Barb is the former President & COO of Vulcan Inc, the management company of the late Paul Allen. She led the global operations of actively-managed investments, film production, catalytic philanthropy, shared services, and private collections during a time of market-beating returns and ground-breaking initiatives. She is widely acknowledged to have had a transformational impact on culture, leading to its first-ever Best Places to Work recognition. Prior to joining Vulcan, Barb served as the senate-confirmed CFO of the USEPA. She also spent 17 years with the Discovery Channel. Barb holds her BA from Vanderbilt University

Ken brings more than 35 years of senior living leadership experience with a focus on project development and operations of nonprofit CCRCs (continuing care retirement communities). Prior to joining Transforming Age Ken served as the Senior Vice President at Wohlsen Construction, the nation’s 3rd largest builder of senior living communities. Over the course of his career, he has cultivated a deep knowledge of CCRCs having served in many different roles and capacities at national nonprofit operators including Covenant Living, Asbury Communities and Retirement Living Services. As Executive Director, VP of Project Development, VP of Operations, and Chief Strategy Officer, Ken has pioneered operational systems and industry-wide benchmarks.

Paul has 30 years of experience as a senior housing project development executive. He is instrumental on all phases of development from assisting clients in land negotiations to pre-design through construction administration. He oversees the project feasibility, budgets, schedules and selection of all team members. He maintains an executive awareness of the market environment, particularly issues impacting real estate development, capital markets, and design and construction. Paul graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences through the Architecture School.

Kim has nearly 15 years of financial management experience in the healthcare industry in both the hospital and senior living sectors. She has experience with the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and most recently served as the CFO of McGregor Foundation. Kim also has five years of experience as a former healthcare auditor with Deloitte and is a CPA in the State of Ohio. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Kent State University and Masters of Business Administration from John Carroll University.

Making food for people is instant satisfaction. Each plate you serve has an ability to make or break a person’s entire demeanor before it is even tasted. I can remember some dishes I have served in my 20+ years of dining experience where safely tucked away back in the heat and sweat of the cook’s line, I didn’t have to see them face to face. Here at Transforming Age (Sous Chef for the past 4 ½ years) it has been my great pleasure to look my customers in the face, morning, noon and night – so I gotta get it right!

Job Opportunities

My name is Jasmine Bowe. I am the Culinary Director at Tradition in Brooklyn Park, MN. I was hired for my first job at Tradition in May of 2009 at the age of 16. I quickly realized that I loved working with seniors and being able to help them. I progressed my way through the department slowly getting promotions and small awards. Looking back almost 12 years now I never imagined that I would still be working at the place I love and in the position I am now in – running the department.

As a server I never knew it was possible to be a Culinary Director, but I had a great supervisor who showed me anything is possible. He believed in me, continued to train me and worked with me. Throughout my twenties I continued my college education studying Business Administration but struggled knowing what I wanted to do as a career and changed my major almost 10 times. I never gave up on school, or Tradition, and graduated in the Spring of 2018 while working full time.

Job Opportunities

We have a lot of wonderful people at this organization who really care about our residents. As someone who works in administration it helps me to know what I’m doing makes a difference. It makes my day when I’m doing something that improves the lives of people in our communities.

It’s been neat to see a small team take on more as we grow. We have all these different avenues to learn and grow.The top-down attitude is that is doesn’t matter what our title, we all have a responsibility to speak up about where we see potential for improvement. This is a great company for that.

We have been pioneering a lot of avenues in our company. There is a lot of change, and looking to the future. It’s a fast-paced environment. We’re used to changing and not getting set in our ways. We’ve found lots of success by responding and getting out ahead of change.

Job Opportunities

When Coronavirus made its unceremonial and unwelcomed entry in the country the staff was uncertain. As we all know, this deadly disease spread like wildfire all over the U.S. and the world. The inception of those uncertain times ignited special strength in many people. While some people dwindled themselves to almost nothing and retreated, many of our team members showed resolution and commitment to keep COVID-19 out of our community. Every measure necessary to keep residents and staff safe was adhered accordingly with an “all hands on deck” approach. The team remained resolute and pushed for not only excellent cares for residents but complete and continued action with every level of prudence to shield Heathers Manor from this virus.

Eight or nine months into the battle, the virus managed to infiltrate our defenses. Several staff and residents had to quarantine. It seemed to some that our long fought battle may have finally failed and we may hit rock bottom. However, team members shifted into an even higher gear to get regain control. Team work paid off greatly! The virus fought hard but the Heathers Manor team fought even harder and won! Everyone played their role effectively and efficiently. The domino effect of complete team work put us back on track.

This does not dilute or downplay the countless efforts by all of our team members in any way but it is, however, worth mentioning one person with specificity here, our Executive Director, Kristel. She joined the team members in their work to deliver food to both quarantined and other residents of our community. She did this every day. In many cases when there is danger, leaders retrieve or retreat to lead from behind. Not with standing, she led boldly by example. Bravo to our ED and all who helped us fight against the pandemic! Please keep it up!

