KENNETT SQUARE, Pa. — Judy Braun, chief operating officer of Kennett Square-based operator The Kendal Corp., has retired after 17 years in the position. The nonprofit company’s portfolio includes 13 communities in eight states throughout the Northeast and Midwest.
Since joining Kendal’s executive leadership team in 2001, Braun has worked in close cooperation with executive directors, the company’s Boards of Directors and Kendal staff, serving as coach and facilitator to improve the performance of the Kendal system of senior living communities, programs and services.
Braun oversaw a major expansion during her tenure, adding eight new communities in seven states. She also oversaw the company-wide transition to electronic medical records and the development of the company’s internal network.
Most recently, Braun helped launch plans for Enso Village, a Zen-inspired community in the San Francisco area. Currently in development, the property represents a new type of community for the company, as well as an expansion to California.
Before joining Kendal, Braun was the executive director and CEO of The Washington House, a seniors housing community in Alexandria, Va. She is a past commissioner of CCAC (now known as CARF), an international body that accredits organizations aspiring to excellence, and is a fellow and past president of the National Gerontological Nursing Association. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Carlow College, as well as a master’s degree in nursing and gerontological nursing and a doctorate in geriatric mental health nursing, each from Case Western Reserve University.
Kendal CEO Sean Kelly announced that the company will seek two separate hires to replace Braun, with the second serving as chief strategy officer.