Marlena Hemenway
Marlena Hemenway, LALD, is the Brand Ambassador at The Geneva Suites, where she leads with a deep passion for elevating the lives of older adults through compassionate, relationship-based care. With over nine years at the organization, Marlena has played a central role in expanding The Geneva Suites to seven residential care homes, pioneering an innovative, dignified model of senior living that prioritizes respect, purpose, and connection. Her Licensed Assisted Living Director (LALD) certification reflects her strong commitment to quality care and professional excellence in the senior living industry.
Drawing on a background in education from Ohio University, Marlena helped introduce a Geriatric Montessori-based engagement program that promotes cognitive stimulation and emotional well-being among residents. Her leadership has not only improved resident satisfaction but has also helped position The Geneva Suites as a thought leader in residential assisted living. Whether speaking at industry conferences or hosting thought-provoking podcasts, Marlena continues to advocate for compassionate care models that rethink how we support aging with dignity.
• Licensed Assisted Living Director
• Food Protection Manager
• Chaminade Julienne
• Ohio University- Bachelor's
• Women's Club of Minneapolis
• NSA-MN
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to not quitting—when something needs to get done, I make sure it gets done.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that grace costs you nothing.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field right now is staffing—finding the right people who are truly dedicated to caring for our residents.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both work and life are enhancing lives through compassionate care, being accountable for my actions and decisions, fostering respect in every collaboration, and creating a safe, educational environment for those I serve.