Job Opportunities

Hello, my name is Kathryn I am a Nursing Assistant at The Rivers. My passion started when I was 16 taking care of my uncle on hospice, that was when I knew my calling was in caregiving. I have been with The Rivers for 6 years and counting. Transforming Age has been a big part of my life as I love the residents and think of them every day. Fulfilling their daily needs is a huge passion of mine and what makes them happy makes me happy. Seeing a smile on their face feels so rewarding. I value my job and the staff that I work with, are a good team!

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My name is Megan Mirwald and I am the Assistant Executive Director at Waterford in Brooklyn Park, MN!

I knew from a young age that I wanted to work in healthcare, but it wasn’t until my grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s that I knew I wanted to work with seniors in particular. I began working as a nursing assistant throughout high school with the intent of becoming a nurse. However, I realized that I enjoyed the business side of healthcare even more than the clinical. I graduated from The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a degree in Health Care Administration and am a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator.

Job Opportunities

My name is Rebecca Etwaru. I am a part time Concierge at The Rivers, I have been working at The Rivers for over a year. Working with seniors has helped me realize that I love and enjoy being part of a community that is kind. Here at The Rivers it is all about Team work that makes every day a better day.

Job Opportunities

I’ve been with Transforming Age since 2012. I was hired as Staff Accountant to focus on all billing for our CCRCs in Washington and to work on special projects. I was promoted to Senior Accountant role in 2016, then took on Treasury/banking responsibilities, tracking our system occupancy and all billing for WA communities. We’ve grown so much but we’ve stayed connected. Working here is more like a family environment and it’s all because of the people.

Job Opportunities

Torsten has over 17 years of experience as an executive in the hospitality and senior living industry. Prior to joining Transforming Age, Torsten held executive positions at Oakmont Senior Living as well as Pacific Retirement Services responsible for the startup, operations and management of multiple CCRCs and communities. Torsten holds a master’s degree in Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, both from Southern Oregon University. He also received a bachelor’s in International Tourism Studies from Hochschule Harz, in Wernigerode, Germany.

A certified public accountant, Michael Connell has worked within the senior living industry for over 20 years in finance and accounting roles. Michael has served as the CFO for multiple complex senior living organizations. He has a proven track record of developing and leading strategic initiatives with high annual growth. Michael has played a key role in multiple bond financing transactions dealing with both “new money” and refinance totaling in excess of a half of billion dollars. He has experience with various bond structures, re-structures, and financing strategies. Michael also has five years of experience as a former healthcare and long term care specialist auditor for Ernst & Young LLP. He earned his Bachelor of Science, magna cum laude, in Accounting from the College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York.

Marc Gaber has over 25 years of technology leadership experience. Prior to joining Transforming Age, Marc was the Chief Information Officer for LCS Senior Living where he provided leadership, vision and strategic direction for their technology initiatives that provided value to their corporate operations as well as their 140 communities and 40,000 residents. During his time at LCS, Marc was part of the Argentum Information Technology Roundtable, Iowa CIO Forum and participated in multiple Senior Housing News Technology Panels. Marc has also held leadership roles within the technology consulting, technology start-up and banking industries.

David has over 25 years of multidisciplinary experience as a senior-living executive, including work in strategic planning, project development, merger and acquisition, and troubled-project advisory services. Through his leadership David guides growth for Transforming Age and its affiliates. David received his Bachelor of Arts in economics, accounting and philosophy (magna cum laude) from North Park University and a Master of Arts in health administration from the University of Chicago.

Ashlee brings more than 14 years of legal, senior living, and healthcare experience including working with Kindred Healthcare and Ensign Services, Inc. In her previous capacity of Associate General Counsel at Ensign she oversaw risk management, regulatory, litigation management, and legal support to nursing, assisted living, CCRC, and independent living facilities. Ashlee obtained a Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University in 2020. She holds a Doctorate of Jurisprudence from Vanderbilt University Law School as well as a Bachelor of Science in Biological Anthropology and Anatomy and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Duke University. She is licensed in Washington State, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands (inactive). She also is a former Certified Nursing Assistant.

Sophia has been a registered nurse since 2010. She began her career in health care as a Nurse Manager shortly after became an Assistant Director of Nursing and few years took on the role as Senior Director of Health and Community Services. She is a Certified Nurse Educator and an Adjunct Faculty Member in the school of nursing. Sophia is a member of Minnesota Director of Nursing and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Sophia has a Master’s of Science Degree in Nurse Education from Bethel University.

