Future Leader: Kelsey Clarke, Executive Director, Trico LivingWell Retirement Community

Kelsey Clarke, Executive Director at Trico LivingWell Retirement Community, has been named a 2025 Future Leader by Senior Housing News.

To become a Future Leader, an individual is nominated by their peers. The candidate must be a high-performing employee who is 40 years of age or younger, a passionate worker who knows how to put vision into action, and an advocate for older adults and the committed professionals who ensure their well-being.

Clarke sat down with Senior Housing News to share what drew her to the senior housing & senior living industry, the biggest leadership lessons she has learned, her thoughts on the future of senior housing & senior living, and much more. To learn more about the Future Leaders Awards program, visit https://futureleaders.wtwhmedia.com/.

SHN: What drew you to the senior housing & senior living industry?

Clarke: I started in the senior living industry in 2010 as a housekeeper, and right from the beginning, I felt a strong connection to the work. What drew me in — and has kept me here ever since — is the sense of purpose that comes from supporting older adults in living with dignity, comfort, and joy. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of growing within this field, and every step has reinforced how meaningful it is to be part of a community that values compassion, respect, and human connection.

SHN: What’s your biggest leadership lesson learned since starting to serve this industry?

Clarke: One of the biggest leadership lessons I’ve learned is that true leadership isn’t about being in the spotlight — it’s about making space for others to shine.

In this industry, success comes from lifting others up — whether that’s helping a team member grow, removing obstacles so they can do their best work, or creating a culture where everyone feels supported. My job is to create the conditions for others to be successful, and when they are, the whole organization thrives.

SHN: If you could change one thing with an eye toward the future of the senior housing & senior living industry, what would it be?

Clarke: If I could change one thing, it would be to fully embrace the idea that both residents and employees are occupants of the community — and to design our environments, systems, and cultures with that in mind.

Too often, the industry focuses solely on the resident experience, while the needs of those who support and care for them are treated as secondary. But when we create spaces where employees feel valued and supported, it naturally leads to better outcomes for residents.

The future of senior living should be rooted in mutual respect, shared dignity, and the understanding that a thriving community depends on the well-being of everyone in it.

SHN: In one word, how would you describe the future of senior housing & senior living?

Clarke: Opportunity.

SHN: If you had a crystal ball, what do you think will impact the senior housing & senior living industry now and into 2026?

Clarke: If I had a crystal ball, I believe the biggest impact on the senior housing and senior living industry now and into 2026 will be workforce sustainability.

As the needs of residents become more complex and expectations for quality of life grow, the ability to attract, support, and retain compassionate, skilled employees will be critical. This means rethinking how we invest in workplace culture, education, and wellness — treating the employee experience with the same intention and care as the resident experience. A thriving workforce is the foundation for a thriving community.

SHN: In your opinion, what qualities must all Future Leaders possess?

Clarke: In my opinion, all Future Leaders must embrace servant leadership — putting the needs of others first and creating the conditions for both residents and employees to thrive. Qualities like humility, empathy, active listening, and a willingness to roll up your sleeves are essential.

In senior living, leadership isn’t about authority — it’s about service, building trust, and fostering a culture where people feel valued, heard, and empowered to grow.

SHN: If you could give advice to yourself looking back to your first day in the senior housing & senior living industry, what would it be and why?

Clarke: I would tell myself: Every small action matters — stay present, stay kind, and stay curious.

On my first day as a housekeeper in 2010, I had no idea how much impact a single interaction could have on someone’s day — or on their life. I’ve learned that in senior living, trust and connection are built moment by moment, and leadership grows from understanding every role, listening deeply, and always being willing to learn.

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