LCS Leaders Named Rising Stars

McKnight’s Senior Living recognizes Amanda Elliott and Renee Porter

Amanda Elliott, corporate operations director, The Marshes of Skidaway Island

DES MOINES, Iowa. February 24, 2021 — Amanda Elliott and Renee Porter were named Rising Stars in the 2021 McKnight’s Women of Distinction awards program. The program recognizes women with an exceptional commitment in the field of senior living.

Elliott’s passion for senior living began when she completed a college internship at a community managed by LCS Community Operations™. Since then, she served in a variety of administrator positions, became a licensed nursing home administrator, and was appointed executive director at The Marshes of Skidaway Island in Augusta, Georgia. In 2019, she was named a corporate operations director, taking on additional responsibility.

“Amanda is an exemplary leader in our industry,” says Catherine Jenkins, vice president, director of operations management. “Her passion, commitment, creativity and energy are all part of what make her so successful. She has a unique talent of creating relationships with all stakeholders.” Jenkins also notes Elliott’s ability to mentor students who are working toward a career in senior living.

Renee Porter, administrator, Dooley Center.

Porter has served as the administrator for Dooley Center, an intermediate care facility for Benedictine nuns in Atchison, Kansas, for six years. During her tenure she completed the process, Performing Excellent Alternatives in Kansas, to certify the community at the highest level. This statewide program promotes innovative care approaches to make significant differences in the quality of care and the quality of life for residents and employees in long-term care environments.

“Renee is driven by compassion and love for the sisters at Dooley Center,” says John Klein, director of operations management, LCS. “She does an excellent job blending regulatory requirements while honoring the traditions, mission and purpose of the Benedictine Sisters.” He notes that Porter serves on the LeadingAge – Kansas Board of Directors and has mentored several administrators in the state.

A virtual awards ceremony will be held May 18 with the Women of Distinction Forum scheduled for May 19. Both events are open to the public.