#United States #Edina #Cassia #Matthew Kern #Bob Dahl

Cassia Welcomes Matthew Kern as Its New Chief Executive Officer

In a significant leadership transition, Cassia has announced the appointment of Matthew Kern as its next President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), with his tenure commencing on October 1, 2025. This new chapter for the organization comes as the incumbent CEO, Bob Dahl, prepares to retire after an impressive 31 years at the helm.

A Vision for the Future

Matthew Kern's selection has been met with enthusiastic optimism. Chip Parks, the Chair of the Cassia Board of Directors, expressed confidence in Kern's ability to carry forward the mission and goals of Cassia, emphasizing that he’s already demonstrated a profound commitment to the organization during his tenure. Kern has been part of the executive leadership team since 2017, serving as Chief Operating Officer, where he played a pivotal role in guiding communities through the complexities introduced by the pandemic and workforce changes.

Kern's leadership has been instrumental in reinforcing Cassia’s culture, services, and financial stability. His deep understanding of the organization’s core values and commitment to its mission of caring for older adults is expected to inspire continued growth and dedication among the staff.

In his own words, Kern stated, “It’s a great honor to be selected as Cassia’s next CEO. I’m deeply aware of the responsibility this role carries and I'm committed to building on the foundation laid by those who came before me.” This acknowledgment highlights Kern's recognition of his predecessor's monumental impact on the organization and its community.

Transitioning Leadership

Bob Dahl, who has led the organization for over three decades, has been pivotal in transforming Cassia into a reputable provider of senior services across several states. His leadership has not only shaped the operational excellence of Cassia but also the compassionate care provided to countless older adults and their families. As Dahl steps down, he leaves behind a legacy characterized by exceptional service and unwavering support.

“I am excited for the future of Cassia and am confident, with Matthew’s leadership, the organization will thrive for many years to come,” Dahl commented, further underscoring Kern’s strengths as a leader — particularly his courage, vision, and commitment to the organization's mission.

A Commitment to Serving All

Cassia has long been dedicated to fostering a sense of community and aid for older adults and their families, aligning this purpose with its core values. With Kern stepping into the role of CEO, the organization aims to continue its mission of serving older adults in the spirit of Christ's love, while also navigating the evolving landscape of senior care.

As Cassia prepares for this leadership transition, it emphasizes the importance of continuity and collaboration. The upcoming months will be marked by efforts to ensure a smooth handover that reflects both the organization's rich history and its promising future under Kern’s guidance.

About Cassia

Currently, Cassia provides a diverse range of services including independent and assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, short-term rehabilitation, adult day services, and various community-based programs across five states. The organization remains rooted in its mission to enhance the quality of life for older adults, and with Kern at the helm, Cassia looks forward to the next era of growth and service.

In summary, Matthew Kern’s appointment as the new CEO marks a pivotal moment for Cassia, one that promises to uphold the organization’s legacy while also ushering in innovative approaches to senior care. As he steps into this significant role, there is an air of expectation regarding the positive changes and enhanced services that will arise during his leadership.