On International Coworking Day, Benchmark celebrates the collaboration, creativity, and connection that thrive in our shared spaces. Whether in our Home Office or throughout our communities, we're proud to live the spirit of Better Together, working with purpose and united by a common mission to elevate human connection.
We’re thrilled to share that FOUR of our outstanding dining leaders have been named winners in Senior Housing News’ inaugural 2025 DISHED Senior Living Dining Awards! These awards recognize culinary and operational excellence in senior living, and we’re proud to see our team leading the way across two standout categories: Operational Optimizer | Celebrating innovators improving efficiency, workforce strength, and resident satisfaction: • Missy Raponi, Dining Services Specialist, Home Office • Ashley Garnett, Dining Services Director, Benchmark Senior Living at Split Rock Palate Pleaser | Honoring creativity in menu innovation, ingredients, and culinary technique: • Guy Tino, Dining Services Director, Benchmark at Rye • Lacey Rainey, Food & Beverage Director, New Pond Village Please join us in celebrating their passion, leadership, and commitment to creating meaningful dining experiences that truly set the Benchmark standard! Read the full announcement here: https://seniorhousingnews.com/2025/07/15/wtwh-healthcare-announces-the-dished-senior-living-dining-innovation-awards-inaugural-class-of-2025/
“I feel lit up when I speak about my residents because I want the best for them. I want them to be happy.” - Cathyann Williams, Resident Care Associate Happy National Friendship Day from all of us at Benchmark! In our communities, friendships and heartfelt connections are the center of joyful, engaged, and meaningful living every day.
We’re shining a spotlight on the incredibly talented chefs and dining teams who bring joy to our communities one plate at a time. From crafting made-from-scratch meals tailored to our residents’ needs, to preparing heartwarming favorites that spark memories and smiles, our culinarians do more than cook, they nourish the body and soul. “In senior living, food is more than nourishment, it’s a way to honor memories and create new ones. The chefs at Benchmark lead with passion and purpose, crafting meals that bring comfort and joy to our residents each day.” - Tyler Hamel, Regional Director Dining Services We celebrate their creativity, passion, and commitment to excellence. Thank you for sharing your talents with those who call Benchmark home, one delicious meal at a time.
We’re pleased to welcome Rachel J. Thuerk to the Benchmark team as our new Vice President of Risk Management. With a career built on strategic insurance leadership and data modernization, Rachel brings a fresh perspective to protecting our most valuable assets—our residents, associates, and communities. Her forward-thinking approach aligns perfectly with our values: Called to Care | Championing the protection and support of every Benchmark community Better Together | Embedding risk awareness across the organization Be the Benchmark | Driving operational resilience as we continue to grow We’re thrilled to have Rachel on board and look forward to the important contributions she’ll make. Read Rachel’s full interview with Business Insurance here: https://www.businessinsurance.com/ppl/rachel-j-thuerk/
When the elevator doors open, so does the heart of our mission. Thanks to a recently curated collection of resident artwork, associates and visitors to Benchmark’s Home Office can now expect to see a refreshed lobby when the elevator doors open. What was once a conventional office lobby has been reimagined as a vibrant space that reflects Benchmark’s values—sparking conversation, connection, and inspiration. “This is about who we are and what we do,” explained CEO Tom Grape. “And now, the lobby conveys the spirit of Benchmark.”
Introducing our Home Office Summer Interns! Meet Abbie Hodgson, rising Senior at University of Connecticut, and Ethan Elalmy, who will be starting his Masters of Accounting program at University of Massachusetts - Amherst this fall. Abbie and Ethan have both jumped right in, applying their academic insights and knowledge to make meaningful contributions to the Marketing, Accounting, and broader Benchmark teams. We’re lucky to have them on board and are excited for all the moments of working and learning together this summer!
July is Social Wellness Month! At Benchmark, we celebrate the meaningful connections that support healthy aging. Our associates play a vital role in creating those moments and they benefit, too. The relationships built with residents and one another foster a strong sense of purpose, community, and well-being for everyone.
JOIN | For those who are Called to Care, joining the Benchmark team means pursuing a passion that’s fulfilling while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. STAY | We take pride in fostering a community where passionate individuals come together, because we’re Better Together, to inspire one another, connect and build meaningful relationships that extend beyond the job. GROW | As an industry leader, we are dedicated to Being the Benchmark by empowering our team members and providing opportunities for growth. At Benchmark, we believe the best experiences are created by fulfilled individuals. That’s why we hire for passion, develop our associates through training, and invest in the physical and emotional well-being of our team. To learn more or explore open roles, visit careers.benchmarkseniorliving.com!
Today is National Take Your Dog to Work Day, and there’s no better time to spotlight Sara Humphreys, Executive Director of Benchmark at Mount Pleasant, and her four-legged sidekick, Gracie. As the community dog (and a full-time resident in Sara’s home), Gracie makes every day Take Your Dog to Work Day! When Benchmark at Mount Pleasant opens, Gracie will be right there alongside Sara welcoming new residents, bringing smiles to families, and supporting associates with a calming, joyful presence.
