For the past 8.5 years, Denise Odom has been a steady, compassionate presence at Presbyterian Village North (PVN), most recently serving as Director of Spiritual Life. This year, she stepped into a new role as Assisted Living Community Relations Director, where she continues to build meaningful connections and help residents and families navigate life transitions with care and understanding. Though her official title has changed, Denise’s calling remains the same: to walk alongside others, listen deeply and provide support.
We sat down with Denise to learn more about her new role, what inspires her and how she hopes to continue enriching the lives of those who call PVN home.
Q: What is your new, official title at Presbyterian Village North?
A: My official title is Assisted Living (AL) Community Relations Director.
Q: You’ve recently taken on new responsibilities in AL. Can you share what inspired this transition?
A: It’s important to clarify that I’m no longer the Director of Spiritual Life — Gary Fox has taken that baton and is doing a beautiful job. That said, while I’m not serving in that official role anymore, you can take me out of the chaplain position, but you can’t take the “chaplain” out of me!
I officed in AL during all the COVID years, so stepping back into this space feels like returning home. I’ve built deep relationships here, and now I have the opportunity to care for residents and families in a new way. Rather than focusing only on spiritual well-being, I’m helping residents adjust to life at PVN — listening to their concerns, guiding them through transitions and working toward solutions. I’m focused supporting the whole person and helping them feel truly connected to this community.
Q: How has your background in ministry and spiritual care shaped your approach to community relations?
A: Everything I do centers around relationships — whether it’s a connection to God or a higher power, to fellow residents, teammates or family members. My listening skills are key. Often, I can hear what’s not being said, which helps people feel seen and valued. Too often, aging can make people feel invisible. I want each resident to know they matter deeply — to us and to the world.
Q: What have been some of your initial goals in this new role, and how has the response been from residents and families?
A: Initially, my focus was simply understanding what this new role requires and how I could contribute most meaningfully. AL Director, Yvette Wiggins, and I are working closely to make sure we’re using our strengths to enhance the experience for our residents. The response so far has been encouraging — our residents appreciate the support, warmth and consistency we’re striving to bring.
Q: You’ve maintained several support groups and education efforts as part of your connection to spiritual life. How do those fit into your new position?
A: While I’m no longer in the spiritual life role, I continue to facilitate support groups like Parkinson’s Support, Living with Dementia and the Kids Club for adult children of residents. I also provide resources and stay connected with those in our Caregivers Support Group. I offer dementia education sessions for teammates, families and even groups outside of PVN. These touchpoints are vital and help build community and offer encouragement across the entire continuum of care at Forefront Living.
Q: Can you share a story or moment that affirmed you’re making a difference in your new role?
A: Honestly, this transition was hard for me. I knew I was making a difference in my former role and wasn’t sure I’d feel that same sense of purpose here. But almost immediately, I began working with a couple preparing to move to AL after 49 years in their home. I’ve been able to walk with them through the fears, frustrations and grief of that transition. We’ve laughed, cried and found peace together. Their gratitude, and that of others, has affirmed that I’m exactly where I need to be.
Q: As you look ahead, what are you most excited about, and how do you hope to continue enriching the lives of residents?
A: I’m truly excited to partner with Yvette to keep making AL a place that’s compassionate and fun. I’m passionate about getting to know our residents, hearing their stories and celebrating the beauty of growing older — even when it’s hard. I also hope to expand educational and family-focused events with our amazing Community Life team. Whether I’m teaching a class or helping a resident navigate change, I want every person here to feel like they belong and are deeply loved.
