
ABOUT US
More than a community — a legacy of service and care.
Founded and operated by the Army Distaff Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 1959, Knollwood Life Plan Community was built on a mission of compassion and commitment to those who have served our nation. What began as a visionary effort by military families, supported by President Dwight D. and Mrs. Mamie Eisenhower, has grown into a vibrant, intergenerational community that continues to honor its founding promise — to provide security, dignity, and lifelong support for every resident.
Nestled beside Rock Creek Park in Upper Chevy Chase, Knollwood offers a safe, scenic, and engaging environment just minutes from Washington, D.C.’s finest cultural and healthcare institutions. Our residents enjoy a balance of independence and connection, supported by innovative wellness programs, award-winning care, and cutting-edge technology designed to enrich every stage of life.
Through our Financial Assistance Fund, sustained by generous donors, residents who face financial hardship can remain in their homes with full access to care and community. At Knollwood, we don’t just build a place to live — we preserve a legacy of service, compassion, and belonging that continues to thrive today.
Mission & Vision
Mission Statement
Our Vision

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Our Guiding Principles
I

Integrity
C

Community
A

Accountability
R

Respect
E

Excellence

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Senior Leadership Team

MG Timothy P. McHale, USA (Ret.)

James Michels

Gladstone James

Dennis Olayini

Ike Relacion

Martha McLean

Beverly Morgan
Board of Directors

GENERAL JOHN M. KEANE, USA (RET.)
MG ANTHONY C. FUNKHOUSER, PE, USA (RET.)
COL ELIZABETH COWLES HARRELL, MSN, RNC, USAF (RET.)
JULIE BUTLER
DAVID L. CUSANO, J.D.
LOIS N. CALLAHAN
MARY ANNE HILLIARD, ESQ., R.N., FAAN
MATTHEW LAWLOR
MG TIMOTHY MCHALE, USA (RET.)
LANI INGRAM
L TG THOMAS A. HORLANDER, USA (RET.)
JOHN MONTGOMERY
Knollwood Milestones

1962
Knollwood Founded
Knollwood opens its doors – with a mission to serve retired military officers and families grounded in service and community
1998
Assisted Living Expansion
A majot expansion adds dedicated assisted living residences and amenities to support changing needs.


2015
Wellness center & programs
New fitness studio, pool updates and evidence based wellness programming for nalize Knollwood’s preventative care approach.
2024
Campus enhancements
Public spaces refreshed to elevate daily life. Dining, bistro, and outdoor gathering areas.


2025-2026
A great place to work.
Knollwood recognized as a great place to work.
Corporate Partners





















