2025 Argentum Hero Awards

In January, COO Alex Germain-Robin reached out to all American House communities asking for nominations for the Argentum Hero Awards and the teams did not disappoint. Our company submitted 10 team members in recognition and celebration of their exemplary leadership, innovation and spirit of service within the senior living industry.

And this was not just a popularity contest. No King and Queen of the Homecoming Court here. This was, indeed, a list of the most exceptional people in the company—those who not only uphold our core values of Respect, Integrity, Teamwork and Excellence, but who by their example, inspire others, lead and support with compassion and make a measurable, positive impact on those around them.

Honorable Mentions: Congratulations, Rachel Cherry and Carmen Trafton

The Argentum Hero Awards represent a wide pool of nominees with only five winners. We are pleased to announce that two of our nominees were chosen as Honorable Mentions!

As stated by Argentum, “Receiving an Honorable Mention is quite an honor. We are excited to showcase Carmen and Rachel’s incredible work as part of our Argentum Hero Awards Digital Showcase, where their stories will be shared and celebrated among peers and industry leaders.”

Rachel Cherry, Executive Director at American House Lebanon
Community Leadership Award

Combining her natural ability to lead and licensed nurse-administrator background, Rachel has made a broad impact across multiple American House Tennessee communities. Her exceptional leadership has driven impressive results, including 10% occupancy increase in three months at American House Lebanon, complete agency elimination at American House Hendersonville and a reduction in overtime from 14% to under 5%. Rachel is a calming force, consistently leading by example—often stepping in to provide personal, compassionate care for our residents. She mentors new leaders, fosters strong team culture and blends clinical and administrative skills to empower her team. Her influence is reflected not only in operational improvements but also in the deep respect she earns from her team members, residents and families.

Carmen Trafton, Life Enrichment Assistant at American House Keene
Passion & Purpose Award

Known for creating some of the most enjoyable, well-attended programs at American House Keene, Carmen is a natural Life Enrichment expert who consistently goes above and beyond to enhance the lives of our residents. Thoughtful, with a genuine desire to make each resident feel seen and valued, she fosters an engaging community by making personal, meaningful connections—she knows each resident’s history and anticipates their needs, ensuring everyone feels valued and included. Enthusiasm runs through everything Carmen touches, and her willingness to step outside her comfort zone reflects her resilience and adaptability. Carmen's innovative spirit and resident-centered mindset make her a standout team member and someone who creates joy and purpose in our residents’ lives.

American House Argentum Awards Nominees

Below are the awards categories and the exemplary American House team members who were nominated for the 2025 Argentum Hero Awards:
• Community Leadership Award – Honors an executive director who has demonstrated remarkable leadership in managing and fostering an engaged, supportive senior living environment.
• Emergency Response Leadership Award – Recognizes an individual who has shown extraordinary resilience and swift decision-making in protecting and supporting seniors during crises.
• Heart of Service Award – Celebrates a devoted team member whose long-term dedication and compassion have positively influenced residents, coworkers, and the community at large.
• Passion & Purpose Award – Highlights an employee whose innovative work, whether through a new service, program, or community connection, has made a lasting impact on resident experience and local engagement.

Carmen Trafton, Life Enrichment Assistant
American House Keene
Passion & Purpose Award

Rachel Cherry, Executive Director
American House Lebanon
Community Leadership Award

Meridee Watt, Executive Director
American House Holland
Emergency Response Leadership Award

Margaret Mann RN, Wellness Director
American House Keene
Heart of Service Award

Tonja McKenzie, Executive Director
American House Wildwood
Community Leadership Award

Brian Himmelman, Culinary Director
American House Cedar Lake
Passion and Purpose Award

Eugene Valentine, Executive Director
American House St. Petersburg
Community Leadership Award

Dorothy Dixon, Lead Resident Assistant
American House Hampton Village
Passion & Purpose Award

Victor Charlie, Maintenance Director
American House Meridian
Heart of Service Award

Kathy Wilson, Sous Chef
American House Jenison
Heart of Service Award

To all our nominees, thank you. Your dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to serving seniors has not gone unnoticed, and we are proud to recognize your contributions to the senior living industry.

Check out the official 2025 Hero Awards list of winners and our honorary mentions, Rachel and Carmen!