Freeman Means Business

07/03/2025

Exciting News!

I've been invited to teach for the University of California Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) this fall — a program designed for curious, engaged adults who believe learning never ends.

As UCR | OLLI continues to grow and thrive, I’m honored to be part of a community of passionate educators and lifelong learners. I’ll be offering courses that spark meaningful conversation and connection — more details on which courses to come!

Founded in 2001 when philanthropist Bernard Osher provided an endowment to the University of Southern Maine’s Senior College, which was renamed OLLI. Since then, the Bernard Osher Foundation has funded over 120–125 programs, offering grants to colleges that build sustainable, high-quality lifelong learning communities. Classes span a wide array of subjects: arts & humanities, sciences, health & wellness, technology, etc.

OLLI brings joy to learning, keeps brains active, strengthens social bonds, and enriches retirement or semi-retirement years. It embodies a national movement recognizing that education and curiosity don’t have an expiration date.

The Importance of Lifelong Learning: A Personal Reflection

Lifelong learning is not just a luxury — it’s a lifeline. It keeps our minds sharp, our spirits engaged, and our sense of purpose intact. I’ve always believed this, but the truth of it hit me hardest while watching my mother’s decline.

She was a smart woman — holding a Bachelor's (music) and two Master’s degrees (music and Spanish, even living in Puebla, Mexico), with plans to pursue a PhD. But after my father passed away, her drive to keep learning quietly faded. She withdrew into a life of solitude. With no intellectual stimulation, no community, and little daily structure, her once-vibrant mind became a fertile ground for Alzheimer’s to take root.

By the time we recognized the signs, the disease had already settled in.
That experience fuels my passion for programs like the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) — where older adults are invited not just to “age,” but to grow, connect, and engage deeply with the world. Teaching for OLLI this fall feels like more than an opportunity — it’s a personal calling.

Because staying curious isn’t just about facts or lectures. It’s about staying alive inside.

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07/03/2025

I’m truly honored to be invited by Pick Group of Young Professionals in Riverside, California to present, “You Be You: Unleashing the Power of Your Story.”

AUGUST 21, 2025
6:00 - 8:00 PM
Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce

Pick Group is a dynamic collective of emerging leaders committed to professional development, civic engagement, and making meaningful contributions to the future of Riverside. Their mission is to create inclusive leadership, build community connections, and empower young professionals to create lasting impact—values that align powerfully with the message of this presentation.

In “You Be You,” I explore how personal storytelling can be a transformative leadership tool.

In today’s noisy world, authenticity is a superpower — and learning to craft and share our stories can inspire, connect, and lead change.

Whether in boardrooms, city halls, or community spaces, owning your narrative helps you show up as your whole self, influence with integrity, and build trust that transcends titles.

This presentation is more than a talk—it’s a call to action for professionals to stop shrinking and start showing up. Because your voice matters. Your story matters. And when you share it with courage and clarity, you give others permission to do the same.

Thank you to Pick Group for this opportunity. I can't wait to be in conversation with Riverside’s next generation of changemakers.

About Pick Group
Mission & Membership
A diverse network of 21–40‑year‑olds from business, civic, legal, medical, nonprofit, educational, hospitality, and service sectors

Focused on engaging civically, developing professionally, and connecting socially.

Founded in 2007–08
Born out of a desire for young adults to have a seat at the table in Riverside’s future. Inspired by “Mr. Riverside” Art Pick, the group sprang from a Leadership Riverside alumni discussion and launched with 55 founding members.
Signature Programs & Events

Pick Power Hour: intimate sessions with local business and civic leaders.
Board Development Training Program (BDTP): equipping members to serve on nonprofit boards with governance and leadership skills.
Annual Impact event and all-member summits encourage social connection and community impact.

Why?
PICK offers resume‑boosting professional workshops, civic engagement opportunities, networking mixers, outdoor adventures, arts strolls, and more.
Members enjoy free event access, discounted programs, and visibility with Riverside’s leaders.

JOIN TODAY:
https://lnkd.in/g6EuCiU9...

03/09/2025

03/09/2025

Thank you to all the wonderful ladies who came out to Arts Bar and Grill yesterday in support of Becky Whatley’s International Women’s Day event!

It was loads of food, fun, laughter, stories, hugs and love.

Attached is a video of the messages I shared.

Sadly, I didn’t get any photos. If you ladies took any photos, please send them to me at
[email protected]

Thank you!

03/04/2025

Fiona Ma, CPA is California’s 34th State Treasurer. She was first elected on November 6, 2018, with more votes (7,825,587) than any other candidate for treasurer in the state's history and reelected on November 8, 2022. She is the first woman of color and the first woman Certified Public Accountan...

03/04/2025

Fiona Ma, CPA is California’s 34th State Treasurer. She was first elected on November 6, 2018, with more votes (7,825,587) than any other candidate for treasurer in the state's history and reelected on November 8, 2022. She is the first woman of color and the first woman Certified Public Accountan...