The best leaders don’t just oversee a community. They help shape how it feels to live there.
For the past five years, Craig Baum has been doing just that as the Executive Director at Atria Park of St. Joseph’s. Whether he’s sharing a meaningful conversation with a resident, stepping in to drive the community bus when someone is unavailable or surprising everyone by arriving in costume for a party, Craig has built a community where people feel cared for, connected and genuinely at home.
It’s the kind of leadership that doesn’t go unnoticed. Craig has been named a recipient of the Florida Senior Living Association’s Best of the Best Award, which recognizes senior living professionals who provide extraordinary service to residents, employees and their communities.
For Regional Vice President Jason Walthour, who nominated Craig for the award, the recognition reflects what residents and employees have experienced all along.
“Craig has an incredible ability to make every resident and every employee feel like they matter,” Jason said. “He’s the kind of leader who’s never too busy to help, never asks someone else to do something he wouldn’t do himself and always finds ways to bring a little joy into the day.”
Residents see that same spirit in the moments they experience every day. Their words tell the story best:
“I live here because of Craig.”
“Craig is always here when I need him. He makes everyone feel better and smile.”
“We are so thankful for Craig and the team at Atria Park of St. Joseph’s.”
Jason says those comments reflect the kind of leader Craig has always been.
“He leads by example,” Jason said. “He creates a positive, accountable and service-driven culture that lifts everyone around him. He balances heartfelt connections with strong leadership, and that’s what makes him so deserving of this honor.”
While Craig’s leadership is reflected in the community’s strong results, those who know him best would likely point to something less measurable: the trust he earns.
Congratulations, Craig, on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for leading with heart and making Atria Park of St. Joseph’s a place where residents and employees alike truly belong.