The senior living industry is fundamentally grounded in compassion and empathy. These values guide the innovation and care across Moorings Park Communities, and at the heart of this commitment is a strong female leadership team that brings passion and expertise to each community in Naples, Florida.
“I have had the privilege of being part of Moorings Park Communities for the past five and a half years, and it has truly been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. From the moment I joined, I knew I had found something special. What began as a role as an accountant in the senior living industry has evolved into a true passion and calling. In my new role as Chief Operating Officer, I am excited by the incredible opportunities to further impact our culture of hospitality, excellence, and care. It’s an honor to help lead our organization forward, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the meaningful work we do here at Moorings Park Communities.”
“I have had the pleasure of serving Moorings Park Communities’ residents and partners for nearly 14 years. One of my most significant accomplishments has been building and nurturing meaningful relationships with our residents which are truly at the heart of my role. Watching residents thrive is deeply rewarding, and fostering an environment of support, empathy, and ongoing professional development has helped to cultivate a strong and cohesive team. When our partners feel motivated, recognized, and well-equipped, the residents benefit immensely. These are the moments that remind me why I’m passionate about what I do.”
“I began my career at Moorings Park Communities 23 years ago as the Director of Recreation at The Chateau®, Moorings Park’s 5-star rated skilled care. As a recipient of a Moorings Park Foundation scholarship, I was able to pursue my Masters in Geriatrics at FGCU, an opportunity that changed my career trajectory and led me to assume the role of Executive Director at Moorings Park Grande Lake last year. At Moorings Park Communities, you can aspire to be successful in any role you desire with hard work and dedication, and in senior living, relationship building and a genuine compassion for those we serve is key. I am so proud when I see how wellness has evolved over the years.”
“When I began volunteering at my local senior living community at 15 years old, I knew that my career would be in this industry. My passion has allowed me to serve seniors for over 27 years, and through building positive connections, collaborating with others, and developing a deep understanding of senior living, I've discovered the true meaning of community and the profound rewards of caring for others. Upon joining the Moorings Park Communities team at the end of 2023, I felt the positive culture immediately. To see a group of people striving for excellence within this organization is uplifting, and I am so grateful to be involved.”
According to research by Argentum, the senior living industry leads in terms of the number of women in management, with women making up 80% of the workforce, 31% higher than the national average, and 70% of management roles, 14% higher than the national average. Women at the executive level has proven to be a key to success for Moorings Park Communities.
Benefits like increased innovation and creativity, improved decision-making, higher job satisfaction, better retention, and reduced conflict are all attributed to gender diversity in the workplace, and as the demand for senior living services continues to rise, women will play a pivotal role in helping to shape the future of the industry [Source].
“At Moorings Park Communities, we have continued to promote the strongest performers regardless of whether they are male or female. This is an inclusive resident-centered approach to senior living, one that prioritizes both the physical and emotional well-being of residents,” says Katy. “A woman’s ability to foster empathy, build strong relationships, and lead with compassion positions them as key drivers of innovation, quality care, and community development.”
Hospitality guides Moorings Park Communities' approach to creating personalized resort and health span experiences for every resident. According to multiple research studies compiled by the National Library of Medicine (NLM) women exhibit high levels of empathy on average, and this translates directly into their leadership styles. Women leaders often prioritize collaboration, communication, and relationship-building to create a supportive and nurturing environment. This empathetic leadership is crucial in the senior living industry, where building trust and a sense of belonging are paramount.
“Leading a senior living community is a deeply rewarding yet uniquely challenging experience that requires a balance of empathy and practical skills,” says Kayla. “A unique challenge is understanding and addressing the diverse needs of residents, each with their own life story and personal preferences. Leadership in senior living goes beyond managing logistics or operations. The most important need is building relationships and fostering an environment where residents feel respected, valued, and heard.”
“It’s all about relationships and getting to know our customers, the residents of Moorings Park Communities, as individuals,” says Celeste. “Taking the time to engage and go above and beyond in customer service allows residents to feel valued and respected. Being a good listener, acknowledging their needs, and being transparent fosters a sense of trust. Our residents truly know we have their best interests at heart.”
From executive leadership to dedicated caregivers, women are driving innovation, fostering compassionate care, and shaping the future of senior living in Naples, Florida, and at the forefront of this movement is Moorings Park Communities, a recognized leader in senior care where women are contributing to a culture that is not only shaping the future of senior living, but also empowering the next generation of leaders.
“It has truly been my privilege to witness and experience firsthand the investment Moorings Park Communities makes in fostering professional growth and success for all of us,” says Katy. “I have the honor of working alongside four executive directors, three of whom are women who share the same passion for our mission. These leaders have greatly benefited from Moorings Park’s commitment to promoting leadership within the organization, with a particular focus on empowering women.”
Moorings Park Communities isn't just a place where seniors thrive; it's a place where women thrive. With four accomplished women at the helm of its three award-winning communities in Naples, Florida, Moorings Park Communities serves as a testament to the power of female leadership in the senior living industry.
Moorings Park Communities is a nationally accredited, Medicare-certified, non-profit retirement living provider and one of the only Life Plan Communities in the country with A or A+ ratings by Fitch Ratings and S&P Global Ratings. Ranked the #4 retirement community in North America, Moorings Park Communities is setting the standard for luxury retirement living, offering upscale residences, world-class amenities, and outstanding healthcare services across all three campuses in Naples, Florida: Moorings Park, Moorings Park at Grey Oaks, and Moorings Park Grande Lake. To learn more, go to www.MooringsPark.org, attend an event, schedule a private tour, or call 239-451-5509.