I am thrilled to introduce Jennifer Lazansky as the new Director of Operations for Shepherd Premier Senior Living. Jennifer brings extensive experience in senior living operations, memory care, and community development, and her approach has always been rooted in compassionate, person-centered care. She will be working closely with our community leaders and care teams to strengthen operations, improve communication, and continue building on the programs that make our homes special.

I could not be more excited to have her leading our operations, and I know you will feel her impact across our communities.

Alongside this, I want to recognize and celebrate a transition for someone who has been a cornerstone of Shepherd Premier — Meranda Vela.

Meranda has been a pivotal part of our growth since the very beginning, and her leadership has shaped who we are as a company. After contributing so much at the regional level across our communities, Meranda has made an intentional and deeply personal decision — to step into a focused Regional Director role right here in McHenry County, where Shepherd Premier started, and where she can be closer to home and her family.

I want to be clear: this is not a step back — this is Meranda choosing to pour her energy into the place that matters most to her, both professionally and personally. Our McHenry County families are incredibly fortunate to have someone of her caliber dedicated entirely to them. She knows these homes, she knows this community, and she is committed to making sure our residents and families continue to receive the very best.

Please join me in welcoming Jennifer to her new role and in celebrating Meranda as she steps into this next chapter. Both of these women are exceptional, and Shepherd Premier is stronger because of them.

Meranda — thank you for everything you have built here. We are so glad you are staying close.

With gratitude,

Brandon Schwab

Shepherd Premier Senior Living