Presbyterian Senior Living | Team Members
Chris Henri, the Nursing Home Administrator at Pine Run, has been making a significant impact at Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL) since he joined nearly four years ago. His journey began in sales and marketing for Independent Living (IL) at Cathedral Village, but his passion for healthcare administration soon led him into his current leadership role. With a master’s degree in health administration and a deep commitment to serving seniors, Chris has found his purpose in ensuring residents receive the best possible care.
A Career Rooted in Healthcare and Leadership
Chris's career path has been firmly rooted in healthcare, starting with his undergraduate and graduate studies in health policy. Initially focused on health policy, he later transitioned into senior living and healthcare, finding a meaningful connection between his academic background and his passion for making a difference in people’s lives. Reflecting on his journey, Chris credits his success to mentorship. One individual, in particular, played a pivotal role: Charles Gergits, the Executive Director at Pine Run. Chris and Charles first met during their master’s program, where they worked on several projects together. When a sales position opened at Cathedral Village, Charles reached out, bringing Chris into the PSL family. Over time, Charles mentored him, helping him develop both personally and professionally, guiding him to his current role as Nursing Home Administrator.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without Charles,” Chris says. “The growth in our relationship and his support has been instrumental in my career.”
Now, Chris carries that mentorship spirit forward, supporting others in their development. His approach to leadership centers on fostering a positive and caring environment for his team, ensuring they always feel supported.
A Positive Impact on Pine Run and Its Community
Pine Run has seen a whirlwind of changes since new ownership took over a year ago. During this period of transition, Chris has witnessed both challenges and celebrations, as residents and team members adjusted to the new era. Despite the adjustments, Pine Run’s reputation for excellent care and its close-knit community have remained strong.
What stands out to Chris about Pine Run is the long-term nature of both the staff and residents. Many team members have been with the community for years, building strong bonds with residents. “Once you find a job that makes you happy, and you’ve been there for years, that speaks volumes about the people and the job itself,” Chris says.
The dynamic at Pine Run feels like a family, with residents being very open and opinionated about what they like and don’t like. Chris appreciates how comfortable residents feel sharing their thoughts, knowing they are genuinely heard and cared for. Pine Run has a resident-driven reward program, where residents frequently submit shout-outs for staff members who have gone above and beyond. This fosters a deep connection between staff and residents, often making the staff feel like part of the residents’ extended families.
“Our staff knows more about the residents than some of their own family members do,” Chris shares. “We spend so much time with them and their families that we feel like we’re part of that family, too.”
Providing the Best Care Possible
For Chris, the primary goal is simple: providing the best care possible to the residents at Pine Run. This guiding principle motivates him and his team to focus on making every interaction meaningful, even in the smallest ways. “Even just giving someone a smile can make a difference,” he explains. “In healthcare, you’re often dealing with people who are having the worst day of their lives. Nobody wants to be in a hospital, ER, or even Nursing Home. But if you can be a positive, friendly presence, that can go a long way.”
Chris recalls a touching moment when he was able to support a resident who had recently lost her husband of 60 years. “Being present and positive, just being there for her, made her day a little bit better,” he says. “That’s what we’re here for.”
Representation Matters
As a black leader in healthcare, Chris is passionate about the importance of representation in the field. He points out that while many African Americans work in dining services and as aides in long-term care settings, there are fewer in administrative and leadership positions.
“It’s important for me to be an inspiration and a reference for others who are interested in nursing home administration or healthcare leadership,” Chris says. “Representation matters. I don’t know who’s watching me in this position, but I want to make sure that I’m setting an example.”
Chris is committed to breaking barriers and serving as a role model for others who aspire to leadership roles in healthcare, encouraging diversity and inclusivity in the field.
Looking to the Future
As Chris looks ahead, he remains focused on ensuring Pine Run continues to provide high-quality care in a supportive, family-like atmosphere. He is also committed to empowering his team, fostering mentorship, and promoting diversity within the field of healthcare leadership.
With Chris at the helm, Pine Run is more than just a place for skilled nursing care—it’s a community where residents and staff form deep connections, and where everyone is working together to make each day brighter.