Benchmark at Mount Pleasant Names Nikaj Community Relations Director

Benchmark at Mount Pleasant, a new assisted living and Mind & Memory Care community opening this fall in Thornwood, has appointed Vilma Nikaj of Putnam Valley director of community relations. Nikaj comes to Benchmark with over 25 years of sales, marketing and business development experience working primarily in senior care and education.

She was drawn to senior living in 2021 after spending years caring for her aging parents and in-laws. Determined to provide support and connections for seniors that was tailored to their exact needs, she served as business development specialist for an assisted living community in Briarcliff Manor. She later founded a concierge senior services company providing services like downsizing assistance, moving coordination, appointment assistance and medication management.

“Vilma is incredibly passionate about helping people and finding solutions for every situation,” said Sara Humphreys, executive director of Benchmark at Mount Pleasant. “At Benchmark at Mount Pleasant, we are constructing more than a building, we are creating a true community where everyone can come together to have fun, laugh and share their talents. Vilma has a deep commitment to giving seniors the absolute best quality of life and we are excited to have her as an important part of our team.”

Having earned both a master’s in education and a bachelor’s in psychology from Mercy University, Nikaj has over a decade of college admissions experience working for The College of Westchester and The Art Institute of New York City.

As director of community relations for Benchmark at Mount Pleasant, she is responsible for building and maintaining meaningful relationships with prospective residents, their families and professional partners.

Nikaj is originally from Eastern Europe and is married with three sons.

Located in Westchester County around the corner from ACME Market, Westwood Swimming & Tennis Association and EF Academy, Benchmark at Mount Pleasant will offer personalized assisted living and memory care in private apartments available in a variety of sizes and floor plans. Residents will have access to a wide range of common spaces, including two dining venues offering indoor and outdoor dining, movie theater, fitness center, hair salon and card and recreation rooms in which a wide range of social and interest-oriented programs will be offered throughout each day. Outdoor patios, a walking path and sunroom will make it possible for residents to enjoy the community’s picturesque, wooded setting. Convenient on-site support healthcare services will also be offered to help residents age well.