LeadingAge President Katie Smith Sloan Plans Departure
The veteran leader will step down in March 2027 after a decade-long tenure as the organization's chief executive.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Eldercare
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LeadingAge president and CEO Katie Smith Sloan announced in September 2026 that she will vacate her role in late March 2027. Sloan concludes her service after a 20-year career at the 65-year-old eldercare advocacy organization.
Why it matters
Sloan's departure marks a significant leadership transition for the non-profit as it navigates the evolving needs of the aging population. Her exit ends a ten-year tenure as CEO, prompting an active search for a successor.
Sloan has served at the organization for 20 years, holding the CEO position for the last 10 years. Approximately 6,000 industry professionals are currently attending the group's annual meeting in Philadelphia.
The players
Katie Smith Sloan
She is the outgoing president and CEO of LeadingAge who has served the non-profit organization for two decades.
LeadingAge
This 65-year-old non-profit organization represents thousands of aging services providers across the United States.
David Gehm
He is leading the committee tasked with the search for the next president and CEO of the organization.
The details
Sloan delivered her final annual meeting address in October 2026 before an audience of 6,000 attendees. During her time with the organization, she oversaw initiatives including the new Entrepreneur-in-Residence program, which facilitates two-week stays for tech creators within member facilities.
Timeline
September 2026: Sloan announced her intention to resign.
October 27, 2026: Sloan delivered her final annual meeting speech.
October 28, 2026: The annual meeting continued in Philadelphia.
Late March 2027: Sloan will officially step down as CEO.
April 1, 2027: The search for a successor is expected to be finalized.
Culture Shift
The leadership transition occurs as the organization marks the 65th anniversary of LeadingAge, representing a pivotal moment in its institutional history. This change reflects a broader trend of generational shifts within long-standing advocacy groups focused on eldercare.
Members and families relying on the organization's network can expect continuity of service during the search for new leadership. The ongoing Entrepreneur-in-Residence program remains active for tech innovators working to improve living facilities.
The takeaway
Leadership transitions in large non-profits often serve as an opportunity for organizations to re-evaluate their long-term strategic goals. Stakeholders should monitor upcoming announcements regarding the new CEO to understand potential shifts in advocacy priorities.
What happens next
The organization expects to finalize its search for a new president and CEO by April 1, 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in Eldercare.
Source note: This article includes information reported by McKnight's Long-Term Care News.
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