Sumter Senior Living Leaders Honored with Top Awards at 2026 Florida Assisted Living Association Conference
MAPLE GROVE, MN, UNITED STATES, August 18, 2026
Grace Management, Inc. is proud to announce that two leaders from Sumter Senior Living received top honors at the 2026 Florida Assisted Living Association (FALA) Conference, held August 2–5 in Orlando, Florida.
Mica Gilles, Executive Director at Sumter Senior Living, was named FALA’s 2026 Administrator of the Year, while Deborah Rivera, Culinary Director, was named FALA’s 2026 Culinary Director of the Year.
The annual FALA awards recognize professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to excellence within Florida’s assisted living industry. The recognition of two Sumter Senior Living leaders reflects the strength of the community’s team and the high standards they bring to their respective roles.
As Executive Director, Mica Gilles leads the Sumter Senior Living team and oversees the community’s day-to-day operations. Her recognition as Administrator of the Year honors her leadership, dedication, and commitment to creating a strong culture for residents, families, and associates.
Deborah Rivera’s recognition as Culinary Director of the Year celebrates her leadership of Sumter Senior Living’s culinary program and commitment to quality, hospitality, and service. Through her work, Rivera and her team help create a dining experience that is an important part of daily life in the community.
“Mica and Deborah are both exceptional leaders who bring tremendous passion to what they do,” said Jenna Johnston, Divisional Vice President of Operations at Grace Management, Inc. “Mica leads with a strategic mindset and is always looking for innovative ways to strengthen the community and create meaningful impact for residents, families, and associates. Deborah brings an incredible sense of hospitality to every aspect of the dining experience, continually raising the bar and showing what is possible in senior living. These recognitions are incredibly well deserved, and I am proud to see both Mica and Deborah honored for the impact they make each day.”
Gilles and Rivera were presented with their awards during the 2026 FALA Conference in Orlando. The annual event brings together assisted living professionals from across Florida for education, professional development, networking, and recognition of excellence within the industry.
About Sumter Senior Living
Located in The Villages, Florida, Sumter Senior Living offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care options designed to support older adults through a range of needs and lifestyles. Managed by Grace Management, Inc., the community combines personalized support, engaging experiences, and thoughtful hospitality to help residents live and age well.
About Grace Management, Inc.
Grace Management, Inc. has been a trusted name in the senior living industry since 1984, specializing in managing and elevating senior living communities nationwide. The company currently manages 62 communities across the United States. As part of CPF Living, Grace operates a growing portfolio and is recognized among ASHA’s 50 largest senior housing operators. The company is committed to operational excellence, high ethical standards, and creating vibrant communities where seniors thrive.
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Kara Latham
Grace Management, Inc.
media@gracemanagement.com
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