To apply, go to the ‘Prospective Members’ or ‘Current Members’ tab and select ‘Scholarship Application’. Then fill out and submit the form. Scholarships are not available for the UT OLLI Scholars program at this time.
Guest Policy
ACADEMIC
Guests are welcome based on seating availability. Registered members will be provided seating priority, and we encourage members to honor this policy to eliminate overcrowding. The hosting member is asked to call the UT OLLI office at 512.471.3124 to inquire about classroom availability and to ensure a good experience for the member and their guest. Members are asked to bring one guest to attend classes for one day per program year. A temporary name badge will be created in the UT OLLI office for the guest once availability is determined.
EVENTS
Numerous special events are available, at cost, to guests through the sponsorship of a current UT OLLI member. Participation is limited to event capacity and priority is given to members.
MEMBER CAREGIVERS
Caregivers are always welcome to attend programming when there are available seats. If the classroom is at capacity, caregivers may remain close by in the café, hallway, or sitting areas available in lobby spaces on each floor.
Events including field trips and socials that require an additional cost or reservation may be attended by caregivers, however, a reservation and payment of associated fees may be required.
Zoom Meeting Wait Room
The UT OLLI staff are aware of the many reports of ‘Zoombombers’ individuals or entities that disrupt Zoom meetings creating privacy concerns. Most ‘Zoombombing’ occurs when invited attendees share links with non-registered guests. Please respect your fellow UT OLLI members by not sharing links with individuals who are not enrolled in the program. We are taking extra steps to ensure unexpected guests do not attend our Zoom meetings by utilizing the wait room feature. The wait room feature allows a UT OLLI staff member to admit participants at our discretion. This feature also allows the UT OLLI staff member permission to remove an attendee altogether if necessary.
REGISTRATION
In-Person Lectures/Seminars
Registration is required for in-person classes. Registration ensures your space as well as receipt of supplemental materials and online correspondence from instructors. Please note that some seminars and lectures are limited in size; if you cannot attend at least three of the six weeks in a session, please consider registering only for courses that are not limited in size. Non-registrants will be asked to give way to registered members.
Members will receive an email with detailed instructions before the registration period for each session. Please note:
• Always register for the seminars and lectures you plan to attend
• If you want to change courses after you have registered, and you are unable to do so online, please contact the UT OLLI office to be moved to the course you prefer, assuming space availability
Online Lectures/Seminars
Registration for online classes is required. Your online course links will be stored on the UT OLLI homepage under ‘My Upcoming Events’ at https://utdirect.utexas.edu/apps/ce/olli_campsite/olli/ with the option for an automated email with links. Seminar/lecture supplemental materials and online correspondence may be available from some instructors. Please note that some classes are limited in size. If you want to change courses after you have registered, access the member website under your membership and remove your name from the roster. You may then register for another class of your choice provided availability.
Select online seminars and lectures are recorded during the live session and then posted on the member website for on-demand viewing. To access recordings: UT OLLI Homepage - Webinar Recordings - click on the associated blue link.
Please DO NOT share links for live webinars or recorded sessions with non-UT OLLI members. Remember:
• Our volunteer speakers have graciously signed written agreements that allow current UT OLLI members to enjoy live sessions and recorded content
• Additional use must be cleared by the office as it could be in violation of that agreement and damage our partnerships with speakers
• Sharing links compromises program security
MEMBERSHIP ENROLLMENT
Renewals
Any current or sabbatical member may renew his or her UT OLLI membership during the annual renewal period. Members may renew in the same program, transfer to a different program, or take a sabbatical for the appropriate fee. Taking a sabbatical allows a member to take off one year while maintaining the option for priority renewal during the next enrollment period.
Re-enrollment/Enrollment Tips
CURRENT MEMBER RENEWAL/PAYMENT
During the annual renewal period, current UT OLLI members may either pay by credit card online at https://olli.utexas.edu/ or by check. If paying by check, please make checks payable to The University of Texas at Austin. Members are encouraged to pay by credit card to ensure program preference.
Attention: UT OLLI Office Thompson Conference Center 2405 Robert Dedman Dr. Austin, TX 78712
NOTIFICATION OF IMPORTANT DATES AND TIMES
Current members will receive an email reminder two weeks before the start of the renewal period and, again, on the day the renewal period opens. Priority renewal will be open to current members, followed by an invitation to new members. Current and sabbatical members may still renew after the priority renewal period, but specific program membership will be subject to space availability.
NEW MEMBER ENROLLMENT PERIOD
Individuals interested in joining UT OLLI must fill out the contact information on the Prospective Member page at https://utdirect.utexas.edu/apps/ce/olli_join/nlogon/ to receive updates about upcoming opportunities and enrollment.
