Melissa Hayes-Connolly, who previously served as director of the Cooper Center, the Academic Resource Center at Nebraska Wesleyan University, has been named the new director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (OLLI at UNL). She will join OLLI on March 2, succeeding retiring director, Bob Michl.
"I am excited to join OLLI at UNL as its new director and to be part of the College of Education and Human Sciences," Hayes-Connolly said. "OLLI is a fantastic program with an engaging, dynamic, and intellectually curious membership. As a self-proclaimed lifelong learner, I love OLLI's mission! I want to continue the high-quality programming and membership support that already exists and seek opportunities to grow OLLI's impact in new and exciting ways."
In her role at Nebraska Wesleyan University, Hayes-Connolly provided strategic leadership, oversaw daily operations, and trained and supervised peer tutors in support of student success. Her professional strengths include university administration, teaching, curriculum development, and academic coaching.
“Melissa brings both a deep understanding of higher education and a genuine appreciation for lifelong learning,” Michl said. “Her collaborative spirit, thoughtful leadership, and commitment to serving learners of all ages make her an outstanding choice to lead OLLI into its next chapter.”
Hayes-Connolly earned her bachelor’s degree from George Mason University, her master’s degree from Old Dominion University, and her Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys kayaking, reading, sewing, and spending time walking with her husband, Des, and their rescue dog, Penny.
With her experience and passion for education, Michl said Hayes-Connolly is well-positioned to build on OLLI’s strong foundation and continue its tradition of enriching the lives of adult learners across the community.
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (OLLI at UNL) is an adult-learning membership program designed for men and women 50 years of age and older. Partnering with the College of Education and Human Sciences, OLLI provides stimulating and varied noncredit educational opportunities. Along with great courses, OLLI also offers many social and cultural events, interest groups, and travel opportunities. OLLI at UNL is one of 124 Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes across the United States.
