When explaining her job to others, Sarah Thompson uses words like mayor, therapist and motivational speaker. She joined Ohio Living four years ago and took on her current role, executive director and administrator at Ohio Living Cape May, in May 2022.
“I recently spoke to a group of high school students about my position, and I used a few different terms to explain it to them,” Sarah elaborated. “When it comes to the residents, I feel like the mayor. However, with my team and staff, I am the coach, the principal, the therapist, the motivational speaker, and ultimately, an avid supporter and encourager to help them be their very best!”
Working with residents and hearing their stories is one of the best parts of Sarah’s job. “For many residents, this is their final home,” she explained. “I want to make sure it’s the best experience for them.”
Sarah continued, “I also love interacting with the staff and getting to know them. Challenging my team to think outside of the box and do things differently is an important way we can better the lives of those we serve. If healthcare isn’t your passion, don’t do it. You definitely need to have a passion for enhancing the lives of others to be truly fulfilled in this field.”
Beyond work, Sarah is married to her husband, Mike. The couple has two children, Oliver and Ottellie, two Goldendoodles, Chubbs and Miley, and a cat, Edison. The Thompsons are a self-proclaimed Disney family and big sports fans too. “We cheer for the Browns, the Cavaliers, the Magic, the Reds, the Buckeyes, the Volunteers and Syracuse Orange,” she added. “It’s quite the mix!”
Sarah also enjoys reading and in 2024, impressively read and listened to over 100 books! She doesn’t have a favorite genre and will try anything, so long as it comes highly recommended.