The Justus Companies.
Many companies, multiple locations, one big FAMILY.
Company Overview.
With more than a century of experience, The Justus Family of Companies provides outstanding service to residents, families and associates through hands-on leadership, attention to detail and a commitment to serving others. We are proud to be recognized for award-winning communities and continuously rank among the nation’s top senior living providers.
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, The Justus Family of Companies is a leading contributor to the early history of Indianapolis. Since 1910, we have steadily grown as an industry leader in Senior Living, Multi-Family Living, Construction and Development and Property Management.
Our Mission.
The Justus Family of Companies enriches the lives of residents, associates and business partners by creating environments where people live and work and thrive.
Our Team.
The Justus Companies
- ALL
- Construction & Development
- Executive Leadership
- Operations
- Senior Living
- Walter G. JustusChairman EmeritusWalter G. JustusChairman Emeritus
- Walt JustusPresident/Chief Executive OfficerRead Bio...Walt JustusPresident/Chief Executive Officer
Mr. Walter E. "Walt" Justus is the fourth-generation president and chief executive officer of the Justus Family of Companies, an Indianapolis-based, privately held real estate ownership, development and management firm established in 1910. Walt has guided the direction of the company since 1987 and has been responsible for the successful delivery of multiple new developments and construction projects. Walt is a principal in all the company-owned partnerships and steers the strategic direction of each of the company's divisions, including property and asset management, development, and construction. Walt spearheads the company’s support of multiple charities including Wounded Warriors, Riley Children’s Hospital and Indy Honor Flight.
- Angela MillerExecutive Vice President/Chief Operating OfficerRead Bio...Angela MillerExecutive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer
Angela Miller works closely with the CEO to establish strategic plans to enhance profitability and develop a high-performing leadership team to best serve residents, clients, investors and community management teams. With over 20 years of leadership experience, Angela has an extensive background in operations, marketing and brand management, strategic planning, human resources and quality services. Angela began her career as a licensed Health Facility Administrator in California and is currently licensed in Indiana. She holds a B.S. in Business Management and Communications from the University of Evansville, and a M.S. in Business Management from Indiana Wesleyan University. Angela serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the Indiana Assisted Living Association (INALA).
- Brett MichaudChief Investment OfficerRead Bio...Brett MichaudChief Investment Officer
Brett Michaud has over 20 years of experience in management and financial leadership including eight years with Arthur Andersen LLP and four years in corporate finance with GE Capital. Brett’s experiences include initial public offerings, investor relations and international finance. For the last ten years Brett has held leadership positions in real estate projects involving joint ventures, private equity and traditional debt structures. Brett holds a BSBA degree in accounting from Bucknell University.
- John WrightChief Financial OfficerRead Bio...John WrightChief Financial Officer
John joined the Justus Companies in 2013 as Chief Financial Officer and oversees the accounting team and financial reporting for the entire portfolio of projects and company assets. John has over 30 years of experience in management, accounting, tax, treasury and risk management including six years as Controller in commercial retail, office and residential real estate and six years as Controller in the manufacturing industry. John holds a BSBA degree in accounting from Xavier University.
- Beth WelchRegional Director of OperationsRead Bio...Beth WelchRegional Director of Operations
Beth Welch has more than 15 years of management experience and previously served as the Executive Director of Crestwood Village South. Beth joined the Justus Family of Companies 2012 and successfully led one of the company’s largest senior living communities during the development of a new licensed assisted living at that community. Beth provides hands-on assistance and direction to Executive Directors and fosters collaboration across departments. Beth leads the senior living policy and procedure task force and serves as a preceptor for the company’s future Residential Care Administrators.
- Diane Kohan, BS, RN, C-ALRegional Director of Health ServicesRead Bio...Diane Kohan, BS, RN, C-ALRegional Director of Health Services
Diane Kohan has more than 20 years of experience in healthcare which she uses to lead and develop the clinical teams for all Justus Senior Living Communities. Prior to her current position, Diane worked for St. Vincent for more than 10 years and in long term care for 5 years. Diane’s skills include regulatory compliance, use and implementation of Electronic Health Records, cardiac nursing and nursing administration Diane holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Administration from Indiana University, and Associate of Science in Nursing from Indiana University.
