Xiang Yun Temple Monastics Visit Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at The University of Texas at Austin

Reported by The Life News Agency Correspondent Xie Huiling

On May 2, 2025, Venerable Jueji, the temple supervisor, led several Fo Guang members on a visit to the OLLI Lifelong Learning Center at the University of Texas at Austin, upon invitation from Ms. Jo, to participate in two course exchanges.

This visit was prompted by Ms. Jo’s earlier arrangement at the beginning of the year, where 50 OLLI members toured Xiang Yun Temple. The lively interaction left a deep impression on both sides and led to this return visit.

The day’s program began with a lecture by Professor G. Fritz Benedict of McDonald Observatory titled “Exploration of Space and Extraterrestrial Life.” The talk explored the possibility of life beyond Earth and attracted about 130 participants. The content was both accessible and thought-provoking.

Following that, Dr. Susan Wan Dolling introduced Chinese culture through Late Tang Dynasty poetry. The class had a warm and inviting atmosphere, with around 30 attendees.

This observation visit highlighted the value of lifelong learning—not only for enhancing knowledge but also for promoting interpersonal connections. It offered valuable inspiration and direction for Xiang Yun Temple’s future outreach and diverse programming efforts.