SOULcial Salute May 2025
Janna Hazeltine, Lead Concierge – Global Pointe Senior Living, Golden Valley MN
Artful Aging
Janna’s career before senior living was in advertising. Her extensive experience in art direction gives her a unique perspective on serving people and reaching them in subtle ways. A lesser-known side of art direction is the ability to drive projects to completion—successfully and on time. Janna applies both skills in perfect harmony.
Jack of All Trades
The title “Lead Concierge” hardly does her justice. After spending less than an hour with Janna, I tallied at least 15 different duties beyond staffing the reception desk. Nearly half of them draw on her artistic skills, including community newsletters, welcome packets, elevator flyers, menus, holiday decorating, general signage, and staging model apartments. The other responsibilities rely on her management abilities to keep everything running smoothly: honor walks, coordinating Metro Mobility rides, delivering newspapers, handing out dog treats, conducting safety checks, assisting with sales tours, and even helping with occasional housekeeping.
Even before the community opened in 2019, Janna stepped up to assist with pre-marketing and sales. She laughingly recalled working out of a former hair salon during that early stage of the business.
Director of First Impressions
Janna clearly loves her role, infusing the community with thoughtful touches that make it feel like home. It came as no surprise when she explained that her grandparents had been very special to her, and that she had enjoyed working with seniors at church during high school.
She went on to say, “I meet people where they are at! We get to know all family members, friends, and pets. I’ve become part of several families.” Janna even listed off a number of pet names: Frank, Bootsie, Pumpkin, Maisey, and Penny, to name a few.
Janna actively greets every visitor as they arrive. I recall touring clients on a few different occasions over the years. Each time, we were warmly welcomed, offered a fresh beverage, and given a place to sit. Janna would then follow up with a warm question or two. We genuinely felt like guests in someone’s home.
De Facto Historian
Janna is virtually omnipresent around Global Pointe. Her presence has grown naturally over time, as she has been with the community since before the building even opened. Today, she’s one of the few remaining staff members from the original 2019 team.
Her knowledge of the community’s history—its people, events, and evolving practices—gives her an added cachet. She carries much of the legacy that has shaped Global Pointe into what it is today.
Her Passion is Personal
Janna has consistently gone above and beyond her job description. She has met with family members following the passing of their loved ones and has even brought her sons to visit and connect with residents and their families.
When management of the community changed hands last year, Janna initially accepted a new opportunity in St. Louis Park—a common occurrence during such transitions. However, within weeks, she realized her heart still belonged to Global Pointe. In a move that surprised few, she returned—this time with an even deeper appreciation for what the community and its ownership group offer. Janna put it best: “The management team is really strong. We have really good communication. And it’s hard to let go of people.”