On Friday, May 15, 2026, members, faculty, staff, and supporters gathered at The Carnegie in Gaithersburg, Maryland, to celebrate a remarkable milestone—the 40th anniversary of Osher at Johns Hopkins University.
(Left to right: Emily Demske, Kathy Cooke, Barbara Epke)
Held from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Carnegie Lyceum, the event honored four decades of lifelong learning, community engagement, and meaningful connection.
The morning began with a greeting reception and brunch where attendees reconnected and enjoyed great food. The formal program included welcome remarks from Program Director Susan Howard—who has worked for Osher at JHU for 30 of its 40 years. Long-time faculty member Stan Levin served as Master of Ceremonies. Howard recognized the individuals whose dedication and vision had shaped the program’s success beginning with sincere gratitude for Osher members Ginny and Norman Shultz, who sponsored the event.
“The Schultz’s say their love of the program and the benefits they reap from it are the reason they continue to make very generous donations,” said Howard. “Ginny and Norm, you have made an incredible difference, and we truly appreciate your support, dedication, and commitment,” she continued.
Next, a “Happy 40th Anniversary” video, featured reflections from influential leaders who played a central role in the program’s development. Speakers included Dean Emeritus Stanley Gabor, whose original vision established the program; Kathy Porsella, founding director; Mary Kay Shartle Galotto, former director; Elaine Amir, former director of the JHU Montgomery County Campus; and Melissa Hilbish, former director of the JHU Center for Liberal Arts. Their remarks offered a powerful retrospective on the program’s growth, leadership, and lasting impact. Finally, Kathy Cooke, Administrative Supervisor, expressed her gratitude to the Osher community as she prepares to retire in August after nearly 15 years with the program.
Throughout her remarks, Howard emphasized the importance of community, expressing gratitude to members, faculty, staff, and volunteers whose contributions had defined Osher at JHU. Thirty-five-year member Bill Brustad, a long-time Osher volunteer, still takes classes in-person and online to keep his mind active. Bill, and fellow 31-year member Jerry Barlow, were each honored at the celebration. Howard gave both men “diplomas”—but said they wouldn’t ever graduate from learning. Barlow credits Osher at JHU with the social connections and stimulation that keep him living well at 93 years young. “The strength of the Osher at JHU program has always come from its members,” Howard said.
The formal program concluded with a lively entertainment performance by acclaimed musician and faculty member Daryl Davis, titled “Great Songs: Let’s Have Some Fun!” His performance brought energy and celebration to the occasion and served as a fitting tribute to the Osher community.
Following the program, guests remained to reconnect and reflect—many sharing how meaningful the event had been.
Attendee Kathy Corcoran described the celebration as both engaging and memorable:
“I loved seeing all the friends and instructors from the past and present. I learned more about the history of Osher than I knew walking in. It was wonderful to meet many members and instructors whom I only knew through Zoom.” She added that it was “one of my favorite Osher get-togethers since joining in 2013.”
Millie Rogers echoed those sentiments, noting the impact of the program materials and reflections:
“Thank you for a wonderful 40th celebration. I especially liked the brochure that showed all that happened over the past 40 years. It was also nice hearing reflections from Osher founders. I know you put a lot of effort into making the day special—and it showed.”
As Osher at Johns Hopkins University marked this milestone, the celebration honored not only a rich history, but also the people and experiences that have sustained it for four decades. With its continued focus on lifelong learning and member engagement, the program looked ahead to the future with the same spirit that had guided it since its founding.