CALA News & Views | Issue 52 | Workforce

CARLTON SENIOR LIVING: A Multi-Faceted Approach

For Carlton Senior Living , recruiting young professionals begins with intentional outreach. President and CEO Dave Coluzzi notes that his organization participates in CALA meet and-greet events where members have the opportunity to sponsor students’ conference attendance and engage with them directly. “Attracting young professionals and students to senior living requires a proactive and engaging approach,” Coluzzi said. “One of the most effective strategies we’ve utilized is participating in CALA’s student meet-and-greet events, which I have personally been involved in for several years.” He explained that many of the students Carlton meets have backgrounds in healthcare, hospitality or business but are unsure about their precise career direction. “By exposing them to the rewarding and multifaceted nature of senior living, we help them see how their skills and interests align with the profession,” he

honing their analytical, leadership and public speaking skills.

“Our internship and student programs are designed to be both structured and adaptable, allowing participants to gain a well-rounded experience based on their background, interests and career goals,” Coluzzi said. “For individuals with prior experience or strong potential in a specific area, we take a more customized approach.” This flexibility helps students gain confidence in day-to-day responsibilities while also exploring the bigger picture of how a senior living community operates. Measuring Impact Through Growth and Retention Carlton assesses its internship initiatives through several lenses: conversion of interns into permanent roles, departmental placement, feedback from participants and performance indicators such as leadership potential. Coluzzi said interns over the last few years have each found a unique niche – ranging from sales to nursing – while some rose to departmental leadership positions. “Over the past few years, we’ve welcomed seven students into our program, and each has found success in a unique way,” he said. “Several former interns started in care roles and have since grown into leadership positions within their respective departments.” One intern moved into a sales director role, while another discovered a passion for activities programming. Others pivoted to clinical paths, including one who now manages a skilled nursing facility. Coluzzi emphasized that this diversity of outcomes speaks to the range of opportunities within senior living, whether students remain with Carlton or move on to other organizations.

said, noting that the company also leverages social media, career fairs and partnerships with educational institutions. Hands-On Experiences and Tailored Learning Once students sign on, Carlton emphasizes real-world exposure. Interns have the opportunity to rotate through various departments or focus on a specific area of interest. If they choose to rotate through departments – culinary, care, administration, sales and activities – participants present their insights to a committee,

CALA NEWS & VIEWS I ISSUE 52 | MARCH 2025 8