At Heron’s Key, our leadership team is the driving force behind the exceptional experiences our residents enjoy every day. Guided by the Heron’s Key Board of Directors, the Emerald Communities Executive Team, and supported by our dedicated on-site leaders, they bring a wealth of expertise, compassion, and vision to everything we do.
Together, they uphold the highest standards of service while anticipating and exceeding resident expectations, creating a welcoming, vibrant, and well-managed community where each person can thrive today and for years to come.
To learn more about our governing board and the Emerald Communities leadership team, please click here
Heron’s Key is a proud member of Emerald Communities. Each day at Emerald Communities, we strive to create communities that exceed the wants and needs of older adults—both today and well into the future. This singular focus guides us in every aspect of our organization.
A community designed for seniors to thrive
We provide a welcoming and supportive community where seniors can live with purpose and thrive.
Part of the leadership team at Heron’s Key, Denise comes with 20+ years’ experience in Human Resources, specifically in Senior Living. Denise holds certifications from the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Denise also participated in the LeadingAge WA Leadership Institute and continues to support HR initiatives with LeadingAge WA.
Denise grew up in Gig Harbor and had the privilege of seeing Heron’s Key transform from the ground up and knows what a great addition our community has been to the Gig Harbor area.
Outside of work, Denise enjoys camping with her family, hiking, boating, and working in the yard.
With more than 30 years of experience in the senior living industry, Lisa Meinecke brings a deep well of knowledge and a compassionate, resident-centered approach to her role as Resident Services Director at Heron’s Key. Her career includes leadership positions across social work, sales and marketing, executive management, and resident services, giving her a well-rounded perspective on supporting older adults and their families.
Lisa holds a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Trinity University and earned her Nursing Home Administrator license in 2015. A Seattle native, she now lives in the Tacoma area with her husband of 37 years, where they raised their two children.
Outside of work, Lisa enjoys hiking, running, and traveling—pursuits that reflect her energetic spirit and genuine curiosity about the world. She is dedicated to fostering a vibrant, supportive, and enriching community for residents of Heron’s Key, guided by her lifelong passion for helping older adults thrive.
Lisa joined the Heron’s Key leadership team in September 2024.
Sandra Cook currently holds the position of Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at Emerald Communities. She joined the organization in July 2024, bringing with her a wealth of experience from her distinguished 16-year career at Aegis Living. At Aegis, Sandra held various roles, culminating in her tenure as Vice President of New Development Sales, where she led business development efforts across 15 communities.
Sandra’s professional journey began with a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management from the Universidad de Occidente in Mexico. For the first 12 years of her career, she thrived in luxury hotels in Mazatlan, Los Cabos, and Seattle. It was during this time that Sandra discovered her true passion for supporting seniors in planning for their best lives.
Sandra was born and raised in Mexico and now resides in Redmond’s Education Hill with her husband Mike, their two daughters, Amanda and Mia, and their beloved double doodle Mocha. The family loves spending their time off boating, cooking and traveling. Sandra has witnessed firsthand the community transition to Emerald Heights. Inspired by the company’s stellar reputation, Sandra eagerly joined Emerald Communities to continue her impactful work in senior living.
As the Food & Beverage General Manager at Heron’s Key since its opening in 2017, Kristina oversees all dining outlets across campus, ensuring exceptional service and memorable experiences for our residents and guests. With more than 20 years in the restaurant industry—from luxury hotels and large corporate operations to fine dining— she brings a deep passion for hospitality and a commitment to excellence.
Outside of work, she is an experienced cook who loves creating meals and confections for her family and friends. Life is an adventure with her three active children, and much of her time is spent traveling the country and world as they compete in BMX racing and many other sports.
