In today’s world, where healthcare and research are constantly evolving, some leaders stand out not only for their professional achievements but also for the values that guide them. Dr. Femi Obasun is one such figure—a visionary who blends academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and compassionate leadership with a life grounded in faith and service. As the Founder and CEO of Research Institution LC and the President of The Elms of Lynchburg, he has built a career defined by purpose, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to community impact.
Academic Achievements that Built the Foundation
Dr. Femi’s journey as a visionary leader is deeply rooted in his pursuit of knowledge and a passion for making a difference in healthcare. In 2023, after completing his doctoral program in Health Management at Liberty University, he carried with him a powerful message from the dean: to go into the community, to serve, and to bring change as Christ-like leaders. That message did not simply inspire him—it guided his next steps.
With a heart for service and a vision for impact, he acquired The Elms of Lynchburg, a 61-bed Assisted Living and Memory Care facility. His hope is to create a place where faith and compassion come together, not only to care for the elderly but also to provide opportunities for Christian volunteers and Liberty University students to make a difference. Students from the business and health schools will have the chance to gain valuable experience through internships at The Elms, turning learning into service.
His mission is clear: to join hands in the name of Christ, to strengthen the elder community, and to raise the standard of care with love and dignity.
The community is invited to celebrate the grand opening of The Elms of Lynchburg on October
25, 2025, at 2249 Murrell Road, Lynchburg, VA 24501.
A Personal Philosophy Grounded in Faith and Service
At the heart of Dr. Femi’s career is a philosophy anchored in faith, family, and education. He believes strongly in living a life of service and community impact. The visionary leader attributes every milestone to his dedication to Christ and his values, which serve as both a personal compass and a professional ethos. For him, leadership is not simply about strategy but about ensuring his work is meaningful and uplifting to those around him.
Research Institution LC: Driving Innovation and Care
Dr. Femi is the Founder, CEO, and lead researcher of Research Institution LC, a nonprofit organization he has led since 2010. Between 2019 and 2022, the institution achieved groundbreaking milestones in COVID-19 research. Their lab was the first to conduct a positive COVID-19 test in 2019, an achievement that underscored their dedication to pioneering work. For his research, the visionary leader received two prestigious recognitions in 2021: the Distinguished Scholar Award from American National University and the Distinguished European Scholar Award from The European Community.
In 2025, his vision expanded when he purchased The Elms of Lynchburg, a Memory and Assisted Living facility in Virginia, with an $8 million investment supported by Select Bank and Ken Salmer, Vice President of the bank. This step allows Research Institution LC to extend its expertise into patient care, blending research with compassionate healthcare services.
Furthermore, Research Institution LC follows the Business Model Canvas (BMC), a framework that emphasizes how a business creates, delivers, and captures value. This structured approach allows the organization to balance its research, patient care, and expansion efforts while staying true to its mission. For the visionary leader, it’s about creating a model that not only works on paper but resonates in practice.
Leading with Purpose and Vision
As the lead researcher of Research Institution LC, Dr. Femi shoulders the responsibility of shaping its research and development efforts. His role involves identifying new projects, managing teams of researchers, and ensuring milestones are met. Beyond research, he actively invests in new areas such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities, bringing his holistic approach to life. The visionary leader believes leadership means not only guiding a team but also ensuring the growth and sustainability of the organization’s mission.
Challenges on the Path to Leadership
For Dr. Femi, leadership comes with its challenges—particularly in establishing workplace culture. He emphasizes that culture matters as much as compensation or the work itself. Leading with Christian values, he ensures that his leadership remains grounded in integrity and compassion. Even in difficulties, his faith and commitment to serving in the name of Jesus keep him motivated.
Building a Team of Innovation and Trust
Dr. Femi’s leadership also shines in how he empowers his team. He focuses on motivating people through clear direction, effective communication, and recognition. His approach involves setting SMART goals, fostering open dialogue, and rewarding achievements to create an environment where innovation thrives. The visionary leader’s belief is simple: when a team feels valued and aligned, productivity and creativity follow.
A Relational Leadership Style
Dr. Femi describes his leadership style as relational and understanding. He adapts his communication to resonate with people in ways they understand, ensuring clarity and connection. This people-first approach has been a cornerstone of his success mantra, bridging the gap between vision and execution.
Celebrating Achievements Along the Way
From founding Research Institution LC to becoming President of The Elms of Lynchburg, Dr. Femi’s journey is marked by milestones. His four COVID-19 studies between 2019 and 2022 highlighted his research acumen, while his awards in 2021 brought global recognition. The acquisition of the 61-bed assisted and memory care center represents not only a business expansion but also a tangible step in his mission to serve patients and communities directly.
Future Plans for Growth
Looking ahead, Dr. Femi envisions further expansion. Plans for 2025–26 include opening a nursing home in Stafford, Virginia, and a young adult care center in Gloucester, Virginia. These projects reflect his long-term vision of creating accessible, compassionate care facilities while maintaining a strong foundation in research.
A Message of Faith for All Readers
If there’s one message Dr. Femi wants to share with the world, it’s this: Have faith and trust in God. His journey demonstrates how faith can be the anchor in turbulent times and the driving force behind meaningful achievements.
Words of Wisdom
To aspiring entrepreneurs, Dr. Femi offers simple but profound advice: faith, persistence, and service are key. He believes that with trust in God and a dedication to both people and purpose, success naturally follows.