- Sarah CristVice President of Senior Living Business DevelopmentRead Bio...Sarah CristVice President of Senior Living Business Development
Sarah Crist manages key marketing relationships and the senior living marketing/leasing teams as well as develops strategic business partnerships for our senior living communities. Sarah has 16 years of experience in healthcare with the last 12 years being at the Justus Family of Companies. Sarah was previously the Administrator of Freedom Senior Services and the Executive Director at Crestwood Village West and South campuses. Sarah has her B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Applied Gerontology from Ball State University.
- Caralee GriffithRegional Director of Life EnrichmentRead Bio...Caralee GriffithRegional Director of Life Enrichment
Caralee Griffith has over 15 years of experience in mental health and people-focused careers, with the last 2 years concentrated on senior living. Caralee developed her leadership and event management skills as the Executive Director of the New Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce. Caralee uses these skills to bring joy, smiles and lasting memories to the residents of all Justus Senior Living Communities through a variety of life enrichment opportunities. Caralee holds a BA degree in Psychology from Indiana University.
- Judy DonovanRegional Director of Health and FitnessRead Bio...Judy DonovanRegional Director of Health and Fitness
Judy Donovan has over 10 years of experience motivating others to lead healthy and passionate lives through education, classes and workshops. Judy oversees the wellness programs and personal fitness coordinators at all Justus Senior Living Communities. Judy was previously the Wellness Director for the Indianapolis Senior Center and a fitness coordinator at the National Institute for Fitness and Health. Judy Graduated from Indiana University with a degree in physical education.
- Christina McCann, LSWRegional Care NavigatorRead Bio...Christina McCann, LSWRegional Care Navigator
Christina McCann has practiced geriatric social work for over 17 years including roles at CICOA and the St. Vincent Center for Healthy Aging. Christina assists individuals, caregivers and families with education, level of care changes, appropriate placement, options for care, Long-term Care policies, support groups and available benefits. Christina specializes in dementia and is trained and certified in Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care. Christina frequently presents on various dementia topics for Justus Senior Living staff and for other community organizations. Christina is a graduate of the Indiana University School of Social Work.
- Allegra Sorely, MM, MT-BCRegional Music TherapistRead Bio...Allegra Sorely, MM, MT-BCRegional Music Therapist
Allegra Sorley is a board-certified music therapist and Neurologic Music Therapist with extensive experience in piano performance. Allegra brings the joy of music to Justus Senior Living communities with monthly piano concerts and group music opportunities for residents. She also provides weekly group music therapy sessions, hosts monthly music appreciation classes and leads a resident chorus. Allegra graduated from Roosevelt University – Chicago College of Performing Arts with a Bachelor’s degree in Piano Performance and later from Ohio University with a Master’s degree in Piano Performance.
- Jim BootsSenior Vice President of ConstructionRead Bio...Jim BootsSenior Vice President of Construction
Jim Boots has over 30 years of experience in the construction and development industry. Jim oversees Justus Construction Company’s new construction and capital improvement projects from conception to delivery. Design management, bid procurement, contract negotiation, construction planning, project administration, schedule and cost management are some of his responsibilities. Jim’s construction management career includes large projects including universities, hospitals and health care facilities. Jim holds a B.S. in Building Construction Management from Purdue University and he is an Accredited Professional in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED A.P.).
- Bob BlazekSenior Construction SuperintendentRead Bio...Bob BlazekSenior Construction Superintendent
With 30 years of experience in construction planning and supervision, Bob is a seasoned, hands-on field superintendent. Bob demonstrates leadership through knowledge gained from experience, and communication and problem-solving skills. Bob’s construction experience ranges from single family homes to large multi-story construction and development projects. Bob’s notable projects include: Staybridge Suites Hotel in Indianapolis, Cummins world headquarters in Columbus, Indiana, and the Woodland Terrace senior living communities in Carmel and New Palestine Indiana. Bob provides leadership and general oversight of all construction projects and field staff.
- Chris MillerSenior Director of DevelopmentRead Bio...Chris MillerSenior Director of Development
With the Justus Companies since 2004, Chris Miller leads zoning, land procurement and development efforts. Chris works closely with city officials and is responsible for the coordination of architectural, engineering, land planning, landscape architecture and City entitlements. Chris also manages commercial and medical office buildings, provides oversight to multi-family assets and heads up sales and marketing of inventoried real estate. Chris is a graduate of Indiana University.
