Meet Janel Kohaut: Executive Director Shaping the Future at Juniper Village, Chatham

Janel Kohaut, the Executive Director of Juniper Village at Chatham, part of Juniper Communities, has been recognized as a 2025 Future Leader by Senior Housing News. This prestigious accolade highlights her commitment and contributions to the senior housing and living sector.

To qualify as a Future Leader, candidates must be nominated by their peers and demonstrate exceptional performance in their roles. They should be under 40 years of age, exhibit a strong passion for their work, and advocate for older adults as well as the dedicated professionals who support their well-being.

In an insightful conversation with Senior Housing News, Kohaut discussed her motivations for entering the senior housing industry, the key leadership lessons she has learned, her vision for the future of senior living, and much more. For additional information about the Future Leaders Awards program, visit https://futureleaders.wtwhmedia.com/.

SHN: What drew you to the senior housing & senior living industry?

Kohaut: My journey into this industry was fueled not just by opportunity, but by a profound sense of responsibility. My grandmother suffered from Alzheimer’s, and witnessing the importance of compassion, dignity, and consistency in her care profoundly impacted me. This experience shaped my desire to lead in a field where my work could genuinely enhance someone’s quality of life. Observing how one community, one culture, and one leader can make a significant difference solidified my commitment to this path.

SHN: What’s your biggest leadership lesson learned since starting to serve this industry?

Kohaut: One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that people don’t follow titles; they follow trust. It’s essential to be present for your team during both good and challenging times. Communication is crucial; the more transparent and consistent you are, the stronger your organizational culture becomes. Listening is equally vital; effective leadership hinges on truly hearing your staff, residents, and their families.

SHN: If you could change one thing with an eye toward the future of the senior housing & senior living industry, what would it be?

Kohaut: I would advocate for a deeper commitment to a high-tech, high-touch model. Technology should not replace care but rather enhance it. The goal is not automation; it’s personalization, allowing our associates to spend more quality time face-to-face with residents. We owe this to the next generation of seniors and the dedicated individuals who care for them.

SHN: In one word, how would you describe the future of senior housing & senior living?

Kohaut: Integrated. The communities that will thrive are those that successfully blend innovation with empathy, data with dignity, and operational excellence with human connection. Efficiency alone is insufficient; we must prioritize personal relationships, and I take pride in working for a company that embodies this philosophy.

SHN: If you had a crystal ball, what do you think will impact the senior housing & senior living industry now and into 2026?

Kohaut: The most significant shifts will arise from balancing innovation with intimacy. While technology will streamline operations and enhance wellness through predictive health data and smart safety systems, the real impact will stem from how we leverage these tools to foster deeper human connections. As residents live longer and families demand greater transparency, trust will become our most valuable currency. Communities that prioritize relationships, uplift their culture, and empower their teams will stand out. It’s not just about evolving systems; it’s about enhancing the experience for everyone we serve.

SHN: In your opinion, what qualities must all Future Leaders possess?

Kohaut: Future Leaders in senior living must lead through service. You cannot inspire a team from the sidelines; you must be willing to engage actively, whether that means serving meals, assisting residents, or leading activities. Setting the right tone is crucial. When your team sees you present, engaged, and ready to work, it builds trust and loyalty. Great leaders are steady, thoughtful, and adaptable. They show up with clarity and compassion, leading with heart because, in this industry, people can sense when you genuinely care.

SHN: If you could give advice to yourself looking back to your first day in the senior housing & senior living industry, what would it be and why?

Kohaut: Speak up early. You don’t need decades of experience to add value. Ask questions, share ideas, and don’t wait for permission to lead. This field rewards those who care deeply and think critically. If your heart is in the right place, you will find your path. Also, don’t underestimate the challenges of this job. However, when you see a resident smile or hear from a family that you made a difference, it makes it all worthwhile.

Janel Kohaut, the Executive Director of Juniper Village at Chatham, part of Juniper Communities, has been recognized as a 2025 Future Leader by Senior Housing News. This prestigious accolade highlights her commitment and contributions to the senior housing and living sector.

To qualify as a Future Leader, candidates must be nominated by their peers and demonstrate exceptional performance in their roles. They should be under 40 years of age, exhibit a strong passion for their work, and advocate for older adults as well as the dedicated professionals who support their well-being.

In an insightful conversation with Senior Housing News, Kohaut discussed her motivations for entering the senior housing industry, the key leadership lessons she has learned, her vision for the future of senior living, and much more. For additional information about the Future Leaders Awards program, visit https://futureleaders.wtwhmedia.com/.

SHN: What drew you to the senior housing & senior living industry?

Kohaut: My journey into this industry was fueled not just by opportunity, but by a profound sense of responsibility. My grandmother suffered from Alzheimer’s, and witnessing the importance of compassion, dignity, and consistency in her care profoundly impacted me. This experience shaped my desire to lead in a field where my work could genuinely enhance someone’s quality of life. Observing how one community, one culture, and one leader can make a significant difference solidified my commitment to this path.

SHN: What’s your biggest leadership lesson learned since starting to serve this industry?

Kohaut: One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that people don’t follow titles; they follow trust. It’s essential to be present for your team during both good and challenging times. Communication is crucial; the more transparent and consistent you are, the stronger your organizational culture becomes. Listening is equally vital; effective leadership hinges on truly hearing your staff, residents, and their families.

SHN: If you could change one thing with an eye toward the future of the senior housing & senior living industry, what would it be?

Kohaut: I would advocate for a deeper commitment to a high-tech, high-touch model. Technology should not replace care but rather enhance it. The goal is not automation; it’s personalization, allowing our associates to spend more quality time face-to-face with residents. We owe this to the next generation of seniors and the dedicated individuals who care for them.

SHN: In one word, how would you describe the future of senior housing & senior living?

Kohaut: Integrated. The communities that will thrive are those that successfully blend innovation with empathy, data with dignity, and operational excellence with human connection. Efficiency alone is insufficient; we must prioritize personal relationships, and I take pride in working for a company that embodies this philosophy.

SHN: If you had a crystal ball, what do you think will impact the senior housing & senior living industry now and into 2026?

Kohaut: The most significant shifts will arise from balancing innovation with intimacy. While technology will streamline operations and enhance wellness through predictive health data and smart safety systems, the real impact will stem from how we leverage these tools to foster deeper human connections. As residents live longer and families demand greater transparency, trust will become our most valuable currency. Communities that prioritize relationships, uplift their culture, and empower their teams will stand out. It’s not just about evolving systems; it’s about enhancing the experience for everyone we serve.

SHN: In your opinion, what qualities must all Future Leaders possess?

Kohaut: Future Leaders in senior living must lead through service. You cannot inspire a team from the sidelines; you must be willing to engage actively, whether that means serving meals, assisting residents, or leading activities. Setting the right tone is crucial. When your team sees you present, engaged, and ready to work, it builds trust and loyalty. Great leaders are steady, thoughtful, and adaptable. They show up with clarity and compassion, leading with heart because, in this industry, people can sense when you genuinely care.

SHN: If you could give advice to yourself looking back to your first day in the senior housing & senior living industry, what would it be and why?

Kohaut: Speak up early. You don’t need decades of experience to add value. Ask questions, share ideas, and don’t wait for permission to lead. This field rewards those who care deeply and think critically. If your heart is in the right place, you will find your path. Also, don’t underestimate the challenges of this job. However, when you see a resident smile or hear from a family that you made a difference, it makes it all worthwhile.