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A team of dedicated professionals comprises the Isakson Living residential development staff. All are recognized leaders in their respective disciplines. Scroll over individual pictures to access their information.

Print Profile Andy Isakson Andy Isakson
Managing Partner

425 Peachtree Hills Avenue
Suite 29-C
Atlanta, GA 30305

Phone: 404-941-1320
Email: aisakson@isaksonliving.com




"The old model is, 'Live here and we'll take care of you.' The model we've created offers something different, 'Live here and take care of yourself. We'll help facilitate a highly rewarding lifestyle.'"

-Andy Isakson

Managing Partner Andy Isakson is the company's visionary in chief. His combination of street-level commercial real estate experience and abundant creativity was the driving force behind Park Springs, Isakson Living's first senior residential community. Andy's leadership continues to guide the firm through construction and presales of Peachtree Hills Place in Buckhead, and future projects throughout the Atlanta metro.

In 1982, Andy created the development firm Isakson Living, which has developed nearly five million square feet of office and retail space throughout the Southeast. Isakson Living's entry into the luxury senior residential market in 1997 signaled a timely new direction for the company.

The Isakson family's real estate credentials reach back at least 100 years. Andy's grandfather created Atlanta's first suburban shopping center off Peachtree Hills Avenue in Atlanta. His father, Ed Isakson, grew Northside Realty into a residential powerhouse. "My dad always said commercial real estate was too complex, but the complexity is what draws me to it," says Andy. "I like to work on long, tedious projects that require patience. I'm fortunate that my talents and personality are well-suited to my career."

Confidence in the company and its future is a reflection of Andy's confidence in the impressive team he's attracted. From finance to construction, site management, design and marketing, he's assembled a group of talented professionals who welcome innovation. That ability to see possibilities beyond those that currently exist has been the hallmark of Isakson Living communities. Being both pragmatic and creative, Andy took retirement-living concepts that have been financially successful for over 50 years and updated them to create communities that will be successful for the next half century. That financial success is a result of understanding and responding to the needs of today's - and tomorrow's - customer

In terms of amenities, governance and customer service, the communities outdistance themselves from the competition. At Peachtree Hills, for example, the (fully optional) dining operation is managed by Chef Paul Albrecht, a renowned Atlanta restaurateur who brings members the quality and style of fine dining establishments they're accustomed to. Concierge health care and a world-class wellness program were also conceived and designed by Andy. Isakson Living communities now boast spas and active leisure amenities that rival those of the finest resort hotels.

"Our plan is to continue to introduce this type of community elsewhere in Atlanta." From a business point of view, he notes, there's a synergy in doing multiple projects in the same market. "As hands-on, private owners we're accountable, we know and respect our customer and we're in it for the long term."

Andy is an active volunteer who has been recognized widely for his contributions, especially in the area of community health. In 2008, Andy was awarded the Joseph D. Greene Community Service Award by the Healthcare Georgia Foundation for his efforts to improve the health of Georgia's children. Andy and Nancy Isakson are the parents of two college-age children.

Print Profile Kevin Isakson Kevin Isakson
Director of Sales and Marketing

425 Peachtree Hills Avenue
Suite 29-C
Atlanta, GA 30305

Phone: 404-941-1320
Email: kisakson@isaksonliving.com




"The reward for me is the opportunity to get to know these highly accomplished members and their families. It's much more than providing a service or a residence - it's connecting with extraordinary people."

-Kevin Isakson

Kevin Isakson, Managing Partner, helped launch the entry of Isakson Living into the senior residential housing industry in 1997. He successfully oversaw the sales and marketing of Park Springs, from concept in 1998, through zoning, construction, pre-sales and occupancy of the final phase in 2008.

Kevin leads internal sales and marketing teams, and manages external advertising and public relations functions. As such, he has oversight for messaging and creative direction at the 398-home community, and at Peachtree Hills Place, the company's 274-home intown community, projected to open in 2010.

An Atlanta native and fourth generation real estate professional, Kevin's great-grandfather, grandfather and father all played a key role in the development of metro Atlanta. Kevin earned a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. His prior professional experience includes public affairs and public relations for a global communications agency.

