Meet the Team

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Kolbee Kurtz, Executive Director, Solstice at Plano

Kolbee Kurtz

Executive Director

Kolbee Kurtz brings nearly 20 years of experience of senior living and geriatric nursing experience to her role as Executive Director of Solstice at Plano. She previously worked in nursing homes, rehabilitation hospitals, and assisted living and memory care communities. Kolbee earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and a degree in nursing.

Kolbee is passionate about improving the quality of life for each resident and creating a positive, supportive and engaging community for residents, families and employees.

A Pennsylvania native, Kolbee has lived in Plano for nearly a decade. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, going on long walks with her four dogs, running, and skiing.

Sheree Gough, Director of Sales and Marketing, Solstice at Plano

Sheree Gough

Director of Sales and Marketing

Prior to joining the Solstice at Plano team, Sheree Gough worked as membership director at Oak Harbor Country Club in Vero Beach, Fla. She also previously served as sales and marketing director in senior living for over 20 years.

Sheree now resides in Plano with her husband of 35 years. In her spare time, Sheree enjoys golfing, swimming, biking, gardening, decorating and, most of all, spending time with her 5-year-old granddaughter.

Tracy Rowe, Vibrant Life® Director, Solstice at Plano

Tracy Rowe 

Vibrant Life® Director

Before assuming her current role as Vibrant Life® Director, Tracy Rowe worked in food service for over 25 years. 

“I have found my dream job working at Solstice. I go home feeling fulfilled after spending the day with residents. It’s a very rewarding job.” 

A California native, Tracy moved to Plano a couple of years ago. She enjoys spending time with her grandkids, shopping and crafting. 

Chef John Knoten, Culinary Services Director, Solstice at Plano

Chef John Knoten Jr.

Culinary Services Director

Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Chef John has been cooking for over 30 years. His love for cooking comes from his grandmother Mable Keys. He would study her every time she would cook, which was every day. 

Chef John has over 18 years of senior living management experience as a Culinary Service Director and takes great pride and joy in providing great meals, exceptional service, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere for every resident in our community. 

When he is not cooking, Chef John loves to fish, play Angry Birds and meditate while having a cup of his favorite New Orleans chicory coffee. Chef John joined Solstice Senior Living in February 2024 and is extremely grateful and honored to share his love of great food with our residents. 

Laissez les bons temps rouler! Let the good times roll! 

Stephen Batten, Culinary Services Director, Solstice at Plano

Stephen Batten

Culinary Services Director

New to the senior living industry, Stephen Batten joined the Solstice at Plano team to gain a deeper understanding of community and connection through food.

After graduating from culinary school, Stephen worked in fine dining establishments Cecconi’s DUMBO and The River Café in Brooklyn, N.Y.

His vast culinary experience also includes serving as culinary supervisor at American Airlines Center in Dallas, kitchen manager at Texas Live! in Arlington, and executive chef at PIRA Latin Fire and Punch Bowl Social.

Born and raised in North Carolina, Stephen recently moved to Plano from Dallas. He graduated from high school with the class of 1999. After graduation, he served in the United States Navy for eight years and received the Navy Distinguished Service Medal. After his discharge, Stephen moved to Dallas and enrolled in the world-renowned culinary school Le Cordon Bleu.

When he isn’t in the kitchen, Stephen enjoys spending time with his girlfriend and her children, painting, playing guitar, and practicing Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Sharyn Clark, Building Office Director, Solstice at Plano

Sharyn Clark

Business Office Director

Sharyn Clark, Business Office Director, served in a variety of leadership roles before joining the Solstice at Plano team, including business office director at an assisted and independent living community, a medical coding specialist, and a team leader at Whole Foods.

Her favorite part of working at Solstice is making a difference in the lives of our residents.

Born and raised in Dallas, Sharyn has lived in Plano for over a decade. She enjoys spending time with her husband and three rescue dogs, gardening, going to concerts and movies, trying new restaurants, and traveling to new places.

Kevin Salazar, Building Services Director, Solstice at Plano

Kevin Salazar

Building Services Director

Kevin Salazar brings nearly a decade of senior living experience to Solstice at Plano. He previously worked with various Brookdale communities and Lakeland Hills before joining our team.

When he isn’t working, you can find Kevin playing softball, finding new places to eat, and hanging out with family and friends.

You’ll love calling Solstice at Plano home.

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