Star City Six – Barb Tyler

Set to open this spring, The Woodlands at Hillcrest will soon be the newest assisted living and memory care community in Lincoln. Barb Tyler is the Director of Community Relations for The Woodlands at Hillcrest (woodlandsathillcrest.com).

Tell us a little about your business.

The Woodlands at Hillcrest will be the first in the state to be managed by Life Care Services, which is the 3rd largest senior care company in the U.S. Besides the excellent care and being staffed 24/7 by nurses, The Woodlands will offer exceptional hospitality, amenities, and security for the residents and their families. With over 12 floor plans to choose from, spectacular views of Hillcrest Country Club and a welcoming Town Center, The Woodlands is an ideal location for the growing aging population who want safety, medical care, and ambiance within their home.

How did you get started in the business?

I became interested in senior care when my mother had a stroke. I have a real estate license so I knew enough about housing availability, but not nearly enough as to what an aging parent needs. While researching options I saw an opening for a position in sales at an independent/assisted living community, applied, and was hired.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?

It’s always starting over in a new position with a new company, but it is also a blessing.

What has been your most important achievement professionally?

Three come to mind right away; 1) Reimagining the Star City Holiday Parade into a festival weekend; 2) Moving the Lancaster County Relay for Life to Haymarket Park for the first time and going over the $100K mark for the first time; 3) Raising the occupancy in my first senior living community from 72% to 100% and then having a wait list.

Tell us a little about your family.

I have three fabulous grown sons, two wonderful daughters-in-law and five grandkids, and have been married to Julian for almost 20 years. He works with HOAs at McCombs Realty along with holding a real estate license.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

Moving back to Lincoln from Falls City changed everything for me, and most of it was for the better from the job opportunities to the friends I’ve met.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?

I love to putz around the yard or just hang out with the husband. I read a book a week, so I probably would be sitting outside if the weather was nice, but now that it’s colder, sitting by the fire.

What are you the most proud of?

My sons, hands down! They are all great at what they do, have made wonderful life choices and have terrific families and friends.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?

As a Rotarian, I volunteer at The Gathering Place.

What is your favorite local restaurant?

I love the Piedmont Bistro, MoMo’s, Hacienda Real, Venue, Carmela’s…too many to name just one!

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?

Not that he was famous, but it would be my dad. People have told me I am a lot like him. He was killed in a car accident when I was 10 so I have the “kid” perspective; I would like to have known him as an adult.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

Email: tylerbarb@woodlandsathillcrest.com; Phone: (402) 261-0261.