Our Story
Built on Family Values, Driven by Purpose
Cardinal Senior Living was founded on a simple belief: every person deserves to age with dignity, surrounded by genuine warmth and expert care. What began as a single community in Michigan has grown into a family of 20+ locations — each one led by operators who live and breathe the Cardinal way.
We're family-owned and proud of it. That means faster decisions, deeper accountability, and a culture where the people who work here truly invest in the residents they serve. Our clinical and culinary teams, our community directors, and our front-line caregivers all share one mission: making every day matter.
From southeast Michigan to central Ohio and western Pennsylvania, our communities deliver institutional-grade operations with the heart of a family-run home. That's the Cardinal difference — and it shows in our occupancy, our outcomes, and the smiles we see every morning.
Our Approach
How we build lasting communities
A clear, people-first process — from the very first conversation to long-term, sustainable growth.
- 01
A Warm Welcome
Visit & Get to Know Us
Tour a community, share a meal, and meet the people who make it home. There's no pressure — just a warm welcome.
- 02
Your Story First
We Listen to You
We take time to understand your routines, preferences, and what matters most, so your days feel like your own.
- 03
Settling In
Move In With Support
From your first day, our team helps you settle in comfortably — with friendly faces every step of the way.
- 04
Living Fully
Thrive Every Day
Enjoy engaging activities, delicious dining, and genuine friendships in a community that celebrates you.
Our Team
Led by people who care
Our leadership brings decades of senior living experience — and a shared belief that great communities are built on great people.
Chief Executive Officer
Margaret Ellison
Chief Operating Officer
David Okafor
VP of Resident Care
Susan Bauer
VP of Operations
James Whitfield
Director of Culinary
Elena Marsh
Chief Financial Officer
Thomas Reed
Director of People
Priya Anand
Director of Community Life
Carla Jensen
Build a Career with Heart
We are always looking for compassionate caregivers, talented culinary staff, and dedicated leaders to join the Cardinal family. We offer competitive benefits, meaningful work, and a supportive environment where you can grow.
Our Impact
Numbers That Speak for Themselves
Cardinal's track record is built on disciplined operations, staff retention, and a relentless focus on resident experience — all of which drive the financial outcomes our partners count on.
20+
Communities Managed
Across Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania
92%
Average Occupancy
Across stabilized communities year-over-year
30%
Average NOI Improvement
Within the first 18 months of management
70K+
Resident Days Per Year
Delivered with care across our network
Our Locations
View The Cardinal Communities
Twenty-plus communities across Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania — each built on a foundation of family values, clinical excellence, and genuine warmth.
Ready to Experience the Cardinal Difference?
Whether you're searching for the right community for a loved one or exploring a partnership, our family is here to help yours.