𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐈 𝐚𝐭 𝐆𝐞𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐚 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐦 𝐚𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐱, 𝐕𝐀 – 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟓, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at George Mason University is pleased to announce the appointment of seasoned nonprofit leader Lisa Mariam as its new Executive Director, effective June 2, 2025. Selected from over 70 applicants after an extensive national search, Mariam will succeed Jennifer Disano, who is stepping down after 12 years of dedicated leadership to pursue her collaboration with George Mason University’s Watershed Lit Radio Literary Podcast at UpstartCrow.org and serve as a consultant for nonprofits. Disano will provide transition support during Mariam’s first week to ensure a smooth handover. 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐉𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐨’𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 Jennifer Disano led OLLI Mason with distinction for 12 years, driving significant growth by expanding the educational program from 250 to over 500 diverse, college-level courses annually, covering literature, science, technology, and the arts. She grew the staff to support this expansion, adopted hybrid learning models during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure continuity, and strengthened OLLI’s affiliation with George Mason University for enhanced member benefits. Disano’s focus on fiscal stability and volunteer empowerment fostered a vibrant, inclusive community, leaving a lasting legacy of lifelong learning. 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐚 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐦 “I am deeply honored and energized to join OLLI Mason as its next Executive Director,” said Mariam. “OLLI Mason is renowned for its diverse classes—from arts to investing—along with clubs, events, and travel opportunities for older adults. It fosters vibrant longevity through mental, social, and physical engagement. I’m excited to work with the board, staff, and community partners to build on OLLI’s legacy, ensuring it remains a premier center for lifelong learning in Northern Virginia and a national model for holistic programming.” Mariam brings extensive experience from her current role managing the Challenge America Program at the National Endowment for the Arts, administering grants to underrepresented communities. Previously, as Senior Director of Grants and Services at ArtsFairfax, she launched the Arts for Life initiative, expanded the Grants Program, and forged public-private partnerships. Her career began at the National Gallery of Art, organizing traveling exhibits. Mariam is also an active volunteer, serving on the Fairfax Master Arts Plan Task Force, Fairfax 50+ Plan, and the Board of the McLean Community Center. “Lisa’s strategic vision, collaborative leadership, and alignment with OLLI’s mission make her the ideal choice to lead us forward,” said Board Chair Debbie Engleson, who led the search committee. “Her community connections and expertise in growing membership and partnerships will guide OLLI into its next chapter.” “We are thrilled to welcome Lisa Mariam as our new Executive Director,” said Jennifer Disano. “Her leadership and passion for community engagement will advance OLLI’s commitment to lifelong learning.” 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐝𝐨 𝐚𝐭 𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐈? **One fee for unlimited classes & clubs **Enjoy 500+ classes & events a year **Attend in person or online **Try a class for free before joining **Explore new interests **Share your knowledge with others ***Make new friends **Enjoy social events, local tours & travel **Receive free technical support **Enjoy George Mason University affiliate benefit (fb)

https://cheusecenter.gmu.edu/events/16747 (fb)