Allyson Sweeney Now Executive Director of Atrium at Rocky Hill

When Allyson Sweeney completed her undergraduate internship at a nursing home, she immediately knew that she had found her calling. Years later, she spent a good part of her career at Benchmark, a human connection company and leading provider of senior living services in the Northeast, where she moved up the ranks to become associate executive director for The Arbors at Shelburne memory care community in Shelburne, Vt. After serving next as executive director of The Residence at Shelburne Bay in Shelburne, Vt., she is excited to return to Benchmark as executive director of The Atrium at Rocky Hill memory care community in Rocky Hill, Conn.

“Returning to Benchmark has been like coming home again,” says Sweeney. “Over the last two and a half years I’ve remained attracted to Benchmark because of the importance it places on person-centered care. It was evident to me from the very beginning that I was joining a team where we would work together to give our residents a life full of meaning and purpose while also supporting their loved ones. In addition, the culture and care placed on associates is second to none. I feel honored to be part of a company that emphasizes care for all.”

In 2015, Argentum, the national assisted living association, presented Sweeney with its Hero Award for showing leadership, initiative and work to improve the quality of life for her residents. She has also served as an ambassador to the Alzheimer’s Association of Vermont for which she has traveled to Washington, D.C., to lobby on Capitol Hill on behalf of those with Alzheimer’s disease.

“Allyson’s contributions to our Shelburne community were enormous and today they remain a solid staple in the community, due in large part to her leadership several years ago,” says Justin Grady, regional director of operations for Benchmark. “Her experience leading a community that’s almost identical to The Atrium will be a huge asset, and her passion for keeping our residents and their family members connected to what’s meaningful and possible at every stage of their lives will be invaluable. I couldn’t be more thrilled to have Allyson back on our team.”

A social worker by background, Sweeney received her bachelor’s degree in social work from Siena College and a master’s degree in social work from The University of Vermont. She has relocated to South Windsor, Conn., to be closer to extended family and The Atrium.