Wartburg Promotes John Schuster and Maria Provenzano

Mount Vernon, NY – July 1, 2023 – As Wartburg prepares for the opening of their new 50,000 square-foot Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia Living Center (the Berkemeier Living Center) John Schuster and Maria Provenzano are promoted.

This past month, Wartburg President and CEO Dr. David J. Gentner was pleased to share the news that John Schuster, Meadowview’s Administrator and Wartburg employee for 20 years, will be the Berkemeier Living Center Opening Administrator. Mr. Schuster has been Wartburg’s Assisted Living Administrator for 9 years. Prior to Meadowview John was in the Admissions Department in Wartburg’s skilled nursing facility. According to Gentner, “I believe his background in skilled nursing has enabled John and the team to keep Meadowview a top tier assisted living program in the region.” Mr. Schuster is a licensed nursing home administrator and holds both Bachelors and Masters degree in Public Administration from Pace University. He is a graduate of the inaugural class of LeadingAge NY’s Leadership Academy and has served on Leading Age’s Adult Care Facility Statewide Cabinet for the past eight years.

“I have witnessed our campus evolve to match changing dynamics of long-term care and senior housing over my 20 years with Wartburg. Being involved in every aspect of the development and opening of the new Berkemeier Living Center has been most rewarding and I am grateful to have been given the opportunity.” Said Schuster.

In addition to John’s appointment, Gentner also shared the news that Ms. Maria Provenzano, LCSW, MS will be the new Administrator of Meadowview. According to Gentner, “Ms. Provenzano has been with Wartburg since 2015 and served previously as Adult Day Services Director…most recently as Director of Residential Services including the role of Case Manager at Meadowview. Maria will continue as Director of Residential Services in addition to acting as Meadowview’s Administrator. She is a graduate of New York University with degrees in Social Work and Public Service.

“Every new beginning brings an opportunity to make a positive impact. I am grateful to start this journey as the Administrator of Meadowview at Wartburg, where I can bring compassion, care, and a warm smile to the lives of those we serve.” Said Provenzano.

Already home to independent living, assisted living, and award-winning nursing home care, Wartburg’s new Berkemeier Living Center will feature 64 state-of-the-art residences, 32 private and 32 companion suites, and will focus on providing resources to those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Wartburg’s Board, executives, administrators, staff, were joined by the design team, business and civic leaders for a blessing and earth-turning ceremony at the site, which was recently cleared of the former Berkemeier Auditorium.

The Berkemeier Living Center residences will resemble small-scale households, providing an intimate and comfortable feel for the residents, staff, and families. Key planning elements such as short walking distances, oversized windows for increased natural light, and enhanced views are included in the design to help support a healing environment. Additionally, each household features its own living, dining and kitchen space, as well as gathering spaces. The first-floor lobby and gallery space will display elements of Wartburg’s rich history including Berkemeier artifacts from the original structure. The first level will also include an event space, music therapy room, and administrative space. This large program will be supported with a healing garden at the rear yard with seating and community space. The Living Center will also benefit from the nearby nursing, and rehabilitation centers on campus to accommodate residents’ needs. The building will also be LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certified by the U.S. Green Building Council. Attaining LEED certification signifies that a building is exemplary in conserving energy, lowering operating costs and being healthy for occupants.

The Berkemeier Living Center is named to honor Wartburg’s second President, Reverend Dr. Gottlieb C. Berkemeier, who served for thirty-six years. During his tenure, Dr. Berkemeier raised the profile of The Wartburg Orphans’ Farm School, helping it become one of the foremost institutions of its kind in this country.

About Wartburg

Wartburg, located in Westchester County, NY, offers integrated, comprehensive senior residential and healthcare services. Unlike conventional retirement communities, Wartburg provides a wide range of services to both residents living on their beautiful 34-acre campus and people in their own homes. From independent, assisted living and award-winning nursing home care to inpatient/outpatient rehabilitation, home care and adult day care services, their continuing care approach has earned them a trusted reputation. Wartburg also provides caregiver support at every stage with an array of options to find the level of care that considers the whole family. Wartburg was named one of the “Best Nursing Homes in New York State” by U.S. News & World Report for the seventh consecutive year in 2022.