Susie Finley, founder and principal of Ascent Living Communities (ALC), a Colorado-based senior living operator and developer, has been recognized as a 2021 Enterprising Women of the Year Award winner by Enterprising Women Magazine.
The annual tribute to the world’s top women entrepreneurs is widely considered one of the most prestigious recognition programs for women business owners in the United States and globally. To win, nominees must demonstrate that they have fast-growth businesses, mentor or actively support other women and girls involved in entrepreneurship and stand out as leaders in their communities. Winners were recognized in seven categories based on annual sales revenue. Finley was one of just 15 honorees recognized in the $10-$25 million category.
“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized with this award and be included in what is a very prestigious list of women entrepreneurs from across the world,” said Finley who was honored in November at the organization’s 19th Annual Awards Celebration & Conference held in Florida.
Finley, who majored in gerontology and has spent her entire 24-year career in the field, today oversees three senior living communities in the Denver metro area including Village at Belmar, Carillon at Belleview Station and Hilltop Reserve, scheduled to open later this month. She is responsible for the evolution of Ascent’s operating model, strategic planning, functional programming, project design, and optimizing ongoing operational performance. In addition, Finley and her ALC team have plans to expand their Colorado communities in the coming years.
“We are a true Colorado-to-the-core company and we take great pride in creating lifestyle communities that allow our residents to continue to explore, engage and appreciate the Colorado lifestyle that we all love – no matter what your age may be,” said Finley. “From the food to the arts, entertainment and our amazing outdoors, we are focused on delivering the life experiences that help our residents thrive and provide the peace of mind that their families and loved ones look for in a senior living community.”
Prior to joining Ascent in her current capacity in 2013, Finley served as executive director for multiple Denver-area senior living communities and a large national senior living firm.
She began her career working in various capacities in day-to-day operations for local and regional senior living operators in the Midwest. Finley received a Bachelor of Science in Gerontology from the Ohio State University. Finley is a licensed Nursing Home Administrator and an Assisted Living Administrator. In addition, she serves on the Board of Trustees for Temple Emanuel, and previously served as a Board Member and the Assisted Living Chair of the Colorado Healthcare Association from 2011 to 2018.
