Benchmark Senior Living Tops Connecticut CALA Awards

Benchmark Senior Living has emerged as the top recipient of the 2026 Connecticut Assisted Living Association (CALA) awards, earning more honors than any other provider in the state. The recognition spans both employee service and resident accomplishment categories, highlighting the company's commitment to excellence in senior living.

Eight associates and five residents from Benchmark Senior Living were honored at the annual CALA awards ceremony. The awards, which celebrate individuals who exemplify the best in senior living, were presented to associates and residents who demonstrated exceptional dedication and contributions.

Among the honorees, Rebecca Ingoglia, Program Director at Crescent Point at Niantic, was recognized for her outstanding service. Lindsay Ressler, Resident Care Director at Coachman Square at Woodbridge, was also among the recipients. Other notable winners include Miriam Rivas, Lead Aide at Benchmark at Ridgefield Crossings, Sabrina Settles, Programming Assistant at Benchmark at Split Rock in Shelton, Pat Civitillo, Cook at The Atrium at Rocky Hill, Brittney Brown, Receptionist at Benchmark at South Farms in Middletown, Monique Smith, Lead Resident Care Associate at Benchmark Senior Living at Hamden, and Teresa Torres, Resident Care Associate at Academy Point at Mystic.

The resident award winners were equally impressive. Tom Petersen, Sturges Ridge of Fairfield, Linda Geremia, The Atrium at Rocky Hill, Doris McCarthy, Carriage Green at Milford, Marie Cullen, The Village at Mariner's Point in East Haven, and David Quinn, The Village at Brookfield Common, were all honored for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to their communities.

Benchmark Senior Living, founded in 1997 by Tom Grape, has been a leader in the senior living industry for nearly three decades. With 21 assisted living communities throughout Connecticut, Benchmark has consistently been recognized for the quality of its care, workplace culture, and resident experience.

According to Tom Grape, the founder and CEO of Benchmark Senior Living, "Having so many of our associates and residents recognized across Connecticut is incredibly meaningful. Our communities are built around people and the relationships they create. These associates demonstrate every day what it means to be Called to Care, while our residents continue to inspire us with the ways they contribute, connect, and enrich the lives of those around them."

Benchmark Senior Living's commitment to excellence is reflected in its numerous awards and recognitions. The company has won more than 300 local, regional, and national awards for its care, programs, and as a top workplace. In 2026, its communities received 60 U.S. News & World Report Best of Senior Living excellence awards based on resident and family feedback.

This year's CALA awards underscore Benchmark Senior Living's dedication to providing exceptional care and fostering a supportive environment for its residents. The company's success in winning more awards than any other provider in Connecticut highlights its commitment to excellence and the well-being of its residents.