After thirteen years of visionary leadership that transformed the Edward King House Senior Center into one of Rhode Island’s leading centers for healthy aging, Executive Director Carmela Geer has announced she will conclude her tenure on September 11, 2026, to accept the position of Health Services Coordinator for the Town of Middletown.

Since joining the Edward King House in 2013, Geer has guided the organization through an extraordinary period of growth, innovation, and community impact. Under her leadership, the Center expanded programs and services, achieved national accreditation through the National Institute of Senior Centers, strengthened financial sustainability through successful grant development and fundraising, cultivated lasting partnerships throughout Newport County, and advanced strategic initiatives that have enhanced the lives of thousands of older adults and their caregivers.

Today, the Edward King House is recognized as one of Rhode Island’s premier senior centers, offering more than ninety programs and services annually while serving as a trusted resource for healthy aging, lifelong learning, volunteer engagement, and community connection.

“Serving as Executive Director of the Edward King House has been the greatest privilege of my professional career,” said Geer. “For thirteen years, I have had the opportunity to work alongside an extraordinary Board of Directors, dedicated staff, remarkable volunteers, generous supporters, and inspiring members. Together, we have built an organization that reflects the very best of what a community can accomplish when people come together with a shared purpose.”

“While leaving the Edward King House is bittersweet, I am excited to continue serving the residents of Aquidneck Island in a new role dedicated to advancing community health and wellness. I leave knowing the organization is financially strong, mission-focused, and well positioned for continued growth. My commitment over the coming weeks is to work closely with the Board of Directors to ensure a thoughtful and seamless leadership transition.”

The Board of Directors has initiated a comprehensive search for the organization’s next Executive Director and is committed to ensuring uninterrupted programs and services while continuing the Center’s long tradition of excellence.

Board President, Dr. Anna Matos-Mournighan, praised Geer’s leadership and lasting impact on the organization.

“Carmela’s leadership has transformed the Edward King House in ways that will benefit our community for generations,” said Dr. Matos-Mournighan. “Her vision, compassion, and steadfast commitment to older adults have strengthened every aspect of our organization—from our programs and partnerships to our financial stability and long-term strategic direction. While we will miss her tremendously, we are grateful for her extraordinary service and excited to see her continue making a difference in our community.”

Over the coming weeks, Geer will work closely with the Board to complete a comprehensive leadership transition to ensure continued organizational success.

“One of the greatest responsibilities of leadership is preparing the organization for what comes next,” Geer added. “The Edward King House has an exceptional future ahead, and I am committed to doing everything possible to ensure the next Executive Director begins with every opportunity to succeed.”

The Edward King House Senior Center remains steadfast in its mission of enriching the lives of older adults through health and wellness, lifelong learning, social engagement, volunteerism, advocacy, and community connection. All programs and services will continue without interruption during the leadership transition.

About the Edward King House Senior Center

Founded in 1969, the Edward King House Senior Center is a nationally accredited nonprofit organization dedicated to helping older adults age with dignity, purpose, and independence. Through innovative health and wellness programs, lifelong learning opportunities, volunteer engagement, social services, creative arts, and community partnerships, the Center serves thousands of older adults and caregivers throughout Newport County each year.