Meet some of the fantastic members of our team here at Sunrise of Metairie, LA.

Iris Granat

Executive Director

“I have been with Sunrise Senior Living since 2000. I have had the opportunity to serve our residents first as the Assisted Living Coordinator, then the Resident Care Director, followed by the Executive Director role, which I’ve held for the past 10 years. I was a member of the start-up team at both Sunrise of Bayou St. John in New Orleans and here at Sunrise of Metairie. 

Each day I feel blessed with the opportunity to assist our residents, their families and our wonderful team members.  The best part of working at Sunrise is serving amongst such kind, compassionate people who believe and uphold our Principles of Service, mission and values.  We are united in delivering quality care.

In my spare time, I enjoy the outdoors and having special family time with my husband, children and my two lovely little granddaughters!”

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Denise Gordy

Director of Sales

"As the Director of Sales for Sunrise of Metairie I have the pleasure of helping families find the best senior living solution for a parent or loved one that can no longer safely live at home. This is often a difficult and overwhelming time and every person’s situation is unique. What I love most about my job being able to provide the best solution at this difficult time. I am passionate about educating people on the many things that sets Sunrise of Metairie apart, explaining that at Sunrise you can age in place because we will care for you no matter how frail you may become and through the end of life. To see the stress leave a face and tensions ease is the best part of my job. Knowing that I have helped someone’s son or daughter rest a little easier or a senior feel safe again brings me such joy. My journey with Sunrise of Metairie began in 2009 and I am as passionate today as I was then in my dedication to always fulfilling the Sunrise Mission: 'To champion the quality of life for all seniors'."

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Karen Vix

Resident Care Director

"As the Resident Care Director, I am responsible for the health and well-being of all of our residents in the community. Having worked as a Registered Nurse for 25 years, I have always felt that the elderly needed a place to call home and Sunrise meets this need. In having cared for my own mother with Alzheimer’s Disease, I know firsthand what it is like to cope with a loved one with dementia. I can offer guidance and assistance with what can be difficult decision-making."

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Cheryl Henry 

Assisted Living Coordinator

“I have been a team member here at Sunrise since 2000. I really value the daily interaction with our residents, their family members and my fellow team members.

Sunrise is a company that cares not only about the residents, but also about the team members. Working in our community is akin to being at home with my family; this is my extended family.  

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I particularly enjoy spending time with my daughter. Since we don’t live in the same town, our busy schedules don’t allow us to see each other often enough!”

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Schelita M. Smith 

Dining Services Coordinator

“I’ve been working for Sunrise since 2008. My favorite part of my role as Dining Services Coordinator is watching my residents enjoy their meal. At Sunrise, we are all one big family; I’ve watched my co-workers and residents grow up, get married, start new families, and create memories both happy and sad. 

When I’m not at work, I travel every chance I get – even if it’s just to play tourist in my own town.”

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Janet Ferran

Activities & Volunteer Coordinator 

“I have been a member of the Sunrise of Metairie team since 2010. My favorite part of my job is finding new and exciting events that my residents can not only enjoy but also participate in the planning of, such as our annual Easter Bonnet Tea. For that event, each resident designed his or her own bonnet, and each hat was a unique reflection of that resident.

Our residents continue to love the inter-generational experience that our visiting youth groups provide. From the 2^nd graders trick or treating our halls at Halloween in their adorable costumes, to church and school holiday carolers to local sororities and fraternities sponsoring our Senior Prom. Our “seniors” get to enjoy a fun night while recalling their own high school days.The best part of working at Sunrise is seeing the enriched quality of life I am able to provide each day for my residents. Their lovely smiles tell me that it is a job well done.

When I’m not at work, I am with my grandchildren.”

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