When she moved to Lincoln for college, Kayla Schaf was looking for a job and her older sister told her about The Legacy.  She got hired as a front desk receptionist and, twelve years later, she is still with Legacy in their marketing department.  Legacy Retirement Communities is locally owned and operated in Lincoln and offers the very best in retirement living. Legacy Retirement Communities has been voted Best of Lincoln every year since 1998.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Through my years with Legacy Retirement Communities each position I’ve held has presented its own unique challenges. For me as a younger manager, I feel that a challenge I have had to and continue to work on is the power of communication, both verbal and nonverbal.  Effective communication is fundamental in building successful relationships. I think we all have communication skills that come naturally, but I feel that this is an area that can continually be improved.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Growing up I always wanted to help others.  I’m proud of my professional accomplishments, thus far in my life, most notably Marketing Director.  I have grown so much over the last few years and I feel my work at Legacy truly allows me to positively impact the lives of others.  I know there is much more hard work ahead, but I look forward to the challenge.

Tell us a little about your family. – My husband Nate and I will be married three years in May.  He is so supportive and I feel blessed to have him in my life.  We have a 90 lb. yellow lab, Charlie that is spoiled rotten!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – There have been several significant events that have shaped me as a person.  I think having the opportunity to see what life can be like in ones 80s and 90s has given me a glimpse into the future and has encouraged me to want to look back at my life and be happy with the person who I have become.  I want to be the best I can be and have great relationships and memories along the way.  I feel that learning to own my strengths and finding the lessons in mistakes has been a big turning point.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I love to do girl stuff!! Shopping, lunch dates and pedicures are a few things you can find me doing on a day off.  Nate and I love going to Lake of the Ozarks to boat and relax in the sun.

What are you the most proud of? – I am most proud of my husband and family.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – I have the opportunity to work with some very interesting people, including Kathryn, one of our residents who is 107 years old.  Her response when you ask her how she is doing is “I am blessed and highly favored.” She chooses to see the good in life and she is an inspiration!  Another piece of advice that has really stuck with me is, “What you focus on, is what you’ll see most of.”

What is your favorite TV show? – I have a Netflix addiction, so a little bit of everything!

What is your favorite local restaurant? – Blue Orchid

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – For more information about Legacy Retirement Communities, visit www.Legacyretirement.com. Feel free to call or stop in to one of our four locations in Lincoln.