Senior Community Services Picks New CEO from Within

Minnetonka-based Senior Community Services has named its current chief operating officer as the organization’s new CEO, Senior Community Services announced Tuesday.

Deb Taylor has more than 13 years years of executive experience in the nonprofit sector. In addition to her time with Senior Community Services, she was also associate director and interim executive director and other positions at Wayside House Inc.

“Deb Taylor not only has excellent academic credentials, but an impressive history of leading organizations through change,” a news release quoted Woody Love, president of Senior Community Services’ board. “She is highly regarded for her collaborative and strategic approach to leadership and her superior business judgment. Over the years, Deb has built a reputation of passion for the Mission while strengthening organizational capacity for continuous learning and meaningful transformation. I believe that her valuable and varied combination of talents, experiences and vision will help Senior Community Services set a new standard for meeting the challenges facing seniors and caregivers in the years ahead.” 

Taylor will take over from outgoing Executive Director and CEO Benjamin Withhart, who announced his retirement 18 months ago after 37 years with Senior Community Services.

The organization began serving suburban Hennepin County in 1950. It now operates more senior centers than any other Minnesota nonprofit and has the largest chore program, called Household and Outside Maintenance for Elderly (HOME), in the Twin Cities.

“Senior Community Services is, without question, an expert in providing needed services for frail elderly, as well as for active seniors, baby boomers and caregivers.  The opportunity to build upon the strong foundations laid by the Board, Ben Withhart and the staff is a privilege and an honor,” the release quoted Taylor, who officially starts her new job Aug. 1.  “As the new CEO, it will be my goal for Senior Community Services to be well known as aging experts and at the forefront of addressing the benefits and challenges of our aging communities.”