Doris-Ellie Sullivan, Chief Operating Officer of Retirement Unlimited Inc., serves as the Assisted Living Director on the VHCA-VCAL Board.  She has shared with us her thoughts on the challenges and opportunities facing AL providers and how she hopes to help the sector during her tenure on the board. 

What path led you to senior care?

After serving in the US Army as a nurse, I found senior care and fell in love with the greatest generation. Their stories and lives make it an honor to ensure they are provided dignity through the next stages of their lives.

How long have you been working for RUI?

I am on my second year.

What do you see as the biggest challenges/opportunities facing assisted living providers?  

Providing a balance between the increasing acuity and providing a social environment.  We need to ensure that we continue to keep the focus of our caregivers on resident centered care and ensure the regulatory “paper” does not overwhelm them.

What do you hope to accomplish or help the association accomplish serving as the Assisted Living Director on the board? 

To provide a voice and insight to the successes, struggles and needs of our assisted living providers and to ensure our residents are represented.

What are you most passionate about professionally?

To inspire and to always be open-minded and ready to help others.

What can’t you stop talking about?

RUI University—the opportunity to bring accredited education to our residents!

What’s your favorite book?

Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg