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Category: Community

  • Osborn Resident Anna Martin Shines Within the Diamond Industry and Beyond

    Osborn Resident Anna Martin Shines Within the Diamond Industry and Beyond

    Anna Martin holds her 2026 Diamonds Do Good Lifetime Achievement Award.

    The Osborn is home to an extraordinary community of residents whose wisdom, wit and passions bring energy and vibrancy to campus life. At its heart, The Osborn is about the people who live here – this is their home. In this space, we invite you to look inside, to meet our residents, and to discover the stories that inspire us all.

    For more than four decades, Anna Martin helped shape the global diamond and jewelry industry, earning a reputation as an innovative leader, trusted advisor and passionate mentor. Recently, she received the 2026 Diamonds Do Good Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her groundbreaking career and industry impact. Anna now brings that same energy and sense of purpose to The Osborn, where she is active on campus while continuing her outside work on industry boards, mentoring and championing causes that make a difference around the world. We recently spoke with Anna about her career, lessons learned and why she chose The Osborn for her next chapter.

    Congratulations on this award! What did the recognition mean to you, and what thoughts went through your mind when you learned you would be honored?

    At first, I didn’t think much about it because I had received awards before. But once the announcements went out, clients and industry leaders began reaching out to congratulate me and share how they felt I had contributed to the industry. I was genuinely taken aback. You don’t always realize that the things you do every day are making an impact. It wasn’t until I heard from so many people that I thought, ‘Maybe I really did make a difference.’ That was incredibly meaningful.

    Your career spanned banking, international business and leadership roles with the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). What attracted you to the industry?

    I actually started in banking and never imagined it would become a lifelong career. The bank I worked for specialized in diamond lending, and my manager encouraged me to learn the business.

    What fascinated me was the opportunity to understand the entire diamond pipeline – from mining and manufacturing to jewelry production and retail. I was constantly learning and looking for ways to help clients grow while protecting the interests of the bank.

    Early in my career, I challenged the idea that we should only finance one segment of the industry. I proposed expanding into other areas and developed a business plan to support it. That experience taught me the importance of curiosity and being willing to tackle challenges others might overlook. I stayed in the industry because it kept evolving, and I grew along with it.

    The award recognizes your leadership, ethics and innovation. How did those values guide your career?

    Like anyone, I made mistakes along the way. But I always focused on building strong relationships, understanding risk and taking the high road. My goal was to help clients succeed while protecting the organizations I represented. I’m proud of what we accomplished and the trust we built.

    What are you most proud of in your career, overall?

    Looking back, I’m most proud of the people I’ve helped along the way. I’ve been fortunate to have wonderful mentors, and I believe mentoring others is one of the greatest gifts you can give.

    What means the most to me today is seeing the next generations succeed. I’ve worked with families across multiple generations, and recently a longtime client asked if I would meet with his son and offer guidance, just as I had done for him and his father. Moments like that remind me that the relationships you build and impact you have on people can last beyond your career.

    You are still active professionally?

    Very much so. My husband asks me all the time why I work so hard when I’m no longer collecting a paycheck. My answer is simple: now I get to do what I love. I serve on several boards, mentor young professionals and consult. It’s work that comes from the heart.

    What led you and Terence, your husband, to choose The Osborn?

    The pandemic changed my perspective. It reminded me that life is precious and family is just as important as career, or more so. As I began thinking about retirement, my husband and I talked about what we wanted for our next chapter: quality time together, being close to family, and peace of mind.

    I did extensive research on senior living communities throughout the region. Location was important because we wanted to remain close to family and maintain our connections to New York City. The moment I visited The Osborn, I knew it was special. The beautiful campus reminded me of the privacy and natural setting we enjoy at our property upstate, while also offering a vibrant community and continuum of care. I wanted a place where we could truly enjoy life and grow older without having to move again … The Osborn checked every box.

    What do you enjoy most about life at The Osborn?

