As a young professional in the senior living industry, Anthony Alongi’s biggest challenge was earning the trust of senior residents and their adult children.

“Both groups are much older than I am and have a lifetime of experience,” he says. But the idea of blending hospitality, senior living and health care excited him.

“Over my first year [in my career], I began to develop some great relationships with our residents and quickly learned that I didn’t need to be a 30-year veteran of the industry to be successful,” Alongi says. “However, I did need to be a good listener and an effective communicator. The ability to follow up when promised will make or break your reputation even if you don’t have an immediate solution. Residents trust that if I say I’m going to do something I’ll make it happen.”

That trust came in handy when Hurricane Irma roared through Southwest Florida. As interim executive director at the time, Alongi had to ensure residents and staff at The Terraces at Bonita Springs, a SantaFe Senior Living Community, were safe, fed and comfortable.

“Every business or profession has its challenges,” Alongi says. “I believe my value is defined by my ability to be a good problem solver.

Alongi was the first person in his family to graduate from college. And he completed the Leadership Bonita program through the Bonita Springs Chamber of Commerce.