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The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Oklahoma State University keeps senior adults active and social. Geared toward adults 50 and better, OLLI offers courses, travel and social activities to enrich participants’ quality of life. At OLLI, we believe that learning never retires!
We are asking for your support of our series of special programs for the public, which we are calling Irish Spring.
Beginning March 8, OLLI will be hosting Declan Bredin, who writes as Deaglán de Bréadún (the Irish-language version of his name), a well-known journalist and author who worked for many years with The Irish Times and now freelances for a range of outlets in his native country. He was a postgraduate student at Tulsa University in the 1970s, before returning to Ireland where he started his career in journalism.
Declan will be available to OLLI students and guests in two OLLI town halls.
M, March 11, 10-11a, Tulsa Town Hall, held at Church of the Madalene, free and open to the public.
T, March 12, 10-11a, Stillwater Town Hall held at Stillwater Public Library, free and open to the public.
In addition to an event with students at the University, Declan will be participating in some community events in Tulsa and Stillwater:
Classic Cinema program on Friday, March 8, from 7:00-9:00p at the Stillwater Community Center. This event is free and open to the public. A welcome reception will begin at 6pm.
Tulsa Irish Fest on Saturday, March 9, at 4:15p (tickets required to enter festival)
Emeriti Dinner on Monday, March 11, from 5:30-8p (RSVP and tickets required)
He is a fascinating speaker who has had contact with many interesting people. (One of his college mentors was the famous Irish poet Seamus Heaney.) He spices his colorful talks with stories of history makers at home and abroad whom he observed and befriended in his life.
Thank you for supporting OLLI and the work we do to keep senior adults engaged in learning and active lifestyles!
Where learning never retires!
Any of several trifoliate plants, as the wood sorrel, Oxalis acetosella, or a small, pink-flowered clover, Trifolium repens minus, but especially Trifolium procumbens, a small, yellow-flowered clover: the national emblem of Ireland. Learning never retires at OLLI!
The Triquetra is, without doubt, one of the most popular and enduring triple knot designs. The word literally means “three-cornered”, and the symbol is composed of three interlaced arcs. Learning never retires at OLLI! The line is unbroken and never-ending and is said to represent many things, such as unity, protection, and everlasting life. Like many knots, it can be seen as a Celtic symbol for strength.
The name derived from the Greek word “Triskeles,” meaning “three legs.” Other than the holy trinity, some suggest this design alludes life-death-rebirth or body-mind-spirit. Learning never retires at OLLI!
The Celtic harp, or Irish harp, is more than an Irish Celtic symbol. In fact, Ireland is so inextricably linked with the symbol of the Celtic harp that it is the only country in the entire world to have a musical instrument as its national emblem. Learning never retires at OLLI! The Irish Harp has long been associated with royalty. In fact, it’s believed that the strings of the harp represent the arms of the king. This official emblem has represented a symbol of strength in Ireland for generations.
The Celtic Cross is heavily associated with Ireland’s ancient culture and can be seen in the flesh in abundance around the Emerald Isle. It consists of a traditional Christian cross with a ring interlocking and surrounding its intersection, similar to the patterns found on Viking rings. The Celtic Cross circle suggests a source of light or energy. The Irish Cross can often be seen across Ireland on stone crosses dating as far back as the 8th and 12 centuries. Learning never retires at OLLI!
The Claddagh ring is a common symbol that first spawned from Galway in the 17th century. It is intended to be given to a loved one. The ring is said to symbolize love, loyalty, and friendship. Thus, it is often used for wedding rings. Learning never retires at OLLI!