Kevin's passion for creating exceptional residential communities providing a continuum of care is no surprise to those who know him. Kevin has always sought the company and wisdom of seniors. As a young man, he was aware of the struggle of his own family members, including his current business partner and uncle Andy Isakson, to find an appropriate residence for his aging grandparents. Their frustrated search for a setting that combined quality health care with an engaging lifestyle led to the creation of Park Springs.

The importance of family ties permeates his work. "As a family-owned, for-profit organization, we take pride in a very personal ownership style," says Kevin. "We're present and accessible every day and we're part of the communities in which we build."

This was especially important in the early stages, when Isakson Living was introducing an entirely new concept. Although high-rise residential communities that offer a continuum of care had made their way into the metro region, Park Springs was the first suburban (54-acre) campus of its kind. Kevin was charged with sharing the vision with prospective members and families, as well as with lenders, neighbors and municipal officials.

That inclusive approach continues to lead Kevin and the Isakson Living team to remain connected with, and encourage the engagement of members in every aspect of life at Park Springs and Peachtree Hills Place.

Under Kevin's leadership, Isakson Living communities have been recognized with several National Association of Home Builders awards for sales and marketing excellence.

Kevin is involved with a number of charitable organizations, including several that seek to improve life for older adults in the Atlanta metro. He and his wife Katherine are the parents of three young children.

Print Profile Julie Isakson Mitchell Julie Isakson Mitchell
Director of Marketing & Community Relations

425 Peachtree Hills Avenue
Suite 29-C
Atlanta, GA 30305

Phone: 404-941-1320
Email: juliem@peachtreehillsplace.com




"I know first-hand how my grandparents and my family were affected by the search for a comfortable retirement residence with quality health care for my parents. It's so satisfying to be creating the kinds of communities we would have liked for them, and that we can now provide for others."

-Julie Isakson Mitchell

Director of Community Relations Julie Isakson Mitchell serves as a liaison between the larger Atlanta community and Isakson Living's residential communities, Park Springs and Peachtree Hills Place. She also focuses on fostering relationships within the two communities. Julie, an Atlanta native, is passionate about the work and the people it serves.

Following graduation from the University of Georgia, Julie gained experience in marketing. She worked both for agencies and for nonprofit organizations before joining Isakson Living in 2004. "This has been a really good fit for me," she explains. "If I'm going to spend so much of my time working so hard for something, I always want the end result to directly benefit individuals, not just improve a company's bottom line."

Relationship-building comes naturally to Julie, a people person whose energy and enthusiasm motivate those around her. At Peachtree Hills Place, she has been active from the initial stages of development in establishing strategic connections in and around Atlanta. These include links with businesses and industries in parallel or complementary spheres of interest. Julie has successfully introduced the community to leaders in legal, health care and financial planning circles. She frequently shares information about Park Springs and Peachtree Hills through presentations at the request of community and religious groups.

At Peachtree Hills Place, Julie engages with members in a number of ways, including as coordinator of member committees. Her role also involves creating a community without walls - organizing programs, social events and group travel to encourage friendships among members who will soon become neighbors. "It's essential for me to learn all I can about members' needs and interests, and to make sure the community we're creating reflects them."

One of the most satisfying aspects of Julie's work is being part of a compatible team. "The directors share the same goals – every decision we make is based on how it will affect our members and their quality of life. I think that's why we work so well together."

Julie and Jay Mitchell are the proud parents of little Cecilia. In her spare time, Julie enjoys exercising, reading and spending time at the lake with members of her extended family.

Print Profile Joan Carlson Joan Carlson
Director of Quality, Innovation & Culture

425 Peachtree Hills Avenue
Suite 29-C
Atlanta, GA 30305

Phone: 404-941-1320
Email: jcarlson@isaksonliving.com




"My first job out of college was as a public health nurse on an Indian reservation. I learned a great deal about how people cope with health challenges. And I learned that my true calling is in helping improve lives through health education."

-Joan Carlson

Joan Carlson is Isakson Living's Vice President of Quality, Innovation and Culture. The title describes a unique set of duties for which Joan is uniquely qualified. A nurse with extensive administrative experience, Joan has served as CEO of an acute care hospital and led long-term care organizations.

At Isakson Living, Joan sees her role as "community builder." She explains: "I reach out to members and employees to ensure that Park Springs and Peachtree Hills Place are great places to live and work." At both Park Springs and Peachtree Hills Place, she works closely with member committees and department directors to facilitate communication and action.

