District Director of Operations (DDO), Percell Smith, for the East division, grew up having a strong admiration for seniors because, in his family, seniors are thought of as a gift. He was fortunate to have relationships with his great-grandparents, and they’ve always had a special role in his life, as guides and teachers, helping him sort through life’s real priorities.
“My love for seniors comes directly from how I was raised, and the relationships I have with the elders in my family. Whenever I go to a community, I see them [my family] when I see another senior.”
Percell has had a great journey serving those who are living with the challenges that come with aging and has learned a lot along the way. Beginning his career in a large, multigenerational community, he’s had the opportunity to serve in a variety of community settings and roles from direct care to vice president throughout his 25-year career in senior living. At Brookdale, Percell started as an operations specialist, before being promoted to DDO, and he takes pride in being able to partner with associates to help them provide the experience our residents and their families expect and deserve. “I’ve tried very hard to learn from all of my teachers over the years, and as DDO, I’m able to take all of that learning to coach and mentor current executive directors. It’s inspiring to be able to help new, emerging leaders be the best they can be, as well as meet the needs of those we have the privilege of serving.”
