Georgia Senior Living Association Celebrates 2025 Hero Award Winners at Annual Awards Gala

ATLANTA, GA – The Georgia Senior Living Association (GSLA) proudly honored six extraordinary individuals at the 2025 GSLA Awards Gala on June 12, 2025 at the Park Tavern in Atlanta, Georgia, recognizing them with the prestigious Hero Awards for their exceptional service and dedication to Georgia’s senior living communities.
Each member community is allowed to nominate only one individual per category, and winners are chosen through a blind vote, making these awards among the highest honors in Georgia senior living.

“This year’s Hero Award recipients represent the very best of senior living in Georgia,” said Catie Ramp, President & CEO of the Georgia Senior Living Association. “We received an unprecedented number of high-caliber nominations—representing every level of care, every size of community, and nearly every region of the state. To be selected from such an outstanding group is an honor,” Ramp continued. “These individuals lead with purpose, compassion, and excellence. Their stories are helping shape the future of senior living in Georgia and serve as an inspiration to professionals across the state and beyond.”
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2025 GSLA Hero Award Recipients:

• Volunteer Hero: Rhonda Kimbrell – Oaks at Hampton
• Corporate Staff Hero: Floralinda LaFratta – Parc Communities
• Direct Care Staff Hero: Gwene Komene – Arbor Terrace Hamilton Mill
• Community Staff Member Hero: Sadia Muradi – Sunrise of Decatur
• Community Staff Leader Hero: Brian Polley – Manor Lake Gainesville
• Executive Director Hero: Shauna Queen – Oaks at Stockbridge

Floralinda LaFratta – Corporate Staff Hero Vice President of People and Culture at Parc Communities, Floralinda is known for her people-first leadership. After transitioning from hospitality, she has become a driving force for team development and culture, consistently living and inspiring the core values of passion, empathy, and excellence.

Gwene Komene – Direct Care Staff Hero A Medication Technician since 2017, Gwene is a quiet leader known for her compassion and reliability. She’s deeply trusted by her peers, and her willingness to be present during emotional moments—such as staying overnight with a grieving daughter—reflects her unwavering commitment to care.

Sadia Muradi – Community Staff Member Hero Sadia began at Sunrise of Decatur with no English skills and a heart full of determination. In just three years, she’s grown into a fluent communicator and a beloved team member who lifts everyone around her. Her journey reflects hard work, resilience, and the power of perseverance.

Brian Polley – Community Staff Leader Hero As Maintenance Director at Manor Lake Gainesville, Brian is more than his title. From dressing as Santa to honoring veterans, to responding during emergencies, Brian brings heart and leadership to every corner of the community. He’s the person everyone calls—not because he has to be, but because they trust him.

Shauna Queen – Executive Director Hero Shauna leads Oaks at Stockbridge with heart and intention. She knows her residents deeply and has built a culture of excellence and trust among her team. Under her leadership, satisfaction and performance have soared—creating not just a facility, but a true home.

Rhonda Kimbrell – Volunteer Hero A steady and joyful presence at Oaks at Hampton, Rhonda dedicates her time, energy, and heart to her community. Her ongoing volunteerism has become a vital part of daily life—offering friendship, comfort, and care that goes far beyond duty.

The GSLA Hero Awards celebrate the people who make senior living in Georgia thrive. Their compassion, leadership, and service inspire all of us to do more and care deeper.