Former LCS CEO Ed Kenny to be Inducted into Senior Living Hall of Fame 

LCS has announced that former President and CEO Ed Kenny will be inducted into the Senior Living Hall of Fame later this month.

“This recognition is a fitting tribute for Ed’s decades-long dedication to the senior living profession and the meaningful, lasting impact of his leadership,” said Chris Bird, LCS CEO. “His vision, integrity, and commitment to people—residents, employees, and future leaders alike—continue to influence our organization and the broader industry.” 

Launched by American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA) in 2018, the Senior Living Hall of Fame recognizes and celebrates industry leaders and visionaries whose significant contributions have helped shape the senior living profession. Honorees are selected for their lasting impact, leadership, and unwavering commitment to community lifestyles that enhance choice, independence, dignity, and personalized service for older adults.

“While his accomplishments are many, what truly sets Ed apart is his heart for people — his intentional leadership and genuine personal connections made him a force in our industry,” said Joel Nelson, LCS Board Chairman and former LCS CEO. “As one of LCS’ first 15 employees, Ed helped shape the company and LCS continues to benefit from that strong foundation.”

Kenny joined LCS in 1979 and began his career as an executive director at several of the company’s senior living communities. In the early 1990s, he was promoted to lead LCS operations, and he was named CEO in 2006. By the time of his retirement in 2016, LCS managed 141 communities serving more than 34,000 residents. He also led the formation of several LCS-affiliated businesses with services ranging from development and group purchasing to home healthcare.  During his tenure, Kenny guided LCS through a pivotal period of growth and evolution, including the company’s transition from employee ownership to pursuing a minority investment strategy—an initiative he described as “transformational” for the organization and its future.

Following his tenure as CEO, Ed and his wife, Sue, founded the LCS Foundation, with a mission to support the future of senior living.  Launched in 2017, the Foundation invests in the industry through charitable giving focused on developing future leaders through collegiate programs and scholarships, Alzheimer’s awareness and fundraising, and employee relief funds for LCS corporate and community employees. Since its inception, the LCS Foundation has raised more than $5 million to support these initiatives.

Kenny will be formally inducted at ASHA’s 2026 Annual Meeting on January 27 in Phoenix, along with industry leaders David Freshwater and Loren Shook. He will join a list of 29 other industry leader honorees, including former LCS CEO Stan Thurston, who was part of the inaugural Hall of Fame class in 2018.