Bringing Visionary Leadership to Guide the Organization’s Next Chapter
Lancaster, PA – Willow Valley Communities is proud to announce the appointment of Lisa Hawthorne (formerly known professionally as Lisa Legeer) as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective June 9, 2025. Following a comprehensive national search, Ms. Hawthorne was selected for her outstanding leadership, deep industry experience, and clear vision for the future of senior living.
Ms. Hawthorne brings more than 28 years of expertise in senior living and health care, with a distinguished career that spans development, operations, marketing, and finance. She has played a pivotal role in over 100 senior living community developments nationwide, including startups, expansions, repositioning projects, and related financing transactions.
Throughout her career, Ms. Hawthorne has collaborated closely with executive management teams and boards, providing strategic guidance in business planning, financial and market feasibility, architectural design and construction, marketing and communications, operations, and innovative new growth initiatives. Her ability to bridge disciplines and drive results has helped organizations across the country achieve growth while maintaining mission-driven focus and fiscal responsibility.
Most recently, Ms. Hawthorne served as Chief Strategy and Integration Officer at LifeSpire of Virginia, a non-profit senior living organization comprising five life plan communities and a continuing care at home program. Her past roles include principal in the healthcare and senior living practice at the accounting and advisory firm of Dixon Hughes Goodman (now Forvis Mazars), and vice president of strategic partnerships and senior vice president of research and healthcare consulting at GlynnDevins.
Ms. Hawthorne holds a Bachelor of Arts in Rhetoric and Communication Studies from the University of Virginia. With a deep passion for excellence in both senior living and hospitality, she is committed to upholding and enhancing Willow Valley Communities’ legacy of exceptional living and forward-thinking leadership.
“We are delighted to welcome Ms. Hawthorne to Willow Valley Communities,” said Jill E. Gilbert, Willow Valley Communities’ Board Chair. “Her strategic mindset, industry knowledge, and dedication to resident-focused innovation make her the ideal leader to guide our organization into the future.”
