Osher names new program administrator

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Mary Bistrovich

Mary Bistrovich was recently appointed program administrator for RIT’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. In this role, she will supervise Osher staff and work with Osher volunteer leadership to implement programs and activities initiated and developed by the member-led organization.

Bistrovich, a resident of Henrietta, previously held two positions at RIT: project coordinator for the replacement of RIT’s student information system and associate director and project manager in the University Publications department. She also has work experience in the corporate sector at Thomson Reuters and Harris Interactive.

“I am delighted that Mary has accepted this important role at Osher,” says Deborah Stendardi, RIT’s vice president for government and community relations. “Her knowledge of RIT and her technical background and experience, along with her excellent interpersonal skills, will be tremendous assets to RIT’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and its more than 600 members who are eager and engaged learners.”

As a result of her prior work at RIT, Bistrovich was recognized by the Council for the Advancement & Support of Education (CASE) with its Circle of Excellence Silver Medal for her role as project manager, content architect, writer and editor of the “StudentLife@RIT” recruitment website.

“Our members are really the heart and soul of the organization,” Bistrovich says. “Their passion for teaching and learning inspires me every day. I look forward to working with our members to implement Osher’s long-term strategic goals as well as providing them the support they need to ensure day-to-day activities run smoothly. I am thrilled to be a part of this vibrant and dedicated community of lifelong learners.”

Osher Council Chairperson Nita Genova says Bistrovich offers strong integrated management techniques and organizational skills that will add strength to the administrative team.

“She has a fresh vision and a thorough knowledge of RIT and has already seen new ways to make Osher Lifelong Learning Institute the best that it can be. I am very excited about working closely with Mary to continue to bring positive things to our Osher environment.”

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at RIT, part of the Division of Government and Community Relations, and is a membership-led organization that stimulates minds and forges friendships among people 50 and older who live in Greater Rochester. Located at 50 Fairwood Drive, adjacent to the Riparian Independent Living Complex at Rivers Run off East River Road in Henrietta, the Osher Institute has more than 600 members who participate in a wide range of courses led by members from many different professional and cultural backgrounds.