February 19, 2026
HEALDSBURG, CA – (February 19, 2026) – Enso Village, a Kendal Affiliate and Zen-inspired Life Care Community, is pleased to announce the appointment of Sandra Simon, M.B.A., LNHA, as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective March 2, 2026. Following a comprehensive and collaborative search process involving the Board Executive Committee, the Enso Village Resident Council, and leadership partners, Sandra was selected for her extensive experience and alignment with the community’s mission of mindful aging.
Enso Village first opened in late 2023, and Sandra’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for this new community as it builds on this past year’s success and evolves into a leading, distinctive senior living option in the region.
Sandra joins Enso Village as a distinguished senior living and healthcare leader with over 25 years of experience guiding complex, mission-driven organizations across the West Coast. Most recently, she served as Executive Director of Acacia Creek Retirement Community and Pavilion Assisted Living, part of Masonic Homes of California. Her career is defined by a passion for uplifting the voices of those who serve older adults and a staunch advocacy for both residents and team members.
Vassar Byrd, CEO of The Kendal Corporation, expressed enthusiasm regarding the appointment. “We are thrilled to welcome Sandra to the Enso Village community and the Kendal network,” Vassar stated. “With her unique combination of mindfulness practice and strong operational skills, she feels like just the right leader at the right moment as we grow into 2026.”
Paul Kuenstner, Enso Village Board Chair, expressed the collective excitement for this new chapter. “The Board is excited to welcome a visionary leader whose distinguished background and collaborative spirit will undoubtedly elevate and guide our distinctive community toward a bright future.”
Sandra shares, “I am deeply honored to be appointed as the next CEO of Enso Village. It is a privilege to lead such a remarkable community, and I am committed to elevating our mission and guiding us toward a future defined by purpose and possibility.”
Susan O’Connell, Enso Village resident and Zen Center teacher expresses, “Since the birth of the idea of Zen Inspired Senior Living (ZISL) we have known how important it would be for the leadership to have a deep understanding of our promise to create a new paradigm for seniors, which we call ‘conscious aging’. We could not be more enthusiastic about Sandra’s background and anticipate a partnership that will continue to evolve this commitment to whole body wellness – with attention to mind, body, heart and spirit.”
Until Sandra assumes her role in March, Ann Nakiyuka will continue to serve as Interim Executive Director. Ann will work closely with the Enso Village leadership team and staff from The Kendal Corporation to ensure a seamless transition. The organization remains grateful for her steady leadership and continued support of residents and staff during the interim period of transition. Ann will resume her role as RCFE Administrator.
Ensō Village, a first of its kind partnership between the San Francisco Zen Center and Kendal representing a fundamentally different approach to aging, is committed to offering adults aged 60+ a vibrant community focused on wellness, nature, and mindful living. For individuals and families exploring senior living options in Sonoma County and the greater Bay Area, Enso Village invites you to discover a community where aging is embraced as an opportunity for growth, connection, and purpose.