Oak Trace Names Chris Romick as Executive Director

DOWNERS GROVE, Il. – Oak Trace, a Downers Grove senior living community, announces the hiring of Chris Romick as its executive director. Romick brings more than 20 years of senior living leadership experience to Oak Trace. He is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations at the community, which features 274 residential living apartments, townhomes and garden homes, and a variety of services and amenities for its more than 400 residents. The community also offers an on-site health center with residential options that include catered living, memory support and skilled nursing, as well as short-term rehabilitation services.

“The Life Care product with the value and sense of security it provides is gaining traction among older adults in Chicagoland,” Romick said. “Oak Trace is an excellent living option for area seniors, and the opportunities to grow this community to build upon its offerings are really appealing.”

Before joining Oak Trace, Romick helped oversee the start-up and operations of new senior living communities in five different states, most recently in North Carolina where he served as executive director at SearStone retirement community.

“Chris is driven to serve older adults and create communities that embody a culture of hospitality, are great places to live and work, and are good neighbors to the surrounding area,” said Ann Walsh, Senior Vice President of Operations for Lifespace Communities, which owns and operates Oak Trace and senior living communities in Illinois and six other states. “Chris’ track record of success and passion for care make him a great fit for our organization and the Oak Trace family.”

Romick says the time he spent as an executive director and administrator at other communities has left him well prepared for the opportunity to lead in Downers Grove.

Romick is a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He received his bachelor’s degree in gerontology and long-term care administration from Kent State University. Romick is a licensed nursing home administrator and also earned a master’s degree in marketing from American Public University.