Joan developed new systems to create an orderly and satisfying transition for new members, and to provide for the best use of professional staff and other resources. As well, she has spearheaded significant changes at Cobblestone, the Park Springs skilled nursing facility, to encourage patient-centered care. The approach emphasizes decision-making by members and their families about everything from when and what to eat, to the best combination of therapies. This model will also be introduced at Terraces, the Peachtree Hills Place nursing center.

Joan facilitated the creation of a committee of former physicians - all Park Springs member volunteers - who use their knowledge to improve life at Cobblestone. As medical professionals, they contribute a unique perspective on social engagement, food, recreation and medical care.

At Peachtree Hills Place, Joan collaborates with the management team to explain the community's extensive health and wellness options. She answers questions about individual concerns, and educates the sales team about available options, including home-based assisted living services.

"For me, the satisfaction comes from working with a skilled management team and exceptional employees to build communities we can all be proud of. At Peachtree Hills, for example, even though we're two years from move-in, there's already a sense of connection among members who attend regular events and stay in touch. That means a great deal to me."

Joan has two grown daughters and is the proud grandmother of a grandson and a granddaughter.

Print Profile Dave Wahn Dave Wahn
Chief Financial Officer



425 Peachtree Hills Avenue
Suite 29-C
Atlanta, GA 30305

Phone: 404-941-1320
Email: dwahn@isaksonliving.com




"My primary role is to secure financing for our projects. As a developer in a niche business, it's essential that we identify and partner with the right financing sources."

-Dave Wahn

Chief Financial Officer Dave Wahn, CPA, manages Isakson Living's financial operations and opportunities. Dave joined the company in 2002 and has been an integral part of the success of Park Springs and Peachtree Hills Place, Isakson Living's senior living communities.

A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Dave moved to Marietta, Georgia with his family while he was in middle school. He attended Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina graduating with a bachelor's degree in accounting and business administration.

Dave enjoyed a successful career in public accounting with a, then, Big Five firm before joining Isakson Living. "I was first introduced to the real estate industry from a public accounting perspective and was attracted immediately."

At Isakson Living, Dave is charged with identifying and pursuing sources of finance. He works closely with Managing Partner Andy Isakson to ensure that the financial goals of a proposed project are clearly communicated.

"I enjoy the opportunity to introduce our concept and goals, from a financial point of view, to appropriate sources. Lenders have become increasingly comfortable with the concept of communities that offer a continuum of care, and we like to feel that our successes have something to do with that."

Once financing has been secured, Dave also manages the relationship afterward, ensuring accurate and timely reporting to all stakeholders. "For us, clear and open communication is essential in achieving success." In addition, he oversees the company's financial reporting and compliance functions, as well as human resources.

"I'm also a resource for members and their families. In some cases that means meeting with prospective members to explain the financial model of our communities," he explains. Dave participates in finance committees at both Park Springs and Peachtree Hills Place, ensuring that members are fully aware of the fiscal health of their communities and understand how their monthly fees are being used.

"Like the other members of the management team, I place a high priority on remaining accessible to members. We're willing to do all that's necessary to give them the information and comfort level they deserve. And for me that includes making sure they understand the dollars and cents involved in operating such extraordinary communities."

For Dave, close collaboration among the firm's directors means that lenders, members and other constituents receive the best the team has to offer. "The vision starts with Andy Isakson, but there's a great deal of cooperation toward shared outcomes."

Christy and Dave Wahn are the parents of four children and are active in St. Ann's Church near their East Cobb County home.

Print Profile Don Garner Don Garner
Senior Vice President of Development



425 Peachtree Hills Avenue
Suite 29-C
Atlanta, GA 30305

Phone: 404-941-1320
Email: dgarner@isaksonliving.com




"When we started a number of years ago we had a strong sense of the potential in the senior residential market, and it's been extremely gratifying to be part of creating these communities that have been so warmly welcomed."

-Don Garner

Don Garner, Senior Vice President of Development, joined Isakson Living in 1994 to oversee the firm's construction of retail centers throughout the Southeast. His responsibilities include all aspects of the projects, from the hiring of architects and engineers to pre-development work like surveys and environmental studies, and construction monitoring.

