California Assisted Living Association Appoints Kris Lev-Twombly as President & Chief Executive Officer
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – July 14, 2026 — The California Assisted Living Association (CALA) Board of Directors has appointed Kris Lev-Twombly as the association's next president & chief executive officer. He will officially assume the role on Aug. 3, 2026.
Lev-Twombly brings more than 22 years of executive leadership experience advancing nonprofit organizations, public policy initiatives and statewide advocacy efforts throughout California. Most recently, he served as president and CEO of the California State Alliance of YMCAs, where he led the organization's transformation into a full-service statewide association supporting 28 local YMCAs through advocacy, leadership development, communications, technical assistance and strategic partnerships.
“We are pleased to welcome Kris to CALA," said David Eskenazy, chair of the CALA Board of Directors. “Throughout the search process, Kris distinguished himself as a collaborative, strategic leader with a deep understanding of association management, public policy and member engagement. His experience building strong organizations and advocating for mission-driven causes makes him exceptionally well suited to lead CALA as we continue advancing quality Assisted Living, Memory Care and Continuing Care Retirement Communities throughout California.”
During his tenure with the California State Alliance of YMCAs, Lev-Twombly grew the organization's budget from $215,000 to $11 million, led successful legislative and budget advocacy efforts and built strong partnerships with policymakers, state agencies and nonprofit leaders across California. Prior to that, he served as director of public policy for the California Association of Nonprofits and held executive leadership positions focused on organizational development, advocacy and strategic planning.
“I am honored to join CALA and grateful for the opportunity to serve an organization that plays such an important role in supporting California's Assisted Living providers,” Lev-Twombly said. “I look forward to meeting CALA's members, listening to their perspectives, learning about the opportunities and challenges they face and working alongside the board, staff and membership to strengthen the association and advance its mission.”
About CALA: With approximately 660 provider members and 140 associate members, CALA is the only association solely representing the state’s Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly, which encompass Assisted Living, Memory Care and Continuing Care Retirement Communities. CALA provides leadership through advocacy efforts and education to support providers in their efforts to offer the highest quality programs and services to their residents.
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