New administrator excited to take the reins at The Glen

Though incoming health care administrator Anthony “Tony” Altobella is new to his role at The Glen, he’s very familiar with Aberdeen Heights.

“[Aberdeen Heights has] been a long time competitor of mine, so I’m happy to be on this team,” Tony said. “I’m very fortunate that I get to work for Christie Wolff, the executive director of Aberdeen Heights.”

Since joining the team on Feb. 10, Tony said he’s come to appreciate the staff, residents and culture of the community even more than before.

“The campus is warm and inviting,” he said. “The physical layout is impressive. The residents are outstanding. They come by and want to talk with you and they want to know more about you. It’s more welcoming than other environments I’ve encountered, and the staff have been very helpful.”

In his role as administrator at The Glen, Tony will help oversee the assisted living and skilled nursing areas. Because the Aberdeen Heights campus includes an entire continuum of care, residents can age in place, and he’ll be able to help make sure residents have what they need.

Tony began his career as a speech pathologist. He worked in that field from 1992 through 1999, before taking on his first administration role.

“I thought managing would be pretty easy,” he joked. “Just shake hands, keep people happy and thank them. But I’ve learned there’s a lot more to it, and it’s now my passion.”

Tony grew up in a southern suburb of Chicago. After a sixth-grade project he completed in an adult care community, Tony envisioned one of two futures for himself: playing shortstop for the Chicago Cubs or working with seniors.

His therapy background brought him to St. Louis, where he met his wife. Together they’ve raised five children, ranging in age from 14 to 22. They also care for two dogs, a boxer and a shitzu.

“I coach youth baseball, and I’ve been doing that for over 20 years,” Tony said. “I’ve been blessed because I got to coach all my kids.”

We’re happy to have Tony join our team at The Glen. Be sure to stop and give him a warm welcome the next time you see him!

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