Alex Candalla, Wesley Homes of Des Moines

Alexander M. Candalla is the new executive director for Wesley Homes Des Moines. 

He will oversee a 45-acres community as it begins redevelopment, as well as oversee an adult day care center.

Candalla was the executive director of The Terraces of Los Gatos, a McKnight’s Tech Award winner and a community that had two zero deficiency-free surveys in the past three years. He had been at the Terraces since 1996.

“After spending a few days at Wesley, I’ve gotten to know a little bit about our CEO, Kevin Anderson,” Candalla said. “Let me just say how blessed I am to be working for him and with him. He is a true leader, an inspiration for us all and a man of high ethical value and integrity. Wesley Homes is in great hands. We will all do wonderful things together to serve residents.”

He has been the vice chairman on the LeadingAge California board and was named the Dr. Herbert Shore Mentor of the Year from LeadingAge.

Candalla completed his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and master’s degree in gerontology with an emphasis in long-term care administration, both at San Francisco State University. He is pursuing a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Health Care Management.