Meet Gracia Kremer, the executive director at The Waterford Communities (thewaterford.net).
Tell us a little about your business. – The Waterford Assisted Living and Memory Care is locally owned and operated. We promise that while we can never replace your home, we are going to try to make our communities feel like you never left. At The Waterford, we do everything we can to ensure that you always feel at home.
How did you get started in the business? – I’ve worked in hospice care for the past fi ve years, through which I developed a strong relationship with the staff and residents at The Waterford. It’s an honor to lead this amazing team.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – On the tail of a very trying year, I think most people who work in healthcare can agree that the COVID-19 pandemic was one of the biggest challenges we have faced. The past year has undoubtedly taught us to value human connection. Seeing people so isolated and the impact it had on everyone, especially our aging population, was very heart wrenching. It also inspired us to dig deep, be gritty, and pull together as a team.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – I took a job at a physical therapy office here in Lincoln while I was finishing high school. That is where I found my passion for all things healthcare related. Over the past 18 years of working in the healthcare field, I have had the opportunity to care for individuals in all stages of life. From mother-baby and geriatrics to outpatient physical therapy, I have worked my way up from starting as a nursing assistant, therapy tech, and scheduler. This experience allows me to value my team as I have been in their shoes.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Days off usually involve something related to activities for our kids. I love watching my kids play sports and find confidence in themselves through hard work and dedication to their games.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I won Grand Champion bucket calf at the County Fair when I was in grade school.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The work of life is to develop it. The meaning of life is to give your gift away.” – David Viscott
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Compassionate.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – Multiplying myself! That way I could be at all three of our assisted living and memory care communities at the same time.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – The skillful domination of my fantasy football leagues. (Sorry if this offends a few potential readers…you know who you are!)
Which talent would you most like to have? – Singing.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Tandoor is my absolute favorite. I love Indian food!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (402) 423-0000 / (402) 450-0456; gracia.kremer@thewaterford.net; thewaterford.net.