    The sense of community. Before we moved in, the team introduced us to residents, arranged opportunities to visit and answered every question we had. That gave us tremendous confidence – my husband looked at me and said, ‘This is the place.’

    Nearly two years later, I’ve made wonderful friends and enjoy attending resident meetings and events. I appreciate the transparency of the leadership team and the way residents are kept informed and engaged. What I love most is that there’s something for everyone. You can be as involved as you want to be, and if one activity isn’t for you, there will always be another opportunity waiting.

    Anna Martin with Tshireletso Seoromeng, founder of Erba Farms in Botswana, and jewelry designer Lorraine Schwartz at the Diamonds Do Good Awards
    (From left) Anna Martin, left, with Tshireletso Seoromeng, the founder of Erba Farms in Botswana, and Lorraine Schwartz, New York City-based high-jewelry designer.

    What continues to inspire and energize you?

    Making a difference. One of the organizations closest to my heart is Diamonds Do Good, where I’ve served for nearly 20 years. The organization raises money to support individuals and communities around the world.

    One of my favorite examples is a young woman in Botswana who received a small grant to grow herbs on a piece of land she purchased. A few years later, she had built a thriving business and created jobs within her community. She told us, ‘You didn’t just change my life. You changed my village.’

    That’s what inspires me. We often say, ‘Doing good is good for business.’ It’s also good for the soul. As long as I have the health and energy, I’ll continue finding ways to help others.

    Learn More About Independent Living at The Osborn

  • The Osborn’s Well-Rounded Approach to Wellness

    The Osborn’s Well-Rounded Approach to Wellness

    Research demonstrates a powerful connection between social engagement and healthy aging, with benefits ranging from improved physical health and increased longevity to stronger emotional well-being and cognitive resilience.

    At The Osborn, wellness goes beyond staying active – it’s about living with purpose, connection and joy. Residents enjoy a wide range of programs and experiences, from fitness and wellness opportunities to lifelong learning, volunteerism and social engagement that nurture the mind, body and spirit.

    In keeping with its tradition, The Osborn introduced “WellSpring” 10 years ago as a way of defining its philosophy of wellness and ensuring its programming addressed the seven dimensions of wellness: physical, intellectual, social, emotional, spiritual, occupational and environmental. The program has evolved, and residents have embraced the lifestyle behind it. WellSpring is part of daily life at The Osborn, where residents volunteer, lead programs, support one another and actively shape their community. This engagement extends beyond the campus through the WellSpring Series, which features guest lectures, bestselling author readings and musical performances open to both residents and the wider Westchester community.

    “We’re no longer simply talking about wellness; we’re living it every day,” said Michele Schreer, Director of Independent Living at Sterling Park, at The Osborn. “For us, wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all. We focus on getting to know each resident as an individual and learning what brings them joy and fulfillment. Then we help them connect with opportunities that align with their interests.”

    Schreer recalled one resident who needed additional time and support to feel fully at home in her new community. Through conversations, The Osborn team learned that volunteering with children was her passion and introduced her to opportunities in the community that opened the door to other activities, friendships and volunteer experiences.

    “That’s what WellSpring is all about,” Schreer said. “We believe there’s something here for everyone, and we’ll either find it, or create it. It’s a program integrated around an approach to wellness that inspires everyone in the community to enjoy life to the fullest. Our goal is to help residents continue doing the things that give their lives meaning while exploring new passions. That really sets us apart.”

    Fostering Learning and Connection

    WellSpring offers everything from water aerobics and meditation to lectures, art and intergenerational programs – and every experience is different. Some residents begin their day with exercise classes, spend time attending lectures or discussion groups, and end the day socializing with friends. Others may participate in volunteer initiatives, creative arts programs, worship services or community events. In fact, many programs are resident-led.

    Osborn residents enjoying a game of Rummikub together over coffee
    Friendly games and everyday connection among neighbors and friends.
    A guest speaker presenting an American Musical Theater History lecture to Osborn residents
    Lifelong learning — guest lectures and discussions that keep curious minds engaged.
    A volunteer chatting with an Osborn resident over refreshments in a sunlit dining room
    Shared meals and intergenerational visits that bring the community together.

