Karen Asenavage Loptes, director of the University of Delaware’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) program for learners age 50-plus, presented U.S. Sen. Tom Carper with a first-ever honorary lifetime OLLI membership on Sept. 30, 2024 at UD’s Arsht Hall in Wilmington, Delaware.
“We at OLLI were honored to participate in this tribute to Senator Carper on the occasion of his upcoming retirement from official government service and to present him with an invitation to join us at OLLI. We strive to enhance the lives of one of our state’s most valuable resources, those age 50 to 100, and that’s a goal we take very seriously,” said Asenavage Loptes.
[Sen. Tom Carper tribute event, Arsht Hall, 9/30/2024 — CLICK TO VIEW SLIDESHOW]
The presentation was part of a tribute to Carper’s state and national public service, which since 1977 has also included terms as Delaware state treasurer, U.S. representative and Delaware governor. Hosted by the We Work for Health advocacy group, the event celebrated Carper’s contributions and initiatives relating to healthcare and older adults.
Carper, who moved to Delaware in 1973 to pursue his MBA at UD, completed his master’s in 1975 and was elected state treasurer the following year. Along with Asenavage Loptes, UD’s Graduate College was represented at the event by Mark Clodfelter, associate dean for Professional and Continuing Studies, and Lou Rossi, dean of the Graduate College.
Photos by Carol Lynn Thomas
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Delaware
OLLI is an academic cooperative for adults 50 and over to enjoy classes, teach, exchange ideas and socialize together, with no exams or educational requirements for participation. OLLI welcomes you.
Kent/Sussex | Wilmington
