New Pond Village Promotions Recognize Leadership and Dedication

Enhancing Resident Experience in Assisted Living and Memory Care
Tasha Thomas + Riley Finnegan
8
April '25

New Pond Village promotions include the advancement of Memory Care programming director and Tasha Thomas to Assisted Living and Memory Care associate executive director, Riley Finnegan to Assisted Living and Memory Care program director, Ava Demaio to Assisted Living program coordinator, and Liam Grueter to Assisted Living dining room manager.

“Here at New Pond Village, we believe in fostering talent from within. These promotions recognize the hard work, dedication and contributions that Ava, Liam, Riley and Tasha have made to the community and we look forward to watching them thrive in their new roles,” said New Pond Village Campus Executive Director Adam Manchester.

Tasha Thomas – Assisted Living and Memory Care Associate Executive Director

Tasha’s responsibilities include ensuring continuity of resident care, problem-solving, clinical oversight and managing resident care associates (RCA) and nurses. Having worked with the senior population since she was 12 years old, she has always felt called to work in senior living.

“I enjoy working in this industry as there is a large and growing need for empathetic and caring individuals. I appreciate the wisdom the senior population can give as it enriches my life personally and professionally. There is a rewarding feeling knowing you are assisting residents at a vulnerable time and it is a skill to do so with dignity,” she says.

Riley Finnegan – Assisted Living and Memory Care Programming Director

Riley, who joined our community in 2023 as the Memory Care programming coordinator, is now responsible for creating and implementing a monthly calendar that caters to residents’ specific interests while meeting Benchmark’s dimensions of engagement—physical, emotional, social, sense of purpose, intellectual and sensory. A Certified Dementia Care Practitioner, she is passionate about creating meaningful relationships with residents and bringing joy into their lives.

“I am a firm believer that life doesn’t stop after moving to assisted living or memory care. If anything, it can be even more fun,” shares Riley.

Ava Demaio – Assisted Living Program Coordinator

Ava is responsible for designing and implementing daily activities for residents, as well as creating weekly and monthly enrichment program schedules. Having worked in various roles at New Pond Village since 2022, she has always felt a strong connection with seniors and finds that enriching their lives has enriched her own.

“I felt I have always connected with them—even better than with people my own age sometimes,” she says. “While working here, I have found that friendship has no age restriction.”

Liam Grueter – Assisted Living Dining Room Manager

Liam will oversee dining room efficiency and enhance the dining experience for residents. He joined the community in 2024 as a server and is excited to advance his career while continuing to work with the residents he loves.

“When I was presented with this new opportunity, I was excited to advance my career while still working with the residents I love,” he says. “As an associate in this community, it is our job to make sure each resident is happy and healthy. I want residents to not just live here but love being here. No matter what role I have had, I always greet the residents with a smile and try to make their day better.”

New Pond Village Promotions Strengthen Leadership and Enhance Community

These promotions reflect the community’s commitment to recognizing and nurturing talent, ensuring that residents receive exceptional care and enriching experiences. By empowering dedicated associates in key leadership roles, New Pond Village continues to transform lives through human connection, fostering an environment where both associates and residents thrive.

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