Jan Hamilton-Crawford, President and CEO | Oakwood Village (Oakwood Lutheran Senior Ministries)
What are the challenging and rewarding aspects of your job?
I have been in large, religious nonprofit health care organizations almost my entire professional life, and balancing business with mission can cause tension at times. Ensuring high-quality patient care while maintaining financial sustainability is a challenge. In senior care, that includes rising labor costs and meeting the expectations of today’s labor force. Residents, patients, and families have high expectations for care and responsiveness. So do I! We want to exceed those expectations. On the reward side, I definitely list having a direct impact on the well-being, dignity and happiness of older adults. And I want to use my position as a platform to educate diverse populations about the benefits of senior living communities.
Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
I look up to the late S. Truett Cathy, founder and chairman of Chick-fil-A, known for his servant leadership. I had the opportunity to meet Mr. Cathy while attending the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro, Georgia. He was 90 years old at the time and sharp as ever. I am fascinated by Chick-fil-A. First of all, it hires young people to work in a leadership company, not just a fast-food chain. Secondly, the training and culture are phenomenal, and it shows. The results speak for themselves — Chick-fil-A leads the list as the most profitable fast-food chain.
What has been the high point of your career so far?
One high point for me was when I had informed the organization I was working for that I had decided to move on, and they called and asked me to come back. I did return and went on to build strong relationships there and enjoy some satisfying milestones. It was from this point that I chose the motto, “Let your work speak for you.”
What advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
Get a postgraduate degree and do it one year after your bachelor’s. Identify strong mentors, coaches and sponsors early in your career. Always welcome feedback.
What are the best things about Dane County?
The peacefulness! Having lived in many large cities, the more laid-back culture here brings me real joy.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Destination spas. For the past several years, (my daughter and I) have taken a trip to a destination spa for Mother’s Day.
