Sunday, November 02, 2025
1:00-2:00 p.m
27-A. Leading in a Crisis: Lessons from Hurricane Helene
On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene brought unprecedented challenges to western North Carolina as it destroyed homes, caused severe flooding, and left thousands without electricity, cell service, or water. During this session, a panel of CEOs from three senior living organizations in the storm's path will reflect on their experiences during and after the storm and share the essential leadership lessons they learned. Listen as they recount how they supported one another, how they adapted or rewrote their emergency plans in real-time to address the storm's catastrophic impacts, and how assistance from other LeadingAge members helped them navigate the crisis. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the critical role leaders play in guiding their organizations through natural disasters.
- Kevin Parries, Executive Director, Carolina Village — Hendersonville, NC, US
- Libby Bush, President and CEO, Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community Inc — Asheville, NC, US
- Tom Akins, President & CEO, LeadingAge North Carolina — Durham, NC, US