Jim is well-respected for his progressive leadership in health services. Having served as a health services director and administrator for 28 years, Jim has developed extensive training programs, mentored future leaders and piloted cutting edge skilled nursing and dementia programs. Jim started his career as a Physical Therapy Specialist with the U.S. Army, serving three years active duty and ten years in the reserves. He has a Master of Health Administration degree from Chapman College and a Bachelor of Arts degree from University of Puget Sound. For over 10 years Jim has served on the National Board of Licensing of Nursing Home Administrators and serves on the National Continuing Education Committee.

Karen has more than 20 years of experience in Human Resources, including employee relations and engagement, compensation, performance management, recruiting, HR operations, compliance, diversity and inclusion, learning and development, and employer branding. In addition, she is a Senior Certified Professional (SCP) through the Society for HR Management (SHRM). Karen graduated from the Pacific Lutheran University with a Bachelor’s degree in English.

Kristen is a 18 year veteran of the senior living industry with sales and marketing expertise in both independent and assisted living. She specializes in sales best-practices, strategic marketing plans, results-driven advertising campaigns, and marketing analytics. Kristen earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing and Management from New York University and is a graduate of the LeadingAge Leadership Institute.

Mark began his career with Transforming Age as the Culinary Director at Skyline in January of 2014. He has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry including private country clubs and hotels. Ferrante is skilled at streamlining operations and systems to provide clients with a diverse array of culinary and service methods. Mark has a BA in Criminal Justice and Psychology and has tremendous teambuilding techniques and mindful practices for professional development. He is a Certified Executive Chef through the American Culinary Federation and adjunct instructor at the Culinary School of Renton Technical College. He is active in the community and a volunteer coach in the Snoqualmie Valley Youth Soccer Association.

Jonathan has been a registered nurse since 2012. He began his career in health care as a charge nurse and quickly ascended to the Director of Nursing Role. He is a certified Director of Nursing Services with a DNS-CT certification and Resident Assessment Coordinator with a RAC-CT certification. With a keen interest in making advancements within the field, Jonathan is actively involved with the National Association of Directors of Nursing, the American Association of Director of Nursing Services, and the American Association of Nursing Assessment Coordinators. He has a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Nursing from Kaplan University.

Karen Lucas is the Executive Director of the Sustainable Living Group, a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing and a range of services and support to help seniors and families sustain their independence, remain engaged and healthy, and live their best lives. She has nearly 20 years of senior living experience and previously held leadership roles at Aegis Living, Emeritus Senior Living and Brookdale Senior Living. Her “first” 20 year career focused on sales and marketing for notable consumer goods brands, including Chiquita Brands, Starbucks and Odwalla.

MacBeth brings more than 23 years of senior living leadership experience and joins the Transforming Age network after twelve years with LCS in Des Moines, IA. During his tenure at LCS MacBeth held the role of Vice President Development with direct oversight of 20 projects comprised of new Life Plan development, re-development, and rental products with $2.0 Billion project value.

Wayne has over 25 years of leadership experience managing design and construction in a myriad of medium to large-scale commercial projects. His experience in the senior living industry includes managing the construction of two urban high rise CCRCs, working from development through commissioning including obtaining a LEED Platinum certification. Wayne is a graduate of the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Industrial Design.

Stan has nearly 15 years of financial expertise in the senior living industry, including experience with Emeritus Senior Living and Brookdale Senior Living. In addition, he has audit experience with KPMG and is a CPA in the State of Washington. Stan graduated from the the University of Washington with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.

David has over 30 years of experience in the non profit sector as an Executive Director. His passion is giving voice to those in our community that have none. With a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and Social Work, he specializes in fundraising, creating new funding streams and Advocacy work. He loves the challenge of helping those in need in the Puget Sound.

Alli Riese has worked in the non-profit sector for over 20 years, motivating others to give, volunteer, and take action. She is passionate about making philanthropy effective, efficient and fun! Alli earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from the University of Winnipeg and an MBA from Gonzaga University focused on management and leadership in social-sector organizations, nonprofit revenue models, and donor-advised funds. Her work at Transforming Age is focused on inspiring donors to enhance the lives of older adults and the people who love and care for them.

Laurie Sykes is Regional Director of Operations for Transforming Age Minnesota Communities. Originally from International Falls MN she has moved south in hundred mile increments and now resides in Minneapolis. Laurie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology, is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator and Licensed Social Worker. In her career she has worked in private for profit and non-profit long term care, transitional care, memory care, assisted living and independent living. Laurie has held the positions of Workers Comp Coordinator, Social Services Director, Care Center Administrator, Campus Administrator and Executive Director. In her free time, she enjoys motorcycling, gardening, walking and cooking.

Jay has over 35 years of executive management experience in Senior Housing working with Affordable Senior Housing, Continuing Care Retirement Communities, Assisted Living/Independent Living and other Senior Housing options. His focus has been on strategic planning, organizational growth and new product and service line development. He has run non-profit organizations, serving as CEO of SHAG and worked in real estate development. Jay holds a BARCH degree from Cornell University and has served on numerous industry and non-profit boards.