Lifelong Learning Institute welcomes new director
By Susan Nienow CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Hughes

Monica Hughes brings a broad background of experience with people, business and education to her new job as director of the Lifelong Learning Institute of Chesterfield (LLI).

"One of the major factors drawing me to the Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI) is my love of people, the midlife to senior age group, and my intrinsic belief in the importance of continuing education," said Hughes.

First days

She started the fall session alongside LLI's newest members and has been welcomed by returning members and instructors. "I have witnessed the dedication and talents of the many professors and instructors who give so willingly of their gifts and time," she observed.

During her first days on the job, Hughes met with the Chesterfield Partnership for Successful Aging, finishing the preparations for last month's celebration of Active Aging Week. She has also spent time with Debbie Leidheiser, LLI's former executive director who now serves as the county's senior advocate.

Other LLI supporters such as the Virginia Center on Aging, John Tyler Community College, Chesterfield County Public Schools, IVNA, CJW Medical Center, Bon Secours, Sheltering Arms and Goodwill Services have been in contact with Hughes, expressing their continuing interest.

More on Hughes

Hughes was one of 11 children in "a very faith-filled" Catholic family. "Thankfully, we were raised to recognize the great joy found in serving others," she said. Hughes has a son and two grandchildren in Kansas City, two daughters at Virginia Tech and a daughter in middle school. She moved to Chesterfield nine years ago with her husband, Tim.

She's previously worked in the field of early childhood education and has business experience in accounting, human resources and management.

"I have been fortunate over the years to work with the oldest to the youngest populations. This opening has allowed me to come full circle from my first job as a teen working with seniors." Hughes declared.

Previously, she served as the Minister for Formation at a local Catholic parish, working with curriculum formation and the whole spectrum of age groups.

Lifelong Learning Institute

LLI is a member-supported organization offering educational and social opportunities for adults ages 50 and older. Daytime classes are offered in a variety of subject areas and are free to members. An annual membership is $100. LLI also offers activities such as bridge, canasta, bingo and fitness.

The teachers are members of the community who volunteer their time, expertise and love of sharing information. LLI is administered by its volunteer members and its sponsors including the Virginia Center on Aging at Virginia Commonwealth University, Chesterfield County Public Schools and Chesterfield County. LLI also partners with John Tyler Community College, the Brandermill Church, the Midlothian Ruritan Club and several Rotary Club chapters.

LLI is a member of the Elderhostel Institute Network, an umbrella organization for lifelong learning institutes in the United States and Canada. For more information on LLI, call 378-2527.