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A M E R I C A A T 2 5 0 | H A R T F O R D B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L 17 AMERICA AT 250 • LETTERS FROM CONNECTICUT'S BUSINESS LEADERS Seabury at 150: A Connecticut Legacy of Innovation, Care and Community A s America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, organizations across the country are reflecting on the institutions that have shaped our communities, strengthened our values, and advanced the American spirit of resilience and innovation. Here in Connecticut, Seabury proudly marks a milestone of its own: 150 years of service to older adults. Founded in 1876 - the same year the nation celebrated its Centennial, Church Home of Hartford, Inc., now known as Seabury, began its mission in a rented house at 103 Elm Street in Hartford. Created to provide care and shelter for widows of clergy and older women in need, the organization opened with just eight residents and a simple but powerful belief: that dignity in aging should never be le to chance. at belief remains at the heart of Seabury today. Over the past century and a half, Seabury has evolved from a small charitable home into a nationally recognized, two-campus life plan community serving older adults throughout Connecticut. Along the way, Seabury has reflected the same qualities that have defined America itself — adaptability, perseverance, entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to building stronger communities. Our history parallels many of the defining moments in American life. Seabury weathered the economic uncertainty that followed the Civil War, survived the Great Depression, adapted through two World Wars, embraced the changes brought by Medicare and Social Security, and navigated the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. rough every era, the organization continued to innovate while remaining steadfast in its mission of compassionate care. Innovation has long been part of Seabury's identity. Long before wellness became a national conversation, Seabury recognized the importance of healthy aging and active living. Today, our focus on lifelong wellness encompasses physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being. Seabury At Home, our nationally recognized life-care-at- home program, was the first of its kind in Connecticut and allows older adults to age safely and confidently in their own homes while maintaining access to coordinated long- term care and support services. T h i s s p i r i t o f innovation mirrors the larger American story. For 250 years, the United States has continually reinvented itself to meet the needs of a changing society. In much the same way, Seabury has consistently sought new approaches to supporting older adults with dignity, purpose, and independence. Our commitment extends beyond healthcare. Sustainability and stewardship are central to Seabury's future. rough investments in solar energy, geothermal systems, environmental conservation, and the recently dedicated Fran Perkins Arboretum, Seabury is building a model of community living that reflects both social responsibility and environmental leadership. ese efforts honor not only our past, but our obligation to future generations. e upcoming anniversaries of both America and Seabury provide an opportunity to reflect on what it means to create institutions that endure. Longevity alone is not the measure of success. e true measure lies in the ability to evolve while remaining grounded in mission and values. At Seabury, we believe aging is not simply about adding years to life, but about adding life to years. For 150 years, Seabury has delivered life-enhancing programs, compassionate care, and meaningful community to those we serve. As America enters its next chapter, Seabury looks forward to continuing its own journey, pioneering new ways to revolutionize the experience of aging for generations to come. CEO, Renée J. Bernasconi, MBA, LNHA President & Chief Executive Officer