Name: Sarah Stull, Administrator

Brief History in Aging Services:

My career in long-term care began at Kimball County Manor in 2005 as a housekeeper. Since then, I have been fortunate to grow through nearly every department in the facility. I became a Certified Nursing Assistant, served as Dietary Manager, earned my Registered Nurse degree, worked as a Charge Nurse and Director of Nursing, and now have the privilege of serving as the Nursing Home Administrator. Experiencing long-term care from so many different perspectives has shaped my leadership style and strengthened my passion for serving older adults and supporting those who care for them.

What keeps you excited about serving older adults in Nebraska?

The relationships. Every resident has a lifetime of experiences, wisdom, and stories that deserve to be honored. It is a privilege to help create an environment where older adults feel safe, respected, and truly at home. Living and working in rural Nebraska has also shown me the importance of preserving access to quality long-term care in our communities. Knowing that our work makes a meaningful difference in the lives of residents and their families continues to inspire me every day.

What do you enjoy most about serving on our board?

I appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with other leaders who are passionate about improving aging services across Nebraska. Serving on the board allows us to share ideas, advocate for the unique challenges facing long-term care providers, and work together to strengthen our profession. It's rewarding to be part of a group that is committed to ensuring older adults receive the highest quality care possible.

What is something you would like our members to know about you?

I believe leadership is about serving others first. Whether it's helping a resident, supporting a staff member, or advocating for our industry, I try to lead with compassion, authenticity, and a willingness to do whatever needs to be done. No job is ever "beneath" a leader, and I hope to always be someone who is willing to roll up my sleeves and work alongside my team.

Name: Becky Bruce, Administrator

Brief history in aging services:

For many years, I have had the privilege of serving older adults, starting at the young age of 16. Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about creating an environment where every tenant feels safe, respected, and truly at home. As an RN and administrator, I’ve learned that quality care is about much more than meeting physical needs—it’s about preserving dignity, building relationships, and helping people continue to find purpose and joy in each day.

What keeps you excited about serving older adults in Nebraska?

Every tenant has a story that deserves to be heard. I love learning about the lives they’ve lived, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the wisdom they share. Being able to make someone’s day a little brighter, advocate for those who may not have a voice, and help families through some of life’s most difficult transitions reminds me why I chose this profession. It’s an honor that I never take for granted.

What do you enjoy most about serving on our board?

Serving on the LeadingAge Nebraska Board gives me the opportunity to be part of something bigger than my own community. I value collaborating with leaders across the state who are passionate about improving aging services, sharing ideas, and advocating for the resources and support our providers and older adults deserve. Together, we can make a lasting difference. The kindness, experience and passion of my fellow board members inspires me every time we get together. 

What is something you would like our members to know about you?

I believe we all have the opportunity to leave things better than we found them. Whether that’s through advocating for our profession, encouraging a coworker, or bringing joy to a tenant’s day, I hope my work reflects compassion, integrity, and a willingness to make a difference. If I can help improve the lives of others—even in a small way—then I’ve been successful.

Name:  Deb Thacker, CFO, Midwest Geriatrics, Inc., Omaha

What keeps you excited about serving older adults in Nebraska?

Every day brings a new opportunity in our industry.  Serving in a leadership role for a non-profit organization that serves a vulnerable population is very rewarding and fulfilling.  To know I have helped someone in their life’s journey brings me great joy and drive to wake up tomorrow and do the same thing all over again.

What do you enjoy most about serving on our board?

I feel honored to serve on the Leading Age Board along with my peers from all different aspects of senior care services.  We all bring something a bit unique to the Board and complement each other’s strengths.

What is something you would like our members to know about you?

One of my passions is travel.  Whether it’s a road trip to a national park, relaxing on a sandy beach or bicycling somewhere in Europe, I’m all in!