Colo. Springs-based Dunn & Associates Inc.'s latest venture is

Colorado Springs Business Journal, Oct 3, 2008

It's not easy to separate Jeff Dunn, the real estate and senior housing developer, from his projects.

He's passionate about finding new and better ways to serve an aging population. Several years ago, he began talking with University of Colorado at Colorado Springs Aging Center founder and professor Sara Qualls about integrating a key quality of life, geropsychology component into The Palisades at Broadmoor.

Dunn recently took time to tell CSBJ about himself and his organization.

Company: Dunn & Associates Inc.

Position: President

Hometown: Bryn Mawr, Pa., a suburb of Philadelphia

How long have you lived in Colorado Springs? Since 1980

Education: Bachelor's degree in mathematics from Washburn University of Topeka, Kan., and a master's degree in business administration from Regis University

A few words about your company: Since 1971, I've been a self- employed real estate investor and developer. As such, I have purchased or developed and managed: apartments, office and medical buildings, townhomes and condominiums, and retail centers.

Senior housing for Dunn & Associates has been a special focus since the late 1970s. We have developed, co-owned, and operated retirement communities in Denver, Brighton, Colorado Springs and Sun City, Ariz.

Recent accomplishments: Our greatest accomplishment is development of Palisades at Broadmoor Park.

Residents will be able to maintain valued independence and dignity through individually tailored services, provided in partnership with the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs Gerontology Department and Beth-El College of Nursing.

Biggest career break/accomplishment: My biggest break was my first job, with Merrill Lynch. I spent two years on Wall Street and the floors of the stock and commodity exchanges, and in every department at Merrill Lynch. This is where I began to understanding those college courses in finance and economics.

Toughest part of your job: Being able to compensate our dedicated employees not just what the market warrants, but what they deserve.

Someone you admire: My friend, Stocky Taylor, who broke his neck in a high school wrestling match at age 16 and has been a quadriplegic since.

He has had a successful career, is a valued member of many boards, great mentor to young and old, and he's the type of person that makes everyone around him feel better. I've never heard Stocky complain, in fact, he says he's had a wonderful life, and I believe it.

About your family: My wife, Cindy, and I have four children and four grandchildren.

Something else you'd like to accomplish: I predict changes in senior housing will be significant and challenging as the diverse baby boomers approach their mid-70s. Dunn & Associates can be a valuable consultant to operators and developers of senior communities. We also hope to continue to work with our UCCS associates and expand on the public/private collaboration.

What book are you currently reading: My areas of interest in reading aren't very deep -- give me a good Clyde Cussler book, or other adventure or mystery books, where I can lose my day's worries in the pages.

What is the one thing you would change about Colorado Springs: I'd like to see improved -- or any -- governmental funding for the arts.

It could help our community by attracting national exhibits which draw large crowds both locally and from afar.