Ashby Ponds' New Sales Director Kicks Off an Exciting Year

Ashby Ponds, the Erickson Senior Living community in Ashburn, Va., is pleased to announce the promotion of Elizabeth Dunwoody to sales director!

Since joining Ashby Ponds' sales team in 2017, Dunwoody has worked as a sales associate, events manager, and sales manager, helping hundreds of retirees move to the vibrant community stress-free. 

'Leadership strength'

Most recently as sales manager, she was responsible for overseeing daily sales office operations and supervising new sales associates.

"Elizabeth's expertise in sales, leadership strength, and drive for creating exceptional experiences have us well-positioned for continued success in welcoming new residents to Ashby Ponds," says Executive Director Tom Channon.

"Working with seniors is my passion," says Dunwoody. "I've been fortunate to build meaningful relationships with residents and sales team members. I'm excited for this new opportunity to build on those relationships--and provide prospective residents with the information and tools they need to learn more about life at Ashby Ponds." 

Years of experience

A native of Chantilly, Va., Dunwoody earned her master's degree in business administration with a concentration in health care from the Jack Welch Management Institute at Strayer University. 

Soon after starting her career at Ashby Ponds, Dunwoody worked closely with former sales director Holly Henderson, who was recently promoted to regional sales director at Erickson Senior Living.

"Holly has been my mentor for the past six years," she says. "She is a strong leader and the best teacher. Her management style promotes collaboration and inclusivity. She really took me under her wing, inviting me to meetings and illustrating firsthand how she oversees the sales process."

Unwavering support

With this guidance and years of sales experience under her belt, Dunwoody is eager to take on this new role.

"But I couldn't do it without our incredible sales team," she says. "We have some members who helped open Ashby Ponds in 2008 and others who've recently joined us. Each person brings talent to the table, no matter their tenure."

With her future shining bright, Dunwoody can't help but look back on her first days at Ashby Ponds with a smile. 

"I still keep in touch with the first person I helped move to Ashby Ponds. It's rewarding, to watch her thrive as a resident, taking advantage of our activities and amenities," she says. "All the residents and staff members who have witnessed my professional growth shared their congratulations and well wishes. It meant a lot to me."

Community ties

In fact, one of those staff members is her soon-to-be husband, Greg Freeman, who serves as director of finance for Woodleigh Chase, an Erickson Senior Living community coming to Fairfax, Va., early this year. 

"I met Greg when we both worked at Ashby Ponds," she says, with a laugh. When they're not busy at work, the fiancés are busy at home planning their upcoming May wedding with friends and family. 

"It's been a lot of fun! We recently celebrated with a combined bachelor-bachelorette party in Richmond, Va.," says Dunwoody. "One of the best parts of our engagement is that so many residents, who know that we met at Ashby Ponds, share in our excitement."

In addition to wedding preparations, she enjoys spending time with Greg and his two children, Liam and Josie; attending Orange Theory exercise classes; and spoiling her English springer spaniel, Gilly.

"Many of my family members live nearby in Chantilly, so I visit them frequently, as well," she says. "Greg and I also hike, travel, and visit local wineries and breweries."

Looking ahead

While Dunwoody has lots to look forward to on the home front, 2024 is a year full of promise and new beginnings for Ashby Ponds, as well. 

"In 2024, we will announce Leesburg Landing, Ashby Ponds' final residence building," she says. "That's a huge milestone! I'm excited to guide the sales team as Ashby Ponds ushers in a new generation of residents."

The community's ninth on-campus restaurant, Black Rock Bistro, will also open this year. 

Vibrant culture

In addition to these updates, Dunwoody cites the community's lifestyle and culture as her motivation for the new year ahead. 

"I love coming to work each day! Seeing the life-changing impact that the vibrant Ashby Ponds lifestyle has on the people who live here is the greatest motivation," she says. "We are like family here. Residents and staff are invested in each other's success."

To learn more about affordable, independent senior living at Ashby Ponds, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.