Bouncers, poker dealers and florists aren’t necessarily jobs that people usually associate with long-term care nursing, but DeeAndra Sandgren’s diverse professional history and life experiences have paved the way for her success as the top nursing leader at the The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society. They also contributed to her being named a Hall of Honor inductee in the 2025 McKnight’s Women of Distinction awards program.
There, Sandgren is chief nursing officer, with more than a decade of service and advancement in nursing roles.
Today, she is responsible for the strategic direction and development of the organization’s nursing and clinical practices. Her duties include overseeing the nursing, social services, activities and dietary programs across skilled nursing, senior living and home-based services.
She focuses on empowering the company’s 6,000 caregivers to provide the best possible experience and care for residents, patients, clients and families.
