Old Friends, New Neighbors

Over the past 10 years, I have worked with seniors as a nursing home administrator, housing director, and regional director in the states of Wisconsin, Idaho, and Oregon.

When I'm not at Plaza, I love having fun with my wife, Jill, and our two children. A fan of being outdoors, I like sports, as well as hunting and fishing. I grew up in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, and played college football at Valley City State.

I’ve had a passion for older adults for as long as I can remember. I had a close relationship with my grandparents, so after my grandmother moved into an assisted living community, I got my first job as a server. Since then, I’ve worked in the medical device and home care industries before coming to Plaza in 2018.

I love connecting with seniors and their families every day, helping them navigate the senior living landscape. Older adults have so much knowledge and life experience. They are simply the best, and their stories stay with me. I have a knack for helping people find what they’re looking for and strive to show compassion by remembering details. In 2020, I graduated from Leading Age Minnesota’s Leadership Academy.

In my free time, I enjoy trying new restaurants, being outside, and hammocking. My husband, Mike, and I have a teenage son named Andre and a chocolate lab named Hudson. Mike and Andre and involved with the Roseville youth sports program, so we’re often cheering and volunteering.

Bio coming soon.

I’ve been passionate about working with older adults, since I was 16 years old. From serving as a CNA to working in life enrichment, I love knowing I am making a difference. I’ve been honored to receive Leading Age Minnesota’s District G Caregiver of the Year award in 2014, as well as the Multi-housing Achievement in Design, Advertising, and Community Support (MACDACS) Outstanding/Innovative Resident Service award.

I joined the Walker team in 2017. At Plaza, I create and implement a variety of engaging activities and programs for residents. I also oversee our budget, assist new residents by helping create care plans when they move in, and manage our wonderful life enrichment team. I love to throw big events that bring people together for fun. Bringing joy to the lives of seniors each and every day – that’s why I do what I do.

In my free time, you can find me spending time with my children and 10 grandchildren.

Bio coming soon.

While I was a student at Minnesota State University, Mankato, I got a job in a senior living community. Through this experience, I discovered my passion for older adults—and for ensuring they receive the care they deserve. After graduating, I joined the Plaza team in August 2020.

Here at Plaza, no two days are the same. My role includes navigating the resident assistants’ schedules, communicating with families, ensuring residents are being cared for properly and receiving accurate services, and collaborating with all departments. In our community, I am helping pilot a new program that gives resident assistants handheld devices to use. Known for making others smile or laugh, I love to help resolve conflicts and concerns for families, residents, team members.

My favorite part of my job is building relationships with everyone in our community. Coming to work is easy when I get to engage with residents and collaborate with my team to make lives better.

In my free time, you can find me outside. I enjoy biking, reading in my hammock, swimming, skiing, and more. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends, as well as traveling.

I received my bachelor’s degree in sociology with an emphasis in social welfare at Minnesota State University, Mankato. I am currently pursuing a graduate certificate in aging studies. I received my Assisted Living Director License through LeadingAge MN’s Legacy program. Most recently, I was recognized as Plaza’s 2021 Servant Leader of the Year. I am also participating in Walker Methodist’s Leadership Development Program.

Bio coming soon.

Of all the roles I’ve had during my career of more than 30 years, being at Walker has been the most rewarding. My sister worked at Walker, and I heard about her experience––so when I needed a change, I knew I'd love it here.

On a daily basis, I make sure residents receive their statements on time, ensure details are correct, and help solve issues if they arise. I also meet with all new residents to welcome them to Plaza and go over their leases. As many peoples’ go-to person, I’m known for being organized and following through, and I do my best to lead by example. My philosophy is that I never ask someone to do something I wouldn’t be willing to do myself. Something new happens at Plaza every day, and I love seeing and learning from residents.

In my free time, I enjoy working in my yard and garden, doing DIY projects, and spending time with family and friends.