The Rennes Group has partnered with the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay to expand and enhance the Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI), a cornerstone of education and engagement for older individuals in Northeast Wisconsin. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to enriching seniors’ lives through accessible educational programming.

Founded in Peshtigo in 1973, the Rennes Group has grown from a single facility to a network of 13 care providers across Wisconsin. Known for opening the state’s first assisted living facility, Rennes remains family-owned and offers a range of care services, including memory care, therapies, and rehabilitation.

“There’s a stigma that older people can’t pick up new information, and that’s just not the case,” said Nikki Schingick ‘12, ‘14, President of Rennes Group and a UW-Green Bay alum. She graduated with degrees in Business Administration in 2012 and Human Biology in 2014. Schingick has stayed connected to the university—especially the Dietetics program—by speaking in classes and offering internships to students. This partnership with LLI represents another step for Schingick and Rennes Group’s support of UW-Green Bay.

LLI, established in 1991, serves over 665 members and offers 150- 250 courses per semester on topics ranging from herpetology to Spanish to laser-cutting, and the fan-favorite “History of the Packers” class. This programming encourages intellectual growth and combats social isolation. With Rennes’ $300,000 gift, UW- Green Bay is expanding LLI membership and developing streaming options to deliver classes directly to Rennes residents. “It’s more than just a donation—it’s really a partnership,” said Schingick, adding that she hopes as Rennes Group residents are exposed to LLI programming, LLI members can likewise learn about the services and innovations in elder care at Rennes.

Jason Arendt, Rennes’ Regional Director of Marketing, highlighted the program’s impact: “This program has put excitement in our residents. It has also allowed families to participate with residents, opening the door to attending other classes.”

Together, UW-Green Bay and Rennes Group are addressing the challenges of aging and enriching seniors’ lives through lifelong learning. “It all comes back to the residents,” said Schingick, “to the community connection, to the people doing this work and excited to do this work.”