Florida A&M University shares a strong and respected lineage of proud alumni. Once again, another Rattler has struck their way to the top. Brandon Hill has been named executive director for the Gadsden Senior Services Center located in downtown Quincy.
Last Monday, Hill officially started his role. Hill succeeds fellow Rattler and former executive director Latoya Moody, who now owns Moody Capital Consultants and serves as the Health and Social Service manager at UnitedHealth Group.
“I wish Brandon the best,” said Moody. “You know with him being a FAMU graduate, he comes from the best so I know he will put his best foot forward when it comes to leading the agency.”
As executive director, Hill oversees and maintains developing seniors and caregivers. The program works to provide onsite congregate services, transportation, meals on wheels food delivery, telephone reassurance and emergency home energy assistance.
Gadsden Senior Services has been in partnerships with the Area Agency on Aging for North Florida, the Department of Elder Affairs and Elder Care Services, addressing the needs and concerns for thousands of elderly citizens and their caregivers across Gadsden County.
“Monday was my first day on the job and it went very well,” said Hill. “I am working to get well-accumulated with the site and interacting with clients. I am ready to help improve the services of the center.”
Hill is a familiar face of the Leon and Gadsden area. Hill previously served as coordinator and special event project manager for the university’s alumni association from 2009-2015. After spending six years at FAMU, Hill took a short-term position as a teacher and behavioral specialist at Gadsden County High School before departing in 2018.
As a student, Hill split his time working, mentoring, and participating in group organizations such as the Student Government Association and the Student National Alumni Association from 2009-2011.
Based on the long trail of leadership and service, senior citizens of Quincy have high expectations for the future of the program and their newly appointed director.
Thelma Andrews, 83, is a Quincy native says that the program has aided her get through the toughest of times.
“I’ve been using the meals-on-wheels for years and it’s helped,” said Andrews. “I am a widow and elderly so some days I don’t feel like cooking, but I can always count on the center to have a hot meal ready. Mr. Hill has not been there for long, but I’ve met him, and he seems to be very nice…I like him.”
The FAMU graduate has plans to also bring awareness to physical therapy sessions and promises his program services will be beneficial for everyone in the county.
“We have a lot of plans to increase our services to the Gadsden community. Everything we are doing will come because we have a lot of plans that include short- and long-term goals,” said Hill. “I want to ensure we offer a well-rounded aspect of activities. Our focus will not just be physical, but mental and intellectual for all patients. Through our services, patients and elderly members as well as guests will benefit from our services.”
For more information clients and elders may contact the Gadsden Senior Services, Inc., Administration, Case Management, and Financial Offices, at 850-627-9758, Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.