Catherine Williamson Tapped to Lead Orchard Valley at Wilbraham

WILBRAHAM — Catherine Williamson was recently named executive director at Orchard Valley at Wilbraham, a Benchmark assisted-living and memory-care community. Benchmark is a leading provider of senior-living services in the Northeast.

“I consider myself to be a servant leader,” Williamson said. “Like Benchmark, I am committed to elevating human connection and keeping our residents, family members, and associates connected to what matters most in their lives. When we are all connected, we are truly better together.”

Before moving into the senior-care field, Williamson had a long career in hospitality, managing world-class spas for hotels, including the Four Seasons and the Ritz-Carlton. She holds a master’s degree in gerontology from UMass Boston and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Howard University. In her spare time, she has volunteered as a SHINE (Serving Health Information Needs of Elders) counselor for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, educating Medicare beneficiaries about their benefits. She also formerly hosted a lifestyle television show, Senior Views, for the Enfield, Conn. Commission on Aging.

“Catherine not only shares our Benchmark vision and values, but also understands how to blend superior senior care with our unique brand of hospitality. I know she will create the lifestyle Wilbraham seniors want,” said Lara Eldridge, regional director of operations for Benchmark. “We are fortunate to have her expertise and knowledge and are confident she will be a huge asset to our families.”