Dear Friends of Cassia,
We are thrilled to share important and exciting news: Matthew Kern has been selected as the next President and Chief Executive Officer of Cassia.
After a comprehensive nationwide search conducted by our Board of Directors in collaboration with CarterBaldwin Executive Search, Matthew was chosen unanimously from nearly 40 highly qualified candidates. This decision was informed by months of listening, prayer and discernment, including input from nearly 200 valued voices within and around Cassia—residents, families, employees, board members and community leaders.
“Matthew is a wonderful choice to lead Cassia into its next era,” said Chip Parks, chair of the Cassia Board of Directors. “He has demonstrated his commitment to the mission and goals of Cassia over the past eight years, as well as his ability to inspire those he leads to show the same commitment. The Board is confident that Matthew will nurture our Christian culture and that he has the knowledge, skill and vision to lead Cassia in truly Serving All by Following One.”
Matthew has devoted 25 years to the field of senior services, serving faithfully and with great distinction. He has been part of Cassia’s executive leadership team since 2017, most recently as Chief Operating Officer. In that role, he helped guide our communities through times of transformation and challenge, including the pandemic and ongoing workforce shifts. His faith, wisdom, and steady leadership have been instrumental in shaping the culture, service excellence, and financial strength of Cassia.
Rooted in his personal calling and unwavering faith, Matthew shares a heartfelt connection to Cassia’s motto: Serving all by following One. His commitment to our Christian identity and faith essentials will be foundational as he leads us forward.
“As I begin this new chapter as CEO of Cassia, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the extraordinary generosity you’ve shown—through your time, your resources, and your unwavering belief in our mission,” Matthew says.
Matthew is succeeding CEO Bob Dahl, who is retiring after 31 years with the organization.
“Matthew is a courageous and visionary leader who loves the Cassia mission of serving older adults in the Spirit of Christ’s love,” Bob said. “He embodies our service standards that are built on our core values. I’m excited for the future of Cassia and am confident, with Matthew’s leadership, the organization will thrive for many years to come.”
This transition will occur over the coming months, as Matthew begins his new role October 1, 2025. This thoughtful overlap period will allow for close collaboration and continuity as we prepare for a new season of growth and service.
While leadership transitions bring change, we are reminded of this truth: The CEO alone is not Cassia. You, I, we are Cassia. Together, we form the heart of this ministry and community.
Your prayers, encouragement and generosity continue to shape our ministry and help us serve with compassion and excellence. Thank you for your ongoing support during this time of transition and always.
We invite you to join us in congratulating and encouraging Matthew as he steps into this new role with humility, vision and steadfast faith.
In gratitude, Chip Parks
On behalf of the Cassia Board of Directors
For more information on our Foundation, click here: https://www.cassialife.org/giving/how-to-give/