The Bernard Osher Foundation has awarded a $100,000 grant to UNLV's lifelong learning program, which is offered through the Division of Educational Outreach.

UNLV is one of 13 campuses nationwide to be added this year to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute network, a cohort of 61 university programs nationwide that offers intellectually stimulating learning in retirement programs. Other recipients this year include Harvard, Northwestern, Clemson, and Rutgers.

"We are very pleased to be a part of the impressive group of internationally known universities that was awarded Osher grants in this year's competition," said UNLV President Carol C. Harter. "Our programs for seniors are an integral part of UNLV's commitment to community engagement."

UNLV Vice Provost for Educational Outreach Richard C. Lee credited the university's successful lifelong learning programs, headed by director Lori Slinn, as the reason for the award.

Among the UNLV programs geared toward seniors is the Academic 62+ program, which allows seniors to take academic classes for free during the fall and spring semesters. Seniors can also take classes at a 50 percent tuition discount during the self-supporting summer term.

As a result of the grant, the UNLV lifelong learning program will be known as the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

UNLV has been offering lifelong learning programs for the past 13 years, with approximately 300 Las Vegas seniors enrolled each fall in more than 20 study groups designed and conducted by the seniors themselves.

California businessman Bernard Osher created The Bernard Osher Foundation in San Francisco in 1977. The foundation focuses on education and health care.