1 R Special Advertising Section | Sunday, March 26, 2023 23 GETTY IMAGES Part of what students at the Granger Cobb Institute for Senior Living learn is the importance of varied recreation that nurtures friendships for residents. “Having strong relationships and a socially engaged life are the two big pieces for quality of life as we age,” says faculty member Nancy Swanger. Labor grant. The selection of the institute’s certificate for the program could generate between $75,000 and $100,000 for the institute. And Swanger expects to see higher numbers of students in the major because of its perks. The hours are usually better than traditional hospitality gigs where staff sometimes work well past midnight. Typically, residents of retirement communities eat dinner early and are in bed not long after that. A number of the residents of retirement communities don’t have spouses or children living near them, presenting opportunities for those who interact with them to become surrogate family. That dynamic could appeal to Gen Z college students, Swanger said. “They want more than just a paycheck,” she said. “They want their work to matter.” Real life stories for every topic Swanger brought decades of experience to the institute. She began her career with Happy Day Restaurants as a district manager in 1979 before shifting to academia in 1994. Introduction to hospitality and food service systems and control are two of the courses she has taught, as well as introduction to senior living management. Over the years, she’s had ownership interests in ventures such as a location of TCBY Treats, a yogurt chain, multiple Subways and a Pullman convenience center. She and her husband own Gambino’s and Varsity Diner in Moscow, Idaho, where he handles the day-to-day operations. Their experiences have provided material for her classes, especially the ones in more traditional hospitality. “What is our content today?” Swanger said. “It’s about why you should have cash controls because people steal. Let me tell you my stealing story. I’ve got a real-life story for every topic that can come up.” Swanger’s enthusiasm for her work remains strong and she sees an abundance of potential in the future for what the institute can accomplish. “We’ve done great things and it’s just exciting to stick with it,” Swanger said. “There’s no playbook for this. …We were the first in the country.” Get ready for your next best chapter. Every one of life’s chapters should be enjoyed. At Murano Senior Living, we meet residents wherever they are on their journey. And we have services and amenities for all to enjoy—from valet parking to exceptional dining, independent living to memory care. It’s where you want to be. Come see why. MuranoSeniorLiving.com. MURANOSENIORLIVING.COM 620 TERRY AVENUE, SEATTLE WA 98104 206 - 429 - 5751
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