A New Era for Lifelong Learning: OLLI at UC San Diego Celebrates One-Year Anniversary in the 8980 Villa La Jolla Drive Building

When the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UC San Diego moved from aging satellite classrooms on the university’s main campus to its new home in the Division of Extended Studies headquarters building at 8980 Villa La Jolla Drive, it was more than just a logistical change. The move marked a transformation in community, accessibility, and opportunity.

"This building has been a gift," said Jeanie Scott, a longtime OLLI volunteer leader and current activities chair and member of the Advisory Council. "The move has completely transformed how our program operates and feels."

"This move really changed everything," added recent OLLI program manager Maya Prunty. "We went from dark, isolated mobile classrooms to a vibrant, welcoming space where people can learn, connect, and feel like they belong."

OLLI now occupies three dedicated classrooms in the 8980 Building, from which it offers educational and enrichment programming to adults aged 50 and older. The new classrooms offer a panoramic view of the main UC San Diego campus—which is accessible from a pedestrian bridge over La Jolla Village Drive—as well as access to additional resources and support right in the same building. 

Since the move, membership in the program has more than doubled, a sense of community has deepened amongst the participants, and a spirit of joy and curiosity has taken root in the halls and classrooms.

"Our students now feel like this is their classroom, their home," said Prunty. "It's a place where they belong—and that makes all the difference."

New Space, New Energy

Before the move, OLLI was tucked away in temporary barracks-style buildings on the northwest side of the main UC San Diego campus.  "They were wonderful for their time, but they were older and a bit depressing,” explained Prunty. “The energy just wasn't the same."

The space was limited, and the facilities were outdated for the needs of a growing membership and new programming opportunities. "We had two classrooms—one for lectures, and the other doubled as a lunchroom, coffee room, and storage," said Scott. "It was a top-notch program in a not-so-top-notch location." 

In contrast, the move into 8980 gave the community dedicated classroom space, upgraded systems, and three large, bright rooms. 

"People walk in and see the space, the energy, the community, and it all really speaks for itself," said Prunty. 

"It's a beautiful professional space that showcases just how special this program is," added Scott. 

The value of the new space has shown up in the enrollment numbers. Membership has surged from about 350 members a year ago to almost 1,000 today. Prunty sees the reason for the growth as both practical and emotional. 

"Part of the growth is from outreach and marketing, of course," Prunty acknowledged, "but what's really bringing people in is the building itself. That first impression is powerful. People walk in and see the space of a polished, well-run program. It makes them more likely to come back and even bring a friend."

A Space That Builds Community

Both Prunty and Scott believe that a new sense of community and connection has been the big driver in the revitalization of the OLLI program, and that too has been better facilitated by the new space. 

"When older adults come to us, they appreciate the programming, but what they're really looking for is connection,” said Prunty. “It’s not just about intellectual enrichment anymore. It's about community."

The new setup has not only made the space more comfortable but also allowed for increased organic connection. Members frequently gather in the lobby seating area before and after classes to eat lunch together, laugh, and share stories. 

"People chat, relax, and build friendships right there on the couches," Scott explained. 

Prunty contrasts this with the energy at the old building. "It was more transactional," she explained. "People came to class, then went home. There wasn't as much sticking around and getting to know each other like there is now. It's made me realize that that sense of community is what our members are really looking for."

Seeing this, the staff and volunteer teams have made that sense of connection and community a cornerstone of the OLLI experience in the new building. 

"We did a College Spirit Day where everyone wore their alma mater gear," shared Scott. "We decorated the room, projected logos on the screen, and passed out pom-poms. It was fun, festive, and–most importantly—comfortable."

There are also field trips to local museums, holiday parties, themed luncheons, and "Sharing Memories" sessions. This programming was much more difficult to facilitate in the old building.

“We're not just offering lectures the way we used to. We're creating a place where people feel seen and valued,” Prunty said. "Our members want connection and to feel like they belong. In the new building, we've been able to provide that in a way we couldn't before."

Even basic conveniences, such as access to a refrigerator, microwaves, and a nearby coffee shop, have made the space feel more welcoming. "Members can bring their own lunch, heat it up, and sit together for a meal after class," said Scott. “It's simple, but it matters."

Practical Improvements That Make a Big Difference

In addition to the space and environmental improvements, the 8980 building offers a number of practical accessibility upgrades that are essential for serving a population of older adults.

The new building offers visitors easy access to elevators, nice walkable surroundings, and dedicated parking just steps from the entrance. The parking has made an especially valuable impact, eliminating one of the biggest stressors for OLLI participants. 

"Before, parking on campus was cutthroat," Prunty said. "Members had to show up an hour early just to find a spot. Now our members can park easily, take the elevator, and get straight to class."

"Everything is easier now," Scott noted. "Student Services used to be in another building that was difficult to access. Now, they're right here in our space, which makes it much easier for members to enroll in classes. That alone has made our quarterly open houses work better as membership drives, too."

Technology that Empowers Participation

Another major upgrade of the new space has been the integration of state-of-the-art classroom technology. 

In the previous location, lectures were often plagued by technical difficulties, and members with hearing impairments struggled to fully participate.

"Now we have built-in assistive listening devices,” Prunty said. "Members can wear headphones that connect directly to the audio system, so they don't miss a word. It helps everyone feel like they belong in the conversation."

Technical support is also in the same building, ensuring that computer or A/V issues can be handled correctly. "This kind of support really reflects our commitment to making sure every member can thrive here—intellectually and socially," Prunty added.

Unexpected Friendship and Cultural Connections

A final, surprising, and delightful benefit of the new location has been the intergenerational connection between OLLI members and the Division of Extended Studies International Programs students who also moved into the new building.

"We've seen these beautiful, spontaneous moments of interaction," Prunty explained. "The OLLI members and international students will just meet in the common space and start talking. The OLLI members help the students practice their English, and the students share about their cultures and backgrounds."

"It's such a unique dynamic," Prunty continued. "They're learning from each other, sharing cultures, and really building relationships—and it only happened because we're now in this shared space."

Looking Toward the Future

With a vibrant community, modern facilities, and growing momentum, OLLI’s future in the 8980 building looks bright.

"It's been amazing to watch our members not only expand their minds, but also their hearts," said Prunty. "This program isn't just about lectures—it's about building a life filled with meaning, friendship, and purpose. That's what this space has made possible."

The 8980 building has not only changed the present, it's unlocked potential for future growth.

As OLLI looks to recruit younger members from Gen X and beyond, the modern and inviting atmosphere of the 8980 building is expected to play a key role.

"The possibilities are endless now," Scott said. "And we've only just begun!"

To learn more about OLLI and get a complete listing of programming and other information, visit the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute page.