Colleen Wille
Assistant Vice President for Sales and Operations
Why I go to work every day?
I work each day so that I can make a difference in the lives of our residents, their families and those that I work beside. That may sound like a cliché but it is the honest truth. The senior’s housing industry is extremely rewarding and success is defined in so many different ways. Hearing someone say that they appreciate that I took the time to listen or to follow-up with them means something to me. Making a positive impact on another human being is very rewarding. I feel honored to be part of a talented team that shares the same values that are non-negotiable in the work that we do.
How did I get here?
Like so many others; I didn’t grow-up thinking that I wanted to work in the seniors housing industry. I was fortunate to have a dear life-long friend ask me for my resume one day as the seniors housing company she was working for was embarking into a new senior housing concept in the Chicago-land market and they were in search of additional leaders to join them in achieving their goals. I have benefited from learning from those that I have worked alongside over the years and remain committed to always applying new knowledge in the work that I do.
Why I care about this industry?
I care about making a positive impact in the seniors housing industry. I have seen the industry evolve greatly over my 28+ year involvement. Looking back – it is an honor to know that myself and those that I have worked alongside have contributed to the growth of the industry and have made a positive impact in many different ways.
Looking forward – it is important to me that as people map their career path that I advocate for seniors housing. We are able to achieve results by not only having a strong business acumen but by using our hearts and compassion at the same time. The next decade will be pivotal as our baby boomers become older adults deserving of a fulfilling life – no matter their age. Those of us who have benefited from the honor of serving others must assure that other individuals are aware of the seniors housing industry and all that it has to offer. We must be committed to let others know of how rewarding and special it is to be part of this industry. There is nothing better!
Who I really am…
When not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I was raised in the southwest suburbs of Chicago and call Lockport, Illinois home, where I can be found cutting the grass and tending to my garden.