    “That is part of what makes WellSpring so successful,” said Schreer. “We have 12 active resident committees that help shape our monthly calendar, ensuring activities reflect the interests of the community. Whether it’s a Seder attended by 85 residents, an Interfaith Harvest Festival that draws nearly 100 people, or a resident-led technology support group, there’s always something happening that fosters learning and purpose.”

    That sense of purpose, whether continued or renewed, is reflected as residents become more engaged and connected – building friendships, learning new things, helping others and contributing to the community.

    “The women and men who call The Osborn home are often known nationally and internationally for expertise in the sciences or the arts,” said Mary Ellen Foster McEvily, an Osborn resident and active WellSpring participant. “There are many who have lived in Westchester County their entire lives and whose children, grandchildren and great grandchildren regularly visit. Some come for the concerts and lectures, and music and dance performances; others of a younger generation come to laugh and play on the grounds while families visit. Members of the administration and staff attend events, as well. This mingling and camaraderie contribute to the well-being of all.”

    Schreer agreed: “Wellness isn’t just about physical health; it’s about intellectual stimulation, social connection and emotional well-being. Those elements together create a richer, more meaningful quality of life.”

    A Sense of Value and Belonging

    While traditional activities programs often focus on providing things to do, WellSpring is centered on creating opportunities for residents to live fully and meaningfully. For Schreer and her team, witnessing residents discover new interests, share their experiences and support one another is one of the most rewarding aspects.

    “Whether they’re leading a discussion group, volunteering or helping neighbors navigate technology, those contributions reinforce a sense of value and belonging,” Schreer said. “Purpose and engagement are at the heart of healthy aging.”

    Moving forward, she said, the program will continue to be responsive, innovative and focused on what matters most to the people who live here. As future generations move to The Osborn, WellSpring will evolve while staying true to its mission: helping residents live with purpose, connection and vitality.

    For more about WellSpring and unique living at The Osborn, click here.

  • The Osborn Partners with Swim Angelfish to Transform Abilities

    The Osborn Partners with Swim Angelfish to Transform Abilities

    Featured Image: Swim Angelfish co-founders Ailene Tisser, left, and Cindy Freedman with a young swimmer in their aquatic program. (Credit: Photo provided by Swim Angelfish)

    Community is more than a concept at The Osborn – it’s a way of life. Through thoughtful partnerships and shared purpose, The Osborn opens its doors in ways that truly make a difference in the lives of its residents, staff and the Rye community.

    That spirit is evidenced in its unique collaboration with Swim Angelfish, an organization that teaches children and young adults – particularly those with autism and other special needs – critical, often life-saving water skills. Each Wednesday, The Osborn provides access to its indoor pool, free of charge. What might seem like a nice gesture is, in reality, transformative – creating local access to essential services for families in the area.

    “We all feel like part of the community,” said Ailene Tisser, founder of Swim Angelfish. “We’re right there – kids, parents, instructors – interacting with residents, learning from each other. It’s something bigger than just a swim lesson.”

    “Opening our doors to Swim Angelfish each week is so meaningful for our entire community,” said Chris Ferreri, Chief Operating Officer of The Osborn. “It’s become one of the highlights of the week for many of our residents. There’s something special about watching these terrific kids build confidence and have such joy in the water. It’s a reminder that connection doesn’t always require words; sometimes, it’s simply about being present and sharing experiences. We’re proud to support Swim Angelfish and have a role in this important program.”

    Turning a Passion into a Critical Program

    For Tisser, a pediatric physical therapist and certified Autism Specialist, swimming was a passion; she’d been a lifeguard and taught swimming in her youth. That passion evolved into purpose when she reconnected with a colleague and began doing after-hours aquatic therapy.

    It quickly “snowballed” into a larger program and, in 2000, Tisser and therapist Cindy Freedman founded Swim Angelfish. “Therapy isn’t always enjoyable for kids,” Tisser explained. “But in the water, that all changes. They’re motivated, engaged, happy – and they are learning to be safer.”

