“Skillful Management of Resources” Distinguishes Her Career in Healthcare

The Gardens at DePugh has named Carol Ribas its new assistant administrator.

Ribas, who started June 20, brings 24 years of local expertise. She most recently worked with critically ill children at PSA Healthcare in Orlando and has been executive director of assisted living facilities in Haines City and Kissimmee.

“Carol’s experience in office management is a welcome addition to the leadership team at The Gardens,” said board member John Martin. “Her skillful management of our resources will enable us to grow our business, especially in the rehab services area.”

Serving under Administrator Tonya Oliver, Ribas will help guide day-to-day operations and customer service. Her background includes work in areas such as nursing, supervision, rehabilitation, case management, admissions, and sales and marketing.

“It’s been a very positive experience for me at The Gardens,” Ribas said. “I love it here. Everybody’s very friendly and loves what they do. Our staff is passionate about caring for residents and their families.”

After moving from Connecticut to Osceola County in 1990, Ribas worked for several years at rehab centers in Kissimmee and South Orlando. When her husband, also a nurse, died of cancer in 2002, she was left to raise five children. That’s when Ribas decided to change her career focus from nursing to healthcare management.

“I wanted to make as big of an impact as possible,” she explained. “In administration, you’re overseeing how an entire department or facility operates. It’s an exciting job that allows you to make a difference on a major scale.”