Honoring 25 Years of Service: Tonya Swank

Tonya Swank’s journey at Perry Lutheran Homes began with a personal connection that would shape her future in care.

Her great-grandmother lived at Perry Lutheran Homes for seven years, passing away in 1999 at the age of 105. During visits, Tonya formed relationships not only with her great-grandmother, but with many other residents as well. “I got to know a lot of the residents and really missed seeing them after she passed away,” she shared. When her high school offered a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class, she didn’t hesitate. “I jumped at the opportunity.”

That decision marked the beginning of a 25-year career defined by growth, leadership, and a deep commitment to others.

Tonya began her work as a CNA and went on to serve in numerous roles, including Certified Medication Aide (CMA), Resident Assistant, Activity Assistant, Activity Director, Director of Guest Experience, and Assisted Living Coordinator. Today, she serves as Independent and Assisted Living Director and Home Care Director, helping lead multiple areas of care and support across Perry Lutheran Homes.

Her impact has not gone unnoticed. In 2022, Tonya was honored as the LeadingAge Iowa Caregiver of the Year, a recognition of her dedication to those she serves and to the field of senior care.

“Tonya is someone who consistently rises to meet challenges with initiative and determination,” said Melissa Gannon, administrator at Perry Lutheran Homes. “She brings a solutions-focused mindset and a strong sense of ownership to her work, always looking for ways to improve and support those around her.”

“Tonya has always been deeply committed to doing what’s best for residents and goes out of her way to bring joy to them, especially during meaningful moments,” said Deb Koelln, former Director of Nursing and current Perry Lutheran Homes board member.

For Tonya, her work is deeply personal. “I genuinely love what I do and feel deeply rooted in the mission,” she said. “Perry Lutheran Homes has allowed me to grow and has invested in me. It has become part of my identity.”

“I enjoy engaging in activities and events and building relationships with residents and families,” she shared.

One memory in particular reflects the heart of her work. “Being able to give a resident the opportunity to walk his only daughter down the aisle during a special wedding ceremony is something I’ll never forget,” she said.

Throughout her 25 years, Tonya has witnessed significant transformation in senior living. “It gives me goosebumps thinking about how far we’ve come,” she said. “It used to feel more institutional and state-focused. Now we focus on person-centered care—wellness, activities, socialization, outdoor spaces, and truly living well.”

As Perry Lutheran Homes celebrates 70 years of service, Tonya reflects on what that legacy means. “It’s not just a workplace, it’s my family,” she shared. “I’m proud to be part of an organization built around Christ and a legacy our whole community can be proud of.”

“I’m especially excited about our continued growth in intergenerational connections and our commitment to providing the highest quality of care,” she said.

Perry Lutheran Homes is grateful for Tonya Swank’s 25 years of faithful service and the leadership, compassion, and dedication she brings each day.

Perry Lutheran Homes is a non-profit, faith-based Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) serving individuals and families in Central Iowa. Guided by Christian values and a 70-year legacy of compassionate care, Perry Lutheran Homes provides a full continuum of services including home care, independent and assisted living, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, respite care, long-term care, memory care, and home-delivered meals. As an intergenerational community with an on-site daycare, preschool and elementary school, Perry Lutheran Homes fosters meaningful connections across generations while helping individuals live with dignity, purpose, and grace in every season of life.