Covenant Place is getting a new leader this summer — and she’s stepping into a role that comes with both stability and expectation.

Mary Bakken will take over as president and CEO in late June, succeeding Joan Denison, who announced her retirement after 15 years leading the organization.

Bakken arrives from Concord Hospital Health System in New Hampshire, where she served as senior vice president and chief operating officer. Her background includes executive leadership, clinical experience and a CPA credential, along with a graduate degree from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.

But for Bakken, the appeal wasn’t just professional.

“Covenant Place’s long-standing role in the St. Louis community and its commitment to providing affordable housing and supportive services to seniors is deeply compelling to me,” she said in a statement. “I am inspired by the organization’s ability to foster a truly inclusive community rooted in Jewish heritage.”

A leadership transition with weight

That sense of community is what Denison spent the past decade and a half building — something that feels both local and lasting.

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Board chair Richard Alport said the organization is looking to build on that foundation.

“We are excited to welcome Mary to Covenant Place as we continue to build upon the incredible legacy Joan has established,” he said.

More than just housing

Covenant Place has been around since 1974, and today it’s home to 358 apartments for adults 62 and older in University City.

But it’s more than just where people live.

The Mirowitz Center, on the same campus, has become a regular stop for classes, programs and the kind of day-to-day connection that keeps people coming back.

What comes next

Bakken steps into the role at a time when demand for affordable senior housing continues to grow, and when places like Covenant Place are expected to offer more than just housing.

Her job now is to carry forward what’s already working — and figure out what comes next.