Avamere

Every major transition has a story behind it. In a new interview with McKnight’s, Avamere CEO Mary Kofstad shares additional perspective on our decision to transition out of skilled nursing operations, how we are approaching that change, and where Avamere is headed next. As we look ahead, our focus remains on serving seniors and families through senior housing and home-based services, while honoring the people and teams who helped build Avamere over the past 30 years. Read the full interview below.

Ike Okoli is known as a steady, tactical leader who brings clarity, structure, and calm direction to even the most complex situations. As Administrator of Avamere Transitional Care of Puget Sound, Ike leads with intention, balancing operational excellence with a strong focus on team alignment and quality outcomes. A retired Army Medical Logistics Officer, he brings discipline, accountability, and strategic thinking to every challenge. His approach is measured, consistent, and grounded in doing things the right way. Outside of work, Ike is an active mixed martial artist and three-time IBJJF World Jiu-Jitsu World Champion, demonstrating the same resilience and dedication that define his leadership style. Yet when asked what he is most proud of, Ike's answer isn't an award, title, or championship. It's being a father to his daughter. More than any professional accomplishment, fatherhood remains the role he values most and the one that continues to shape the leader he is today. We're grateful for leaders like Ike, whose character and commitment reflect the values that define Avamere every day. #TeamAvamere #LeadershipHighlight

We’re proud to share that multiple Avamere locations have been recognized as a 2026 Bronze National Quality Award recipient by AHCA/NCAL. We're proud of the teams that have taken the time to reflect on their ongoing commitment to quality and continuous improvement. AHCA/NCAL #QualityAward26

Leadership in healthcare continues to evolve, and conversations around how you drive quality through leadership have never mattered more. Next week, Chukk Nielson, Regional Director of Quality Assurance, will be speaking at WHCA (Washington Health Care Association), sharing perspectives on transformational leadership and the long-term impact of investing in people, not just outcomes. Chuck’s session explores the difference between transactional and transformational leadership, and how empowering individuals through purpose, ownership, and personal investment can drive stronger engagement, more sustainable results, decreased turnover, and higher role satisfaction. Looking forward to the conversation and proud to see Avamere leaders contributing to important industry dialogue around the future of leadership in healthcare. See you in Seattle!

Last week we hosted an all-company call with Mary Kofstad, CEO, live from Avamere at Newberg, where we highlighted the people and teams making an impact every day across Avamere. We heard from Kelcie Mauser, Executive Director; Michelle Bone, Director of Sales and Outreach; and Seth Leard, Director of Culinary, who shared how their team approaches senior living with a focus on personalization, dignity, and meaningful resident experiences. Mary also shared organizational updates and recognized the dedication of our nursing teams in honor of National Nurses Week. Opportunities like these help keep our teams connected, aligned, and focused on our shared mission to enhance the life of every person we serve.

Located in beautiful Lake Oswego, Oregon, The Pearl at Kruse Way has achieved a 5-star overall rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. It’s a meaningful milestone for the residents and families who rely on this team, and a reflection of the discipline, ownership, and accountability required to achieve an overall 5-star rating. The Pearl joins a group of Avamere locations with a 5-star overall rating, including Richmond Beach Rehab, Queen Anne Healthcare, Avamere Rehabilitation of Cascade Park, Avamere Transitional Care of Puget Sound, and Avamere at Three Fountains. #5star #SkilledNursing #TeamAvamere

From college intern to regional leader, Robb Melcher's path at Avamere is exactly what growth from within is meant to look like. Robb began his career with Avamere as an intern while attending Oregon State, stepping into the industry with a willingness to learn and a strong work ethic. From there, he took on roles across admissions, social services, and operations, building a well-rounded foundation before completing the Administrator-in-Training program and earning his Nursing Home Administrator license in 2019. As an Administrator, Robb quickly became known for his steady leadership and ability to build strong, accountable teams. During his time at Avamere Beaverton, his leadership helped the community earn a Bronze Quality Award from the American Health Care Association, reflecting both operational discipline and a deep commitment to quality care. Today, Robb supports multiple Avamere locations across both skilled nursing and community-based care in a regional leadership role. He is the kind of leader who shows up for his teams, stays hands-on in the field, and focuses on solving problems in a practical, meaningful way. Robb is also serving in his first year as an AHCA/NCAL Quality Award Examiner, continuing to give back to the industry while raising the bar for excellence across the communities he supports. Robb represents the next generation of leadership in senior housing. Leaders who understand the work, invest in people, and lead with consistency and care. Thank you, Robb, for all you do to enhance the lives of those we serve. 

⭐ Community Spotlight: The Stafford ⭐ At The Stafford, strong performance is a direct reflection of a team that shows up for each other. Serving both Independent Living and Assisted Living residents in Lake Oswego, this team continues to exemplify Avamere’s mission to enhance the life of every person we serve. From a constant focus on the resident experience to a culture of shared accountability across the building, they consistently demonstrate how alignment, execution, and teamwork shape both experience and performance. That kind of culture does not go unnoticed. Over the past several months, the team at The Stafford has stayed grounded in what matters most, delivering a consistently strong resident experience and building a community people are proud to call home. As Mary Kofstad, CEO, shares, “The team at The Stafford is a great example of what’s possible when the right team aligns around a shared purpose.” The results are clear. From averaging 88–90% occupancy through Q3 of 2025, the community has grown to over 95% occupancy in 2026, with many months running full and maintaining a waitlist. “At the heart of my leadership is a deep respect for people, both those we serve and those who serve alongside us.  When our team feels valued, that care naturally extends to every resident and family we care for,” says Stevi Price, Executive Director. We’re continuously proud of this team and the standard they set.  #SeniorLiving #TeamCulture #TeamAvamere #TheStafford #LivingGoodandAgingWell

Tito Garcia joined Avamere in February 2026 as Chief Investment and Strategy Officer, where he leads enterprise-wide investment strategy, growth initiatives, and capital deployment across Avamere and its affiliated healthcare companies. Tito brings a strong foundation in financial advisory, transactions, and strategic consulting, with experience spanning operators and healthcare-focused organizations. Prior to joining Avamere, he spent over 12 years with Moss Adams and following its merger, Baker Tilly, where he advised clients on mergers and acquisitions, financial strategy, and operational performance improvement.  Known for his data-driven and execution-focused approach, Tito has worked closely with leadership teams and investors to evaluate opportunities, structure transactions, and drive long-term value creation. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and has built his career at the intersection of finance, strategy, and operations, bringing a practical perspective on how investments translate into real-world performance.  Welcome to the Team Tito!

Join our team! 🔧We're hiring a maintenance assistant in Medford, Oregon. Help maintain a comfortable place our residents proudly call home. As part of our team, your work makes a real difference every day for seniors. 🏡 Bring your skills, make an impact, and build a career with a team that values what you do. Find out more and apply today! https://lnkd.in/gWDNZYC4