Meet Joan Peterson, executive director, The Oaks at Bartlett

The Oaks at Bartlett is pleased to officially welcome Executive Director Joan Peterson.

In her first few months on the job, the Maryland and Ohio native - and now Texas transplant - is already having a positive impact at one of the region’s top senior living communities.

“Joan embodies the mindset at The Oaks, which is to look for opportunities to grow, change and always improve,” said Linda Both, president of the Independent Living Resident Council “We are here to nourish, celebrate, and enhance the mind, body and spirit of our residents, and Joan is taking this to a new level.”

Peterson brings more than 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry, beginning her career as a nurse before transitioning into administration. Having overseen 42 communities in 11 states, including skilled health care, assisted and independent living, Peterson knows that residents desire a secure retirement in an active, engaging community, where they have peace of mind about their future.

“People want to know they will be taken care of as they age and their needs change,” said Peterson. “We are here to guarantee that. This is their home”

Throughout her career, Peterson has held numerous leadership roles including vice president of Operations for Ballantrae Health Care and senior vice president of Operations for Centers of Long Term Care (CLC). In addition, she was regional director of Operations for Extendicare, Golden Living, and Tutera of Kansas City. Throughout her career, Peterson has been recognized for her work in the industry. She was elected to the Texas Healthcare Association as chapter president for the Dallas-Fort Worth area, as well as to the Missouri Healthcare Association board.

Since arriving at The Oaks, interest in the community is growing, according to Peterson. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in tours, as well as our enrichment events, which give prospective residents a glimpse at what living at The Oaks is all about. People’s reaction is always the same, ‘there is a warmth here, like being at home but with friends.’”

“Residents here make each other happy, and I have enjoyed meeting and getting to know many of them over the last few months,” Peterson concluded. “The energy level here is high, which people expect, because there is always something fun happening at The Oaks. We’re known for that.”