In 1998, Don began to focus exclusively on Isakson Living's senior residential properties, Park Springs in Stone Mountain and Peachtree Hills Place in Buckhead. "Starting from the ground up, and especially with an all new concept in this market, was exciting and quite satisfying," he recalls.

Don is ably qualified for his position. A 1972 graduate of Auburn University, he holds a bachelor of science degree in Building Science from its School of Architecture. After graduation he was employed for a number of years by the former Atlanta contractor L&B Construction Co. There, he gained experience overseeing construction of industrial, retail and commercial buildings. He also held positions with two other development firms that specialized in building shopping centers across the United States.

At Isakson Living, Don's expertise is leveraged in all phases of planning and development of the firm's senior residential communities. It starts with identifying raw land for future projects, and includes site planning and working with land planners on layout, in addition to all the upfront feasibility work, including environmental reviews and zoning. "Basically, my role touches on all parts of a project other than the financial and marketing duties," Don explains. He is intimately involved in the selection of the design and construction team, including project architects, engineers and contractors.

Don's experience is invaluable to the work and to his Isakson Living colleagues. "I've got a practiced eye from a planning standpoint - an ability to envision how a piece of land will look like once it's developed, and how the pieces will come together." He says development is a thoughtful, deliberative process, and time spent on the front end in planning is always a wise investment.

"What's exciting to me about this work is that, although the concept and quality are consistent from community to community, we also pay a great deal of attention to what makes each location distinctive. From topography to interior finishes, there's a uniqueness to each site that we want reflected in the planning and construction," he adds. Don says market response to Isakson Living's senior residential communities is a strong indication that the combination of location, top-quality amenities and accessible health care is an ideal match with member needs and desires.

Fannie and Don Garner are the parents of two adult children, a daughter living in Atlanta and a son who attends college in Florida.

Print Profile Anresa Davis Anresa Davis
Vice President of Sales & Marketing

425 Peachtree Hills Avenue
Suite 29-C
Atlanta, GA 30305

Phone: 404-941-1320
Email: anresad@parkspringscommunities.com




"In 25 years as a registered nurse, I came to understand just how fragile life can be. I also saw that how well we adapt to changing circumstances is a function of how well we plan. I see that played out time and again with our members."

-Anresa Davis

Anresa Davis, Isakson Living's Vice President of Sales and Marketing, likes to say that she manages a process rather than people. "When you have the right team, the people really manage themselves," she adds. Anresa combines deep experience in health care and human services with a proven track record in corporate leadership. Her role is to direct the sales and marketing activity for Isakson Living's residential communities.

A Savannah native who earned her nursing degree from the Medical College of Georgia, Anresa spent the majority of her career working in emergency rooms and intensive care units. In 2000, she joined Isakson Living and has been an integral part of the development, presales and construction of Park Springs and Peachtree Hills Place. She interacts directly with interested members, oversees two sales staffs, and plans and executes special events.

Anresa connects on an open and personal level with members and their families. She says she gains as much from these relationships as she gives. "My experience - as a nurse and at Isakson Living - has taught me that what people want is to reduce the number of uncertainties in their lives. They want control over their destiny, and they're looking for a community that will not only ensure their comfort and security, but will ensure their dignity."

In her interactions with potential members and in her staff development work, Anresa emphasizes the importance of planning. She believes it is never too early to start thinking about the many "what-ifs" that life delivers. "We cannot control life, but we certainly can plan for it," she says. Inspired by the vision of Andy Isakson, Anresa helps families make plans that will help their older members maximize their enjoyment of the best years of their lives.

"Many members, especially at Park Springs, have watched my sons Steven and John grow up, and through their friendship have become an extension of my own family. When my youngest left for college, several members made a point to stop into the office that week and see how I was doing! It's really like having hundreds of loving parents around you every day."

The Davis family makes their home in Stone Mountain. Anresa is a relatively new, but accomplished runner and is active in church and community organizations.

Print Profile Brian Thomas Brian Thomas
Vice President of Construction

425 Peachtree Hills Avenue
Suite 29-C
Atlanta, GA 30305

Phone: 404-941-1320
Email: bthomas@isaksonliving.com




"It's my job to keep the vision in mind - the finished product and the quality expectations that go along with it - as we work through the minutiae of day-to-day construction. Keeping the team focused and productive is what I'm here for."

