​Georgia Senior Living Association Presents Culinary Awards and Honors Sen. Matt Brass of Newnan as Legislator of the Year Annual Awards Recognize Individuals Who Embody Heart & Soul of Senior Living Industry in Georgia

​Georgia Senior Living Association Presents Culinary Awards and
Honors Sen. Matt Brass of Newnan as Legislator of the Year
Annual Awards Recognize Individuals Who Embody Heart & Soul of Senior Living Industry
​in Georgia

Atlanta, Ga. (December 19, 2024) - The Georgia Senior Living Association (GSLA) recently honored exceptional individuals who embody the heart and soul of the senior living industry by honoring them with the association’s annual awards. These leaders are an invaluable resource in creating communities where residents can age in place with dignity, purpose, and personalized care. The awards were presented as part of the GSLA’s 2024 Grounded & Growing Conference & Trade Show.
GSLA’s final two awards of 2024 celebrated extraordinary achievements:
● Chef Juan Lasprilla of the Oaks at Gracemont took home the top prize in the GSLA Culinary         Competition for the second year in a row as the Chef of the Year, showcasing his dedication to his craft and his incredible talent in serving residents with skill and passion.
● Senator Matt Brass (R-Newnan) was recognized as Legislator of the Year for his dedication to supporting policies that enhance the lives of seniors and the senior living industry.

Throughout the year, GSLA has continued to spotlight the people who make senior living a trusted choice for older adults and their families. From chefs like Juan Lasprilla to executive leaders, caregivers, and volunteers, these individuals ensure that residents are cared for, empowered, and supported.

“Awards like the Culinary Competition and the annual GSLA Hero Awards build a community outside of the corporate name tag and inside the industry,” said Catie Ramp, president and CEO of GSLA. “If we can give talented people spaces where they feel seen, they feel like partners and are doing something important together, we build lasting value for staff and residents alike.”

Honoring Excellence Across the Industry - At GSLA’s Annual Awards Gala earlier this year, the association recognized outstanding contributions from professionals across the field. Winners included:
● Lifetime Achievement Award: Alex Salabarria, founding GSLA Board Member and former president & CEO of Oaks Senior Living, for his decades-long dedication to residents and staff in Georgia.
● Direct Care Staff: Judith Grant, The Phoenix at Milton
● Community Staff Member: Carla Burns, Addington Place of Brunswick
● Community Staff Leader: Diamond Udell, Brookdale Chambrel Roswell
● Executive Director: Kailey Hooper, Orchard at Athens
● Corporate Staff Member: Pam Polley, Beacon Communities
● Industry Partner: Lori Hamilton, Managed Health Solutions
● Volunteer of the Year: John Edmondson, Manor Lake Hamilton Mill, Dawsonville & Hoschton

Creating Community and Connection GSLA’s events such as the Annual Conference & Trade Show foster an environment where senior living professionals come together beyond their roles. These spaces cultivate partnerships, inspire collaboration, and strengthen the unique connections that make the senior living industry exceptional.

As GSLA looks to the future, the organization remains committed to celebrating these industry heroes and supporting their mission to promote the quality of life for Georgia’s seniors.