Please Be Prepared!
Program memberships are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. The prospective member list is not a waiting list. To improve the likelihood of your being able to join a specific program, it is important for each member to have their own individual working email address, obtain a UT EID before enrollment, and pay by credit card. As part of the enrollment process, you must sign a liability form each program year to participate in OLLI at The University of Texas at Austin.
MONEY MATTERS
UT OLLI Excellence Funds enhance the quality of experience among UT OLLI programs: UT OLLI SAGE, UT OLLI DISCOVER, UT OLLI FORUM, and UT OLLI NOVA. Funds may be used for materials, resources, facilities, special recognition and honoraria for speakers, and administrative support beyond those provided by membership fees.
A committee consisting of representatives from UT OLLI administration and program membership provides general oversight of funds including receipt of donations, an expenditure of funds, and the preparation of reports to the membership concerning fund use. Program Excellence Fund and Executive Committees review and recommend all expenditures.
Excellence fund donations may be tax-deductible and are used exclusively for program purposes according to established guidelines within The University of Texas at Austin policies and procedures. The University of Texas at Austin provides administration and accounting.
Donations may be made online at https://olli.utexas.edu/giving. Click the ‘Donate Online’ button, find your program of choice, click the ‘Add’ button and then follow the prompts. Donations may also be made by check, payable to The University of Texas at Austin. Please include program notation in the memo box, e.g., UT OLLI FORUM, UT OLLI DISCOVER.
Attention: UT OLLI Office
Thompson Conference Center
2405 Robert Dedman Drive
Austin, TX 78712
APPENDIX
Member Website Quick Reference Guide
STAYING INFORMED
Learn about other members, register for classes, and access schedules on the member website: https://utdirect.utexas.edu/apps/ce/olli_campsite/olli/
GETTING STARTED
1. Know your University electronic identification (UT EID) and password.
2. Create a personal Zoom account at https://zoom.us/ and download the free Zoom desktop client (for MAC or PC) or install the Zoom Cloud Meetings app (for mobile Apple or Android devices).
ACCESS MEMBER PAGES
• Go to https://olli.utexas.edu/
• Click ‘Member Login’ at the top or bottom of the page.
• Enter your UT EID and password, then click ‘Login’.
ONLINE COURSE REGISTRATION
• To participate in online classes, you must be able to access them through a personal Zoom account.
• Prior to opening registration an email is sent to each member with specific instructions; log in to the member website at https://utdirect.utexas.edu/apps/ce/olli_campsite/
• To attend your selected seminar and/or lecture, click on the associated blue link on the scheduled date and time.
IN-PERSON COURSE REGISTRATION
• Seminars and lectures require registration to attend.
• Prior to opening registration an email is sent to each member with specific instructions; log in to the member website at https://utdirect.utexas.edu/apps/ce/olli_campsite/ to access the registration process.
• Click ‘Seminar Sign Up/Lecture Sign Up’ then follow the prompts.
• Once registered you may view your classes by clicking on ‘My Membership’.
LOST YOUR CONFIRMATION EMAIL OR FORGOT WHAT YOU SIGNED UP FOR?
Follow these easy steps:
1. Sign on to the UT OLLI member website at https://utdirect.utexas.edu/apps/ce/olli_campsite/
2. Click on “My Membership”. The webinars that you signed up for will be listed under “My Upcoming Events”
3. Click on the “Title” on one of the webinars and you will be able to view all of that session’s details. You can also remove your name if you are no longer able to attend
4. On the day and time that your webinar is scheduled, click on the underlined “Online Event” and you will be redirected to the Zoom* Webinar. Just sign in with your Zoom email and password
*Remember you must sign-up for a personal Zoom account ahead of time.
Please DO NOT share links for live webinars or recorded sessions with non-UT OLLI members.
• Our volunteer speakers have graciously signed written agreements that current UT OLLI members may enjoy live sessions and recorded content
• Additional use must be cleared by the office as it could be in violation of that agreement and damage our partnerships with speakers
• Sharing links compromises program security
ACCESSING SEMINAR AND LECTURE HANDOUTS ONLINE
• From the member program page click ‘My Seminars & Lectures’
• Click on the seminar or lecture title
• Handouts posted will be listed in the ‘Attachments’ section
• Click the file you are interested in downloading
CREATE OR CHANGE YOUR MEMBER PROFILE
Sign on to the UT OLLI member website at: https://utdirect.utexas.edu/apps/ce/olli_campsite/
• Click ‘My Profile’.
• Click ‘Edit My Profile’.
