CEO and co-founder of a management company for assisted living facilities in Huntley honored with award
HUNTLEY — Co-Founder and CEO of Gardant Management Solutions Rod Burkett was recently named the 2022 recipient of the Jan Thayer Pioneer Award by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), an organization that is instrumental in providing a voice for assisted living in the American Health Care Association (AHCA).
Gardant Management Solutions, which is based in Bourbonnais, Illinois, is the management company for several assisted living facilities in Huntley, including Deer Path (12500 Regency Parkway), Heritage Woods (12450 Regency Parkway), and White Oaks (12450 Regency Parkway).
Burkett has pioneered accessibility and affordability for assisted living in his 24-year career in the senior living sector. In addition, he has sparked awareness, conversation, and advocacy within the profession.
“Rod is an inspiration to the profession,” said NCAL Executive Director LaShuan Bethea. “His work as an action-driven advocate and leader within assisted living makes him truly worthy of this award. His vision and dedication to affordable assisted living has laid a path for providers across the country and put quality care within reach for thousands of people who need it most.”
According to a press release from Gardant Management, Burkett and his co-founder were one of the first responsive operators approved by the state of Illinois for development and certification under the uniquely licensed Supportive Living Program.
Burkett has been instrumental in leading and growing the Affordable Assisted Living Coalition, which remains the driving force in advocating, promoting, and protecting the Illinois Supportive Living Program.
“Because of his vision, Gardant Management Solutions serves over 5,600 residents in the Midwest who receive dignified lifestyles and care through services supported by the Medicaid waiver program,” stated representatives of Gardant Management Solutions.
Burkett has also developed and hosted two “National Summits” in 2016 and 2017 for key influencers in assisted living to focus on existing and future needs for Affordable Assisted Living (AAL).
Additionally, he has partnered with other providers and developers to petition multiple state governor’s offices to bring awareness to AAL.
Furthermore, Burkett embraces the quality measures identified in the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program. 85% of Gardant Management Solutions’ portfolio are Quality Award recipients, including one Silver Award winner in 2022, stated the company.
Burkett is recognized as a leader at the national level, having served on various committees including having served on Argentum’s CEO roundtable, chaired NCAL’s Finance and Policy Committee for five years, and has been serving on the NCAL Board of Directors since 2015.
The Jan Thayer Pioneer Award recognizes individuals who have moved the senior care profession forward, positively affecting the lives of those served, and those who serve.
Recipients must demonstrate dedication, leadership, and considerable contributions to the profession.
Burkett is expected to receive his award in a formal ceremony at the 73rd AHCA/NCAL Convention and Expo in Nashville, Tennessee this October.
