About Westminster: Austin’s Extraordinary Senior Living Community
Located in a quiet, tree-lined neighborhood in Central Austin just minutes from the city’s thriving social and cultural scene, Westminster sets the standard for exceptional senior living in Austin, Texas. Founded in 1967 as the city’s first not-for-profit Continuing Care Retirement Community, we continue to grow and evolve, guided by a clear mission: to enrich lives through inspired experiences.
Driven by the core values of integrity, inclusion, innovation, and environmental responsibility, we are committed to providing a nurturing, purposeful, and abundant life for all we serve—residents, families, and associates alike.
The $25 Miracle: How Westminster Began
Westminster’s story began not with grand resources, but with a simple act of faith. In 1967, members of a small Austin Presbyterian church had a bold idea: to create one of the city’s first continuing care retirement communities. They soon realized the project was too ambitious for them to handle alone. Yet, rather than step back, they took $25 and used it to officially establish a board under Texas law charged with building and operating their shared vision.
What became known as “The $25 Miracle” wasn’t about the amount — it was about the belief that a strong community could grow from even the smallest beginnings. Today, that same spirit continues to guide everything we do. From our vibrant resident life to industry-leading care, Westminster remains rooted in purpose, connection, and the conviction that extraordinary things can happen when people come together with a collective mission.
Extraordinary, Together
How does the ordinary become extraordinary? At Westminster, it happens through a one-of-a-kind synergy — a community where all the right elements come together in a way you simply won’t find anywhere else.
It starts with our eclectic collection of spirited residents: engaged, curious individuals who shape the culture here. They’re supported by exceptionally caring associates — a team that’s as committed to hospitality and service as they are to personal connection and respect. Guiding it all is Westminster’s accomplished leadership team in partnership with LCS, a perennial J.D. Power award-winning senior living management group.
And behind it all hums the unmistakable energy of Austin — a city as distinctive and vibrant as Westminster itself.
The result is a community defined by gracious service, unmatched enrichment programs, and an active lifestyle shaped by collaboration. Residents play a vital role through hands-on committees and charitable initiatives that make a real impact, both within Westminster and throughout the greater Austin community.
This is what it means to be Extraordinary, Together.
Our Leadership
Meet the dedicated leaders who guide Westminster with vision, integrity, and heart—committed to fostering community, quality care, and inspired living for every resident.
Chuck Borst has more than 25 years of leadership and management experience in the senior living and healthcare industry. His strong background in organizational leadership, board leadership, strategic planning, human resource management, healthcare, and fiscal management support his primary duties of operational management for the community and the Texas Culture Change Coalition.
He is a licensed administrator in Texas and Missouri as well as a skilled nursing facility administrator preceptor. Chuck’s career experiences include positions as Administrator, Group Purchasing Director, and Quality Improvement Director helping troubled facilities for a large long-term care company. With an exceptional background in healthcare, Chuck has been with Westminster and LCS in various capacities since 2008, serving as Health Care Administrator, Community Administrator, Associate Executive Director, and has been Executive Director since 2013.
Chuck is a founding member of the Texas Culture Change Coalition and currently serves as President of the organization. He also serves on the LeadingAge Texas Education Board and is a Certified Alzheimer’s and Dementia instructor. Chuck has received various leadership and excellence awards over the years, from LeadingAge Texas, TAHSA, ACHCA, the Alzheimer’s Association, TXCCC, and Alzheimer’s Texas.
Under Chuck’s Leadership, Westminster has continued to thrive and achieve accolades, including but not limited to a 5-star ranking for 15+ years from the Center for Medicare Services, Top Sales, 100% Sold, President’s Safety Award, Silver Safety Award, Top Work Place awards for 10+ years from the Austin American Statesman, and 5-star Resident Satisfaction from Sensight Surveys.
Contact Chuck directly at [email protected]
Sarah Loyd, Associate Executive Director, is responsible for planning, directing and controlling the financial functions of Westminster as well as management of the community general services departments. She began her career as a human resource professional and made a natural transition to finance and community management. She graduated from the University of Texas with a Bachelor of Science in Communications Sciences and Disorders and received her Masters of Business Administration degree from St. Edwards University. Sarah has been with Westminster since 2005.
Contact Sarah Loyd directly at [email protected]
Cassie Gotelli, Community Administrator for the Arbour at Westminster and is employed by LCS. She is currently a licensed nursing home administrator in Texas and Connecticut and a Certified Dementia Practitioner. Cassie grew up near Fort Lauderdale, Florida and went to school at Alma College in Alma, Michigan, where she earned her bachelor’s degree and double majored in Psychology with a focus in Gerontology and dance with a concentration in Classical Ballet.
Cassie served as an associate Administrator in 2015-2016 at Westminster and prior to coming to Westminster, Cassie served as a licensed nursing home administrator at Pomperaug Woods in Southbury, Connecticut where she received industry honors including US News and World Report Best Nursing Homes and Best Workplaces for Aging Services. She also had several health administration internships throughout her time in college.
Through her love of the arts and ballet, she has created different dance programs in several retirement communities for all residents, including those in memory support. Cassie brings a lifelong passion for seniors to Westminster and enjoys getting to know and becoming friends with residents and their families.
Contact Cassie Gotelli directly at [email protected]
Kim Ogden is responsible for recruitment, compensation and benefits, personnel policies and procedures, and health and safety for all employees at Westminster. She has worked in Human Resources for over 15 years. Kim graduated from Texas State University, with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration-Management, and received her MBA degree with a concentration in Human Resources from St. Edwards University. Kim has earned her certification as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) from the HR Certification Institute. She is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), as well as the Austin Human Resources Management Association (AHRMA).
