Dickinson Hall Names New Manager

Patty Jenkins, a former director of a senior community center in Chicago, has been named the new manager of Dickinson Hall, Lake Forest and Lake Bluff’s senior center.

Jenkins, who spent 12 years as Director of the Center for Life and Learning, a senior community center at Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago, replaces Marla Schachtel, who retired on March 31.

“Patty is a great fit for this challenge,” said Steve Potsic, chairman of the Senior Resources Commission. “In addition to her experience in successfully managing a senior learning community center in Chicago, what most impressed us was Patty’s enthusiasm, her leadership skills and her ability to connect with people in a variety of diverse settings. Patty will provide dynamic leadership for Dickinson Hall as it serves the evolving needs of mature adults in our communities.”

Jenkins also serves as a chaplain in the Army reserve and volunteered to deploy to Afghanistan in August 2013.“Patty has a real commitment to serving our older adults, strong leadership skills and a great ability to bring people together,” said City Manager Bob Kiely. “She will be a wonderful addition to the staff and we are thrilled to have her join our City team.”

Located at 100 E. Old Mill Road in Lake Forest, Dickinson Hall has been in operation for nearly 45 years and has a current membership of 1,400 Lake Forest and Lake Bluff residents.

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