CALA News & Views | Issue 54 | Impact

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Through CALA’s Elevate Scholarship, students, recent graduates and veterans have the opportunity to discover rewarding careers in senior living. Scholarship recipients attend CALA’s Elevate Conference & Trade Show at no cost, with meals and a travel stipend included, through the generous sponsorship of member organizations. This immersive program allows participants to learn directly from senior leaders, network with top level professionals, gain insights from educational sessions and connect directly with employers during an exclusive career event. By opening doors for emerging talent, CALA members are helping to build awareness of senior living career pathways and strengthen the workforce pipeline for the future. CALA Elevate Scholarships Inspiring the Next Generation of Senior Living Professionals

Farid Taheri, Assistant Executive Director,

Caligraphy Westwood Village, Discovery Senior Living USC: BS, Human Development and Aging, Gerontology Attended 2022 Fall Conference

Walking into the conference as a scholarship recipient, I immediately felt a sense of belonging, surrounded by peers who have since become lifelong friends across senior living. Each year has strengthened not only my professional network but also my passion for this field, as I’ve had the chance to connect with leaders and recruiters from across the country. These experiences have been transformative for my career and I feel truly fortunate to be part of such a supportive community. Now, I look forward to paying it forward by welcoming and mentoring the next generation of first-time attendees.

CALA NEWS & VIEWS I ISSUE 54 | NOVEMBER 2025 28