LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware Nominates Christian Health’s Andrew Van Orden to its Board of Trustees

LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware (LANJDE), a premier advocate for quality aging services throughout the region, announced today that Andrew Van Orden, PT, DPT, MBA, LNHA, Vice President of Operations for Life Plan and Long-Term Care Services and Administrator of Windmere, a Christian Health Community, has been elected to its 2025 Board of Trustees. The announcement was made during LANJDE’s Annual Meeting and Expo held in Atlantic City.

“I’m truly honored to join the Board and to support the vital work LANJDE is doing,” said Van Orden. “It’s a privilege to collaborate with such respected leaders in the field as we work together to strengthen aging services across New Jersey.”

Van Orden was appointed to serve a three-year term and will work alongside fellow seasoned health care leaders, including the newly elected officers of LANJDE, Brandy Stefanco (chair), Jewish Home Family; Jordan Strohl (chair-elect), Actors Fund Home; and Mary Ellen Bove (secretary/treasurer), Heath Village. Robert Barry, Wilf Campus for Senior Living; and Beth Sparling, Parker Health Group, were elected to second three-year terms, and Lisa Kranis, NJ Veterans Memorial Home at Menlo Park; and Stephanie Ruggerio, Knoll Communities, were newly elected to the board.

“Andy brings a deep understanding of operational excellence and a passion for person-centered care,” said James McCracken, President and CEO of LANJDE. “His leadership will be an asset to our Board as we continue to advocate for innovation and quality in senior services.”

With more than 14 years of industry experience, Van Orden understands the critical need to provide a broad range of support, care, and resources designed to meet the unique needs of older adults as they age, whether they live at home or in residential care settings. He has led teams in various settings, including outpatient and subacute rehabilitation, wellness, home care, hospice, and long-term care. His leadership and expertise have consistently driven improvements in patient outcomes and team performance.

“Andy is a valued member of our senior leadership team and a key asset in the high-quality, compassionate care we deliver at Windmere and all Christian Health communities,” said Stephen J. Dumke, LNHA, FACHE, President and CEO of Christian Health. “His Board appointment is a testament to his impactful leadership and dedication to promoting independence, dignity, health, and quality of life for seniors.”

A LeadingAge Larry Minnix Leadership Academy graduate, Van Orden was honored by LeadingAge with the Professional Advancement award in 2022, recognizing his dedication and contributions to the field. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Science from Wake Forest University, an MBA from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Washington University in St. Louis. He is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator in the State of New Jersey.

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About Christian Health 
Since 1911, Christian Health’s mission has been to offer a listening ear, a helpful hand, and steady, supportive guidance throughout an individual’s wellness journey. As a nonprofit organization founded on the belief that everyone has the right to exceptional care, we continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of our community. Christian Health’s comprehensive continuum of mental health services, communities for adults and older adults, rehabilitation services, and educational programs foster physical health and nourish the spirit. Caring is not simply what we do; it is who we are.

About LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware
LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware is the bi-statewide association of mission-driven, primarily not-for-profit senior care organizations dedicated to advancing quality aging services in New Jersey and Delaware through advocacy, education, and fellowship. Together with our partner, LeadingAge, we advance policies, promote practices, and conduct research that supports, enables, and empowers people to live fully as they age.

Media Contact:
Kelly Tanis
(201) 848-5921
KTanis@ChristianHealthNJ.org