Cardinal Senior Living Names Samantha Thelen Chief Operating Officer

May 18, 2026

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Cardinal Senior Living has named Samantha Thelen chief operating officer, effective May 11.

Thelen has more than 22 years of experience in senior living and health care operations, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation services.

Most recently, Thelen served as vice president of senior living operations at PharMerica/BrightSpring, where she led pharmacy operations, implemented cost-saving initiatives and worked to strengthen financial performance.

She previously was vice president of operations at Trilogy Health Services, where she oversaw a multistate portfolio, supported year-over-year growth, improved CMS ratings and earned national quality recognition.

Earlier in her career, Thelen held leadership roles with Holiday Retirement and Leisure Living Management in Grand Rapids. Her experience includes portfolio management, new development and market expansion. She has overseen more than $280 million in senior living assets.

“Samantha’s experience and passion for senior care make her an exceptional addition to our leadership team,” said Joe Pohlen, CEO of Cardinal Senior Living. “Her commitment to operational excellence and resident-centered care aligns with our mission. It also supports our continued growth as we expand from our current 21 communities toward our goal of owning and operating 60 senior living communities.”

Thelen holds a Bachelor of Science in therapeutic recreation from Grand Valley State University and served multiple years on the board of the Health Care Association of Michigan.

Cardinal Senior Living owns and operates more than 20 independent living, assisted living, personal care and memory care communities across Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

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