Priority Life Care honors outstanding achievements at 2026 Executive Director’s Symposium
Priority Life Care (PLC) celebrated excellence in senior living among its communities and team members at its annual Executive Director’s Symposium, which it recently held in Hutchinson Island, Florida.
The event recognized outstanding performances across its more than 60 communities nationwide throughout 2025, highlighting the company’s commitment to exceptional care and service. The theme for the 2026 Symposium, “Elevate,” reflects who PLC team members are and aspire to be as leaders, caregivers, team members and people.
Community Cup
The prestigious Community Cup was awarded to Celebration Villa of Nittany Valley in Nittany Valley, PA. The community was recognized for its consistently putting its residents’ needs, comfort, and safety first. The collaboration and commitment of the community’s management team in creating a strong, unified environment that reflects throughout the facility was also highlighted.
Executive Director of the Year
Jeff Benjamin, Executive Director of Celebration Villa of Berwick, PA, received the “Ken Hook” Executive Director of the Year Award. Recognized as a results-driven leader with a strong focus on occupancy, financial management, and culture, Benjamin plays an active role in sales, supports nursing when needed, and consistently meets deadlines. His ability to embrace change, work independently, and frequently assist other communities by mentoring and training new leadership, combined with his reliability and collaborative spirit, make him a valued Executive Director.
Runners up for Executive Director of the Year:
- 2nd Place: Tarita Dooley of The Cortland Riverside Gardens, Grand Rapids, MI
- 3rd Place: Kim Cardenas of John H. Johnson Senior Assisted Living Apartments in Oklahoma City, OK
Associate of the Year
Oneida Perea of Sky Active Living University Pines in Pensacola, FL, received the “Bob Nowak” Associate of the Year Award for her remarkable journey of dedication and growth. Perea began her career as a dishwasher and, through determination and hard work, advanced to become a lead cook serving breakfast and lunch, embracing every challenge with professionalism, pride, and a positive attitude along the way.
Runners up for Associate of the Year:
- 2nd Place: Rosemarie Gordon of Independence Court of Hyattsville, MD
- 3rd Place: Carrie Besaw of Celebration Villa of Martinsburg, WV
“These awards reflect our continued commitment to empowering our teams and associates – and to recognizing their commitment, passion and service,” said Sevy Petras, CEO of Priority Life Care. “We’re proud to ‘Elevate’ their efforts in 2025 and how they’ve helped drive success in their communities.”
