Shayron Rundquist, Director of Housekeeping

"That resident could be your parent," says Shayron Rundquist. "How would you like him to be taken care of?" "And think about when you are older, how would you like to be treated?" This is the conversation Rundquist has with every member of her staff; and they remember it. Respect, privacy; it's their home. That's what they remember.

Shayron Rundquist is the Director of Housing at Heritage of Edina, an Assisted Living facility. She believes it is up to her to provide the vision for her staff and feels ultimately responsible if the vision is not delivered in the appropriate manner.

Rundquist has had a lifelong career in housekeeping. She began as a manager of housekeeping at a military base where her husband was stationed. As he moved to new bases, she continued to manage housekeeping staffs becoming an expert in the field. She also spent a short time in the hotel industry, but says that after many years of working for the elderly, "I know I'm in the right place."

Her focus is on helping the housekeeping staff understand how important they are in the lives of the residents they serve. "We make a connection everyday; Housekeepers get to know the residents so well because we spend time with them on such a consistent basis. If you are observant, you will notice if something is wrong, or not going as well as it should. "One day I noticed that a resident had not picked up her newspaper by 7:00AM, and sure enough, she wasn't feeling well, so I immediately did what was necessary to help."

Teaching respect for the elderly is her first priority. "We are here for them," Rundquist states. She tells her staff of sixteen never to assume anything, and to always consider each resident's specific needs and wishes.

The owners of Heritage feel lucky to have her on their staff. Her dedication to the residents has been a focal point during her tenure and is evident in the greetings she receives as she walks down the hall.

Rundquist has a passion for her work and a passion for life. She spends time with her five grown children, twelve grandchildren and is active in her church. Her special friend at home is her cat, O'Malley the alley cat, who she actually saved from an alley several years ago.

 GO BACK

 GO TOP