By Martie Thompson
editor@floridanewsline.com
Megan Kennedy is a relatively new resident of Northeast Florida, but she has already made it her home. Kennedy is the executive director of Starling at Nocatee, a senior living, assisted living, and memory care center coming soon to Nocatee.
Born and raised in Naples, Fla., Kennedy is well versed in the senior community. She graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University with a degree in health care administration and has spent the last 10 years as the executive director of multiple assisted living facilities in southwest Florida. Her most recent project there was with new construction of a facility and so when the opportunity arose for her to relocate to Nocatee for a similar position with Starling, she was happy to make the move. Setting the culture and the tone of a new community is of particular interest to her.
Her husband of seven years, Ryan, as well as young sons Michael and Mason relocated as well — and even her parents followed her north and live in St. Augustine in order to be near the grandchildren.
- What is the construction update for Starling at Nocatee?
We are about 95 percent complete and getting ready to start inspections and licensures. Residents should be moving in starting in November. We have been busy taking reservations from our new residents. Nocatee is an attractive place for a senior living establishment because there are a lot of adult children moving to Nocatee who want to have their parents close by. Also, our residents have access to all of the amenities at Nocatee.
- What is your favorite part about your job?
Definitely the residents. I love getting to know them, hearing their stories … just connecting with them and making sure they have the best experience in my community.
- Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself here at Starling, still providing stellar service to all of our residents. We are presently beginning construction on Building 2, which will be our independent living facility, to complement our assisted living and memory care facilities that will open shortly. We will have a full campus with around 250 residents and 100 employees.
- How did you meet your husband?
That’s a funny story. We met in a sports bar, watching football. We were cheering for competing teams; he is a Green Bay Packers fan and I am a Chicago Bears fan. We have been married for seven years and our anniversary date is 10/10/10.
- If you were stranded on a desert island, what three items would you want to have with you?
Definitely my family, a good bottle of pinot noir and a good book … for instance, John Maxwell, one of my favorite authors.
Photo courtesy Megan Kennedy
Megan Kennedy and family.
