National Award in Advocacy: John Watson, CFO at The Cedars

10537149_1666164483599358_4528360403060239793_nNOVEMBER 1, BOSTON – John Watson, Chief Financial Officer at The Cedars, received the Outstanding Advocacy Award as friends, family and thousands of Leading Age colleagues cheered him on. “It’s about time,” trustee George Marcus stated. John has been advocating for Maine’s non-profit nursing homes for years, and after educating legislators and stakeholders on the relationship between quality care and staffing, he was tremendously instrumental in bringing $25 million to Maine’s nursing homes.

“John has been a persistent advocate for folks who need to be understood and appreciated,” State Representative Peter Stuckey shares about Maine’s seniors with long term care needs. John started working at The Cedars when we were the Jewish Home for Aged on Munjoy Hill. He developed a tremendous command and understanding of the complex nature of long term care finances, and soon became involved in advocacy, thanks in great part to the programs Leading Age has offered.

We are so proud of John and his work both at The Cedars and in the State House. Thank you John, and congratulations!