A Salute to NAIFA’s 2021 LILI Graduates

For NAIFA’s Leadership in Life Institute (LILI), 2021 continued to be a year characterized by resilience and adaptability. State chapters began hosting in-person LILI classes again and 46 students were enrolled in LILI classes in six states (Arizona, California, Florida, Iowa, Nebraska and North Carolina). In addition, 14 students enrolled in one of two new national online LILI classes.

While the second online LILI class is being completed this month, the first online LILI class launched in May 2021. Over six months ago their journey began, six students embarked on a path of study, introspection and personal growth. On November 19, 2021, these students were joined by NAIFA PastPresident Tom Michel and 40 LILI alumni for an online commencement celebration.

Themes of self-improvement, perseverance through tragedy and lifelong friendships formed in the LILI class were in evidence as each graduate took time to share their LILI story.

Next, LILI Moderators Davin Bell from Texas and Aaron Ostler from Nebraska provided their perspectives on moderating the first national online LILI class. They also described how proud they were of the students. The evening ended with open social time during which Tom Michel delivered a heartfelt address to the new graduates.