Sam Boettner: The Friendly Face that Welcomes Us Home

Written by: Amanda Reynolds, Director of Administrative & IT Services

At Essex Meadows, the little things often make the biggest difference, and that is certainly true when it comes to Susan “Sam” Boettner. As a member of our Front Desk team, Sam is often one of the first people residents, families, staff, and visitors encounter when they enter our community. Since joining Essex Meadows as a Front Desk Receptionist, she has become a familiar and friendly presence, helping to keep daily operations running smoothly while creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who walks through our doors.

This year, Sam will celebrate her five-year anniversary at Essex Meadows, a milestone that reflects her dedication to our residents, staff, and community.

Working at the front desk requires balancing many responsibilities while maintaining a positive attitude and professional demeanor. Sam consistently demonstrates reliability, adaptability, and a willingness to support others. She has successfully embraced changes and updates to front desk processes and continues to play an important role in ensuring residents and staff receive the assistance they need.

For many residents and staff, Sam is a constant and reassuring presence. She works every Saturday and Sunday morning, ensuring the front desk is staffed during the weekend hours. Whether managing guest room requests, handling marketing inquiries from prospective residents and families, or assisting visitors, Sam approaches every interaction with professionalism and care. She knows when an issue requires additional assistance, but is equally confident working independently and taking ownership of her responsibilities.

“Sam is one of those very special people who makes Essex Meadows a better place every day she is at the reception desk! She is incredibly reliable and steadfast, but what I appreciate most about Sam is the person she is – kind, caring, upbeat, and always willing to step in and help.

Sam has a wonderful take-charge approach when difficult situations arise. During our many snowstorms this past year, she has repeatedly taken the initiative to create a stay-over list and coordinate overnight accommodations so our team members can get some much-needed rest while ensuring our community is fully supported. She has also stayed herself many times to make sure the front desk remains open, and our residents are fully supported.

Sam’s leadership is quiet, steady, and genuine. She brings calm and confidence to her role at the reception desk, along with a warmth and positivity that is felt by everyone around her. She is a good and kind person who cares deeply about others. Her reliability, positively, and quiet leadership are among the many qualities that make Sam such a treasured part of Essex Meadows and make our community so special.”

• – Kathleen Dess, Executive Director

One of the qualities her teammates appreciate most is her dependability. Sam routinely makes herself available to help cover shifts when needed and is always willing to step in to support her fellow team members. She frequently works holidays and other times when many would prefer to be with family and friends, helping to ensure that residents and staff receive the support they need every day of the year.

When Sam is at the desk, there is a sense of confidence that everything is under control. Her calm demeanor, sound judgment, and commitment to excellent service make her a trusted resource for residents, visitors, and staff alike. She handles challenges with grace, treats everyone with kindness and respect, and consistently represents Essex Meadows in a positive and professional manner.

The work of a receptionist is often behind the scenes, but its impact is felt throughout the community every day. Sam’s dedication, dependability, and team-first attitude help make Essex Meadows a special place to live and work.

Thank you, Sam, for all the “little things” you do that make such a big difference. Congratulations on five years at Essex Meadows, and thank you for your continued dedication, reliability, and willingness to go above and beyond for our community.