Honoring a Legacy, Embracing the Road Ahead

Along with our own journey of aging, every mission-driven organization travels a long and winding road—one filled with challenges, milestones, detours, and unexpected joys. This summer marks a major milestone on Aging Ahead’s journey: the retirement of our incredible CEO, Lisa Knoll, and the beginning of a new chapter with Christine Hustedde stepping into the driver’s seat.

During her 20+ years with Aging Ahead, Lisa has been at the wheel, guiding our organization with unwavering focus, heart, and vision. She helped pave the way during uncertain stretches, kept us steady during sharp turns, and never lost sight of the destination: a better, more just future for those we serve. Her leadership built not just programs and partnerships, but a strong community committed to making a difference in the lives of older adults.

Lisa’s leadership has included creating a culture of inspiration and growth.  She encouraged staff to seek creative solutions, celebrate the wins and learn from mistakes. She valued maintaining relationships throughout the aging network which allows for collaboration that benefits all. Lisa is quick to deflect any praise back to her team and relishes the accomplishments and successes of staff, volunteers, boards and other aging network providers. Under Lisa’s leadership, all were seen, heard, challenged, encouraged, supported, appreciated, and celebrated. 

As Lisa prepares to pull off this road and enjoy a well-deserved rest stop, we’re grateful for every mile traveled under her direction. Her legacy will always be part of the map we follow.

We’re equally excited to congratulate and welcome Christine Hustedde into the role of CEO. Having served as Aging Ahead’s Chief Operations Officer for over 7 years, Christine knows the agency’s journey very well, its history, its values, and the roadblocks we’re ready to overcome. She brings new energy, a fresh perspective, and the same deep commitment to our mission.

The road ahead is full of possibilities. With thanks for the past and confidence in the future, we move forward—together.

Safe travels, Lisa, and welcome to the driver’s seat, Christine. The journey continues.

It has been my privilege to work alongside our staff and volunteers for the past 20 years. Together, we’ve been able to accomplish so much and I’m grateful to each of them! I’ll never forget them or being a part of the amazing work done at Aging Ahead.  I also send my congratulations to Christine Hustedde, and am excited to have her leading the Agency forward.  Aging Ahead is in good hands! 

– Lisa Knoll

Aging Ahead has been fortunate to have Lisa Knoll’s leadership for over 20 years. In her most recent role as CEO, she has led the Agency through challenging times yet still managed to respond to the needs of older adults and the communities we serve through innovative programming that prioritizes equity and dignity for all. Lisa’s contributions to the field are numerous and I personally am grateful for her insight, vision, and wisdom. I’m humbled by her many contributions and am energized to build upon on her legacy. My vision for Aging Ahead is one that honors our history while embracing bold possibilities for the future of aging services.

Together—with staff, volunteers, and those we serve, we will continue the important work you’ve championed. Thank you for leading the journey.

– Christine Hustedde