How did you get into administration of assisted living facilities?

I did quite a few years in the developmentally disabled field. I originally got into the senior living field in Oregon, Wis. I managed a small (assisted living facility) there for six months. My husband was working in Rockford, Ill., so I got a job with a larger assisted living (facility), and was there almost eight years.

What attracted you to Deerfield?

It’s a beautiful community, for one. We’re close to trails, and to keep residents active, that’s a real positive. And it’s fairly new, so I knew I would be able to come in and work with a strong management team here. I felt this would be an opportunity for me to grow professionally. It’s 5 years old, but it’s still in that beginning stage where I can take it to the next level.

Do you have specific goals for Deerfield?

Mainly to keep our name out in the community for people to know who we are as far as senior living and a home for seniors. And to offer seniors wellness is important, and to be able to offer more amenities to the residents. It’s important to let the community know that we’re keeping up with the times.

How does Deerfield compare in size to your last facility?

It’s much larger. I had 73 apartments at my previous place, and here there are over 200 residents that reside at Deerfield.

What are some of your day-to-day responsibilities?

Basically, I’m responsible for overall operations of Deerfield. There are obviously directors for each department, but the responsibility falls back on me. I have a lot of interaction with the residents, and have been able to develop good relationships with them. We have several resident committees. That’s part of my job, to attend those meetings and keep residents informed of what’s going on.

What trends are driving how facilities operate?

I think the trend is not to look at continuing care retirement communities as a place to house seniors. It’s a place where they can remain very active. We look toward what’s coming down the road. It’s like (keeping up with) technology – what’s the next greatest thing to come out? I constantly am looking towards what kinds of new ideas and technology pieces can help us do that.

With a degree in criminal justice, did you have other career plans initially?

I really like being in the senior living industry; years ago when I went to college, that wasn’t my first thought. It just evolved. I’ve done case managing for the department of children and family services (in Wisconsin); I’ve worked with teens and foster kids. I’ve been in the industry of helping people, so I guess that evolved into being in the senior industry.

Any hobbies or activities you’re passionate about?

My husband and I are boaters. We currently live on the Rock River in Illinois and have a pontoon boat there. That’s pretty important to us in the summer months. I’ve already been up to Saylorville Lake and have checked that out. We’re also pretty big NASCAR fans – we’ve been following the circuit races pretty closely. I was surprised to see they have the Nationwide Series coming to the Iowa Speedway.

What does your husband do?

He still currently works in the suburbs of Chicago; he’s in (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) sales and works for Trane. We are actively looking for a position for him here.