Her Story
About Shannon
I've been in my current field for about 10 years, though my career has always centered around sales and marketing. I started out working with adolescents and troubled youth, which was meaningful work, but very different from where I am now. I had a brief period working in college admissions, but when that school closed down, a senior living sales position opened up. That's when everything changed for me - I found my true passion working with seniors. As the Executive Director of a 115-bed independent living community, my days are incredibly varied and hands-on. I start each morning walking the community to check on things and greet all the staff, then we have our daily staff meeting to discuss what the day looks like. From there, I'm handling issues, going over budgeting, and jumping in wherever I'm needed - whether that's cooking, cleaning, or helping out in any department that's short-handed. Whenever I get free time, I make it a priority to stay involved with the residents. I'll join them for painting activities or just sit and talk with them to get to know them better. I've only been in this particular role for a year and a half, but we just received incredible news - my community won the Best Status Award for independent living from U.S. World News, which has never been done here before. Previously, when I was a sales director at another community, we reached 100% occupancy for the first time ever. I love what I do.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shannon
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of hard work, a willingness to step in and help wherever needed, and the guidance of strong mentors along the way. I always have believed in showing up, putting in the effort, and supporting my team, especially during challenging times. Just as importantly, I've learned from those who came before me - their leadership, advice, and example have shaped how I grow and lead today. I've also learned valuable lessons from the less effective leaders, gaining clarity on what not to do and using those experiences to shape a more thoughtful and supportive leadership style.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Treat people in the way you wanted to be treated and always lead by example. Respect, kindness, and honesty go a long way in any workplace. When you show up with a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a willingness to help others, people notice. Leadership isn't about a title - it's about your actions every day. When you do the right thing, stay consistent, and support those around you, you build trust and create opportunities or growth.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Stepping into management in senior living is meaningful work - and it starts with how you treat people. Lead with respect, patience, and compassion, because both residents and team members will look to you for stability and care. Treat others the way you want to be treated, especially in difficult moments. Your tone, your presence, and how you respond under pressure set the standard for your entire team. Lead by example - show up prepared, stay consistent, and be willing to do the same work you ask of others.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The senior living field is currently facing senior living is key challenges, with staffing shortages ad burnout at the forefront. Finding and retaining quality team members continues to impact daily operations and overall care. At the same time, rising costs and tight budgets require leaders to carefully balance financial responsibility with providing high-quality services.
Residents are also coming with more complex care needs, requiring increased support, training, and resources. In addition, more seniors are choosing to remain at home longer, creating added competition and affecting occupancy. Regulatory requirements continue to grow adding another layer of responsibility for leadership.
Overall, the greatest challenge comes down to people - supporting staff, maintaining a strong culture, and leading effectively in a demanding and ever evolving environment.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Strong values in both work and personal life center on respect, integrity, and consistency. Treating others with kindness and fairness builds trust and lasting relationships, whether at home or in the workplace. A strong work ethic, accountability, and a willingness to help others create a positive environment and set the tone for those around me. Leading by example - doing what is right even when it is not easy - helps guide decisions and actions. When I stay grounded in these values, I am able to create balance, earn respect and make a more meaningful impact in both my personal life and my career.
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