WASHINGTON, D.C. – Christian Mason, PhD, today was named the 2025 recipient of the Jan Thayer Pioneer Award by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), the assisted living voice of the American Health Care Association (AHCA). As a former chair of NCAL’s Board of Directors and president and chief executive officer of Senior Housing Managers, Mason’s 40-year career has been marked by a commitment to propel the assisted living profession into a new era of excellence and innovation. His efforts have improved operational outcomes, advanced person-centered care, and welcomed technological advancements, inspiring assisted living providers around the country.
“Chris has demonstrated a passion for enhancing the lives of seniors,” said NCAL Executive Director LaShuan Bethea. “Over the course of his career, he has worked tirelessly to explore new ways to positively impact not only on the people he serves and works with but the profession as a whole. He is an exemplary leader and most deserving of this honor.”
As CEO of Senior Housing Managers based in Wilsonville, Oregon, he has led the design, development, and operation of hundreds of assisted living, residential care, and independent living communities, focusing on creating environments that prioritize resident comfort and dignity.
From 2015-2017, Mason served as chairman of the National Center for Assisted Living’s Board of Directors, driving the development of resources for assisted living providers that supported quality initiatives, navigating state regulations, and access to data. He also served for more than 20 years on the Oregon Health Care Association board, significantly advancing the state’s long term care initiatives.
In 2013, he played a pivotal role in establishing new residential care building standards through the Facility Guideline Institute, significantly enhancing the quality and safety of long term care facilities and community-based care communities.
Furthermore, Mason’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to form Vigilan, Inc., a software company dedicated to integrating advanced technology solutions into long term care operations. Vigilan was instrumental in pioneering the use of acuity-based staffing—a model that assesses patient needs more accurately and allocates resources accordingly. In addition, Mason is at the forefront of innovative care with his work on CloudMind, which uses artificial intelligence companions to interact with memory care residents, increasing companionship and enriching the overall care experience for residents, caregivers, and families alike.
He holds a bachelor’s degree from Northern Vermont University, a master’s degree from the University of New Hampshire, and a doctorate in business administration from George Fox University in Newberg, Oregon. He is a Fellow of the American College of Health Care Administrators and has earned professional certifications as nursing home and assisted living administration.
The Jan Thayer Pioneer Award recognizes individuals who have moved the senior care profession forward, positively affecting the lives of those served and those who serve. Recipients must demonstrate dedication, leadership, and considerable contributions to the profession. Mason will be presented the Pioneer Award during a formal ceremony at the
Delivering Solutions 25, AHCA/NCAL’s Convention & Expo this October in Las Vegas, Nevada.