Thurlow tapped as president of LeadingAge Minnesota

Kari Thurlow has been named president and CEO of LeadingAge Minnesota effective Jan. 3.

Thurlow was previously senior vice president of advocacy for the organization, which represents about 1,400 aging services providers.

She has spent 15 years advocating for Minnesota’s seniors and caregivers as the head of LeadingAge Minnesota’s public policy efforts. Thurlow holds a J.D. from Mitchell Hamline School of Law and a bachelor’s degree in political science and communications from Concordia College.

Thurlow replaces Gayle Kvenvold, who is retiring after 40 years with the state affiliate.

“Under the strong leadership of Gayle Kvenvold, LeadingAge Minnesota has built a foundation of excellence for aging service providers in Minnesota, and I am thrilled for the opportunity to build upon her legacy,” said Thurlow. “Early in 2022, Minnesota will welcome its one-millionth senior. It is more important than ever to ensure older adults in our state can age with dignity, meaning, and purpose in all the places they call home.”