Rector Nursing and Rehab welcomes new director

New Rector Nursing and Rehab administrator Debbie Hicks (far right) talks with residents (from left) Bernadine Adams, Billie Monroe, Colleen Osborn and Maurice Bateman. [Click to enlarge]

The staff and residents of Rector Nursing and Rehab have welcomed to the facility new director Debbie Hicks. Hicks joined the Rector staff two weeks ago and has been busy familiarizing herself with her co-workers and the residents under her care.

A native of the Jonesboro area, Hicks has prior experience with nursing homes, having worked in the field since she was a teenager. At the age of 15, she began working in the laundry department. After graduating from Bay High School, Hicks earned her LPN degree from Delta VoTech. She later completed her AIT training, becoming an administrator in 2005. She worked as the administrator of a nursing home in Jonesboro prior to coming to Rector.

Hicks says she has been impressed with both the Rector staff and the community as well.

"I think this is probably the best facility I've worked in," Hicks said. "You can tell the staff here really cares about the residents and their families. The people here really care about the community and want to provide them with the best care."

Though she's still in the process of getting to know Rector and its people, Hicks says she likes what she's seen so far.

"I'm really impressed with the community. I've never been in one as friendly as Rector. I've been to a couple of the little stores and have really enjoyed it. When I go in somewhere, the people inside are all so friendly and willing to help you. I've really enjoyed the chances I've had to meet the people here in Rector and look forward to getting better acquainted with everyone."

While Hicks feels Rector Nursing and Rehab has been performing well, there are some areas she's looking to improve.

"I would like to see this facility become even more a part of the community with different things," she said. "I'd like to see the residents and staff more involved in community activities. I think we can be an even bigger benefit to the community. I've been talking to the staff to find out what activities are available in the community and what we can do to participate."

In her free time, Hicks enjoys reading, with a particular interest in history. She likes spending time with her husband, Roy, as well as weekly shopping outings with her 83-year-old mother.