- Jillian Justus-ForanExecutive AssistantRead Bio...Jillian Justus-ForanExecutive Assistant
Jillian Justus-Foran is the Executive Assistant to Walt Justus. Jillian participates in all aspects of development and construction of Justus Senior Living and multifamily projects as well as acquisitions. Working previously in communications as well as accounting, Jillian has been with the Justus Companies for the last ten years. Jillian holds a BA degree in Photography and Time-based Media from Purdue University.
- Mark MyersChief Estimator/Project CoordinatorRead Bio...Mark MyersChief Estimator/Project Coordinator
Mark Myers assists and supports the construction and development team and plays a key role in conceptual development, design, estimating, bidding and contract administration. Mark creates the construction schedules and maintains subcontractor relationships throughout each project. He has a long history of success in the construction industry as the General Manager of Gunstra Builders and as the past president and owner of a custom-building company.
- Dylan ForanEstimator/Safety DirectorRead Bio...Dylan ForanEstimator/Safety Director
Dylan Foran is responsible for estimating for new construction projects as well as renovations and remodeling of existing properties. As Safety Director, Dylan mitigates risks on construction sites to ensure regulatory compliance and proper safety protocol. Dylan documents construction progress utilizing drone technology. Dylan graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor’s degree in Professional Flight Technology.
- Sara BergerDirector of Corporate CommunicationsRead Bio...Sara BergerDirector of Corporate Communications
Sara Berger is responsible for the marketing efforts for the Justus Companies including advertising campaigns, social media, video, websites and other marketing channels. Sara manages both the in-house communications team as well as contracts with outside vendors to bring creative and effective solutions to increase occupancy and support resident retention. Sara received her Bachelors from Purdue University in Visual Communications and has more than 15 years of experience in agency, corporate and non-profit environments.
- Lesa Riczo, SHRM-CPDirector of Human ResourcesRead Bio...Lesa Riczo, SHRM-CPDirector of Human Resources
Lesa Riczo is responsible for leading the Justus Companies’ growing focus on human resources. Lesa oversees recruitment and retention, talent acquisition management, reward and recognition, salary and benefits and expanding the corporate culture to become an employer of choice. With over 13 years in the Human Resources field, Lesa has experience and expertise as an HR generalist, recruiter and employee relations specialist. Lesa graduated from IUPUI and is a SHRM certified HR professional.
- Wayne JonesDirector of Information TechnologyRead Bio...Wayne JonesDirector of Information Technology
Wayne Jones has over 30 years of experience working in information technology. Wayne started his career at the Justus Companies in 2003 as the “IT Guy” where he served many roles including web design. Wayne currently oversees over 200 computers and more than 20 physical and virtual servers. He is also responsible for the security systems, networks, administration and user helpdesks for all the Justus Companies locations. Wayne received his college education in the UK before moving to the United States.
- Steve JenkinsRegional Director of MaintenanceRead Bio...Steve JenkinsRegional Director of Maintenance
Steve Jenkins has a strong background in maintenance with over 20 years of experience in commercial, multi-family and senior living facility maintenance. Steve manages vendor and contractor relationships and bidding, capital and maintenance needs assessments, implementing preventative maintenance programs and training maintenance supervisors and technicians. Steve is certified in Mold Remediation and HVAC.
- Brenda GalloExecutive AssistantRead Bio...Brenda GalloExecutive Assistant
Brenda Gallo assists “Wally” Walter G. Justus. Brenda is also responsible for handling the Justus Companies’ insurance programs, corporate legal issues, worker’s compensation benefits and various other accounting functions. Brenda joined the Justus family in 1984 while located in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Brenda relocated to the corporate office in Indianapolis where she celebrates more than 30 years with the Justus Companies!
- Jed OwenControllerRead Bio...Jed OwenController
Jed Owen oversees accounting activities for Justus Companies including audit and compliance reporting, accounts receivable, accounts payable, job cost construction accounting and all monthly, quarterly, and annual closings. Jed has more than 25 years of accounting experience including Director of Finance-Land Development and Acquisition for Beazer Homes and Regional Controller/Assistant Vice President for Duke Realty. Jed majored in accounting and received his BSBA from Indiana University.
