This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Erickson Senior Living community announces new Executive Director
Greenspring, an Erickson Senior Living community in Springfield, Va., is pleased to announce that Karyn Flannagan has been promoted to executive director!
Formerly serving as the community's associate executive director, Flannagan is a dedicated, compassionate leader who fosters meaningful relationships with both residents and staff members.
"I'm very excited for this new opportunity," she says. "Over the last two years, I've connected with many people and witnessed just how much residents enjoy Greenspring's vibrant, worry-free lifestyle."
She adds, "I'm eager to help the community grow, so we can continue to meet the needs of current and future residents!"
Prepped for success
Flannagan earned her doctorate degree in clinical psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology in Alameda, Calif., and is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Virginia.
She previously served as the vice president and administrator for Inova Health System as well as the senior director of behavioral health services and diversity and inclusion for the Novant Health UVA Health System.
"While working within an acute care hospital system, I had a tremendous opportunity to serve in a leadership role that had a large scope of responsibility and oversight, very similar to the executive director role," she says. "I'm familiar with caring for people--team members and patients--while providing strategic and operational oversight for a large community as part of a larger organization."
According to Flannagan, it was this experience, coupled with her commitment to caring for people, that make her uniquely qualified for her new position at Greenspring.
"Working in health care, everything you do starts with building a relationship," she explains. "The same principle applies at Erickson Senior Living, as we're motivated by the mission of helping people live better lives."
She continues, "I'm naturally a people person. I strive to listen to understand, meet people where they are, and collaborate as much as possible. Serving in this way has enabled me to focus on relationships. I'm looking forward to building upon the existing partnerships I have with residents and staff members and supporting the many minds that come together for our common goal."
Interactive leadership
Flannagan believes that her strong relationship-building skills will set her up for success in her new role as executive director.
Listening closely to residents and incorporating their feedback wherever possible is a top priority. She is also dedicated to supporting Greenspring's staff members, who go above and beyond to provide the engaging lifestyle residents enjoy.
"We've done a lot of work to make sure our team members feel valued," says Flannagan. "Last year, we looked at ways to help staff members grow in their careers, asking the question, 'Where do you want to go, and what skills do you need to achieve those goals?'"
She continues, "By investing in our employees, we ensure that we will continue to care for our residents at a high level and, in the meantime, build high-performing teams. We want to exceed residents' expectations in everything we do!"
This year, Flannagan and Greenspring's executive team are focusing their attention on people, culture, and excellence.
"I am committed to continued partnership, transparency, and ongoing communication with residents through Town Halls and the Resident Council. That is a key ingredient to our secret sauce at Greenspring," she says.
Come visit!
When not at Greenspring, Flannagan, who was born and raised in Australia, is most likely traveling with her husband Dwaine and their twin 15-year-old boys, Jayden and Caden.
"We love to travel and explore different cultures and traditions," she says. "I am a consummate learner, listening to people's stories and understanding their lives. The richness of everyone's stories is a priceless gift. In fact, one of the best parts of my job is hearing resident's stories. My door is always open!"
Flannagan also enjoys meeting with and learning from prospective residents and their families.
"Please don't hesitate to visit our beautiful community," she says. "We love to host guests on campus. And we have wonderful resident ambassadors who are happy to share their experiences."
A guiding light
She adds, "I would love for my father, who is turning 85 this year and still lives in Australia, to live here at Greenspring. When I make decisions in my new role, I always ask myself, 'What would I want for him if he lived here, so he can live his best life?' That's my North Star."
To learn more about affordable, independent senior living at Greenspring, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.
By Kelly Shue
The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?
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