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Recognition reflects Brookdale's commitment to advancing the health, well-being and quality of life of older adults
BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Sept. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Brookdale Senior Living, the nation's largest publicly traded operator of senior living communities and third largest owner of senior living real estate, announced that Chief Executive Officer Nick Stengle received the 2026 Champion for Aging Award from the Connected Health & Safety Association (CHS) earlier this week.
The Champion for Aging Award is CHS's premier annual honor and recognizes a national leader whose vision, leadership and commitment have meaningfully advanced the lives of older adults. Stengle received the award at the CHS Awards Gala on September 15th at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville.
The recognition reflects the work underway across Brookdale to enhance the resident experience and advance how senior living can support healthier aging. Guided by its mission of enriching the lives of those it serves with compassion, respect, excellence and integrity, Brookdale is focused on helping residents live with greater purpose, connection and joy while continuing to strengthen quality, wellness and innovation across its communities.
"This recognition belongs to the thousands of Brookdale associates who show up every day with a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents," said Stengle. "The future of senior living is about more than where someone lives. It's about creating an environment where older adults can continue to grow, connect and thrive. I'm incredibly proud of the work our teams are doing to advance that vision across Brookdale."
CHS selected Stengle for the honor based on his leadership of Brookdale during an important period of transformation and growth and the company's work to elevate quality of care and the resident experience. CHS also cited Brookdale's focus on resident health, wellness, engagement and quality of life, along with efforts to integrate healthcare, technology and services that support healthier aging.
"Nick represents the kind of leadership the Champion for Aging Award was created to recognize," said Geoff Gross, President of the Connected Health & Safety Association. "He understands that the future of aging is about helping people live healthier, more connected and more fulfilling lives. Under his leadership, Brookdale is bringing together people, care, technology and innovation in ways that can meaningfully improve the experience of aging for millions of Americans. We're proud to recognize Nick for his leadership and the impact he and the Brookdale team are making."
The award was presented during the CHS Annual Conference, which brought together more than 250 healthcare leaders from across the country. Former U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist was also recognized during this year's celebration with CHS's Lifetime Achievement Award for his leadership and contributions to healthcare innovation.
For more information about Brookdale Senior Living, visit brookdale.com.
About Brookdale Brookdale Senior Living Inc. is the nation's premier operator of senior living communities. With 532 communities across 41 states and the ability to serve approximately 45,000 residents as of August 31, 2026, Brookdale is committed to its mission of enriching the lives of seniors through compassionate care, clinical expertise, and exceptional service. The Company, through its affiliates, operates independent living, assisted living, memory care, and continuing care retirement communities, offering tailored solutions that help empower seniors to live with dignity, connection, and purpose. Leveraging deep expertise in healthcare, hospitality, and real estate, Brookdale creates opportunities for wellness, personal growth, and meaningful relationships in settings that feel like home. Guided by its four cornerstones of passion, courage, partnership, and trust, Brookdale is committed to delivering exceptional value and redefining senior living for a brighter, healthier future. Brookdale's stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BKD. For more information, visit brookdale.com or connect with Brookdale on Facebook or YouTube.