A Note from the Lumina by Landis Leadership Team

On August 8, 2026, our inaugural director, Stephanie “Teffie” Landmann, unexpectedly passed away at her home in Lititz. As we continue to process this loss as a community, we want to share an update on the future of Lumina, The Dementia Friendly Experience.

Larry Zook, President and CEO, shared the following with the Landis family in the days following the tragedy: “Teffie was hired in 2024 to build on Landis’ commitment to providing a highly supportive environment for individuals living with memory loss. She was uniquely qualified for this role, having taught Positive Approach to Care (PAC) with Teepa Snow since 2018. Her expertise in mentoring individuals and organizations on best practices for supporting those experiencing brain change made her a sought-after speaker and educator. We were truly blessed to have her as our very first director.”

To honor Teffie and the work she loved so deeply, Landis Communities remains committed to becoming a Dementia Center of Excellence with a 100% PAC-trained workforce. Chaplain Audrey Kanagy, who worked alongside Teffie in conducting Lumina trainings, has been named interim director, and will be supported by a team of Landis professionals with advanced certifications in evidence-based dementia care. We appreciate so many who have stepped up to continue this important work.

In the coming weeks, we will begin the search for a new director. For now, let us remember and celebrate the significant impact Teffie had on Landis Communities. In her spirit, and that of Nehemiah 2:18: “Let us start rebuilding.” Together, we will carry forward the work she so faithfully began.