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The (OLLI) at George Mason �鶹���� has named seasoned nonprofit leader Lisa Mariam as its new executive director, effective June 2. Selected after an extensive national search, Mariam will succeed Jennifer Disano, who is stepping down after 12 years of dedicated leadership.��

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 OLLI Mason 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.”

“OLLI Mason is renowned for its diverse classes—from arts to investing—along with clubs, events, and travel opportunities for older adults,” said Mariam. “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.”

During her tenure as executive director, Disano led OLLI Mason through a period of significant growth, expanding the educational program from 250 to more than 500 diverse, college-level courses annually that cover 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 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. Disano is working on a podcast, , in collaboration with George Mason’s Watershed Lit, and plans to serve as a consultant for nonprofits.��

OLLI Mason is a nonprofit organization affiliated with George Mason and part of the national Osher Lifelong Learning network. It serves more than 1,000 active learners aged 50+ with more than 500 college-level courses annually, covering a broad range of subjects.��

Programs are offered in-person at the Fairfax Campus, at satellite sites throughout Fairfax County, and online.��

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