Kevin McFeely, who for the past nine years has served as President and CEO of The Kenney, adult community was given a champagne toast at a party in his honor on June 21. McFeely is leaving the organization to take another position at a Seattle senior living company, the Hearthstone.

Several people rose to celebrate his contributions. Karmen Hudson, Marketing Director said, "Under Kevin's tenure at The Kenney a lot of amazing and exciting things happened here. We have seen many upgrades across our campus. Our Foundation was revived under his leadership, and the latest dream we saw come to life was our new Memory Care Community opening its doors in late January (...) and how could we forget the redevelopment project? I'm sure many West Seattle community members remember this. Kevin worked diligently on this project and did a good job with all the moving parts that go with looking at redevelopment of a campus. Although the economy deterred this project for the time being, Kevin showed tenacity, determination and was sensitive to the community during this time. What will residents and staff miss most about Kevin? His willingness to always keep his door open and allow them to vent, give ideas and challenge the status quo. One resident early this week mentioned that Kevin always knew to pull out the Kleenex box when she walked in to visit him. She always knew he heard her and always left feeling better."

Hudson went on to cite McFeely's willingness to work with everyone, spirit of cooperation and his sense of humor. She invited him back for The Kenney annual BBQ set for August, 16.

Chairman of the Board of The Kenney, Larry Kutz offered his thanks to McFeely and noted his many contributions and hard work for the organization, then presented him with a leather satchel, joking that it was paid for through contributions from the "remunerations to the board" which is an unpaid all volunteer body.

McFeely said he it was a "humbling experience being here in front of all of you (...) It's been a glorious journey and I've never looked back." Calling The Kenney a, "wonderful organization. It is huge family."

He expressed his gratitude to the board members, staff and all the residents of The Kenney.

"We had the residents party here Monday and the sentiments from the residents really overwhelmed me to tears. I really appreciated all that was shared. It was just incredible."

McFeely's last day is July 5 and Kutz said a temporary President was on standby as they are conducting interviews for McFeely's replacement. He said that process was going well and they expect to hire someone in the very near future.