Special Topic Courses

Value-Based Care

Value-based care (VBC) is quickly becoming a key focus in the senior housing and care industry, offering significant opportunities for operators and capital providers to enhance resident care, increase revenue, and optimize operations. This course is specifically designed to help you, as a professional in the senior housing sector, understand how to implement VBC in your properties. Whether you’re an operator or a capital provider, this course will provide you with the tools and strategies needed to navigate the complexities of VBC and realize its potential benefits.INSTRUCTORS:Jerry Taylor (Lead Instructor), Business Development & Strategy, SunboundWith over 13 years of experience in senior living and care, Jerry Taylor is a recognized expert in value-based care implementation. His background in business development, asset management, and daily operations provides him with a comprehensive understanding of the industry.In addition...Amy Kaszak, Executive Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Curana HealthAndy Eby, Caregiver, Bickford Senior LivingMarc Hudak, Chief Growth Officer and IPA Business Lead, Longevity HealthJosh Thomas, Vice President of Strategic Development, Cassia Senior LivingJustin Schram, MD, Co-founder, August HealthAlexandra Shuell, Vice President, HigherPath at Bickford Senior Living

Active Adult Communities

In this course, students will explore the growing field of active adult housing, an expanding segment within the senior housing continuum. Led by Mitch Brown, Principal Consultant at Senior Housing Consulting (SHC), the course will offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of active adult communities.Designed for individuals new to the sector or transitioning from related fields, this course covers best practices, case studies, and lessons learned. Students will examine resident profiles, project success factors, financing criteria, marketing strategies, resident engagement techniques, and emerging trends. The course highlights the diverse approaches in the market rate, active adult rental housing sector, focusing on innovation and career development opportunities within the industry.INSTRUCTORS:Mitch Brown (Lead Instructor), Principal Consultant for Senior Housing Consulting (SHC)Mitch Brown, Principal Consultant for Senior Housing Consulting (SHC), brings a wealth of expertise to his role, with a distinguished career spanning leadership positions in prominent real estate development and consulting firms. With a focus on active adult and full-service senior living communities, Mitch’s strategic guidance has informed numerous successful projects. As a recognized industry leader and former Chair of the Urban Land Institute Senior Housing Council, Mitch is dedicated to advancing the field and empowering the next generation of senior housing professionals.In addition...Zach Bowyer, Executive Managing Director, Cushman and WakefieldJane Roslovic, CEO and Co-Founder, Treplus Communities

Wellness in Senior Housing

In today’s senior housing and care environment, wellness is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a business imperative. This new NIC Academy Special Topics course, created in collaboration with the International Council on Active Aging® (ICAA), explores how thoughtful wellness strategies can drive financial performance, enhance resident satisfaction, and differentiate your organization in a competitive market.Through expert-led instruction, case studies, and a forward-looking perspective, this course provides actionable insights on how to embed wellness into your operating model to create meaningful impact.INSTRUCTORS:Jessica Drecktrah, DNP(c), MHA, MN, RNPioneering Healthcare Executive | Nurse Leader | Wellness StrategistJessica Drecktrah is a visionary healthcare executive and nurse whose career spans senior living, fitness, academia, retail, and integrative wellness.

Underwriting Sales in Senior Housing

This course explores the profound financial impact of operational and sales enhancements within senior living communities. You’ll review how strategic improvements lead to substantial revenue growth, effective cost containment, and significant long-term balance sheet enhancements.Furthermore, the course provides valuable insights into debt management, investor return strategies, and financial projections, equipping you with the knowledge to foster sustainable success.INSTRUCTORS:Traci BildFounder and Chief Visionary Officer, Bild & CoTraci Bild is the Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Bild & Co, a senior living consulting firm that partners with owners and operators to grow occupancy, revenue, and profitability. Traci is the author of four books, including industry favorite Zero Lost Revenue Days, and has been featured in USA Today, the Wall Street Journal, and the BBC for her business expertise.

Foundations of Skilled Nursing

The 80+ population is expected to grow by 66% in the next 10 years. Many people in this cohort will need skilled nursing. As demand continues to rise, investment in skilled nursing properties is critical.This course provides a solid foundation in the skilled nursing industry. Participants will gain an understanding of its evolution over the past four decades, its nature and scope, and its future prospects. With a focus on the US healthcare system, the course will provide an overview of the challenges and opportunities of investing in skilled nursing today.INSTRUCTORS:Jim ThompsonSVP and Senior Credit Officer for Healthcare Lending at Flagstar BankWith over 30 years of experience in senior housing and healthcare financing, Jim Thompson, SVP and Senior Credit Officer for Healthcare Lending at Flagstar Bank, brings a wealth of expertise to his role as course instructor. His extensive background includes leadership positions at prominent financial institutions and a strong commitment to advancing the skilled nursing sector. Through his guidance, candidates will benefit from real-world insights and practical knowledge essential for success in the skilled nursing industry.