St. Joseph of the Pines President Lori Portfleet has decided to leave the Life Plan Community to pursue opportunities more aligned with the broad nature of her personal, professional and leadership interests.
“We are thankful for her leadership over the past two-and-a-half years and for her achievements in service to our colleagues, residents, patients and families,” said Steve Kastner, president and CEO of Trinity Health Senior Communities in Livonia, Mich. “We wish her well in her new endeavors.”
Portfleet was named interim president at St. Joseph of the Pines in August 2016 after Kastner, who had been president and CEO at SJP since July 2014, was promoted. The interim tag was removed from Portfleet’s title in January 2017.
“I consider my time as president of St. Joseph of the Pines a ministry, not a job,” she said. “I was blessed to lead a talented group of caring professionals who give of themselves each day to improve the lives of the residents, clients and participants that we serve. ”
Portfleet’s noteworthy projects include her oversight and completion of the Belle Meade clubhouse renovation, the new addition of the community’s Caritas Memory Care Center, and her critical leadership rallying support for colleagues, residents and others affected by Hurricanes Matthew and Florence.
Portfleet is also heavily invested in the local community as she serves on the Board of Directors for Moore County Partners in Progress, the Moore County Chamber of Commerce, the Moore County Community Foundation, the Boys & Girls Club of the Sandhills, the Rotary Club of the Sandhills, and LeadingAge North Carolina.
“I developed deep, trusting relationships with many residents and community leaders who were willing to share their life experiences with me, and warmly welcomed me and my husband to the community,” she said. “I carry these people in a special place in my heart, and will think of them often.”
Kastner said THSC has initiated “a search process in response to Lori’s departure.”
“We hope to identify a new leader for SJP quickly to ensure a smooth transition for the community and all of its stakeholders,” he said.
Portfleet is leaving at the end of the month and Kastner hopes to name her successor before then.
“We will continue to provide quality care for our residents and professional continuity for our colleagues while identifying the best candidate for the job,” Kastner said.
Portfleet said she is “excited to begin this newest chapter in my life.”
“My husband and I are anticipating the birth of our first grandchild, and we will take some time to get to know this newest member of our family,” she said. “Beyond that, I know that God has a plan that will include ‘meaningful work’ and leading others.”
St. Joseph of the Pines is an aging services network offering a full continuum of retirement housing, health care and community-based services for older adults as well as community outreach to those in need. It is a Trinity Health Senior Community continuing the legacy of the Sisters of Providence.
