ST. PAUL — Jack Erwin, director of dining services at The Cedars of Austin, recently received the Ray Johnson Leadership in Action Award from by LeadingAge Minnesota.

The Ray Johnson Leadership in Action Award recognizes a leader in older adult services who has provided excellent leadership to their employees and organization, enhances the quality of life for the residents in the community, and provides exceptional community service.

With 40 plus years in the dining field, Erwin knows how important nutrition is to the lives of people, particularly the residents at The Cedars of Austin. Based on feedback Erwin sought out from families, residents and staff, The Cedars recently incorporated restaurant style dining that offers a menu with options at each meals and allowing the residents to choose what they want.

“Jack wants to make every meal a memorable experience. He and his staff successfully implemented the wildly popular restaurant style dining program, and now people move to The Cedars ‘for the food,’” said Tom Knoepke, executive director of The Cedars of Austin, in a press release. “Jack is always motivating his team to achieve more and be the best they can be. The staff in his department have by far the most longevity and the highest staff satisfaction.”

Erwin accepted the award at the LeadingAge Minnesota Institute, the state’s largest and most comprehensive aging services conference. Nearly 4,000 professionals in all aspects of older adult services attend the annual three-day event to learn about new and innovative programs, share best practices and network with their peers.

Visit the LeadingAge Minnesota You Tube Channel for a video featuring Erwin and the Leadership in Action award: www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7T0A5Yj-Jk