Carnegie Mellon University
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute  ›  Membership  ›  Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer on a Committee

Opportunities for Members

Osher at CMU relies heavily on volunteers. We have a small paid staff to run the office, but as a membership organization, member involvement is vital to the life of the organization.  Most committees are typically filled in July. If you are interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities, please call the Osher office, 412-268-7489.

“Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.”

— Unknown

 Standing Committees:

The Curriculum Committee develops and prepares the course offerings for each term, including contacting potential study leaders and evaluating the effectiveness of course offerings.

The Finance Committee monitors the financial health of the organization, provides input and assistance for development of the annual budget, and oversees the funds that Osher at CMU has invested.

The Leadership Committee is responsible for Director orientation and development, publicizing opportunities for members to contribute to Osher at CMU, developing succession plans, identifying potential future leaders, and helping to engage and involve potential leaders in Osher at CMU activities.

The Membership/Social Committee welcomes new members, awards scholarships, and sends condolences. It organizes the annual Member Picnic, the New Member Reception, the Winter Party and other events as needed.
The Nominating Committee solicits applications and nominations from the Osher at CMU membership for Directors, interviews applicants, and presents a slate of proposed Directors to the Board at its April meeting for the Board's review and approval. The resulting slate is provided to the membership no later than 14 days prior to the Annual Meeting.
The Human Resources Committee makes recommendations regarding employment policies and procedures and serves as a resource for the Executive Director regarding employment and benefits issues. The committee reviews staff compensation and benefits to ensure that they are competitive and makes recommendations to the Executive Committee for any changes. Human Resource experience a with a non-profit organization is particularly helpful.

Start a SIG

If you are looking for other volunteer opportunities, consider starting a Special Interest Group (SIG). See the Osher SIGs page.

Current Ad Hoc Committees:

  • 25th Anniversary 
  • Accessibility
  • Capital Campaign
  • Lecture
  • Policies and Procedures 
  • Strategic Plan