The Highlands Celebrates Grand Opening with Community Support and Full Attendance

Be the reason future generations know what mattered in Decorah. Fund Decorah News today. DECORAH — The Highlands marked a major milestone Wednesday, April 8, 2026, with a grand opening celebration of its new nursing home campus. Held on the birthday of founder Aase Haugen, the event drew more than 500 guests, including community members, donors, local and state leaders, and project partners. The celebration honored both the future of senior care in the region and Haugen's legacy. Attendees gathered for a dedication ceremony led by the Rev. Daryl Thompson of Calmar Lutheran Church, in partnership with the Rev. Peter Kowitz of Decorah Lutheran Church. The event also included tours of the new facility and a ribbon-cutting program highlighting the project's impact and the community support behind it. "This building represents so much more than a new space; it represents our commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care in a setting that truly feels like home," said Sam Boeke, executive director of The Highlands. Boeke said a business analysis using the economic multiplier effect found that Aase Haugen Homes' 62 years in Decorah have generated more than $1 billion in total economic impact. "I think this proves how Aase Haugen Homes has been, and continues to be, an incredible asset to Decorah," he said. The project was funded through a combination of U.S. Department of Agriculture support, private donations, organizational leadership and partnerships, including federal and state programs. "Investments like this are critical to strengthening rural communities," said Mike Sexton, state director for USDA Rural Development. "The Highlands is a shining example of how collaboration and commitment can create spaces that serve people with dignity and respect while ensuring access to essential care close to home." Guests toured the new campus, which features modern living spaces, improved accessibility and design elements intended to promote comfort, safety and community connection. "We are sincerely thankful to the USDA, our boards of directors, donors, partners, staff and community members who contributed to making the grand opening a meaningful and memorable occasion," said Rex Nelson, administrator of The Highlands. "Our vision is to redefine senior care in the region by combining compassion, innovation and a setting designed for dignity so that every person we serve can truly feel at home." Patty Casterton, vice president of business development, highlighted Haugen's legacy. "Two years ago, we broke ground on Aase's birthday. Today, we're celebrating our grand opening on her birthday again. We've come a long way," she said. "Aase gave everything she had so that no one would die alone, as she did. Her legacy lives on through us, and this building helps achieve that mission." Discover what's happening near you! The free DecorahNews.com newsletter brings updates, inspiring stories, and practical tips right to your inbox.