Executive Director Spotlight – Dean Kivela
Meet Dean Kivela, Executive Director at Avita of Wells, whose nearly 20-year journey in senior living began with a college internship and a desire to help older adults maintain their sense of self and purpose. From his first role as an Activity Director to his current leadership position, Dean has remained passionate about improving quality of life for residents and mentoring the next generation of caregivers. Known for his team-first mindset and heartfelt approach, Dean leads with compassion, dedication, and a belief that the best communities are built on connection, support, and a warm welcome from the moment someone walks through the door.
Executive Director: Dean Kivela
Community: Avita of Wells
What first made you interested in working in Senior Living?
I completed an internship at a CCRC in college and was saddened by the lack of “things to do” for their residents. It was difficult to see these amazing people with incredible stories, especially World War II veterans, practically lose who they were as an individual.
How long have you been working in Senior Living and what was your first job in this field?
Counting my internship, next year will be 20 years in the industry. My first “grown up” job was as an Activity Director at an Assisted Living and Memory Care Community in Charlotte, NC.
What is your favorite part about working in Senior Living?
What brought me to the field was the stories of the residents. As I have grown, I have loved helping develop the next generation of caregivers and leaders. Assisting others in finding new ways to provide a better quality of life for our residents, is what keeps me in the industry.
What is one thing you wish everyone knew about being an Executive Director?
How much we truly do care about all of our associates, residents and family members as individuals. I also would want people to know that we are open to suggestions, and love hearing the different ideas people have.
What is one piece of advice you would share with someone thinking of starting a career in Senior Living?
There is no greater reward than helping those who no longer have the ability to help themselves. If you have the dedication, work ethic and compassion, you will have a positive impact on hundreds of lives throughout your career, and that is something to hang your hat on.
What keeps you invested in the field?
What keeps me invested is the ever-changing landscape of the field. The different generations, people from different demographics, people with different upbringings. They all offer us a unique opportunity to adjust on the fly and create our own opportunities for success. I am also encouraged by the number of associates that want to continue to grow their careers. It gives me hope that I may be able to leave my small piece of the industry in good hands.
What is your favorite part about your job?
Teamwork. I am beyond proud of the team that we have built in this community. We work together, we lift each other up, we work in whatever department needs help, we celebrate together, and we grieve together. The key word is TOGETHER. I have had several jobs in my life where others would let you sink if it came between you and them. In this job, like Forrest and Bubba, we lean on each others backs so none of us have to sleep with our face in the mud.
What is the best part about working at Avita of Wells or at Northbridge?
The community and the support. Our local community is amazing, and we have developed long-lasting relationships that have assisted us throughout the years. Northbridge, especially our regional leadership, is more supportive than any senior leadership I have worked with. Though we are our own separate building, we never feel alone.
What is one tip you have to ensure new residents and families feel welcome and supported from day one?
Meet them at the door with a smile. At times, we overthink and overcomplicate the move in process. Residents and families want to feel comfortable and safe, and that starts with the relationships they build as soon as they walk in the door. Welcome baskets disappear in a day, but the feeling of comfort and knowing they made the right decision will last throughout their stay.