Editors’ Note

David V. Pomeranz is a 40-year veteran of RiverSpring Living. An industry leader in the application of emerging technologies for adult care, he is spearheading Hauser Care Connect, a national model that is testing and implementing new technologies to address the evolving needs of older adults. He has expertise in strategic and visionary planning and the development and operation of new programs and has shepherded a variety of innovative services and service delivery models. Pomeranz has been instrumental in building a dynamic relationship with the NewYork-Presbyterian hospital system. Previously, he served as RiverSpring Living’s Chief Operating Officer and managed the day-to-day operations of the entire portfolio, including senior residences, assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation services, home care, managed long-term care, and the nationally acclaimed Hebrew Home at Riverdale.

Organization Brief

RiverSpring Living (riverspringliving.org), based in Riverdale, New York, is a leading nonprofit organization serving older adults through a range of healthcare services, housing options, and community programs. Guided by a mission of compassion, respect, and innovation, RiverSpring Living has been helping older adults live full and meaningful lives for over 100 years.

Will you discuss your career journey?

I have had the extraordinary privilege of developing my career at RiverSpring Living. This campus has aways been more than my workplace – it has been my home. I began my journey here at age 22 while I was attending college. From my very first day, I felt a strong sense of purpose and connection to the mission of caring for older adults with respect and compassion.

My work at RiverSpring Living started in the transport department, which is more than just moving a resident from one location to another. It was a meaningful way to get to know the life stories of those in our care. Those early years showed me the dynamics of aging and vital lessons and history that they so generously share. I also learned a lot about empathy, listening and family dynamics. Over the next four decades, I worked in virtually every department – therapeutic activities, adult day care, community services, operations, and administration. I saw first-hand the importance of working as a team – gaining a comprehensive understanding of how each person contributes to the whole. Every role shaped my perspective and strengthened my commitment to excellence.

Today, as President and CEO, I lead with the experience of someone who has walked the halls in many capacities. My journey has been rooted in service, growth, and an unwavering dedication to the people who call this community home.

How do you describe RiverSpring Living’s mission?

The mission of RiverSpring Living is rooted in a deep commitment to serving older adults with respect, compassion and excellence. At its core, the organization exists to enhance the lives of seniors by providing high-quality care, innovative services, and a vibrant community that supports independence, wellness, and purpose.

RiverSpring Living is dedicated to meeting residents wherever they are on their aging journey. Whether through independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, or home-based services, the focus remains the same: deliver person-centered care that honors individual needs, preferences, and life stories. The organization strives to create an environment where residents feel safe, respected, and empowered.

A central part of the mission is fostering community. We believe that aging should be filled with opportunity – for connection, lifelong learning, and meaningful enrichment and engagement. By combining compassionate caregiving with innovation and forward-thinking leadership, the organization ensures that services evolve to meet the changing needs of older adults.

Ultimately, the mission is about more than healthcare; it is about enriching lives, supporting families, and leading the way in redefining what it means to age with dignity and purpose.

What have been the keys to the strength and leadership of RiverSpring Living?

The strength and leadership of RiverSpring Living have always been rooted in a clear mission, a dedicated team, and an unwavering commitment to empowering residents. One of the most important keys to our success has been recognizing that this is not simply a place where people receive care – it is a place where they live their lives. That mindset shapes every decision we make.

We believe in having residents lead the way. Whether it is choosing how they spend their day, participating in community governance, shaping programs and activities, or voicing their ideas for improvement, residents are partners in creating the culture of our community. By honoring their independence, preferences, and life experiences, we reinforce dignity and purpose.

Another key strength has been investing in our staff. Strong leadership at every level – from frontline caregivers to senior management – fosters accountability, compassion, and innovation. We embrace forward-thinking solutions to meet the evolving needs of older adults, ensuring we remain adaptable in a changing healthcare landscape.

Ultimately, our leadership is strongest when we listen – to residents, families and staff – and respond with integrity, collaboration, and a mission-driven focus that guides us forward.

Will you highlight RiverSpring Living’s commitment to technology and innovation in addressing the evolving needs of older adults?

At RiverSpring Living, our commitment to technology and innovation is central to meeting the evolving needs of older adults. As healthcare and senior living continue to transform, we recognize that thoughtful integration of technology can enhance safety, connection, engagement, and overall quality of life. From advanced clinical systems to artificial intelligence and virtual reality, we continuously explore tools that support independence and well-being. A pivotal force behind this progress has been the generous support of Rita Hauser, whose vision and philanthropy have enabled us to invest meaningfully in innovation. Rita, a distinguished philanthropist, attorney, and humanitarian, has had a profound impact on countless causes in New York and around the world. Her commitment to RiverSpring Living to provide access to the latest technologies has allowed us to pilot new advancements and engage in digital platforms in unprecedented ways.

Innovation at RiverSpring Living is not about replacing human touch; it is about enhancing it and ensuring residents thrive in a rapidly changing world. Importantly, the response from residents has been overwhelmingly positive. Their enthusiasm has helped dispel the outdated notion that older adults and technology do not work well together.

How critical has it been to build the RiverSpring Living team, and will you highlight the talent and expertise of the team?

Building the RiverSpring Living team has been one of the most critical factors of our success. Strong organizations are not defined by strategy alone, but by the depth of talent, shared commitment, and leadership capacity of the people who bring that strategy to life every day. Investing in the right team has allowed us to navigate growth, complexity, and change with confidence.

A key strength has been the experience and dedication of leaders like Deborah M. Messina, Steven Meisinger, and Wendy Steinberg. Deborah’s strategic insight and operational expertise have strengthened our infrastructure and ensured alignment between vision and execution. Steven’s financial acumen and analytical rigor have provided the stability and foresight necessary to support expansion while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Wendy’s ability to tell the stories of our residents through the media has changed the conversation about what it means to grow older. Together, their complementary skills elevate decision-making and foster a culture of accountability and collaboration. Each brings not only subject-matter expertise, but also a shared belief in our mission and in empowering residents to live fully.

Intentionally building a leadership team grounded in experience, integrity, and innovation has been a defining moment in my role as President and CEO.

What do you see as RiverSpring Living’s responsibility to be engaged in the communities it serves?

Serving as the President & CEO of RiverSpring Living comes with great responsibility because of our deep commitment to a mission of caring for the most vulnerable population in our society. Central to this mission is empowering residents to live their lives to the fullest – whatever that means for each individual. By listening closely to our residents and responding to their interests and aspirations, we have created an environment where each person feels valued, supported, and inspired to thrive.

You have spent almost 40 years with RiverSpring Living. What has made the experience so special for you?

What has made my 40-year journey at RiverSpring Living so special is, first and foremost, the close relationships that have been formed with residents, families, and colleagues. These relationships are deep rooted in trust, shared stories, laughter, and mutual respect. Being welcomed into residents’ lives and playing a role in their journeys has been both a privilege and a profound source of meaning.

Equally important have been the mentorship and close connections that I have cultivated with my team. I take great pride in supporting their growth and fostering a culture of collaboration and compassion.

Above all, my work has been made more special because of the deep satisfaction that comes from working for good. At RiverSpring Living, residents’ interests are always the center of every decision, and knowing my work contributes to their well-being and quality of life has given my career lasting purpose and fulfillment.