In May, Barbara Schafer, senior director of Wellness and Hospitality for King-Bruwaert House in Burr Ridge, Illinois, received a Performance Award from the State of Illinois Department on Aging. Schafer was also named to the state’s Senior Hall of Fame.

The Illinois General Assembly started the Senior Hall of Fame in 1994 to recognize the achievements and contributions of men and women, ages 65 and older. Inductees are selected through a statewide nomination and judging process. Schafer, a 25-year employee with King-Bruwaert House, was honored for her leadership in directing the K-B Adorables and Men in Black dance and fitness troupe. The group was started 15 years ago, and members have entertained local and national audiences. Schafer also received a resolution from a staff member for State Representative Jim Durkin (R-82nd District), outlining the wellness director’s years of service and her accomplishments.

More than 100 residents, guests, family members and staff attended the award ceremony. Speakers included King-Bruwaert CEO Terri Bowen and Director of Marketing Bonnie Kohout, as well as troupe representatives. Members of the dance and fitness group also presented Schaefer with a bouquet of flowers

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The ICAA welcomes your news submissions. Please send your press releases to colinmilner@icaa.cc-the ICAA's email for submissions-and staff will consider your news for possible publication. Newsworthy topics include such things as center/community openings; initiative or campaign launches; announcements of awards, promotions or grants; and other topics of interest to active-aging professionals.

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