• Enter or change the desired items; click ‘Save’.
VIEW OTHER MEMBER PROFILES
• Click on ‘Members’ in the left-hand navigation.
» Members whose names appear in bold are new members.
» Click on a member’s name to read his or her bio or get contact information.
• Use the search function at the top of the page to search by first or last name, zip code, or even by hobby or interest.
COMMITTEES
• At the top of any of the pages click on ‘Committees’.
• Click on any committee name to see a list of the committee members and their contact information.
GETTING TO AND AROUND THE 40 ACRES
The UT Shuttle System is one of the largest University shuttle systems in the country, with 10 routes and over 5.2 million passengers annually. The shuttle system provides an easy and cost-effective way for students, faculty, staff, and visitors to access the UT campus. UT students, faculty, and staff may ride the shuttles at no charge with a valid UT photo ID. UT OLLI members may ride each way for $1.25 or purchase an unlimited 24-hour day pass for $2.50.
The Capital Metro mainline bus system provides access to many different parts of the Austin area, including Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. For more information, visit the Capital Metro website at https://www.capmetro.org/ or https://www.capmetro.org/schedmap/ Rideshare companies that operate in Austin include:
• Uber – https://www.uber.com/
• Lyft – https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/austin-tx
An alternative that does not require the user to have a smartphone is: GoGoGrandparent – https://gogograndparent.com/
Thompson Conference Center (TCC)
Lot 40 – TCC Parking
Current dashboard passes are required, and are valid for UT OLLI programming only.
Garage Parking – Alternate Parking
Garage fee will apply.
Lots 37, 38 & 39 – Restricted Parking
Parking in these lots will result in a citation.
Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis in Lot 40.
If Lot 40 is full, additional paid, on-street parking may be found on East Dean Keeton and Red River streets, including all University garages. The Manor and San Jacinto garages are the closest to TCC. Discounted rates are available by validation in the TCC Conference office, located in room 1.116. For more information, please see parking information in the appendix or visit: https://parking.utexas.edu/parking/visitor.
Closest Parking Garages:
Manor Garage (MAG): 2017 Robert Dedman Drive
South of the TCC and LBJ Presidential Library (LBJ) on Robert Dedman Drive, directly across the street from Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium (STD).
San Jacinto Garage (SJG): 2401 San Jacinto Boulevard
San Jacinto Garage is between 24th and Dean Keeton (formerly 26th) streets.
Citations
To avoid receiving a parking citation, please display your printed parking permit in clear view on the dash of your car; parking permits are available for pick up in the UT OLLI office or are available on the UT OLLI homepage (https://utdirect.utexas.edu/apps/ce/olli_campsite/olli/).
To avoid a citation, please do not back into parking spaces, park within the paint lines, and never park in a space that requires a special University permit.
If you receive a citation from no fault of your own, citation appeals must be done online at https://parking.utexas.edu/appeal/appeal-citation. If the citation is not removed entirely, please provide the citation number to the UT OLLI Director for assistance.
UT handicapped spaces require both a state-designated placard and a University-issued handicapped dashboard permit. A limited number of service drive handicapped dashboard passes are available through the TCC Conference Office in room 1.116.
Assistance
UT Parking & Transportation Services, Longhorn Auto Assistance Program (LAAP) offers FREE jump start and locked key assist to anyone parking within their service area that includes TCC Lot 40. They’re available by request at the UTPD number 512-471-4441.
In the event of an emergency call 911.
UT OLLI OFFICE
The office is located on the first floor of the Joe C. Thompson Conference Center (TCC) in room 1.108C.
Hours of Operation
Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Contact Information
UT OLLI
Thompson Conference Center 2405 Robert Dedman Drive Austin, TX 78712
512.471.3124
utolli@austin.utexas.edu
Our Team
Julie Martenson, M.Ed., Ph.D. UT OLLI Director jmartenson@austin.utexas.edu
Jeri Kolesar Events and Membership Coordinator jeri.kolesar@austin.utexas.edu
Pam Kirkey, M.Ed., Ph.D. Curriculum Coordinator pamela.kirkey@austin.utexas.edu
Kimloan Nguyen Administrative Associate kimloantnguyen@austin.utexas.edu
UT OLLI Meeting and Workspace
The UT OLLI Workspace (TCC room 1.108A) functions as a meeting room and workspace for all UT OLLI programs. To schedule meetings outside of the lunch hour timeframe (12:00 to 1:00PM), reservations are made through the UT OLLI Office. In addition, five computer stations are available for members when the space is not in use. To schedule a virtual Zoom meeting when conducting official UT OLLI business, please contact the UT OLLI staff.
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