New center director puts experience to work

LINCOLN — When the new director for Lincoln Senior Center saw an ad seeking applications for the open position, she knew the job was for her.

“I saw this job opening and I thought this is ‘me,’” said Joanna Stricker, who started as director Sept. 8.

Stricker has experience in many areas.

She graduated from Arkansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in business and also earned her master’s degree in business from ASU.

Stricker worked in education for ASU and has worked with businesses and industries. She was involved in hiring staff for a new hospital and then decided to go into the nursing home environment. She stayed in that field until she resigned to help take care of her mother, who has passed away.

Stricker was ready to go back to work when she saw the ad for the senior center director’s position.

“I’ve always worked with seniors,” Stricker said.

The Lincoln job also was attractive to Stricker for another reason. Her daughter, Jill Jackson, is principal of Lincoln Elementary School.

Senior centers provide many amenities for older adults, Stricker said.

“It is a place for networking. A senior center is a place for them to come together and network with each other. A lot don’t have family members nearby and this place provides interaction with others,” Stricker said.

Lincoln Senior Center has a busy schedule for senior adults.

One of Stricker’s goals is to get out in the community and invite senior adults to the center.

“I meet people all the time at home who need to be here,” Stricker said. “To me, it’s kinda like a family here.”