Speakers

Vassar Byrd began her role as CEO of The Kendal Corporation in January of 2024. With a master’s degree in economics from the London School of Economics, she worked as an economist in Washington, DC and Portland, OR. Along the way, she became a volunteer Long-Term Care Ombudsman for the State of Oregon. The significant connections and meaning in this work led her to pursue a new path in nonprofit senior living, after obtaining a master’s degree in Gerontology from Naropa University, in Boulder, CO. As CEO of The Kendal Corporation, her role is to guide and grow The Kendal Corporation team and support Kendal Affiliates in their own growth and development. She leads a unique and highly respected organization with strong core Quaker values that honor the principles of respect, collaboration, and inclusion.

Vassar strongly believes in breaking down untrue and harmful negative stereotypes and envisioning new and innovative ways to serve older adults. Prior to Kendal, Vassar served as the CEO of Rose Villa, a not-for-profit Life Plan Community. She is dedicated to building strong partnerships and supporting vibrant environments that cater to the emotional, social, and physical needs of those who live and work there. She has served as President of the Board of Directors for LeadingAge Oregon and has received many accolades, including a McKnight’s 2020 Women of Distinction honoree and a McKnight’s 2024 Pinnacle Award.