At the start of 2026, Londonderry on the Tred Avon is reflecting on a resident-driven year of connection, campus investment, and regional recognition and looking ahead to another full year.
Throughout 2025, Londonderry celebrated what makes the cooperative community unique: shared ownership, resident leadership, and a lifestyle built around connection, wellness, and choice. From welcoming new neighbors to enhancing campus amenities and earning regional recognition, the past year reinforced Londonderry’s position as the Eastern Shore’s most sought-after retirement community.
A Year of Connection and Campus Enhancements
In spring, Londonderry welcomed new residents during its annual Swing into Spring celebration, bringing together more than 80 neighbors for music, refreshments, and connection on the lawn overlooking the Tred Avon River. Events like these reflect Londonderry’s ongoing commitment to fostering relationships and helping new residents feel at home from the moment they arrive.
That sense of place was further enhanced in May with the dedication of Howard’s Landing, the community’s new waterfront pier, named in honor of longtime resident and former Board President Howard Zwemer. The pier stands as both a tribute to Zwemer’s decade-long vision and a new gathering place where residents can enjoy the river, outdoor recreation, and scenic views.
Later in the year, Londonderry unveiled its newly renovated Community Center, the social heart of the campus. The comprehensive renovation refreshed the Tred Avon Tavern, library, media center, and shared living spaces, creating a light-filled, welcoming environment designed to encourage everyday connection and relaxation.
Summer brought another season of Summer Evenings by the Manor House, as Londonderry concluded its 2025 Summer Concert Series. The popular tradition featured live music, local food, and outdoor dining by the historic Manor House and pool, bringing residents, families, and friends together for relaxed Eastern Shore evenings.
Leadership, Excellence, and Recognition
In addition to campus milestones, 2025 was a year of recognition and leadership development at Londonderry.
Two members of Londonderry’s leadership team, Erica Hardeo, Director of Community Engagement, and Jennifer Hughes, Controller, graduated from the Shore Leadership and Shore Leadership 2.0 programs, reflecting the community’s commitment to strong leadership and regional collaboration.
Londonderry also honored resident Susan Andrews with the 2025 Ingerson Award, the community’s highest recognition for exceptional service and leadership. Andrews was celebrated for her years of volunteerism, committee involvement, and dedication to enriching community life, exemplifying the values that have shaped Londonderry since its earliest days.
The community’s excellence was further recognized throughout the region in 2025. Londonderry was named Best 55+ Community in the APG Best of the Best Chesapeake Community Choice Awards for the third consecutive year and seventh time overall. It was also recognized as Best Residential Community by Coastal Style magazine for the sixth consecutive year and named Best Retirement Community (Active Living) by What’s Up? Eastern Shore for the tenth consecutive year — honors driven by community voting and local readership.
These accolades reflect the strength of Londonderry’s resident-led culture, dedicated team, and commitment to providing a welcoming, high-quality retirement experience.
The year also marked an exciting addition to Londonderry’s dining program with the arrival of Chef Brendan Keegan, Jr., a seasoned culinary professional with deep roots on the Eastern Shore. Under his leadership, dining continues to be a cornerstone of daily life at Londonderry, bringing residents together over thoughtfully prepared, flavorful meals.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As Londonderry looks to 2026, the focus remains on building momentum by expanding programming, deepening resident involvement, and continuing thoughtful investment in the campus and community experience. With its blend of waterfront living, resort-style amenities, and resident-driven culture, Londonderry is well positioned for another year of connection, growth, and shared experiences.
“As we look ahead, our commitment is unchanged,” said Christine Harrington, Londonderry CEO. “We remain focused on creating a welcoming, engaging, and fulfilling retirement lifestyle — one where residents truly feel ownership not just in name, but in everyday life.”
About Londonderry on the Tred Avon
Londonderry on the Tred Avon is a vibrant, independent living cooperative community for adults, ages 62+, that promotes wellness of mind and body. Londonderry offers a variety of housing options from convenient apartments to spacious cottages among 29 acres, including 1500 feet of waterfront shoreline. For more information, visit www.londonderrytredavon.com.
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