About Us
What is the Lifelong Learning Institute in Chesterfield?
The Lifelong Learning Institute in Chesterfield is a member-supported organization designed to meet the educational and social enrichment needs of midlife and older adults. The Institute is a learning community of peers who are committed to ongoing education and their own intellectual development. Members want to stay current, are curious about the world of ideas, and are involved with their own learning. The Institute develops and offers daytime courses, lectures, and special events on a wide range of topics. There are no exams, no credits, and no college degrees required. The program consists of spring, summer, and fall sessions. The volunteer instructors are well-known, informed, and experienced professionals as well as some members who enjoy sharing their knowledge and expertise. The Lifelong Learning Institute in Chesterfield is administered and operated by its volunteer members and its sponsors: the Virginia Center on Aging at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), Chesterfield County Public Schools, and Chesterfield County. LLI Chesterfield is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that is committed to equitable treatment and elimination of discrimination in all its forms at all organizational levels and throughout all programs.
Our History
LLI Chesterfield held its first 18 courses with 61 charter members in March of 2004. We have grown in course offerings and membership since that time and are looking forward to our bright future!
Our Mission & Vision
The mission of the Lifelong Learning Institute in Chesterfield is to provide lifelong learning opportunities for midlife and older adults. LLI provides education, fitness, and social activities for its members.
The vision of the Lifelong Learning Institute in Chesterfield is to be a welcoming community of diverse members dedicated to lifelong learning and personal enrichment.
Our Board of Directors
- Diane Holmes Barbour (LLI Member, Faculty)
- Ken Carlson (LLI Member, Faculty)
- Kim Conley (Chesterfield County)
- James E. Davidson, Jr., CFP®, Ex-Officio (Davenport & Company LLC)
- Angie Dempsey (Bon Secours, LLI Member)
- Bob Ferguson, PhD (LLI Member, Faculty)
- Kim Ivey, Secretary (Virginia Center on Aging at VCU)
- Rev. Pernell J. Johnson (First Baptist Church of Midlothian)
- Steve Kunnmann, MBA (LLI Member, Faculty)
- John Lemza, PhD, President (LLI Member, Faculty, VCU)
- Lewis Levi, Treasurer (LLI Member, Faculty)
- Annebel Lewis, Emerita (LLI Member, Faculty)
- Christopher M. McCarthy, Certified Elder Law Attorney (McCarthy Elder Law, PLC)
- Lillie Stratton (LLI Member, Faculty)
- Judy Sweet, Vice-President (LLI Member)
- Catherine Tompkins (Chesterfield County Public Schools)
InterAge Program
LLI Chesterfield offers an InterAge program that includes courses, volunteer opportunities, and more! InterAge celebrates the power of connection across the lifespan. It’s about bringing people of all ages together to share wisdom, spark new ideas, and strengthen community bonds. By fostering relationships that bridge age divides, InterAge helps create a culture of belonging, purpose, and growth. The courses are free and open to the public. All ages are welcome! For more information and a list of current courses, click the button below.
Renovation Plans and Learning Cottages
In August 2026, LLI will temporarily move out of the building to allow space for the county to renovate. The upgrades will include new windows, external doors, and a brand-new ducted HVAC system. The county will be providing two Learning Cottages on the soccer field behind LLI, which will provide comparable classrooms, office, and lounge space. Our commitment to engaging courses, welcoming community, and lifelong learning will remain unchanged. For more information, click the button below.
Our Office Staff
Pictured Left to Right
Rachel Ramirez, MPA | Executive Director
Stacey Kalbach | Office Manager
Carri Pandolfe | Program Coordinator
Debby Hoskin | Program Administrator
Not Pictured
Scarleth Castillo | Office Assistant
Anna Buxmann | InterAge Intern
Our Sponsors
