When Women Lead: The Transformative Success of The Polaris Community

In the heart of Columbus, Ohio’s vibrant Polaris shopping district, a senior living community is quietly transforming lives. The Polaris Community, a middle-market gem in United Church Homes’ portfolio, offers more than affordable, high-quality living—it’s a place where residents discover connection, purpose and joy. At the center of this success is a predominantly female-led leadership team whose compassion, resilience and collaboration are redefining what senior living can be.

Under the leadership of Property Manager Debbie Couch, the team—Director of Community Life Francie Hughlock, Service Coordinator Robin Bowman, and Sales Counselor Anna Gleaves—alongside their dedicated staff, has transformed the building into a thriving community. In less than a year, they’ve leased up at an impressive pace, creating a place where residents feel truly at home. Their story is one of heart, collaboration and the power of women leading with purpose.

Building Community Through Connection

When you step into The Polaris Community, you’re greeted with energy. The modern building, nestled in a lively retail hub, hums with activity—residents laughing over coffee, staff setting up for events, families touring with hope in their eyes. This vibrancy is no accident. It’s the result of a team that believes leadership is about service, not status.

Debbie Couch, who’s been steering the community for a year, guides her team with transparency and an open door. Her daily walks through the community aren’t just routine; they’re a chance to smile, listen and ensure every resident feels valued. She creates a culture where no one stands above another, where service and giving back are the heartbeat of the team. That unity, born from asking simple questions like “Can I help you?” or “What do you need?”, has built a culture of trust.

Francie Hughlock brings compassion to every resident interaction. As Director of Community Life, she designs activities that spark joy and friendships, from game nights to socials. Her leadership means diving into problems alongside her team, turning challenges into opportunities to connect and sustaining the community’s inviting atmosphere.

Robin Bowman, Service Coordinator, brings dedication and integrity. As a NaviGuide, she ensures residents have the support to live fully, whether through services or a listening ear. She is amazed at how the team’s diverse backgrounds blend into a unified force, each member bringing something essential to the mission. For Robin, leadership is about showing up with heart, every day.

Anna Gleaves, Sales Counselor, is the team’s spark of energy. Her professionalism and drive have fueled the community’s growth, earning residents’ praise who see her as a proud ambassador. Anna’s leadership was forged in a tough moment last October, when organizational changes tested the team. In that moment, they vowed to lift each other up, forming a bond that defines their work. Their mantra—“We will not let you fail”—is a promise they keep daily.

Leadership Woven with Purpose

The Polaris team’s nearly all-female leadership is a powerful example of diversity in action, as noted by United Church Homes’ President and CEO, Kenneth Young. “The leadership at The Polaris Community reflects our commitment to empowering talented individuals from all backgrounds to lead with compassion and excellence, creating communities where every resident feels at home,” he says. This blend of perspectives—nurturing, driven, resilient—fuels their ability to connect with residents and drive results, setting a standard for senior living.

Empowered by Support

The Polaris team’s achievements are amplified by guidance from United Church Homes’ leadership. Nate Bollinger, Vice President of Asset Stewardship & Development, has been a key partner, helping the team refine pricing strategies to stay competitive and guiding them through financial systems like Yardi and Workday. He’s seen firsthand how their focus on resident engagement—through thoughtful events and responsiveness—has strengthened retention and built a sense of belonging.

Terry Spitznagel, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, views The Polaris Community as a symbol of what’s possible. She’s inspired by how the team’s collaboration and compassion have not only filled apartments, but created a place where residents thrive. For Terry, their success is a call to the industry: women leading with heart and strategy can transform senior living.

A Culture Rooted in Care

Walk through The Polaris Community, and you’ll see a team living its values. When someone needs help with an activity, someone steps in. This culture of support, where every role is valued, creates a ripple effect—residents see leaders responding this way and shapes a vibrant community.

Inspiring Future Leaders

For women aspiring to lead in senior living, the Polaris team’s advice is both practical and heartfelt. They urge kindness, flexibility, patience and building trust with staff and residents. They call for humility, encourage vulnerability and listen deeply.

The Promise of Women in Leadership

At The Polaris Community, these women have built more than a senior living community—they’ve cultivated a home where residents flourish, staff are empowered and purpose thrives. With support from leaders like Nate Bollinger, Terry Spitznagel, and Kenneth Young, they’ve proven that leadership rooted in compassion, collaboration and resilience can transform lives. Their story is a powerful reminder: when women lead boldly, they redefine what’s possible.

For More Information on The Polaris Community and United Church Homes

To learn more about The Polaris Community, visit www.unitedchurchhomes.org/communities/polaris.

For additional details on United Church Homes, a faith-inspired, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing compassionate senior living and healthcare services across the United States, explore www.unitedchurchhomes.org or contact us at [email protected].