- Julie AndersonDirector of Financial Planning and AnalysisRead Bio...Julie AndersonDirector of Financial Planning and Analysis
Julie Anderson prepares annual budgets for all conventional apartment communities, and the financial statements for the Woodland Terrace senior communities and Bridgewater Apartments. She also oversees the implementation and management of the property management accounting software. Julie has over 30 years of experience that includes general accounting, job cost, property management, cash management and low-income housing tax credits. Julie attended IUPUI and holds a Bachelor’s degree in finance from Indiana University School of Business.
- Kelly HarmonSenior Trust AccountantRead Bio...Kelly HarmonSenior Trust Accountant
Kelly Harmon celebrates over 20 years with the Justus Company and is responsible for the accounting, financial statements and accounts payable for all the Justus Trust properties (Crestwood Village East, South and West). Kelly has over 24 years of experience in bookkeeping and accounting and extensive education from IUPUI in mathematics and accounting.
Our History.
- 1910
- 1920
- 1940
- 1950
- 1960
- 1970
- 1980
- 1990
- 2000
The Legacy Begins
The legacy began in 1910 when Indiana visionary, Guy Justus, started a homebuilding company on the east side of Indianapolis based on his principles of quality, integrity and value. He named it The Justus Contracting Company.
Operations Expand
Operations quickly expanded and Guy Justus purchased a small warehouse, barn and other buildings to house his growing business. But tragedy struck and he lost his barns, horses and equipment during the Great Depression and then once again from an enormous fire.
Walter E. Justus Becomes President & End of World War II
In 1941 Guy Justus was killed in an auto accident and his son Walter E. Justus took over as president. 1945 World War II ended and service men coming out of the war needed housing. The Justus Contracting Company seized this opportunity and developed the land by putting in sidewalks and streets and building almost every home from 10th Street to 16th St. and from Emerson Ave. to Ritter Ave. on Indy’s east side.
Rapid Growth
The Justus Contracting Company was growing rapidly and they acquired tremendous amounts of land, some of which became commercial. They were even selected to construct homes for Better Homes & Gardens.
A New Name
The Justus Contracting Company changed the name to The Justus Company. In 1962 Walter E. Justus developed and built the company’s most innovative concept, Crestwood Village Senior Community. Walter recognized a need for quality senior housing and the senior members of his church had been asking “why don’t you build something for us?” They leased the first three Crestwood buildings as fast as they could build them! In 1967 Walter E. Justus retired and his son Walter G. “Wally” Justus became president of the company.
Commercial and Retail Development
Wally Justus grew the company by adding commercial and retail development to the portfolio as well as expanding all levels of operations. In 1973 The Justus Company built the first Marriot Hotel in Indiana on the east side of Indianapolis.
Walt Justus Becomes 4th Generation President
In the mid-80s, The Justus Company developed a 100-acre parcel called Wellington, where they built apartments and pioneered the condo concept. Just as Walter E. Justus had mentored his son Wally, now it was Wally’s turn to mentor his son Walt (who was named after his grandfather). In 1987, young Walt Justus became the fourth generation president of the company.
Wyndham Hall
In 1997 Wyndham Hall is built, offering income-based senior apartments to the city’s east side.
Expansion & New Companies
In 2005 The Justus Company expands into Carmel, Indiana, building the upscale Westwood Estates followed by Liberty Row Townhomes in 2008. In 2010 two new companies, Freedom Home Health & Hospice and Freedom Senior Services, are formed to better serve the medical and personal needs of senior residents. In 2013 The Justus Company is rebranded as The Justus Family of Companies. In 2015 The Bridgewater Apartments are built on the Westfield/Carmel, Indiana border, offering residents the perfect blend of luxury, lifestyle and location. In 2015 development and construction began on Woodland Terrace (the newest brand of senior living communities) in both Carmel and New Palestine, Indiana.
Standing the Test of Time
For over a century, the Justus name has been synonymous with quality craftsmanship and value. As real estate brokers, homebuilders and senior housing experts, the various Justus companies have been a part of the history of Indianapolis.
The Justus Corporate Office
1398 N. Shadeland Ave.
Indianapolis, IN 46219
Phone: (317) 353 – 8311
Fax: (317) 352 – 1570
Corporate Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 5:00pm