We are thrilled to announce that Paul Fairholm, CEO of Western States Lodging and Management (WSLM), has been honored with the 2024 Rebecca Lockhart Award by the Utah Assisted Living Association (UALA). This prestigious award highlights Paul’s outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to the assisted living industry, reflecting the legacy of Becky Lockhart, a pioneer and advocate for senior care.

View Paul’s award nomination video here! 

A Legacy of Leadership

The HERO Awards, presented annually by UALA, recognize the extraordinary dedication and efforts of individuals within the assisted living sector. The Rebecca Lockhart Award specifically commemorates the life and contributions of Becky Lockhart, Utah’s first female Speaker of the House. Known for her collaborative nature and passion for healthcare and senior living, Lockhart’s legacy continues to inspire. This award honors those who embody her principles of empowerment, solution-driven leadership, and advocacy for seniors.

Paul’s career, spanning over three decades, is marked by significant contributions to the assisted living community. As CEO of WSLM, Paul has been a pivotal figure in developing and operating numerous senior living communities, offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. His leadership and vision have not only expanded the reach of these communities but also enriched the lives of countless seniors and their families.

Commitment to the Industry

Paul’s dedication to the senior living industry is further exemplified by his long-standing involvement with UALA. As one of the original board members, he played a crucial role in shaping the association’s direction and policies, serving on the executive board and as president. His collaboration with Becky Lockhart and other state officials has led to significant policy advancements that continue to benefit the assisted living sector today.

Under Paul’s leadership, WSLM has flourished. With 5,000 associates and nearly 100 hospitality, senior living, and multi-family housing properties across the United States, Fairholm’s approach to leadership, much like Becky Lockhart’s, centers on empowering those around him and advocating tirelessly for the needs of customers, associates, and partners.

Since becoming a founding partner of WSLM in 1994, Paul has been a storyteller of needs met, dreams realized, and problems solved throughout the organization’s managed and owned properties. Originally from upstate New York, Fairholm earned degrees from Brigham Young University and Virginia Commonwealth University. Today, as CEO, he oversees daily operations representing over a billion dollars in physical assets.

About Legacy Retirement Communities

Western States is proud to offer innovative and enriching senior living communities. Under the brand Legacy Retirement Communities, they are a leading provider of independent living, assisted living, memory care, and rehabilitation services with 19 communities and over 2,700 units. Legacy Communities can be found across the Southwestern U.S., including the states of Utah, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado and Oklahoma.