DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

Welcome to The Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI) at National Louis University.  LLI offers both a learning and social community to adults 55+.  Located at the National Louis Skokie campus, members of LLI come from Chicago and many suburban communities including Evanston, Glenview, Northbrook, Wilmette, Highland Park, Deerfield, Winnetka and more.  No tests, no papers and no judgment – people come to LLI simply for the love of learning, and to meet and share friendship with other interesting and interested peers.

A hallmark of most lifelong learning institutes is that they (we) are member-driven - members do much of the work to create, run, evaluate and improve the program. LLI has a "council" elected to help shape program policy and committees (e.g., curriculum, membership, events, study group management) that are responsible for many aspects of the program.  Volunteerism is the backbone of LLI and members are encouraged to volunteer in one or more areas of our organization.

The heart of LLI is, of course, learning. We have two different types of classes – Peer Led and EdVentures.  The majority of our courses are Peer-Led by members who have a passion for a particular topic and develop, lead and guide weekly discussion in that course. We also have EdVentures which can be led by members or "experts" and typically include a more traditional "lecture" format that is always followed by questions and discussion. 

Other opportunities for learning and socializing at LLI include our Lunch & Learn programs, special events, social activities and trips.  In the past we have had local authors talk about their books and local playwrights perform their plays at our campus.  We have hosted guest speakers from organizations such as The Federal Reserve, The Chicago Botanical Garden and The Center for Wrongful Conviction. Our own members have led programs on music, film and travel.  As a group, LLI members have studied and traveled to both Argentina and Cuba and in June, film buffs attend The Waterfront Film Festival in Saugatuck, Michigan. 

On behalf of National Louis, the LLI Council and our members, we invite you to participate in LLI and experience the joy of learning in retirement.  I’m looking forward to hearing from you.

Joan Marks
Program Director