At Vivie, leadership begins with one simple goal: to serve first. That idea is at the heart of servant leadership, a philosophy that guides how we lead, care, and connect with one another—whether we’re supporting a resident, helping a family member, or mentoring a fellow team member.
The concept, first introduced by Robert Greenleaf, teaches that true leaders start with a desire to serve others. From that foundation grows the ability to lead with empathy, humility, and purpose. Servant leaders focus on helping people reach their full potential and creating environments where everyone can thrive. This approach naturally aligns with Vivie’s values and our mission to enrich, empower, and elevate people throughout life’s journey.
When leadership begins with service, it strengthens relationships, builds trust, and inspires collaboration. It changes the way we lead—and the way we care.
Investing in leadership that reflects our mission.
This year, more than 100 Vivie directors and managers are participating in a new leadership development series centered on servant leadership. Led by Triune Leadership Services, the training dives into key principles like energy, performance, relationships, and character—all of which connect directly to Vivie’s mission and values.
Each month, leaders gather to explore what it means to put others first and lead from a place of service. Guest speakers—including President and CEO Mark Anderson, Chief Operating Officer and EVP Katie Perry, and Vice President of Spiritual Life Kevin Coder—have shared reflections on leadership that goes beyond titles or authority, emphasizing instead the “why” behind every decision and interaction.
The goal is to build a culture of leadership that truly serves. The program is being woven into Vivie’s new leadership onboarding curriculum so that every leader will learn these principles within their first year. Future sessions will also offer continuing engagement for those who’ve completed the initial training, ensuring that servant leadership becomes part of Vivie’s lasting foundation.
More than a learning opportunity.
For Chief Human Resources Officer Nicole Nyberg, the training represents more than professional development—it’s a meaningful investment in Vivie’s people and future.
“It’s more than a learning opportunity,” Nicole shares. “It’s a strategic investment in leadership that reflects Vivie’s mission: work with amazing people by your side, do meaningful work, and be part of a team that’s changing the world.”
By investing in leaders who listen first, empower others, and model empathy, Vivie is strengthening the connections that make our organization special. When leaders are equipped and supported, they create a workplace where people feel seen, valued, and inspired to give their best every day.
Servant leadership in action.
Servant leadership also invites reflection and growth. As Senior Regional Director of Housing Operations Candace McCarty describes:
“It’s one thing to say you are values-based; it’s another to connect your work, words, and actions—personally and professionally—to those values. It’s learning the courage to be honest, vulnerable, and compassionate on the journey to excellence.”
This mindset doesn’t just shape how leaders lead—it shapes how care is delivered. When leaders model service, it inspires teams to extend that same care and compassion to residents, clients, and families. The ripple effect reaches every corner of Vivie: from residences and communities to home health visits and hospice care.
Servant leadership matters because it transforms leadership into service—and service into impact.
Building a culture that lifts others up.
Through its commitment to servant leadership, Vivie is building a culture where leadership means lifting others up. It’s about empowering people to do their best work, nurturing growth, and making sure every person feels valued and supported.
That’s the kind of leadership that sustains our mission, strengthens our teams, and deepens the care we provide the people who trust us.
Because when leadership starts with service, everyone benefits—the people we serve and the people we serve alongside.
Vivie
Vivie is a care provider offering integrated services, including home health care, care management, senior living, rehabilitation, hospice, and more. With over 2,300 team members, Vivie serves more than 13,000 individuals annually across Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. Rooted in faith and dedicated to transforming the way people live, age, and thrive, Vivie prioritizes compassionate care, excellence, and innovation.
