About LIR

Beginnings

The organization started in summer, 1997, when more than 100 people met on the UW Oshkosh campus to plan Learning in Retirement activities. Since then, the organization has grown to more than 300 members.

Senior Showcase Video

Mission

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Learning in Retirement (LIR) is a self directed, non profit organization that provides life long learning opportunities for older adults.

Membership includes individuals in the Fox River Valley in the cities of Oshkosh, Neenah, Menasha, Fond du Lac, Appleton, and surrounding areas.  The organization’s Curriculum Committee develops courses which are conducted at locations within its membership area.   In addition tours to theatrical music shows, stage shows, businesses and other points of interest are available. Course topics represent member preferences and presenter expertise and availability.

LIR is non profit organization and self-funded by membership fees and profits from tours.  These fees support UW Oshkosh clerical support and other expenses generated by the course offerings.  Member volunteers provide other essential services. Office, classroom and storage space is provided by The University.

Vision

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Learning in Retirement will be a model for engaging older adults in life long learning opportunities.  We will be admired for:

• Diverse course offerings that enhance the knowledge of those attending.

• High utilization of computer technology to facilitate organizational processes.

• Partnerships with community organizations and businesses.

• Fiduciary responsibility.

Demographics

Officers and Committees

Officers 2012 - 2013

President: Mary Bayorgeon

Vice President: Dr. William Weber

Treasurer: John Schatz

Secretary: Kathy Mahoney

Committiees

Committees are comprised of current LIR members. There are three committees of volunteer members, plus the Steering Committee, which includes all officers, committee chairpersons and past president.

• Membership and Promotion: responsible for recruiting new members, publicizing LIR programs, and distributing promotional materials

• Curriculum Development: responsible for planning all courses and activities and setting standards for the learning experience

• Administration and Finance: responsible for developing and monitoring the annual budget, setting the dues structure and maintaining LIR policies

• 2010-2011 Goals (pdf)
  

Committee Members 2012 - 2013

Membership and Promotion

Curriculum Development

Administrative / Finance

Schedule of Meetings

• Steering Committee meets every two months on the third Friday of September, November, January, March, and May.  Meetings are held at the UW Oshkosh Campus Services Center on Witzel Avenue. Meeting time is 10 - 11:30 a.m.

• Membership and Promotion Committee meets the first Thursday of September, October, November, January, February, March, April and May at Evergreen Retirement Community. Meeting time is 10:15 a.m. - Noon.

• Curriculum Development Committee meets the last Wednesday of August, September, October, February, March, April at the First Presbyterian Church, 110 Church Avenue. Meeting time is 10 - 11:30 a.m. 

• Administration and Finance Committee meets every two months on the second Monday of September, November, January, March and May at the UW Oshkosh Campus Services Center on Witzel Avenue. Meeting time is at 10:30 a.m. - Noon.

• Annual membership meeting is held in June.