Cassia Appoints Matthew Kern as New CEO
EDINA, Minnesota, August 7, 2025 – In a much-anticipated announcement, Cassia has selected Matthew Kern to take over as its President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective October 1, 2025. This leadership transition is expected to usher in a new era for the organization, well-known for its commitment to providing assisted living and senior services.
Matthew Kern’s extensive experience in the senior services sector spans 25 years, and he has been a guiding force at Cassia since 2017. His previous role as Chief Operating Officer allowed him to navigate the organization through challenging periods, notably during the pandemic and various shifts in workforce dynamics. Chip Parks, Chairman of the Board, stated, "Matthew is a wonderful choice to lead Cassia into its next chapter. His dedication to our mission and goals is evident, and his ability to inspire those around him is crucial for our growth. We have full confidence that he will nurture our Christian culture and lead with the knowledge and vision necessary for serving everyone in our community."
Kern expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, noting, "It is a great honor to be selected as the next CEO of Cassia. I am deeply aware of the responsibilities that come with this role and am committed to building upon the strong foundation laid by my predecessors."
He will be stepping into leadership after the retirement of Bob Dahl, who has served as the CEO for an impressive 31 years. In his remarks, Dahl emphasized Kern’s suitability for the role, stating, "Matthew is a courageous and visionary leader who truly loves Cassia’s mission of serving older adults in the Spirit of Christ's love. He embodies our service standards rooted in our core values. I am excited about Cassia’s future and trust that under Matthew's leadership, the organization will flourish for many years to come."
Cassia has expressed profound gratitude for Dahl’s exceptional leadership, highlighting his lasting impact on the lives of seniors and their families. His legacy of compassionate care and operational excellence will continue to shape the organization’s future.
The upcoming months will see a structured transition of leadership to ensure continuous collaboration and support throughout this change.
About Cassia
Cassia is dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of services, including independent and assisted living, memory care, specialized nursing, short-term rehabilitation, adult day services, and community programs across five states. Their mission is centered on fostering abundant life for older adults in the spirit of Christ’s love.
For more details about Cassia and its services, visit their website or follow them on social media.