On July 23rd, the Massachusetts Assisted Living Association’s (Mass-ALA) hosted its annual Excellence Awards Dinner at the enVision Hotel & Conference Center Mansfield-Foxboro. The event honored an outstanding group of professionals from across the Commonwealth who represent who help deliver the highest standards in assisted living.
This year’s honorees – Nancy Andrie, Telma Baganha, Charlotte Beary, Jennifer French, Rex Garozzo, Alex Jean, Bob Larkin, Laurie Pimentel, Kathy Pooler, Karla Rossi, and Michael Wolf – were recognized for their compassion, leadership, and positive impact on the lives of older adults. Nominated by their peers, these individuals stand out as role models within their communities and the industry at large.
“We are proud to celebrate this year’s Excellence Award recipients whose compassion, professionalism, and commitment brighten the days of the residents they serve,” said Brian Doherty, President and CEO of Mass-ALA. “These individuals represent the very best of assisted living, ensuring that older adults are supported with dignity, independence and respect each day. Their dedication not only strengthens our communities but also reflects the continued advancement of quality care throughout the Commonwealth.”
The awards ceremony was emceed by Bob Ryan, retired columnist for the Boston Globe’s sports section, and regular panelist on ESPN’s Sunday morning roundtable. Throughout his career he has won several awards such as National Sportswriter of the year for numerous years, the Dick Schaap Award for Distinguished service to journalism in 2006, and the Curt Gowdy Media Award from the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1997.
The Mass-ALA Excellence Awards Dinner is an annual highlight for assisted living professionals in Massachusetts—an evening of recognition, gratitude, and inspiration for all who serve older adults with dignity and compassion.
2026 Excellence Award Winners:
Nancy Andrie, Wingate Living, honored with the Sales and Marketing Award. As Sales Director, Nancy exemplifies what it means to lead with compassion and integrity in assisted living. Whiles she has achieved the remarkable distinction of supporting three communities to full occupancy, her true impact lies in how she supports families through deeply emotional transitions. She doesn’t “sell” senior living, she guides people and makes them feel how much she cares. Nancy goes beyond her role, serving as a dedicated advocate for seniors in her broader community through initiatives like Stocking for Seniors, which provided meaningful holiday support to over 250 homebound individuals. Trusted by families and partners alike, she consistently puts people first, embodying the heart of service this industry strives for.
Telma Baganha, Autumn Glen at Dartmouth, honored with the Care and Wellness Award. Telma works in the memory care neighborhood at Autumn Glen and embodies compassion, resilience, and teamwork. Known for her warmth and positivity, she supports residents, families, and coworkers alike, lifting spirits during challenging moments. Her empathetic approach to dementia care is especially notable. She meets residents with patience and understanding, always seeing the person beyond the disease. Telmas also consistently goes above and beyond her role, even stepping in to assist other departments while maintaining meaningful connections with residents. Even with a depth of experience she is committed to continuous improvement, always open to trying new systems and behavioral interventions to support the individuals under her care. The supportive environment she creates reflects the very best of assisted living.
Charlotte Beary, The Village at Willow Crossings, honored with the Resident Spirit Award. Charlotte is a Resident Ambassador and represents a powerful example of resilience, faith, and community spirit. After a devastating accident left her immobile, she demonstrated remarkable determination. She regained mobility and inspired those around her with every milestone. As a Resident Ambassador, Charlotte warmly welcomes newcomers, offering guidance, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Her empathy and lived experience help others navigate the transition to assisted living, while her humor and kindness brighten daily life. She has made a lasting impact by supporting fellow residents through personal challenges and fostering meaningful connections.
Jennifer French, Charter Senior Living of Danvers, honored with the Life Enrichment Award. Jennifer, as the Senior Life Enrichment Director, has been a driving force behind the community’s remarkable growth and vibrant culture. Through thoughtful programming and a resident-centered approach, she creates engaging experiences that foster connection and joy contributing to increased occupancy and an influx for positive feedback. Jennifer takes the time to truly know each resident, ensuring activities reflect their interests and enhance overall well-being. A respected leader across her organization, she mentors peers, elevates standards beyond her own community, and pilots’ innovative initiatives like the “5 O’clock Somewhere” Happy Hour program. Jennifer’s creativity and strategic mindset make her a standout leader in assisted living.
Rex Garozzo, Bridges by Epoch Sudbury, honored with the Volunteer Award. Rex is a high school student who has been a dedicated and passionate volunteer for over a year, quickly becoming a favorite among residents. Known for his gentle and thoughtful approach, he consistently goes above and beyond to support the community. His most remarkable contribution was organizing a holiday gift drive entirely on his own initiative, rallying his school to donate enough gifts for every resident to receive multiple presents. Thanks to Rex, no residents went without during the holidays, bringing joy and connection to many. His genuine care has made a lasting impact in our community.
