More Like Living Your Best Life

My personal mission statement is, “Make lives better,” and I take delight in combining that with Walker Methodist’s mission, “Life. And all that goes with it,” to support the quality of life of those I encounter. Why did I choose a career in senior living? I realized the importance of trust, dignity, and vulnerability of older adults.  

 I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Healthcare Management and then pursued a Master's Degree in Gerontology and Finance. I have accumulated more than ten years of experience in senior communities, including nursing homes, assisted living, and senior living with services.  I am known for my passion for enhancing quality of life and bringing smiles to the faces of those I serve. 

Victoria Barlow has lived with her family and worked in South Minneapolis for 25 years, and she loves introducing people to the beauty of the area. Known for providing excellent customer service and follow-through, Victoria cares for all those she encounters, and brings her upbeat and positive attitude with her wherever she goes.

Before working at Walker Place, Victoria worked in real estate, helping people find their perfect home. This passion continues with her in her role at Walker Place, where she helps older adults navigate the complexities of senior living so everyone finds the right home for them. 

Victoria is a graduate of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and earned a Minnesota Real Estate License. She enjoys walking Stachmo around the Chain of Lakes, going to Home and Garden Shows, and anything Gordon Ramsay.

Ernest Bishop was born and raised in Freetown Sierra Leone, located in West Africa. He spent most of his life there before moving to the United States in early 2008. As a registered nurse (BSN), Ernest has more than a decade of experience working within the intricacies of health care.

Ernest is a strong believer in the power of positive thinking in the workplace. He decided to be a nurse because he loves the work, caring for people, and working with people. Honesty and integrity, along with determination and dedication, are philosophies that he strives for in all aspects of life. Applying these principles to his nursing career led him to be a patient-centered nurse, who is both a kind and hard-working person.

Outside of work, Ernest enjoys watching soccer with friends, reading books, and riding his bike in the summer. He is married and has two daughters.

My journey with Walker Methodist began in 1994, when I had a clinical rotation in physical therapy assistant (PTA) school. The next year, I joined the physical therapy team. Years later, I still love working with seniors.

Now, I serve as the resident services manager at Walker Place. On a daily basis, I help residents with non-medical issues, host family meetings, and act as a liaison between residents, team members, and outside care providers.

On my team, I’m known for being a reliable (and funny) person who does what I say I’ll do. When it comes to resident safety and quality customer service, I think critically to make the best possible decision for everyone. A sign in my office describes my approach: The most powerful leadership tool you have is your own personal example. I like knowing I make a difference in residents’ lives. Making our seniors feel special is what gets me up in the morning.

In my free time, I enjoy biking, camping, and spending time with my family. My wife, Theresa, and I have three children.

I earned my associate’s degree in physical therapy and my bachelor's degree in kinesiology. In 2004, I helped start Place’s fitness center.

My passion for senior care really started when my grandfather was diagnosed with dementia. Seeing his journey inspired me to become a life enrichment director, and it has been a perfect fit for me.  

Alongside my work in life enrichment, I also serve on the Walker Place Servant Leadership Team – I am the fundraising champion for the community! If I am not on the floor facilitating activities or visiting residents, I am researching events, outings, and new opportunities for our community. I am always willing to jump in when needed and am very good on my feet. 

I graduated with a bachelor's degree in psychology, with an emphasis in geriatric care from Grand Canyon University, and I worked as a caregiver throughout college. I started my career at Walker Methodist Plaza as a life enrichment assistant, and during this time, I was honored to receive the Servant Leader of the Year award in 2020.  

Laughing with the residents in our community brings me joy every day. Outside of Walker, I have two dogs: Zuko (German Shepherd) and Bumi (Husky). They are the best, and I hope they settle down one day so I can take them to visit our residents!