    That’s crucial, as one in 31 children is diagnosed with autism and children on the spectrum are more likely to wander and be drawn to water. The program now operates in New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, with 40 staff, seeing 600 kids a week.

    “The work just keeps validating that what we’re doing is necessary and important … but we can’t do the work if we don’t have water,” Tisser said.

    A Welcoming Sense of Community at The Osborn

    “Pool space is incredibly hard to come by,” Tisser said. “We’ve worked out of hotel pools, YMCAs – wherever we could find a lane. But it’s not always consistent, and it’s rarely enough.”

    That’s where The Osborn stepped in. When the partnership began just over two years ago, there were more than 100 families on a waiting list in the Rye area alone. By opening its pool each week, The Osborn has helped meet that demand – bringing critical services closer to home for families who once traveled long distances. Swim Angelfish serves about 30 swimmers (ages 2–28) at The Osborn’s pool, helping participants gain strength, safety skills and confidence in the water. For many, it has been life-changing. One local family had been traveling up to an hour for sessions, and now walks to The Osborn campus. Another shared that their child had been at constant risk around water and now, applying skills learned through the program, safely enjoys time in their own backyard pool.

    Beyond access, The Osborn offers a welcoming sense of community, said Tisser, adding that programs like this are not always easily understood. Children may express themselves in ways that feel unfamiliar to others, through sounds, movements or behaviors that draw attention in public spaces. “The reality is, many families don’t feel welcomed in traditional settings,” Tisser said. “They’re used to being stared at, or avoided.”

    At The Osborn, the response has been different. “It’s just been such a blessing to be here,” Tisser said. “The residents didn’t just accept us, they embraced us. They ask questions. They want to learn. Some share their own family connections to special needs. They truly welcomed us.”

    For Swim Angelfish, the partnership reflects a larger philosophy captured in its tagline: “Transforming Abilities.” Through therapy, adaptive swim instruction and global training programs, the organization is not only helping children gain independence and confidence, it is also reshaping what’s possible for families, professionals and communities alike.

    “We get to witness the miracles that these kids are experiencing and these parents are seeing,” said Tisser. “We get to feel it with them. There’s nothing more gratifying than that.”

    And at The Osborn, that transformation is happening every week.

    Learn more about how The Osborn supports its neighbors here.

  • Resident Spotlight: Dr. Arlene McCoy on Empathy, Resilience, and Life at The Osborn

    Resident Spotlight: Dr. Arlene McCoy on Empathy, Resilience, and Life at The Osborn

    The Osborn is home to an extraordinary community of residents whose wisdom, wit and passions bring energy and vibrancy to campus life. At its heart, The Osborn is about the people who live here – this is their home. In this space, we invite you to look inside, to meet our residents, and to discover the stories that inspire us all.

    Dr. Arlene McCoy has spent four decades helping others navigate life’s complexities as a psychotherapist, and she continues that work today. A resident of The Osborn for the past two years, Dr. McCoy still meets with patients and stays true to the deeply personal, intuitive approach that has defined her career.

    Your career itself is such an inspiring story. What drives you?

    Well, my practice continues to be my passion. My passion stems from a deep, innate empathy, driving me to ensure others feel supported. I experience pure joy when I connect with someone and provide the help they truly need. For me, helping people isn’t just a task but an ingrained part of my character. I find profound fulfillment and sense of purpose in alleviating the burden of others. Being involved here at The Osborn is also very meaningful, so it’s a nice, sweet combination. It keeps me engaged – and still loving life.

    Talk about the ‘light’ of your life.

    My dog, Lucio, which means ‘light’ in Italian. He turned 3 in April. He’s a Bolognese, a cousin to the Bichon Frise. Everyone at The Osborn loves him – he’s like a little prince here. Very, very friendly.

    Let’s go back a bit. What drew you to psychotherapy, and what’s kept you committed for nearly four decades?

