This history of the decade from 2012 to 2021 was written and compiled by Beth Bogie for the 50th Anniversary of Medford Leas in March 2021.
For the history of the first 40 years, click here.
During the ten years leading to its 50th birthday, March 2, 2021, Medford Leas saw major moves forward in a number of areas, in great part through the leadership of Jeremy Vickers, who became Chief Executive Officer in October 2010. Heads of departments throughout the decade also made significant contributions. Read more about Management. Among the major accomplishments:
- Medical buildings were expanded and improved, creating an enlarged home for Assisted Living with an environment of pleasing social spaces and new amenities. Read more about Medical Expansion.
- Important medical services were added for all residents, under the management of newly hired Mary Ann Flatley, Director of Residential Health and Wellness Services. Under the new Medical Director, Dr. Andrea Iannuzzelli, in 2013, the Health Center was renamed Wellness Center, with broader responsibility. Read more about Medical Services.
- Fitness & Aquatics staff offered an array of expanded programs on both the Medford and Lumberton campuses. Pickleball, cybercycling and recently water aerobics were new enthusiasms. Therapeutic Recreation became a center of imagination and creativity for Assisted Living residents. Read more about Health and Enjoyment.
- Barton Arboretum and Nature Preserve, covering more than 250 acres on both campuses, celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2021. Katzell Grove was dedicated; the Nature Center was renamed the Lois Forrest Nature Center; and Medford Leas took steps to improve its meadows on both campuses. Read more about the Barton Arboretum.
- Technology was updated to respond to needs throughout the Medford Leas community, in support of digital and telephone communication, medical record-keeping, point of sale data collection, building security, and resident safety. Read more about Technology.
- Resident creativity flourished in the Art Studio, gallery exhibitions on both campuses, and resident publications. Enjoyment of lifelong learning resulted in the creation of Pathways to Learning at Medford Leas, as well as the emergence of LeasMusiCast. Read more about Activities.
- The historic Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic of 2020-21 required unparalleled staff teamwork to protect all 550 seniors on both campuses from this very contagious and deadly virus. Outstanding care met the challenge with remarkable success. Read more about Managing COVID.
- On April 30, 2021, during the year-long Medford Leas 50th birthday celebration, Jeremy Vickers announced plans for important building expansion and improvements on the Medford and Lumberton campuses. Read more about Capital Projects.