Spirit of Advocacy: Christine Bakke and Rob Lahammer

Posted on September 25, 2018 by Jodi Boyne

Christine Bakke, CEO/Administrator, Madonna Towers and Rob Lahammer, Executive Director of Customer Engagement, Employee Engagement and Advocacy, Presbyterian Homes and Services were the recipients of this year’s Spirit of Advocacy award. The awards were announced at last week’s Annual Meeting and Leadership Forum. 

The Spirit of Advocacy award is given to individuals who make outstanding contributions to advocacy on behalf of aging Minnesotans and the dedicated caregivers who provide them with care, services and support. 

Through her service on the LeadingAge Minnesota Board of Directors and as a member of the LeadingAge Minnesota Political Action Committee, Christine’s leadership and commitment to advocacy has been critical to helping LeadingAge Minnesota share its mission and advance its priorities at the State Capitol. 

LeadingAge MN President & CEO Gayle Kvenvold, Christine Bakke, and Board Chair Mark Anderson, President & CEO, Knute Nelson

“Christine is a strong advocate at the State Capitol and a champion for seniors and the dedicated caregivers who provide safe, quality care in long-term care and senior living settings. She has helped shape policy proposals that will ensure Minnesota is best prepared to meet the rising demand for services and supports that help our aging citizens live well,” said LeadingAge Minnesota Board Chair Mark Anderson. 

Rob is a member of the LeadingAge Minnesota Public Policy Committee and has been deeply involved in shaping public policy. He has been instrumental in creating a better understanding of aging services, professional caregivers and the evolving needs of the seniors we serve by inviting lawmakers to Presbyterian Homes & Services settings across Minnesota. 

LeadingAge MN President & CEO Gayle Kvenvold, Rob Lahammer, and Board Chair Mark Anderson, President & CEO, Knute Nelson

“Rob has worked very hard at developing relationships with key legislators. His commitment to mission, his service to older adults and his deep support for those who work in the caregiving profession was integral to helping lawmakers better understand the challenges provider face in serving the needs of our rapidly-growing aging population and the people who work so hard each day to provide the highest level of support and service to those who call our communities homes,” said Anderson said.