Rochester, N.Y. — Jewish Home announces the appointment of Tessa Valpando as executive director of Lilac Grove, a new 90-unit senior apartment community opening this May on the Jewish Home campus in Brighton. Lilac Grove offers one-bedroom and two-bedroom modern apartments, with an array of activities and access to supportive services for older adults seeking an active, maintenance free lifestyle.
Valpando’s leadership will play a central role in establishing Lilac Grove as a leading provider of high-quality senior rental housing in the Rochester region. She will serve as a key point of contact for residents, families and community partners, while overseeing daily operations, resident satisfaction, outreach and sales efforts, and financial performance.
With more than 15 years of experience in property management, operations, and resident engagement, Valpando brings a strong track record of leadership, customer service, and team development to the role of executive director. She most recently worked in sales and marketing at Watermark Retirement Communities, advancing key relationships and resident experiences. Previous roles include a decade in operations and property management with Morgan Properties and serving as regional property manager for Sinatra and Company, where she oversaw more than 1,500 units across four properties, maintained high leasing percentages, and managed a large staff and financial operations. Valpando holds a bachelor’s degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology.
“Tessa’s combination of operational expertise, customer service excellence, and collaborative leadership makes her the ideal person to bring Lilac Grove to life,” said Travis Masonis, senior vice president and chief innovation officer. “Her deep knowledge of the market and her commitment to building vibrant, engaged communities will ensure that Lilac Grove launches with strength and heart.”
Deposits are now being accepted for the May 2026 opening of Lilac Grove. Learn more about Lilac Grove at JewishHomeRoc.org/LilacGrove or by calling (585) 784-6626.
About Jewish Home
For more than 100 years, Jewish Home has been helping older adults live their best lives. Guided by foundational principles, Jewish Home embraces the idea of home as a place where families gather, care for one another, and welcome all. Jewish Home offers all levels of care — from independent living to skilled nursing on their Rochester campus to a variety of services throughout the community. As the only Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in Rochester, Jewish Home is proud to be recognized for quality care and customer satisfaction—earning CARF International accreditation, as well as being certified a Great Place to Work® since 2020. Visit JewishHomeRoc.org or @jewishhomeroc on social media.