ABERDEEN, SD – May 7, 2026 – Primrose Retirement Communities proudly announces that founder and Chief Executive Officer Jim Thares has been selected as the 2026 Spring Commencement Speaker at Northern State University (NSU) in Aberdeen, South Dakota. During the May 9th commencement ceremony, Thares will also receive an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree in recognition of his leadership, entrepreneurial success, and lifelong commitment to community service.
A native of Ipswich, South Dakota, Jim Thares earned a Bachelor of Science in accounting from Moorhead State University and began his career as a certified public accountant. Early in his professional life, he recognized a growing need for more independent senior living options while working in public accounting and later gaining experience in property development. In 1989, he founded Primrose Retirement Communities in Aberdeen, with the first community opening in 1991. Today, Primrose has grown into a multistate organization providing independent living, assisted living, and memory care services, grounded in a commitment to community, service, and quality of life.
Throughout his career, Thares has demonstrated a deep commitment to community leadership and public service. He has served on numerous boards, including the Presentation College Board of Trustees, the Northern State University Foundation, the South Dakota Horsemen’s Association, the South Dakota Thoroughbred Association, and the Catholic Community Foundation of Eastern South Dakota, and the South Dakota Board of Regents.
“Jim’s selection as Northern State University’s Spring Commencement Speaker is a proud moment for Aberdeen, honoring a leader whose vision took root here and grew into a lasting commitment to service and community,” said Primrose Executive Vice President of Operations, Amanda Daughters.
Primrose Retirement Communities congratulates the Northern State University Class of 2026 and celebrates this meaningful recognition of Jim Thares’ service and leadership.
Primrose Retirement Communities, LLC, headquartered in Aberdeen, South Dakota, provides high-quality independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities across the country which specialize in personalized services and resident-focused care. The mission of Primrose Retirement Communities is to create happy and healthy living environments for seniors. Since the opening of the first Primrose community in Aberdeen in 1991, Primrose has grown to include over 34 locations in 17 states.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jessi Weldon
Executive Vice President
Sales & Marketing
605-226-3300 ext. 3981