    I think it was always part of my personality. Even in high school, friends would come to me for advice about their lives, relationships. It just felt natural.

    I didn’t begin my career right away, I went to college, taught elementary school, got married and had six girls (“amazing women”) and then went back for my graduate degrees. I started at a Center in Stamford, Conn., and after a few years ventured out on my own into private practice. Forty years later, here I am.

    What’s kept the work so meaningful for you?

    People. People who are hurting. People who simply need someone to talk to. I also stayed with it because I believed I was good at it, and I was fortunate to be recognized for that. But more than anything, it’s the comfort I find in helping others. It keeps me connected to the world in a very real way.

    You’ve described your work as a ‘sacred privilege.’ Please explain.

    In a private session, when a patient is truly honest and speaking from the heart – that’s sacred. Almost every session has those moments, when someone shares something deeply personal that they haven’t shared with anyone else. To be trusted with that, to be invited into that space, into someone’s heart and soul, is a privilege. And that trust must be honored.

    How do you see AI impacting your field?

    It can be helpful as a starting point. If a patient comes to me after using AI, it can open the door to deeper conversation about what they’re feeling or struggling with. But I don’t believe it replaces therapy. From what I’ve seen so far, it’s not the answer to people’s needs in the same way a real human connection is. I don’t think it will put therapists out of business.

    After a lifetime of listening, guiding and supporting, what have you learned about resilience and living a meaningful life?

    Oh, that could take days to answer. Every session teaches me something. After each one, I reflect – what did I learn? Even if something was uncomfortable, I explore it. What did I feel? It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of someone’s journey, to watch them try to understand themselves, to heal, to grow. I had a very difficult teenage patient years ago. Just last year, he called me at 40 years old. He said, ‘I was thinking of you. Are you still practicing?’ Hearing that he was doing well … that meant everything.

    Do you think society today is more open about mental health?

    Yes, very much so. When I started, there was a strong stigma. That’s gone. Now, it’s almost the opposite – people talk openly about their therapists. That’s a very good thing.

    What advice would you give to therapists just starting out?

    Be a good listener. When you’re new, it’s easy to rely on questions and fill the space with conversation instead of truly listening. Silence can feel uncomfortable – but it’s important.

    Let’s talk about life outside of work. What do you enjoy doing?

    I stay connected with my friends. I love to travel. I’ve always had a sense of adventure. I didn’t realize how much I had traveled until I recently tried AI to get ideas – and I kept saying, ‘I’ve been there… and there… and there.’ So now I’m learning how to guide it a bit better.

    Do you have a favorite place you’ve visited?

    Italy. I love the people, the warmth. I’ve also traveled as far as Dubai and Thailand, but Italy will always be my favorite.

    You’re active at The Osborn … talk about life here. And your involvement with “SPARCS”, the resident committee that collaborates with the sales team and meets with potential new residents about the community and life experiences at The Osborn.

    We’re often speaking with people who are trying to decide whether this is the right place for them, and it’s a big decision. I invite them to ask questions, and I really listen. We host small gatherings and have honest conversations about life here. I always share how wonderful the staff is, and how kind and community-minded the residents are. That’s truly what defines life here for me – it’s all about the people.

    Recently, I curated a Fashion Show and invited fellow residents to model with family and friends to cheer them on. It was a terrific experience and an opportunity to bring fun and enrichment into our community. What struck me most was the kindness and support the ladies had for each other, many of whom barely knew each other at the start. Watching the camaraderie among these women was incredible! It was a win-win for everyone involved. To sum it up, I would say it’s all about selflessness; a gift we give each other, a value I cherish and something that truly makes this community special!

    Finally, what’s your philosophy on life?

    With kindness and compassion, that’s how I live my life. I do my best to live in the moment with a sense of purpose and joy. I live my life with gratefulness for all my blessings. I live my life with an open heart and mind – and finally, I live my life with a sense of humor and pray for wisdom. That’s my philosophy of life!

    Learn More About Independent Living at The Osborn