New Executive Director, Nikki Fortier,
The Village at White River Junction, VT
Testing, Vaccines, and Innovation from the top down.
The Village at White River Junction announces new Executive Director, Nikki Fortier. Ms. Fortier has been on staff since mid-construction and played a key role in the development of the community. Since the opening in January 2019, she has worked as both the Director of Community Engagement and the Business Office Manager before her current promotion to Executive Director.
“I am fortunate to have worked with this community from the beginning as it gives me a great understanding of the vision that I now have the responsibility to implement. We are uniquely located in the vibrant historic downtown of White River Junction, surrounded by artists’ studios, world class theater and fantastic restaurants. These neighbors aren’t just a backdrop for the care we provide, they’re important collaborators in the activities, programs and lifestyle we offer to our residents.”
“Throughout this year we’ve looked to adapt and innovate in response to the various challenges of COVID-19. We have gotten creative and added an internal television channel accessible from all resident apartments and are live-streaming programming from Northern Stage and the Hood Museum of Art.”
Prior to joining The Village team, Ms. Fortier worked with the Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce and played a significant role in the Quechee Balloon Festival as well as the Polar Express event that takes place in downtown White River Junction. “The Upper Valley, this community, is my home. I am grateful and energized by this opportunity to continue contributing to life in White River Junction through the fantastic services we provide for our seniors and our growing local cultural network.”
In her new role as Executive Director, Ms. Fortier has made it a priority to test staff weekly for COVID-19. “The health of our residents and staff is paramount, and we are taking all measures to ensure their well-being.”
As of this week, the first cycle of the Pfizer vaccine has been made available to the entire community, including all staff. “Thankfully there have been no cases of COVID-19 among our residents and with 98% now scheduled for the vaccine, we hope to continue this trend.”
Memory Care resident receiving her vaccine, The Village at White River Junction 
Assisted Living Resident receiving the Pfizer vaccine, The Village at White River Junction 
Assisted Living Resident celebrating her vaccination, The Village at White River Junction
“Looking beyond this period, I am excited to expand our commitment to all dimensions of wellness – keeping residents healthy, happy and engaged is my priority.”
Jon Appleton, resident at The Village, says, “Nikki has given new life and energy to the community. What’s more, she is accessible to all the residents and has the support of the other directors and staff.”
Valerie Dutille, family member of two residents, says “Nikki brings a unique understanding of the needs of staff, residents and their families. I am confident that a great facility will only get better under Nikki’s guidance. She has made things easier for our family as we have been making difficult decisions with our own loved ones. I’m excited to see how the future unfolds for the Village and their new Executive Director.”
Developer Byron Hathorn (partners with Brooke Ciardelli in Gates & Dickson) adds, “We are delighted that Nikki has taken over leadership of the community. Her talent for connecting with people and keeping her eyes on the full scope of resident care will ensure our residents stay healthy and enjoy The Village lifestyle. We couldn’t be happier.”
For more information –
Brooke Ciardelli
Gates & Dickson
917-370-6823
brooke@gatesanddickson.com
www.thevillageatwrj.com
www.thevillageatwrj.com/brochure
The Village at White River Junction
The Village sets the standard in compassionate, around-the-clock licensed nursing care for its award-winning Assisted Living and Memory Care community. Residents enjoy a rich and rewarding lifestyle with a full range of personal services – from restaurant-style, chef-prepared meals and around-the-clock snacks, to laundry and housekeeping provisions and expansive, ultra-convenient amenities. The Village offers an extensive on-site arts & cultural program, with the historic village of White River Junction and nationally acclaimed theater Northern Stage just a few steps away. Apartments are competitively priced with no ‘buy in’ or hidden fees – a truly unique care community – nestled in the rolling hills of Vermont and New Hampshire.
The Village is managed by Life Care Services. It offers a beautifully designed and welcoming senior living experience for those in need of assisted living, transitional assisted living, or memory care. Combining Person- Centered Care with robust life enrichment and cultural programming, the community embraces the 8 Dimensions of Wellness: physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, environmental, health/nutritional, vocational, and social.
