Meet Sue McKenna, Executive Director at Laurelwood at The Pinehills, whose path to senior living began with a friend’s recommendation—and quickly became a calling. Over the past decade, Sue has brought empathy, purpose, and a strong operational background to her leadership, first as an Assistant Executive Director and now at the helm of Laurelwood. Known for her thoughtful approach and genuine care for others, Sue finds deep fulfillment in building connections and guiding families through life’s transitions. At Laurelwood, she leads with heart, humor, and an unwavering commitment to making every resident feel seen, supported, and at home.
Executive Director Spotlight – Sue McKenna
Executive Director: Sue McKenna
Community: Laurelwood at The Pinehills
What first made you interested in working in Senior Living?
A friend who works with seniors recommended it.
How long have you been working in Senior Living and what was your first job in this field?
10 years, Assistant Executive Director.
What is your favorite part about working in Senior Living?
The daily opportunities to positively impact someone’s life, whether it’s helping a family navigate their loved one’s changing health, building meaningful connections with our residents, or supporting an associate going through a challenge or who wants to grow professionally.
What is one thing you wish everyone knew about being an Executive Director?
How personally fulfilling and rewarding the work is. It truly is good for the soul.
What is one piece of advice you would share with someone thinking of starting a career in Senior Living?
Be empathetic and a good listener.
What keeps you invested in the field?
Caring for older folks is honorable work, it’s a privilege to be part of an organization that takes such wonderful care of seniors.
What is your favorite part about your job?
The sense of purpose it provides and the relationships I have with residents, their families, and my co-workers.
What is the best part about working at Laurelwood at the Pinehills or at Northbridge?
How much I enjoy the team I work with…this is a wonderful group of professionals. We work hard and take our roles seriously, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Many times, when I’m laughing with residents or co-workers I stop and think, “I really like these people.”
What is one tip you have to ensure new residents and families feel welcome and supported from day one?
Take the time to learn about the resident before they move in, their history, (family, career, places lived, hobbies, interests, health challenges) and have a personalized plan to wrap care and resources around them so they are set up for success and feel seen and supported. Follow up with the resident and their family to answer questions and address concerns. Moving to a senior living community is a huge life change for the resident and their loved ones, validate and be empathetic to the emotions they may be feeling.