March 5, 2025 —The Kendal Corporation (TKC) is pleased to announce the appointment of four respected contributors to the Board of Directors, effective 2025. Diane Gibson, Rosa Licea-Mailloux, Susan Murphy, and Barbara Freedman bring an impressive breadth of experience and diverse expertise to the table, further enhancing the depth of leadership guiding TKC into a future of continued excellence.
“We are delighted to welcome these four new members to the Board,” said Vassar Byrd, CEO of The Kendal Corporation. “They represent a wealth of experience and a variety of backgrounds that will further enrich and deepen our Board expertise.”
At the same time, The Kendal Corporation bids a heartfelt farewell to outgoing Board members Richard Baznik, Bill Benson, Casey Bower, and Richard Melecki. Their invaluable contributions during their terms have shaped the organization’s direction, ensuring continued dedication to Quaker values and a resident-centered philosophy.
Meet the New Board Members
Diane Gibson (Portland, OR):
With over 25 years as a CFO in senior living organizations, Diane Gibson is currently a CPA and consultant with A.V. Powell & Associates. A passionate advocate for the field, Diane has extensive experience in financial governance, having served as Board Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair for LeadingAge Oregon.
Diane shares, “Kendal has been a consistent and strong leader in the industry with a unique style of providing services. It’s an honor to contribute to an organization I so greatly admire.”
Rosa Licea-Mailloux (North Grafton, MA):
Rosa brings seasoned expertise in compliance. She currently serves as Chief Compliance Officer at MFS Investment Management and is an adjunct professor of Financial Sector Compliance. Her volunteer work spans leadership roles with organizations supporting domestic violence survivors and care for older adults.
Rosa explains, “My focus is on volunteering for organizations that align with my values and touch my heart. Kendal’s commitment to care for older adults resonates deeply with me.”
Susan Murphy (Ithaca, NY):
Formerly the Vice President for Student and Academic Services at Cornell University, Susan has years of governance experience, serving on corporate and nonprofit boards, including Kendal at Ithaca and Adelphi University.
Susan states, “Having served on Kendal at Ithaca’s board, I deeply admire Kendal’s values and excellence in care. I’m thrilled to contribute at a corporate level as I have the time to commit fully.”
Barbara Freedman (Hanover, NH):
With 26 years in human resources and as a long-time resident of Kendal at Hanover, Barbara brings a unique resident perspective to the corporate board. Through her work with Kendal Charitable Funds and various community boards, Barbara has demonstrated commitment to the principles of collaboration and internal-driven change.
Barbara shares, “I’ve always believed that meaningful change comes from within. Kendal has been my home for 13 years, and I’m excited to bring my skills to help shape its future.”
Enriching Leadership Across Kendal
The Kendal Corporation’s Board of Directors oversees strategic initiatives through its various committees, including Compensation and Benefits, Financial Resources & Audit, Governance, and more. The expertise and vision of these new board members will further the organization’s mission of transforming the experience of aging.
Vassar Byrd emphasizes, “With these exceptional new additions, our Board is stronger than ever. I look forward to working with these deeply experienced colleagues to navigate the future and maintain our commitment to residents, members, employees, and the greater community.”
For further information, visit https://www.kendal.org/about-kendal/leadership/
About Kendal
Founded on Quaker principles and guided by Values and Practices, Kendal Affiliates include Life Plan Communities, Life Plan Community at Home, independent living, assisted living, memory care, long-term care and skilled care options. Kendal Affiliates are in New Hampshire; New York; Massachusetts; Virginia; the Washington, D.C., Area; Illinois; Pennsylvania; Ohio and California.
The Kendal Corporation, 591 Collaboration Way, Suite 603, Newark, DE 19713
Media Contacts: Jessica Buhler, jbuhler@kcorp.kendal.org,
Hannah Merschen, 856-938-9555, hmerschen@AKCG.com