MNRAAA announces Jason W. Swanson as new executive director

The Minnesota River Area Agency on Aging’s board of directors announces the hiring of Executive Director Jason W. Swanson.

“Jason has taken the leadership role following the retirement of MNRAAA’s previous long-term Executive Director Linda Giersdorf,” said MNRAAA Board Chair, Robert Roesler.

Swanson was previously with Tealwood Senior Living, serving most recently as a regional director of operations. During his tenure at Tealwood Senior Living, Swanson received the following awards: American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) Bronze Award and Silver Award, Care Providers of Minnesota Committed to Quality, and Care Providers of Minnesota James B. Swanson Service of Excellence Award. He has been recognized by the Minnesota Statewide Activity Professionals Excellence in Administration Award and the Tracy Area Boss of the Year. Swanson has previously served on the Walnut Grove Area Foundation Board, Tracy Lions, has been an AHCA/NCAL Senior Examiner and a part of the Care Providers of Minnesota Housing Cabinet. He is a graduate of Bemidji State University.

Swanson lives in his hometown of Walnut Grove with his wife, Devon and their two children Nolan and Neveya. In his free time, he enjoys playing with his children, reading, golfing, listening to music and watching the Chicago Cubs.

“I am excited to begin working with a tremendous organization dedicated to helping older adults thrive in southwest Minnesota,” said Swanson. “The 27 counties of southwest Minnesota are fortunate to have such a great group of individuals who are well informed and well equipped to assist older adults and caregivers. I am excited to get out to all the counties and support the work that MNRAAA provides.”

Some of Swanson’s priorities are to work with area non-profits dedicated to serving older adults, as well as working with area policymakers and representatives from local government in MNRAAA’s 27-county service area.

Swanson started his role of executive director on March 4.