Submitted by Ginger Nance, April 8
When its long-time, assisted living director Lori Collier decided to retire and take a less than full-time role at the end of May, Fort Scott Presbyterian Village did not have to look far to find her replacement. Jennifer Hyer worked at Presbyterian Village for years in both full-time and part-time roles as she continued to grow her expertise.
“Jennifer is an outstanding nurse,” said Ginger Nance, executive director at Presbyterian Village. “We are so blessed that Jennifer is ready to step back into a full-time role as Lori retires. Many of our residents and their families already know Jennifer and are looking forward to working with her.”
During the transition, Collier will continue to work part-time, enabling Hyer to step into the role while leaning on Collier’s expertise and years of experience, Nance said. “Although I know Lori is looking forward to more days to garden and spend with grandchildren, we will miss her.” She won’t be far away though. Collier plans to continue in a more part-time and advisory role so she won’t lose touch with what she has loved doing at the Village for over 10 years.
“What an honor to be taking on the new position as Director of Assisted Living,” states Hyer. “Lori Collier, has had such an impact on my nursing career and I’d like to thank her for her guidance and support over the years and also for the privilege it will be to train by her side in weeks to come.” “It’s been six wonderful years since I first started at the Village.” “This has been a journey filled with love for my profession where compassion, teamwork and our Christian-based mission collide.” “I have found that the Presbyterian Village is a place where the little things we do for one another become our biggest rewards!” “This is a community where we take pride in providing the best care for seniors and it’s my duty and promise to continue doing so by carrying out our faith-based mission and caring for each of your loved ones as though they are my own.”
Fort Scott Presbyterian Village has a history of zero-deficiency surveys from the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services. Last June, the campus received its seventh consecutive zero-deficiency survey and its ninth in the past 13 years. Hyer has worked at Presbyterian Village for six of those years.
“Jennifer’s experience and dedication to our mission will enable us to continue to provide the quality senior services those in the Fort Scott area expect from us,” Nance said.
Fort Scott Presbyterian Village is an assisted living community, which means it is licensed by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services. Residents have their own private apartments, one or two bedrooms complete with all appliances, and may receive some assistance with activities of daily living. The apartment setting is perfect for a single person or for couples to remain together and age in a place with compassionate help always available if and when they need it.
The Presbyterian Village setting is not only suitable for those who need physical assistance but designed for independent seniors, as well. Some apartments have a comfortable patio and a parking garage is available for those who are active drivers. The main concept is that people can come and go as they please from their home, but help is always available.
For more information about Fort Scott Presbyterian Village, contact Ginger Nance, executive director, at 620-223-5550 or gnance@pmma.org.
Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America has 18 senior living communities in Kansas and Missouri. The not-for-profit organization is headquartered in Wichita, Kan.