BISMARCK, N.D. (NDLTCA) – Craig Christianson, Retired Administrator and Former NDLTCA Board Chair, was recently selected as a North Dakota Long Term Care Association’s (NDLTCA) Distinguished Service Award recipient. The Distinguished Service Award is bestowed on dedicated leaders who have worked hard to promote the mission and values of NDLTCA.

Craig Christianson began his healthcare career after graduating from the Concordia College Hospital Administration program in 1978. In 1987, Craig was named administrator of Pelican Valley Health Center in Pelican Rapids, Minnesota, a hospital nursing home provider. It was there that Craig found his true mission in serving the elderly.

In 1990, Craig joined the team at Lutheran Health System, leading the Sheyenne Care Center in Valley City, North Dakota, where he fulfilled 32 years of service as Chief Executive Officer. His involvement extended to the Valley City chamber as a board officer, numerous service clubs, the development of the Valley City State University branch nursing program, involvement in a joint administration role at Central Dakota Village for three years, and participation in implementing a hospice program in Valley City.

During his years at Sheyenne Care Center, he has overseen numerous upgrades to the facility, implementing the very first Geri-psych unit within a nursing home, the addition of an Alzheimer’s unit, and the construction and remodel of a 12.6-Million-Dollar facility upgrade.

Laughter is something he feels is a key part of making residents and staff feel good throughout the day. He has been known to pull a prank or two with staff and fellow colleagues, always wanting to make people feel comfortable with him and the programs within the facility.