Ohio State University-Lima has opened registration for its Lifelong Learning Institute, providing educational opportunities for residents of Lima and the wider West Central Ohio region. Enrollment for the institute began on Friday, Sept. 11, according to the university. The program aims to engage community members in a series of learning experiences led by local leaders and experts.

The institute’s curriculum is structured across eight distinct class days in October, with sessions scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays. The specific dates on which classes will be held include Tuesday, Oct. 6; Thursday, Oct. 8; Tuesday, Oct. 13; Thursday, Oct. 15; Tuesday, Oct. 20; Thursday, Oct. 22; Tuesday, Oct. 27; and Thursday, Oct. 29. These scheduled days ensure a consistent learning pattern over the month for all participants.

Each class day will involve an extensive period of instruction and engagement, running from 10 a.m. through 4:15 p.m. This provides a substantial block of time for comprehensive learning in each session. All of the institute’s educational offerings will take place within the Student Services Center, a dedicated facility located on the Ohio State University-Lima campus, offering a convenient and established venue for attendees.

A key aspect of the Lifelong Learning Institute is the involvement of moderators from across the greater Lima region. These moderators are professionals and leaders bringing local expertise to the program. Among the notable figures confirmed to moderate sessions are Sharetta Smith, who currently holds the office of Lima’s mayor, and Keith Horner, recognized as the superintendent of Apollo Career Center. Their participation underscores the institute's commitment to drawing on community leadership for its educational content.

The cost to participate in the Lifelong Learning Institute is a straightforward $40. This single fee grants students access to the entire slate of classes offered, or they may choose to attend only specific sessions, without any change in the registration price. This flexible payment structure is designed to make the institute accessible to a broad range of community members.

Prospective students are encouraged to register promptly, as enrollment is operating on a first-come, first-served basis. This policy suggests that space may be limited, making early registration advisable to secure a spot. The final deadline for all registrations is set for Wednesday, Sept. 30. Individuals interested in enhancing their knowledge and engaging with local experts through OSU-Lima’s program should complete their registration before this date.