Presbyterian Senior Living | Team Members
In the heart of Westminster Village Dover, you'll find Vera Williams, a Dietary Aide whose unwavering dedication has shaped the community for nearly four decades. With 37 years of service to Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL), Vera embodies the organization's mission of leading with kindness and care.
A Day in the Life
"I wake up every day and can't wait to get to work because I love to serve my residents and work with my coworkers," Vera shares with a genuine smile that has become her trademark. Working primarily in Health Care, she manages three different units, each with unique needs that require her specialized approach to providing exceptional service.
Her typical day involves prepping meals, serving residents, and cleaning—all done with the warmth and attention that has made her a beloved figure in the community. When asked about her favorite dishes to prepare, Vera doesn't hesitate: "For breakfast, my favorite is the cream chipped beef over toast. For lunch, one of my favorite meals is fried chicken with fried potatoes and onions."
Building a Work Family
What keeps someone committed to the same organization for 37 years? For Vera, it's the relationships.
"My team members are my work family, and I enjoy coming and working with them," she explains. This sense of belonging wasn't accidental—Vera initially joined PSL because she had two family members already working at Westminster Village Dover. That family connection has since expanded to include countless colleagues and residents.
The post-COVID landscape has presented challenges, but Vera notes that "we are rebuilding based on what we learned from COVID." She has demonstrated remarkable adaptability throughout her career, especially when faced with changing workforce dynamics. "I have had to be flexible and adapt to the new generation of workers," she reflects.
A Living Legacy
When asked what she hopes people will remember about her contributions, Vera's answer reveals the values that have guided her 37-year journey: "My legacy is based on my reputation of being a consistent hard worker who is reliable, dependable, and focused on the residents."
This resident-focused approach has created countless meaningful connections over the years. "Over the years I have gotten close to a lot of residents," Vera shares. "The ones with the spunk and sass really keep me uplifted." These relationships have transformed what could be merely a job into a fulfilling vocation.
Vera has witnessed significant growth during her tenure. "I have watched the community grow, watched people develop, and I have been able to mentor others," she says with pride. Her favorite spot in the community remains Health Care, where she has made her greatest impact.
The PSL Difference
For Vera, PSL stands apart from other organizations because "we care about each other like family." She appreciates the comprehensive benefits package, particularly noting that "they match 403B," and regularly uses the MyHR portal to manage her time and check statements.
When asked what advice she would give to her younger self or others in her field, Vera offers wisdom that applies far beyond food service: "It's important that we understand the importance of our contributions to the greater good."
Finding Fulfillment in Service
Outside of work, Vera enjoys gardening and spending time with her family and friends. Her work-life integration extends to how she interacts with the Westminster Village Dover environment—she frequently visits other buildings to connect with residents and staff, further strengthening the community bonds.
Vera Williams' story exemplifies what makes PSL communities special: dedicated team members who find deep personal fulfillment in serving seniors with dignity and respect. After 37 years, her enthusiasm remains undiminished, her smile still bright, and her commitment to residents unwavering.
For those considering a career in senior living, Vera Williams offers both inspiration and a roadmap for creating a legacy of compassionate service that spans generations.