-Brian Thomas

As Vice President of Construction, Brian Thomas is the corporate liaison with contractors and subcontractors on Isakson Living communities. Currently, he oversees construction at Peachtree Hills Place, Isakson-Living's second residential community. The 23-plus acre campus will feature 274 residences including villas and single-family homes. The completed community will also provide a 61,000-square-foot clubhouse, a 15,000-square-foot fitness center with pools, and a health center for skilled nursing and memory care. The impressive project is located in Peachtree Hills, a popular area within Atlanta's legendary Buckhead neighborhood.

Demanding, high-visibility projects are nothing new for Brian, who joined Isakson Living following a number of years with the Atlanta office of Manhattan Construction Co. While there, he served as senior project manager on the New World of Coca-Cola, and on a 20-story luxury apartment building. Brian is a graduate of Georgia Tech with a degree in civil engineering.

Brian's duties at Isakson Living include oversight of all construction-related scheduling, budget, and safety functions. He has been actively involved in selection of the project's general contractor and primary subcontractors.

Along with selecting and managing these vendors, Brian oversees internal design and construction teams. And he is intimately involved in the design upgrade program for the community.

"The Coca-Cola project provided me with excellent experience in building a high-profile project with extremely high quality expectations." He says that coming from a contractor background gives him valuable perspective and a firm understanding of budgets and scheduling so essential to success.

But it's the communication - among both internal and external parties - that Brian says matters most to the success of a project. His approach is to remain realistic about expectations, and open and honest with everyone involved. Maintaining the focus on clearly stated, shared objectives is his primary goal.

Achieving this involves maintaining open channels of communication with Isakson Living decision-makers and extends to ensuring that every member of the field team is on board. "It's really a matter of making sure everybody knows what's going on and has the appropriate information to execute the tasks," he adds.

Brian has received numerous awards for his work, including from the U.S. Green Building Council. He and his wife Marie are the parents of two young children.

Print Profile Maricita Hughes Maricita Hughes
Director of Interiors

425 Peachtree Hills Avenue
Suite 29-C
Atlanta, GA 30305

Phone: 404-941-1320
Email: mh@isaksonliving.com




"Moving into a beautiful new home is exciting, and it's also a significant responsibility. It's our job to assist members as much as they'd like. We want them to feel confident that their home will be beautiful, high-performing and a joy for years to come."

-Maricita Hughes

Director of Interiors Maricita Hughes has been an integral part of the Isakson Living organization since 1984 when she joined the firm to design commercial and office building interiors. She has also provided construction management services for Isakson Living retail centers.

Since the firm entered the senior residential industry, Maricita's experience and skills have been in high demand. At Park Springs, Isakson Living's first community in Stone Mountain, Maricita contributed significantly to the design of floor plans, working closely with members to create spaces that reflected their dreams and desires.

As construction continued and members began to move in, she developed and led the process of interior selections. The goal was to give members diverse, high-quality options in flooring, cabinetry, colors and overall layout.

Maricita was similarly involved at Peachtree Hills Place, the firm's second community in Atlanta's Buckhead district. Maricita led the team that designed the clubhouse and health center, and the sales and design centers, where members can see furnished homes and choose personalized options.

"I was particularly engaged in designing kitchens and bathrooms at Peachtree Hills Place. We learned a great deal from members that we used to create elegant, livable spaces," says Maricita. Among innovations she helped develop are bathrooms that combine resort-style size and luxury with extraordinary practicality and accommodation.

As the liaison between members and the Isakson Living construction team, Maricita and her colleagues begin working as long as a year before construction to help customize layouts and select options. "We help bring practicality to the process," she explains. "Many members who have lived in their homes for decades often anticipate recreating the same interiors in their new Isakson Living homes. We help them see what will work from the viewpoint of design and function." In a series of three meetings, members have the opportunity to select options and literally map out the interiors of their new homes.

An Atlanta native who lived abroad for many years, Maricita is a graduate of the Georgia Tech School of Architecture. Before joining Isakson Living in 1984, she worked with the Gary B. Coursey architecture firm. Maricita and Shawn Hughes are the parents of 10-year-old Chase.