Longtime senior living and health care leader Paul Hollings has been hired as the new Executive Director of Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services (SCES).
Hollings will succeed John O’Neill, who retired in October after 38 years as Executive Director at SCES.
Hollings comes to SCES after serving as administrator for Mary Immaculate Health/Care Services, a Lawrence-based health ministry and skilled nursing facility. His resume features more than 25 years of leadership experience with organizations that serve older adults, including serving as Executive Director of Orchard Cove, a continuing care retirement facility within the Hebrew Senior Life group of facilities and programs. He was also executive director at the Neville Center at Fresh Pond, a non-profit skilled nursing facility in Cambridge, where he transformed care by having residents and families give input into daily quality of life issues.
SCES Board President Elizabeth Aguilo cited that track record as a key factor in the hiring process, adding she’s delighted he’s coming aboard.
“Paul has built his career on person-centered care and has a deep commitment to service,” said Aguilo. “He’s skilled at including all key stakeholders to create alignment with mission, values, and strategy.”
Hollings holds a Masters in Health Services Administration from George Washington University, and a BA in Political Science from Haverford College. He’s also served on the board for LeadingAge Massachusetts, a state association that represents not-for-profits providing housing and services for older adults.
“I am confident that under his leadership, SCES will both continue the work so ably begun by John O’Neill and develop new and broader approaches to serve the seniors in our communities,” said Aguilo.
Aguilo also thanked O’Neill for his many years of service at the agency.
“He cares deeply about people aging with dignity, at home,” she added. “I wish him well on this next chapter of his life.”
O’Neill said he’s looking forward to more daytrips with his wife, more time with his 94-year-old mother in Malden, and more time for his four grandchildren. He’s also planning a few other ways to keep busy.
“I plan on reading a ton of books, joining an adult choral group, probably some volunteer work—and having more time for prayer and meditation,” said O’Neill. “I also feel like I can be more of an advocate, once I’m retired, since I can speak as an individual without having to be mindful of the possible repercussions for the agency.”
Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services (SCES) is a non-profit agency that supports the independence and well-being of older people in Somerville and Cambridge. For more information, check out the Things to Know When Turning 65 episode of Aging Well at the SCES Youtube Channel, or contact the SCES Aging Information Center at for free advice and guidance.
