Her Story
About Sarah
Sarah Martin is an accomplished senior living executive with more than 15 years of experience leading operations, driving occupancy growth, and delivering compassionate care for older adults. As Executive Director of a 104-resident age-in-place senior living community in Oklahoma City, she oversees assisted living and specialized memory care services for residents living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Her expertise spans operations, regulatory compliance, sales, and team leadership, with a strong emphasis on building meaningful relationships with residents, families, and staff to foster exceptional care and community. Martin's career reflects a steady progression built on dedication and hands-on experience. She entered the senior living field immediately after high school as a Certified Nursing Assistant before advancing through roles as a medication technician, staffing coordinator, administrative assistant, memory care director, and ultimately Executive Director after earning her administrator's license. While she attended the University of Central Oklahoma, her professional growth has been shaped primarily by practical experience, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning. She credits her success to hard work, perseverance, and the guidance of mentors who encouraged her throughout her career. Driven by the belief that "serving God by serving others," Martin leads with integrity, compassion, and a people-first philosophy. She encourages young women entering the profession to persevere through challenges, embrace opportunities to grow, and never give up on their goals. Outside of her leadership role, she extends her commitment to service by volunteering with Edmond Mobile Meals, a branch of Meals on Wheels, delivering meals to older adults in her community. Through her leadership and dedication to caring for others, Martin continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of seniors, their families, and the professionals she mentors.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sarah
01What do you attribute your success to?
Hard work. I just always worked since I was young and figured out what was the next step to advance my career through real-life experience and mentors.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Whatever's on your mind that's stressing you out, do it first thing in the morning. Don't put it off all day and let it weigh you down. Get the tough calls done first.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Just keep going. It's tough in entry-level positions, but no matter what happens or what gets thrown at you, keep going, keep trying, and don't give up.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Staffing crisis in healthcare, especially since COVID. High turnover rate and burnout in the industry.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My personal motto is to serve God by serving others. Do the right thing, take care of people, always keep learning, continue to learn from others, continue to keep educating ourselves and get better at what we do, and serve God.
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