Oak Trace launches Emerging Leaders Initiative to invest in future leaders
Oak Trace senior living community in Downers Grove introduces its new Emerging Leaders initiative, a leadership development program designed to recognize and cultivate exceptional team members who demonstrate strong potential for future leadership roles within the organization and the senior living industry.
Inaugural class selected
The inaugural class includes five team members selected from across the community.
According to Executive Director Dan Harrington, the selection process was highly challenging because of the strength and depth of the Oak Trace team. “We have such a good bench,” he said. “It was difficult picking this first group.”
“We asked directors to select five shiny bright stars,” said Courtney Karl, associate executive director.
The participants include Ashley Haag, sales assistant; Taylor Elwood, human resources assistant; Kate Blas, registered charge nurse, Halle Loneman, lifestyles supervisor; and Saniya Khan, lifestyles lead.
Recognizing leadership potential
The Emerging Leaders initiative reflects Oak Trace’s outstanding workplace culture and commitment to professional growth. Participants were chosen based on their leadership potential, initiative, professionalism, and ability to make a positive impact within the community. The selected team members are regarded as among the very best within Oak Trace and are already demonstrating tremendous promise for the future.
A Yearlong Leadership Development Program
The yearlong program provides participants with hands on leadership development opportunities and exposure to multiple areas of senior living operations. Each month, participants meet with leadership to discuss industry trends and challenges, including staffing, components of emotional intelligence, resident centered leadership, innovation in senior living, and problem solving.
Participants also complete a coordinated rotation through different departments, shadowing assigned directors to gain a broader understanding of community operations and leadership perspectives across the organization.
“One of the emerging leaders will shadow in dietary, while another will be in operations,” said Karl. “By experiencing different departments and leadership styles, they gain valuable insight into how the entire community works together.”
Preparing Future Leaders
The program also includes educational assignments and discussions focused on leadership development and the future of senior living. Oak Trace leaders say the initiative is intended to prepare promising professionals for long term success while strengthening the organization from within.
“This is really a form of succession planning,” Harrington said. “We’re identifying people who have the potential to do great things in life and giving them the tools, education, and experience they need so we can continue growing strong leaders at Oak Trace.”
Building a Stronger Community Culture
The response from participants has already been overwhelmingly positive, with team members eager to learn, grow, and expand their opportunities within the organization.
By investing in emerging professionals, Oak Trace continues to reinforce the collaborative, supportive culture that has made the community a respected leader in senior living.
Oak Trace Senior Living
Oak Trace senior living community in Downers Grove, Illinois, is set on more than 40 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds featuring gardens, walking paths, ponds and abundant green space. As a Life Plan Community, formerly known as a CCRC, Oak Trace offers a full continuum of care: including independent living, assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation and skilled nursing. Oak Trace is owned by Lifespace, a not-for-profit organization with nearly 50 years of experience in senior living. To learn more about Oak Trace, visit OakTraceSeniorLiving.com.