Speakers

With over 25 years of experience in senior living, Lori Alford leverages her expertise in operations, development, and wellness innovation to lead Avanti Senior Living, a next-generation senior housing operator redefining the aging experience. Based in Texas, Avanti focuses on creating vibrant communities rooted in a culture of health, well-being, and engagement, while delivering strong operational performance and exceptional investor value.

Avanti differentiates itself through innovative wellness and brain health initiatives, technology integration, and a hospitality-driven design model that supports independence, dignity, and longevity. Under Lori’s leadership, the company has built a strong financial foundation and continues to expand through strategic development, acquisitions, and third-party management opportunities in high-demand markets.

Lori is a recognized thought leader and frequent speaker on topics such as workplace well-being, leadership, and the future of aging. Her passion for brain health and longevity influences both Avanti’s resident experience and its organizational culture. She is actively involved in numerous industry advisory roles and boards including Chair of Urban Land Institute’s Senior Housing Council, Environments for Aging Design, National Investment Committee, ASHA, Aging 2.0, Texas Assisted Living Association, Senior Living Innovation Forum and Texas Brain Health Coalition. She has received numerous awards including an inaugural recipient of McKnight’s Women of Distinction. Outside of work Lori enjoys exploring wellness innovations, traveling, mentoring women and spending time with her family.