International Cultural Center’s OLLI Program fosters global intergenerational learning

The International Cultural Center in the Office of International Programs has partnered with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Auburn University to develop a unique class focused on global intergenerational learning. The course, Free Tickets Around the Globe: Connecting World Heritages and Cultures, facilitates intercultural discussions between Auburn’s international students and faculty and OLLI members.

During the fall and spring semesters, international students from Indonesia, Greece, Uzbekistan and Colombia shared their countries' vibrant cultures and traditions with OLLI members. Through lively discussions, interactive activities and samplings of country-specific snacks and beverages, participants were transported to distant corners of the globe without ever leaving Auburn.

Every session was an exploration of the differences and similarities in global cultural heritage. Other class outcomes included a shared sense of cultural identity and intergenerational belonging for both students and OLLI members. Whether participants were seasoned travelers or armchair adventurers, they attested to enjoying a chance to secure a seat on extraordinary journeys around the globe.

The 2023-24 class facilitators were:

• Indonesia: Nida Mckee, instructor, Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Sciences and Mathematics
• Burkina Faso: Francois Kabre, TESOL/ESP, Curriculum and Teaching, College of Education
• Greece: Savvas Paradeisis-Stathis, graduate research assistant, Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture
• Uzbekistan: Jakhongir Sadiev, graduate student, Public Administration, College of Liberal Arts
• Colombia: Astrid Rojas Marquez, visiting research scholar, College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment

 For more information on the International Cultural Center and the OLLI Program, visit the ICC website.