Walden Place Executive Director Receives Statewide Assisted Living Award

Harlan Dunn, executive director of Walden Place, has been recognized with a 2026 All-Star Staff Award from the Empire State Association of Assisted Living (ESAAL).

The award recognizes assisted living professionals across New York whose work has made a difference for residents, families and colleagues. This year’s honorees were recognized in conjunction with National Assisted Living Week, held Sept. 13–19.

Dunn joined Walden Place, a Senior Lifestyle community offering assisted living and memory care, in November 2024. He began his career in nonprofit management, working with residential programs serving at-risk youth, adults experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, and people affected by domestic violence.

After personal experiences involving his own family led him to senior living, Dunn transitioned into the field, where he has worked for approximately eight years.

“It is always meaningful to be recognized by my industry, organization and colleagues,” Dunn said. “I am excited that it could bring more attention to our wonderful community at Walden Place and bring more awareness to the greater Cortland community on how special and valuable Walden Place is.”

At Walden Place, Dunn said his leadership philosophy focuses on supporting employees and helping them succeed. He emphasizes recognizing employees’ contributions while spending time with colleagues to provide coaching and support.

Residents and their families also play a role in decisions at the community, including matters involving dining, activities and day-to-day operations.

“I focus on creating a positive and healthy work environment that promotes the strengths of my team and putting them in a position to be at their best and succeed,” Dunn said.

Dunn said one of the most rewarding parts of working in senior living is seeing families have more opportunities to focus on their relationships after the community takes on caregiving responsibilities.

He also highlighted Walden Place’s Embrace memory care program, which serves residents living with cognitive changes.

“Families need to trust that we will take care of their loved ones like they are our very own, and our team members need to trust in ourselves and each other to be at our best,” Dunn said.

ESAAL’s All-Star Staff Awards recognize employees at assisted living communities throughout New York State for their contributions to residents and their communities.