Atria Director Honored by State Association

The California Assisted Living Association announced that Executive Director John Zikmund has received the group’s prestigious “Advocate of the Year” award, which recognizes association members who have worked diligently to educate and promote awareness of aging issues and the assisted living industry. 

Zikmund, a Napa resident who has worked at the Novato facility for 3 1/2 years, was recognized for his leadership in building relationships with and educating state and local officials and others on key industry issues.  In addition, he worked to protect the independence of older adults residing in assisted living communities throughout the state by working with aligned groups to clarify important dementia care issues.  Zikmund has inspired others involved with the assisted living industry to participate in advocacy efforts as well, the organization said.

“I am honored to receive this award from CALA,” Zikmund said.  “I have enjoyed meeting with our elected officials and industry leaders to share our innovative strategies to address the complex and growing need for comprehensive senior care.” 

Wayne Curtin, vice president of government affairs for Atria Senior Living, said Zikmund worked tirelessly in 2011 to advocate for the assisted living industry by actively lobbying for CALA priority legislation in Sacramento and engaging with important stakeholders, such as the Alzheimer’s Association.

“His dedication to the issues that affect a very large percentage of older adults has made him a true and powerful advocate at the community and state level," Curtin said, "and he has been a true champion for California’s older adults in assisted living communities.” 

Sen. Mark Leno, who represents Novato, said it has been a pleasure working with Zikmund for many years.

“We have had the opportunity to collaborate on issues of importance to the residents of Senate District 3," Leno said. "I am proud of the work Mr. Zikmund has done for our aging population and wish him continued success in his endeavors.”

As executive director of Atria Tamalpais Creek, Zikmund manages and oversees the daily operations of the senior living community as well as the sales and marketing initiatives.  Zikmund resides in Napa, California and has been working for Atria for over three years. Atria Tamalpais Creek is located at 853 Tamalpais Ave in Novato. 

Atria Senior Living is one of the nation’s leading providers of independent living, assisted living and memory care services. Home to more than 13,000 older Americans in 27 states, Atria communities provide respectful, quality services designed to promote independence and help seniors enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle. Atria’s goal is to provide environments where older people thrive, where loneliness and isolation are forgotten and where families have confidence that their loved ones are secure and fulfilled. To learn more about Atria’s innovative programming or to find an Atria community near you, visit www.atriaseniorliving.com.