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1.800.CALL.UND (toll free)701.777.3000
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OLLI@UND in Bismarck
About OLLI
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at The University of North Dakota, or OLLI@UND, is a non-profit, membership organization with a simple philosophy: An active mind creates a sense of mental, physical and social well-being. It's a vibrant learning community of adults 50 years and better who want to continue a lifetime of learning with programs rich in content, shared interests, and life experiences.
OLLI@UND started in North Dakota on the UND campus in Grand Forks and also has an active location on the campus of Bismarck State College.
These programs are purely for enjoyment — no tests, grades, or need for prior college experience — just the chance to join your peers in the joy of learning and the many benefits it brings.
OLLI is funded in part by The Bernard Osher Foundation, which was founded in 1977 by Bernard Osher, a respected community leader in San Francisco. The philanthropic organization improves the quality of life for mature residents through post-secondary student scholarships, as well as art, cultural, and educational grants. At present, the Foundation is supporting 115 Osher Institutes in 50 states and the District of Columbia.
OLLI@UND in Bismarck
CETI Program Manager - BSC Continuing Education, Training, and Innovation
Robin Thorstenson is program manager of Bismarck State College's Continuing Education Training & Innovation (CETI) department. Robin coordinates numerous learning opportunities offered through BSC including BSC’s Enrichment & Development courses and Learning Unlimited. Combining that expertise and knowledge with her love of lifelong learning makes Robin the perfect person to finesse and bring to life OLLI@UND in Bismarck.
Robin has served in the nonprofit sector for more than 20 years, coordinating volunteers for organizations such as the State Historical Society of North Dakota, St. Alexius Medical Center, and Girl Scouts. She has lead workshops on topics ranging from generational diversity to conflict resolution throughout North Dakota and Minnesota.
Robin also serves on the board of directors of Missouri Slope Area-wide United Way, participates in Toastmasters, and supports a local home shelter. An avid reader and traveler with only 8 states left to visit, Robin lives in Bismarck with her husband and her gentle giant of a dog, Kota.