Staff Biographies

Karen Barno-Executive Director

With a generous start up grant in 2007 Arizona Senior Housing Institute was established to provide training to people interested in developing careers in senior housing. The Institute also provides assistance to consumers looking at the various options in senior housing. The goal of the Institute is to provide a forum to educate and work with both the people working with senior housing along with consumers and their families. Mrs. Barno was also a founder and current President/CEO of Arizona Assisted Living Federation of America which is the state's largest assisted living trade association.

Board Member Biographies

Craig Cheney-Chair

Craig is currently the Executive Director of Centennial Village Corporation, a non-profit provider of housing to limited income seniors, and is the designated broker for Sierra Pointe Management, LLC in Scottsdale. Craig is a founding member, past chair, and member of the executive committee of AzALFA in addition to his responsibilities with The Institute.

Lee H. Olitzky is the CEO and President of Handmaker Management Enterprises, Inc (HME) and Handmaker Jewish Services for the Aging. In addition, he oversees the operations of other senior living properties. This includes the Archie Hendricks Sr., Skilled Care Facility which is operated by the Tohono O'odham Nursing Care Authority. Mr. Olitzky received his MA Degree in Gerontology from the University of South Florida, Tampa, FL. He is the prior Director of the New England Gerontology Center, University of New Hampshire and former Associate Executive Director of the Miami Jewish Home and Hospital for the Aging.

Lola Judy-Secretary

Lola Judy was a founding member of Arizona ALFA and has served on the board since the inception in 1998. She has held various officer positions and just completed her second term as Chairperson of the Board. Ms Judy is the owner of Sun Cities Caregivers based in Sun City Arizona.

Stephanie Templeton-Ex Official