The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Johns Hopkins University honored dozens of its dedicated instructors during a festive faculty appreciation event held on Friday, October 10.
(Left to Right: Susan Fried, Josh Fried, Susan Howard, Mary Kay Shartle Galotto, Kathy Porsella)
The celebration, generously sponsored by Osher members Josh and Susan Fried, brought the community together for a warm and lively brunch recognizing the educators who make Osher’s programming exceptional.
Osher at JHU offers noncredit classes, lectures, trips, and events designed for adults aged fifty-five and better. The faculty—experts and seasoned professionals—play a vital role in shaping the intellectually engaging environment the program is known for.
Director Susan Howard opened the celebration with remarks acknowledging the lasting impact of Osher’s instructors. “Our faculty are the heart of Osher at JHU,” she said. “They bring passion, curiosity, and generosity to every class they teach. Their commitment to lifelong learning enriches our community in countless ways, and today we celebrate that impact.”
A total of seventeen faculty members who have taught with Osher for 10 to 15 years were honored with commemorative plaques, recognizing their long-standing dedication. A highlight of the celebration was the remarks these faculty shared via video version of which is available to view on the Osher at JHU website. “Our faculty consistently mention their gratitude for the Osher at JHU members who take their classes—the great strength of our community is that the teachers and members learn from each other and develop wonderful relationships,” Howard said.
An additional twenty-seven faculty members with 1 to 9 years of service received certificates of appreciation for their continued contributions to Osher’s mission. View a video excerpt above this story or here.
Josh and Susan Fried, who underwrote the event, shared heartfelt reflections on their long personal connection to Osher.
“Osher has been our guiding light for years, and we wanted to give back some of what we have gained,” they said. “Our dearest friendships have formed here, and the joy of learning is very important to us. It was a pleasure to reciprocate—Osher fed our mind and soul; we just fed our tummies!”
They also expressed delight at the enthusiastic turnout and the spirit of celebration throughout the morning. “We were surprised by the size of the Osher community that came out to support and honor our greatest asset—our faculty and staff. There is none better!
Thanks to the Frieds’ generosity and the strong sense of community among members and staff, the event became a warm expression of gratitude for the people who bring Osher’s mission to life. The gathering underscored what continues to make Osher at JHU distinctive: a vibrant community united by curiosity, connection, and a shared love of learning at every stage of life.