Alex Jean, Sunrise of Wayland, honored with the Dining Services Award. Alex is a dedicated team member who creates a welcoming dining experience where residents feel valued and supported. Their attentiveness is exemplified by thoughtful gestures, such as developing a visual menu to allow for a resident recovering from a stroke to communicate their needs and wants. A reliable and collaborative team player, Alex communicates effectively with both dining and clinical staff to ensure high-quality, resident-centered care. They understand that their role is not just about serving meals, it’s about serving people. Alex is a role model for peers while elevating the dining experience and enriching daily life for residents and their families.
Bob Larkin, Senior Living Residences, honored with Lifetime Achievement Award. Bob, Founder of Senior Living Residences, is a pioneering leader whose nearly 40-year career has helped define assisted living in Massachusetts. As a founding member of Mass-ALA, he played a central role in shaping the state’s assisted living legislation in 1994, establishing a model grounded in dignity and quality care. He developed one of the Commonwealth’s first certified communities and built a management company that now operates 24 locations, recognized for both innovation and workplace culture. A steadfast advocate for accessibility, Bob advanced programs that expanded affordable care for seniors. Guided by integrity and a ‘people before paperwork’ philosophy, he has mentored generations of leaders while leaving a lasting impact on residents, families, and the industry at large.
Laurie Pimentel, Carriage House at Lee’s Farm, honored with the Facilities and Maintenance Award. Laurie is a highly skilled Maintenance Director and deeply dedicated leader whose impact is felt across every corner of the community. Known as a true “jack of all trades”, Laurie combines technical expertise with creativity and compassion. Whether building custom furniture for residents, restoring damaged spaces, or creating meaningful tributes that honor those who have passed, she consistently goes above and beyond, supporting both residents and colleagues with thoughtfulness and care. A respected mentor and team leader, Laurie fosters a sense of pride in her team’s work, while her attention to detail and problem-solving abilities ensure the community operates at its best.
Kathy Pooler, Allerton House at The Village at Duxbury, honored with the Employee Leadership Award. Kathy is a tenured leader within the residence and brings exceptional dedication and compassion to her role overseeing Village Home Services. With a strong foundation as a former Resident Assistant, she combines hands-on experience with operational expertise, managing scheduling, staffing, and care delivery while remaining deeply engaged with residents. Kathy’s commitment is evident in her willingness to step in wherever needed, whether providing direct care, supporting clinical initiatives, or remaining on-site during severe weather to ensure continuity of service. Known for her responsiveness and strong relationships with residents and families, she fosters a culture of trust, teamwork, and reliability, consistently going above and beyond to meet the needs of the community.
Karla Rossi, Stone Hill at Andover, honored with the Executive Director Award. Since opening the community in 2018, Karla, Senior Executive Director, has fostered a culture rooted in respect, connection, and accountability, guided by her belief in caring deeply for people. Karla leads by example, living by her father’s guiding words: “Treat you people well, and they will treat you well”, supporting residents and families through meaningful moments while empowering her team with resources and opportunities for growth. Her responsiveness to resident needs and commitment to continuous improvement have driven high satisfaction, strong referrals, and a thriving community. Now serving as Senior Executive Director, she extends her mentorship and leadership to sister communities, further amplifying her impact across the organization.
Michael Wolf, Ruth’s House Assisted Living, honored with the Program Innovation Award. Michael has redefined memory care programming, as the residences Activity Aide, through innovation, creativity, and a deep understanding of resident needs. By integrating virtual reality and interactive technologies into daily activities, he has created immersive experiences that spark memories, encourage social connection, and increase engagement. This is true particularly for residents who may struggle with traditional programming. His evolving initiatives, from large-screen interactive games to enhanced communication tools for families, have transformed the environment into a dynamic and inclusive space. Michael’s forward-thinking approach not only enriches residents’ quality of life but also empowers staff and strengthens connections across the entire community.
About Mass-ALA
The Massachusetts Assisted Living Association (Mass-ALA) is the voice of assisted living in Massachusetts, representing certified assisted living communities of all sizes and service models across the Commonwealth, providing information and education, and advocating on behalf of members and the older adults they serve. A not-for-profit association dedicated to professionally operated assisted living residences that provide housing and services for individuals with varied needs and income levels, Mass-ALA promotes a model of care which treats all residents with dignity, provides privacy, and encourages independence and freedom of choice.
###
Media Contact: Jadzia Walker | 617.482.0042 | www.denterlein.com