Golden Years Stories

In a recent interview Dr. Hugh Davis, the newly appointed President and CEO of Greencroft Communities, shared insights into his journey, vision, and aspirations for the organization. With a career deeply rooted in senior living and faith, Hugh brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to enhancing the lives of residents and team members at all eight Greencroft Communities campuses.

Inspiration and Journey in Senior Living

Hugh’s path to Greencroft Communities was not a straight one.

In high school, he planned to attend the U.S. Naval Academy and become a Navy pilot. Hugh grew up around aviation, working with his father in the family’s crop-dusting business in Georgia. His plans changed when his father became ill with cancer.

“That was the first intersection I had with the medical community,” Hugh relates. “I put off the military. There was something about medicine that intrigued my thinking. My dad’s illness changed how my future would go.”

He decided nursing would be a good entry point for a career in healthcare and began working as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) while pursuing a degree in nursing science to become a Registered Nurse (RN).

“As I got into it, I really fell in love with caregiving,” he said. “I fell in love with the science of nursing.” He entertained the idea of going to med school and becoming a doctor or a nurse anesthetist. He completed his undergraduate degree at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and a Master of Science in healthcare administration from Wilson College.

“I didn’t see myself working in nursing homes,” he remembers. And yet, he wound up caring for a lot of older folks, and those encounters changed his thinking. “I felt this calling.”

Hugh answered the call, and his career evolved, eventually leading to executive positions in senior housing organizations, first in Omaha, Nebraska, and more recently at Menno Haven in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. He earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus in health care administration from Duke University, adding Dr. to his professional titles.

"It's one of those things that God gives you and directs your path," he shared, highlighting his deep sense of purpose in serving the senior community. “I love it. It is the most rewarding, yet challenging work.”

Enhancing the Resident Experience

As Hugh steps into his new role at Greencroft Communities, his top priority is clear: to enhance the resident experience. He emphasizes the importance of creating a unified team culture focused on people.

"At the end of the day, that's what brightens the life of the residents—a great team," he said.

His vision revolves around person-centered care, where residents are empowered to make choices and lead fulfilling lives regardless of their abilities. Hugh envisions Greencroft Communities campuses as a place where autonomy, purpose, and community thrive, minimizing institutional constraints and prioritizing individual dignity.

Fostering a Culture of Giving

Hugh is also passionate about fostering a culture of philanthropy within all eight campuses and their surrounding communities. He sees himself as a storyteller and cataylst, sharing the impactful work of Greencroft Communities and inspiring others to contribute.

"The work that we do resonates with others that have a heart to give," he noted, highlighting the organization's mission-driven approach and the shared responsibility of caring for the elderly.

Initiatives and Challenges

Regarding specific initiatives, Hugh mentioned ongoing management-based projects, including system updates and technological enhancements. He acknowledges challenges in managing a diverse footprint of communities but is dedicated to developing effective communication strategies to ensure stakeholders' voices are heard and valued.

When asked about what sets Greencroft Communities apart from other Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC’s), Hugh emphasized the organization's commitment to faith-based values and compassionate service. He intends to build upon these strengths, creating environments that excel in hospitality, service, and resident well-being.

Legacy and Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Hugh hopes to leave behind a legacy of excellence, a culture of care, and a model organization for senior living. He envisions Greencroft Communities as an example of what hospitality and service-centered businesses can achieve in the realm of elder care. His enthusiasm, honor, and commitment to delivering exceptional care shine through as he embarks on this journey.

"I am very excited to be here, and very honored that I got chosen for this position,” Hugh said. “I hope that I get the opportunity to do a good job and leave the organization a better place than it was when I came - and I would hope that whoever follows me does the same."