Contact Kim Ogden directly at [email protected]
Danny Roach is the information technology manager at Westminster. Having started in 1989, his career at Westminster spans more than 23 years. Danny has lived in Austin since the early 1980s after attending Abilene Christian University. He has continued his education and training expanding his knowledge to include certification by the Building Owners & Managers Institute as well as certification by Microsoft.
Contact Danny Roach directly at [email protected]
Jordan Bleecker is the sales and marketing director at Westminster. Having worked at Westminster for nearly 10 years, she is an expert in the Life Plan model of senior living.
Jordan brings an unparalleled level of healthcare and sales experience to the marketing team.
Contact Jordan directly at [email protected]
Ruth Sunil has several years of administrative experience, having worked in Chennai, India, for India’s largest software company and for the University of Auckland in Auckland, New Zealand. Ruth and her family moved to Michigan in 2006 where she continued to work for a church and for the IT industry. She joined Westminster in late 2009 right after moving to Austin from Michigan. Ruth enjoys her job and loves the community at Westminster. Ruth has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Madras, India. Outside of work, Ruth enjoys spending time with her family and involving herself in church activities.
Contact Ruth directly at [email protected]
Robin Gonzalez is a native of Austin. She has a bachelors degree in Social Work. She graduated with master’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas in 2010. She has been a certified Dementia Practitioner for 4 years. She began working for Westminster in 2011, and has experience with skilled nursing, memory care, and assisted living.
Contact Robin directly at [email protected]
We are pleased to welcome back Chef Tim Thurn as our Executive Chef. This is not an unfamiliar position for Tim as he has led the charge before. Chef Tim is looking forward to bringing a new level of enthusiasm for our residents, leading our staff and developing our menus with his creative point of view and passion for the culinary arts.
Chef Tim has held the position of Healthcare Dining Manager, where he has done a tremendous job in enhancing the menus and service for our residents.
Contact Tim Thurn directly at [email protected]
Brian Grossman obtained a degree in culinary arts and sciences from Paul Smiths College, and a Bachelors in Hotel & Restaurant Management from University of Las Vegas. He has worked with Hyatt Hotels, La Quinta, Marriott, MGM Grand, and most interestingly, as a personal chef for a week for President Bill Clinton. Brian enjoys his family, crossword puzzles, golf, and traveling.
Contact Brian directly at [email protected]
Rachel Gill is a native Texan who relocated to Austin to complete her Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Texas. Rachel also holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree from the University of St. Thomas in Houston. Rachel has always had a passion for working with older adults, and she has spent the years since completing her degree in 2008 working with older adults in a variety of healthcare settings. Rachel is licensed by the Texas State Board as a Master Social Worker. Rachel is responsible for orienting new residents, providing one-on-one counseling and facilitating groups focused on bringing meaning and purpose to residents’ lives.
Contact Rachel Gill directly at [email protected]
Joe Sanchez, is the Director of Assisted Living at Westminster. He joined the Westminster team in 1999 over 20 years ago. Joe has continued his training and education by earning certification as a Certified Assisted Living Manager and a Certified Dementia Practitioner.
Contact Joe Sanchez directly at [email protected]
Olga Villarreal, Director of Community Support, began her career as an Elementary school teacher and quickly made the transition to a middle school Assistant Principal. She holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration and earned a certification as a Certified Assisted Living Manager. Olga currently serves as assistant to the Executive Director, and supervises all community support and reception associates, including, Preston, Health Services and Windsor Reception. Olga joined the Westminster team in 2008.
Contact Olga directly at [email protected]
Contact Stephanie Garza directly at [email protected]
Elizabeth (Liz) Neihart joined Westminster in 2023 as the Director of Accounting, bringing with her over 14 years of experience in corporate accounting, budgeting, planning, compliance, and financial reporting. Prior to joining Westminster, she served as a Senior Vice President and Financial Controller in the asset and wealth management industry.
Elizabeth is a third generation Austinite and fifth generation Texan. She holds a Bachelor of Science in both Accounting and Business Administration from Chapman University in Orange County, California.
Contact Abel Fabela directly at [email protected]
Bridget Garcia, Director of Security and Transportation, is responsible for developing and maintaining policies and procedures to ensure physical safety and security of Westminster facilities. This includes day-to-day operations, staff recruitment, training, and supervision of Security, Concierge and Transportation associates. She comes to Westminster with 18 years of experience in Environment, Health, and Safety. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in business administration and management, with a concentration in Human Resources, and a minor in Communication from Concordia University Texas. Her love for the senior community has led her to Westminster as she builds relationships with residents, pets, families, and associates.
Contact Bridget Garcia at [email protected]
Our Foundation
The Westminster CARES Foundation provides grants and resources to enhance the quality of life for seniors and the disabled across Texas.
Explore the Foundation
Award-Winning Management
Westminster’s management partner is LCS, a nationwide leader in senior living with more than 50 years of proven experience. LCS is a perennial J.D. Power award-winner for Customer Satisfaction in Senior Living among independent living residents. In resident satisfaction surveys, 95% of all residents would recommend an LCS managed community to a friend.
Learn More About LCSOur Community Partners
Our commitment to community extends beyond our own campus. We’re proud to partner with local nonprofits that share our values. Over the years, Westminster has raised more than $2 million in support of Alzheimer’s Texas, helping fund education, resources, and support for families impacted by dementia.
We also collaborate with organizations like LeadingAge Texas and other mission-driven groups that promote quality aging services and advocacy across the state. These partnerships help us stay connected and actively engaged in enriching lives—within Westminster and throughout the entire Austin community we call home.
Take the First Step
Schedule a visit today and discover firsthand all the elements that come together to make living at Westminster truly extraordinary at every stage of life.