Mulberry Gardens of Southington welcomes new executive director

SOUTHINGTON - Katie Mauriello has a heart for older adults. Her passion was born in her high school years when she became a certified nurses aide at St. Mary’s Hospital in Waterbury. From that time, she knew she would dedicate her career to older adults.

Now she has found the perfect place to put her passion into action. On Jan. 9 she began serving as the new executive director of Mulberry Gardens of Southington, located at 58 Mulberry St. in the Plantsville section of Southington.

Mulberry Gardens of Southington, a not for profit assisted living, adult day and memory care community, is a member of Hartford HealthCare Senior Services. “Mulberry Gardens is one of the best assisted living communities in the state,” Mauriello said. “I’m honored to be working here.”

Mauriello’s 20-plus-year career has been in senior living communities, primarily with Hartford HealthCare Senior Services on the marketing teams at The Orchards at Southington, Arbor Rose at Jerome Home in New Britain, and Cedar Mountain Commons in Newington. “I love Hartford HealthCare. I find it motivating and inspiring working side by side with talented mentors, leaders and staff,” Mauriello said.

“Mulberry Gardens is a special place for residents and staff and I wanted to be part of that,” she said. To that end, during her first few weeks, she has focused on getting to know one-to-one the residents, their families and employees.

“We are delighted to welcome Katie to Mulberry Gardens. Her philosophy is completely aligned with our core values, and her passion and enthusiasm for seniors is infectious,” said Lisa Connolly, NHA, MS, vice president, Hartford HealthCare Senior Services.

Mauriello starts each day with strolling the building, stopping to chat with residents and supporting staff in their work. “I love to see residents and staff engaged in conversation or activities,” she said.

One of her greatest pleasures is when family members delight in seeing their loved ones become involved in activities and even exercise in the GoodLife Fitness center. “They can’t believe they have their mom ‘back,’” she said.

Mauriello is a resident of Bristol with her husband Joe and two sons, ages 9 and 11. She is active in the community with the PTA and McCabe Waters Little League. She also is a member of local chambers of commerce in the greater Central Connecticut area. She is a previous New Britain Rotarian and looks forward to joining the Southington Rotary.

For more information about Mulberry Gardens of Southington, visit mulberrygardens.org or call 860.276.1020.