Scott Eckstein has been appointed as the new clinical assistant professor and senior-living-executive-in-residence for the hospitality business management program at WSU North Puget Sound at Everett. He is a management executive with extensive experience in the senior living industry.
“It is a privilege to educate future leaders of our very important and special industry. We are all potential future clients,” says Eckstein. “Ensuring our unique, hybrid business of care, hospitality, real estate, and technology has a highly educated and prepared workforce is paramount.”
Bill Pettit has served as the senior-living-executive-in-residence since 2013 and will continue to be involved in advisory board and steering committee roles.
“As baby boomers head into their later years the senior housing industry will need to train and recruit over 1.2 million new staff members by 2025,” says Pettit. “As a strong and knowledgeable leader, Scott will guide WSU in training future leaders in this industry. Those of us who have laid the groundwork for this program could not be more excited to get him on board.”
Beginning in early March, Eckstein will teach Introduction to Senior Living Management and begin developing it for online delivery. Additionally, he will develop a new online certificate program targeting senior housing industry professionals and associations. He will also form a steering committee, appoint a liaison to the Hospitality Advisory Board, and collaborate with other WSU programs in human development, nursing, and psychology, to help build the program. He also plans to facilitate internships and graduate placement opportunities. Other priorities include exploring possible public/private research opportunities and establishing an endowment to permanently fund the position.
