Staff Promotions and Restructuring

Covenant Village announces several changes within its Leadership Team to take effect on Monday, February 5, 2024. 

In addition to establishing efficiencies in its service areas, these changes ensure that Covenant Village remains a place where the promises of respect, care, safety, and possibilities are abundant. They prepare Covenant Village for continued success in its mission in response to the changing landscape of senior living and health care. 

“Our ability to institute these transitions comes from intentional efforts to develop promising leadership from within. Evidence of this approach is manifested in the professional contributions of members of the Leadership Team and Staff, who have stepped up to accomplish additional responsibilities while elevating processes or operations that make Covenant Village exceptional,” stated CEO Dale Melton. 

Nursing Management Team Re-Envisioned 

Stephanie Wellman, Director of Nursing since August 2022 and with CV since September 2019, has re-conceived the Nursing Management to build on team strengths, skills, and passions for meeting the needs of Residents and retaining a quality Staff. 

“I have learned so much about leadership styles and building a team to meet the needs of Staff and Residents. The Health Center has one of the best administrative teams that consider Residents, Staff, and families when making any decision,” said Stephanie, who is enhancing the Resident Nurse position in support of independent living Residents. 

Erica Smith, RN BSN, has been named Interim Resident Nurse Supervisor, adding to her current responsibilities with Staff Development & Infection Control. She will “manage care for our independent Residents to ensure we are meeting their healthcare needs and provide the Staff who serve these individuals with a dedicated resource,” Stephanie described. 

Stephanie also recognized the leadership of Delana Ray, RN, who served as interim MDS Coordinator while Raygan Messick was out on leave. 

It is a privilege to recognize Covenant Village’s dedicated Nursing Management Team, which includes: 

Kevin Stewart, Health Services Administrator
Stephanie Wellman, Director of Nursing
Sherry Weaver, Day Shift Supervisor
Jennifer Stansell, Nursing Scheduler
Jacinda Helton, Administrative Nurse
Erica Smith, Resident Nurse Supervisor
Raygan Messick, MDS Coordinator
Barbra Bostic, Night Shift Supervisor
Natalya Conner, Admissions Nurse 

II. Technology Department Reporting Changes 

In August of 2023, Covenant Village engaged in a Technology Strategic Planning process, facilitated by ProviNET Solutions out of Tinley Park, IL. In September, ProviNET presented a Strategic Plan Report based on their professional assessment and input from both Residents and Staff. 

“As the organization embarks on its journey of technological evolution, it is paramount to recognize IT not merely as a functional domain but as a strategic partner in the fabric of Covenant Village’s future,” stated the report. Furthermore, “Technology has transitioned from a mere enabler to a strategic lever, influencing outcomes and shaping Resident experiences. Covenant Village, with its new forward-looking vision, is . . . poised to harness technology’s transformative potential.” 

Recognizing the expanding and vital role of technology in healthcare, wellness, social interaction, security, environmental development, and strategic operations, the Technology Department will now report directly to the CEO. 

“I am grateful for the guidance of the Technology Strategic Plan by Cory Sills, our Director of Technology who has served Covenant Village since April 2014. Cory has begun to implement the Plan’s recommendations, including the new Technology Steering Committee, a collaborative effort of both Residents and Staff,” said Melton. 

“New technologies can revolutionize how we care for our Residents and support our Staff. In a world with increasing cybersecurity threats and HIPAA regulations, this affirms CV’s commitment to safety and security,” added Cory Sills. 

III. Chief Operating Officer Named 

Over the past two years, the Board and leadership have engaged in strategic conversations regarding the Master Plan and adaptations that will be needed in daily operations. In support of the CEO’s focused leadership of Covenant Village’s Master Plan and future Strategic Visioning, Matt Gibbons will transition to a newly created position of Chief Operations Officer (COO), reporting to the CEO. As COO, Gibbons will continue the overall direction of the Resident Care & Services Department and will add supervision of the following Departments, previously under the CEO: 

• Food & Nutrition
• Property Services, including:

Grounds
Housekeeping
Maintenance
Renovations 

• Security 

Gibbons has served Covenant Village since September 2013. As Senior Director of Resident Care & Services since June 2021, he has transformed the care and services provided to independent living Residents and helped position Covenant Village as a wellness-centered community. Recently, he completed the 7-month Administrator-in-Training (AIT) program required by the State to be a Licensed Health Care Administrator. 

“I want to share my profound gratitude for this incredible opportunity to lead Covenant Village in this new role. It is with great excitement and humility that we continue our journey together, and I am genuinely honored to contribute to the legacy of excellence that Covenant Village is known for in our greater community,” said Gibbons. 

Please seek out and thank these leaders and all of our caring Staff! 

“Progressive and resilient organizations prepare, adapt, collaborate, and pivot with transparency in order to thrive amid ongoing challenges and changing environments. Even as we now commence the implementation of our vibrant Master Plan, we will keep a strategic eye toward a compelling Vision for the future. With discerning determination and God’s grace, we can do so in covenant with all who make Covenant Village the place Where Life Is Filled With Promise,”  stated Melton.

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