Leticia “Letty” Valdez serves as Community Life Manager for Independent Living at Presbyterian Village North (PVN). She will celebrate 13 years of service at PVN this June! Letty and her hard-working Community Life teammates spend their time planning exciting programming and interesting outings for the residents in Independent Living. Forefront Living is thankful for talented teammates like Letty, serving others with dedication, innovative ideas and a warm smile. We sat down with Letty to learn more about her through a fun question and answer session. Read about this fantastic teammate below.
What are you passionate about regarding your professional role?
I’m passionate about ensuring our residents are offered a variety of stimulating programming. It’s my goal to ensure our programming meets their needs intellectually, socially and physically.
What are some accomplishments that make you feel proud?
I am proud of going back to school to earn my Bachelor of Science degree in management. I plan to graduate from the University of North Texas at Frisco next May! I am also proud of my professional growth while working at PVN and earning my current role of Community Life Manager.
Tell us about your hobbies:
In my free time, you can find me reading, organizing and cleaning. My favorite genres to read include mysteries and thrillers. I love reading anything suspenseful! On the weekend, I enjoy hosting friends and family at my house for cookouts. Babysitting my adorable 10-month-old niece, Xiomara, is something I enjoy too. She has me wrapped around her finger.
What are some of your favorite foods and restaurants?
I love visiting new coffee shops. My go-to coffee order is a cold brew with a splash of vanilla sweet cream. I also enjoy sampling food truck faire. My favorite restaurant is Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille where I will order either a delicious pork chop or a ribeye steak. My two favorite meals are beef fajita tacos served with lots of salsa or a ribeye steak accompanied by a loaded baked potato and asparagus.
Tell us about your family:
I live in Wylie with my boyfriend of three years, Manny Sanchez, along with his two daughters Ruby and Sophia, ages 16 and 13. Our English bulldog, Nugget, rounds out our family.
How would your friends describe you?
My friends would describe me as loyal, trustworthy, energetic and adventurous. I am always ready to try something new!
Lisa Englander, PVN’s Director of Resident Services, shared these praises about Letty, “Letty Valdez is the true definition of a great leader. She is a wonderful teacher and mentor to those that work with her. She is a tremendous helper and will do whatever is needed to get the job done. I could go on and on about this amazing person! I have worked with Letty for nine years, and the Community Life department has grown exponentially under her leadership. One day, when I am living in a retirement community, I hope that Letty is in charge of the programming!”