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Leadership Team

Ashley McNally | Executive Director

ashleymcnally@ecumen.org
218-238-5944 x 85941

Ashley joined the Sunnyside team in 2019 as the Executive Director. She has worked for Ecumen the past twelve years in various roles. Prior to working at Sunnyside, Ashley was the Housing & Home Care Director at Ecumen Detroit Lakes for eight years and the Housing Director at The Evergreens of Fargo and Moorhead for three years. Ashley has a Bachelor’s degree in Health Care Administration and a minor in Gerontology from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Ashley lives in Hawley with her husband Levi and their two children Ethan and Addison. Ashley has a passion for serving the elderly and the many lessons they teach us daily.

Anita Bendickson | Director of Nursing

218-238-5944 x85943

Anita joined the Sunnyside team in May 2021 as the Director of Nursing. She started her nursing career 14 years ago as a CNA. Anita received her nursing degree from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN. Since obtaining her nursing degree, she has worked in various roles from the hospital setting to homecare/assisted living. Anita is passionate about getting to know every resident and their families, as well as establishing relationships with each team member at Sunnyside. She says, “Every day I am honored to work alongside an outstanding team and make a difference in the lives of the resident’s we serve.” Anita lives in Lake Park with her husband Ryan and their three children Natalie, Owen and Morgan.

Summer Aakre | Social Worker

218-238-5944 x85945

Summer rejoined the SS team in 2020 working in Social Services/Admissions. Prior to returning to SS she was employed by Eventide Sheyenne Crossing as Long-Term Care Social Worker. Summer obtained her BS in Social work from MSUM-Moorhead. Summer resides in Rollag with her husband Eric and their three sons. Summer has always enjoyed working with people and enjoys the elderly population even more. Summer feels fortunate to be able to assist her residents with this next journey in their life and serve the greatest generation.

Annette Blade | Dining, Housekeeping & Laundry Manager

annetteblade@ecumen.org
 218-238-5944 x85957

Annette joined the Sunnyside team in November 2004. She is originally from Alexandria, Minnesota. In 2004 Annette completed the Dietary Manager program at Alexandria Technical and Community College and become a Certified Dietary Manager. Annette previously worked for Knute Nelson Nursing Home in Alexandria as a Food Production Supervisor before joining the Sunnyside team as the Dining Director. Annette resides in Hawley, MN with her 3 cats; one of those cats is often found at Sunnyside providing countless hours of entertainment to our residents.