AUGUSTA — Pat Young, BSN, chief operations officer at Maine Veterans’ Homes, retired last week after caring for Maine’s veterans and their loved ones for 15 years. Named COO in 2007 Young has led the organization to improved services that have continued to build upon MVH’s reputation nationally as a leader among state veterans homes.
“I take away from MVH far more than I have given,” said Young. “It has been such an honor to be part of this wonderful organization. In the Board of Trustees and every MVH employee I have seen an amazing devotion to duty and to our mission of ‘caring for those who served’,” she said.
Many of Young’s accomplishments are behind the scenes, but a good example of her leadership can be seen in this year’s American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) National Quality Awards. Four MVH Homes were recognized as 2010 recipients of the Bronze – Commitment to Quality National Quality Award. These prestigious awards recognize facilities that demonstrate excellence and commitment to quality. It is without question that Young’s guidance attributed to this prestigious recognition.
“I have always have taken great pride in working for veterans,” said Young. “My husband served with the Marine Corps in Viet Nam, my father-in-law is a WW II veteran and this was a way for me to give back.”
Young, a South Paris resident, joined MVH as assistant director of nursing in South Paris when that facility first opened its doors in 1995. In 1998 she became the Home’s director of nursing and two years later became the Home’s administrator. Young became MVH’s chief operations officer in July of 2007.
“Leaders like Pat are truly invaluable to any organization,” said Kelley Kash, chief executive officer. “I was fortunate enough to work with Pat for over three years and I witnessed her compassion and dedication to caring for our residents — she epitomized selfless service and she led by example.”
Young, 62, worked as a nurse aide while in high school and worked as an LPN for 20 years before returning to school to receive her associate and bachelor’s degree in nursing. She and her husband, Richard, have three children and two granddaughters.
“I hope now to have time to travel with my husband, spend more time with my family, especially my two granddaughters, and find a niche in volunteerism,” said Young. “I will never forget the wonderful staff and management of MVH and the many kindnesses that have been afforded to me.”
