MANCHESTER - The Vermont Health Care Association's board of directors has appointed Kirt Sampson - who is also the Executive Director and Part Owner of Equinox Village, a retirement living community in Manchester Center, Vermont - to the position of interim president.

Sampson also served as president of VHCA from 2008 to 2009. This most recent appointment was made in a meeting at Capitol Plaza Hotel & Conference Center in Montpelier on Feb. 25.

"I am honored to serve as the Vermont Health Care Association's president again," said Sampson. "The job allows me great access to my colleagues and to those who guide policy in our profession, and I feel capable of making a positive difference for those who receive care and live in our member communities."

"Kirt was chosen by the board to lead the organization based on his deep knowledge of and commitment to long-term care," said Laura Pelosi, the former executive director of VHCA who now handles policy and regulatory affairs for the organization. "Kirt brings many years of experience as a nursing home administrator, and he understands the challenges and opportunities that face the long-term care industry."

VHCA has about 50 members, including most of the state's nursing facilities, assisted living homes, and independent living communities. The group advocates for public policies that affect the care that members are able to provide.

Responsibilities of the president include chairing the board of directors, conducting

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a board meeting and a membership meeting monthly, and representing the organization to legislators who are making policies that affect members.

The post usually lasts one year, from January to January, and Sampson is expected to serve until January 2014.

Equinox Village is an independent living community situated on eleven pristine acres in the heart of the Green Mountains' rich cultural and recreational opportunities.

Vermont Health Care Association (VHCA) is the oldest and largest long term care organization in Vermont.