Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
What are SIGs?
Several members have formed informal groups focused on a particular interest. These groups are independent of regular Osher classes and are organized and run by the group’s members. They offer a chance to socialize and share common interests. Some SIGs meet regularly, others occasionally. SIGs are a benefit of membership.
Members may form such groups if they have a particular interest they think other members may want to share.
How can I start a SIG?
First, read the guidelines that are listed in the dropdown below. Once you have reviewed the guidelines, fill in a online SIG proposal.
Guidelines and Regulations for Special Interest Groups
Click Here for Guidelines and Regulations for Special Interest Groups
Characteristics of Osher at CMU Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
- SIGs are forums where members socialize with others who share common interests.
- The settings for SIGs are less formal than for regular Osher courses.
- SIGs complement the Osher at CMU curriculum without competing with regular courses.
- Osher at CMU members who share interests establish, manage, and run SIGs.
- All Osher at CMU members and prospects can participate in SIGs; non-members may not. Prospects will need to pay an $85.00 fee per term to participate.
- Non-member guests are permitted only with prior authorization by Osher and the coordinator.
- Commercial/professional promotion/advertising are prohibited at Osher at CMU SIG events.
Role of Osher at CMU Administration:
- Osher at CMU provides no financial support for SIGs.
- Administrative support for SIGs is limited to the following:
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- The Osher at CMU office posts information about SIGs on its website.
- Coordinators can submit announcements to appear in the WE newsletter.
- Each SIG is entered in Augusoft as a "course" with the SIG coordinator as study leader.
Process for Establishing a New Osher at CMU SIG
- A member who wishes to establish a new SIG completes and submits the SIG proposal form.
- The Executive Committee reviews and acts on the proposal.
- Actions are approval, return for revision or additional information, or non-approval.
- Upon approval of a proposal, the applicant convenes an organizational meeting.
Goals of SIG Organizational Meeting
- Identify a coordinator who manages the group’s activities, including list of participants.
- Determine how tasks will be distributed among the participants.
- Establish minimum requirements for participation in the group.
- Confirm that there are Osher members who are willing participants.
- Determine if there are upper limits to the number of participants.
- Agree upon a meeting schedule, format, and any other relevant characteristics.
Joining SIGs
- A member who wishes to join a SIG contacts the coordinator for detailed information.
- The coordinator informs the Osher office to add new members to the course roster.
Record Keeping and Communication
- The Augusoft system is the official list of current SIG members.
- Coordinators communicate with SIG members through the "e-mail students" function.
- Coordinators must submit current lists of their members to the office in April and October.
- Coordinators notify the office when a SIG is at capacity.
- Contact lists can be provided to SIG participants only with unanimous permission.
- SIG member lists are to be used only for communication about SIG activities.
- The Executive Committee may discontinue any SIG that does not meet the guidelines.
Active SIGs
SIG - Bridge for Fun: Saturday Edition
Register for this SIG online with ID: 4566.
Meets Saturdays from 9:30AM to 12:00PM in the Osher Lounge, Cyert Hall Level B.
Bridge for Fun: Saturday Edition is a Special Interest Group that meets Saturday mornings. Its members are contract bridge enthusiasts who participate in "coached", friendly sessions where they can play without feeling pressured. Participants improve their skills at the game of bridge, enjoy playing the game recreationally, and become friends with other bridge enthusiasts. Regular attendance is not required; you can enjoy and learn whether you attend every week or only as your busy schedule permits. Participants are added from the waiting list. Requirements: basic knowledge of the game of bridge and tolerance of fellow players of all skill levels.
SIG - Brownbag Lunch and a Movie
Register for this SIG online with ID: 4490.
Meets every third Friday from 12:30-2:30PM in the Osher Lounge, Cyert Hall Level B.
Eating and watching movies together is a great social and learning experience. Our BrownBag movie group meets the third Friday of each month at 11:30 to share lunch, and, at 12:15, we adjourn classroom A to watch a movie.
It’s great fun, and every member is welcome to join us. Members can bring a friend who may want to join our Osher program.
SIG - Canasta
Register for this SIG online with ID: 5050.
Meets every Friday from 1:00 to 3:00 PM in the Olmsted Activity Room, Cyert Hall Level B.
Please join the Canasta Club that meets on Fridays at 1:00PM at Osher in the Olmsted Activity Room to socialize and play cards or learn how to play Canasta. People who already know the game can meet Osher members who also want to play. People who want to learn the game for the first time or need to brush up their knowledge of the game can come and learn how the game is played.
SIG - Walking Special Interest Group
Register for this SIG online with ID: 5376.
Meets every Monday from 10:00 to 11:00 AM.
Join us for a refreshing and enjoyable Walking Special Interest Group (SIG) that takes you on a weekly adventure through some of the most scenic parks in the area! Each week, we'll explore different walking routes, starting with flat terrain and gradually building up to more challenging hills. This Walking SIG is perfect for those looking to improve their fitness, enjoy nature, and discover new trails.
Our journey begins with walks in the beautiful Schenley Park, where we'll take in the lush greenery and serene surroundings. We'll start on easy, flat paths at the Oval, making sure everyone feels comfortable and confident. As the weeks progress, we'll gradually introduce hills, helping you build strength and endurance.
Whether you're a seasoned walker or just starting out, this Walking SIG offers a supportive and social environment to enjoy the outdoors and stay active. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with nature and like-minded individuals in a fun and relaxed setting!
Come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, water, and a sense of adventure!
Temporarily Suspended SIGs
SIG - Patron of the Arts
Calling all Osher members who are passionate patrons of the arts, artists, musicians! We are creating a special interest group just for you! We are looking to create opportunities for small events where we gather together and dialogue with one another about music, dance, art, and all types of creative expression in a stimulating environment. Come share your passion and expertise with like-minded artists and patrons!