When families begin searching for memory care in Cranston, RI, they are often looking for more than clinical support—they’re looking for compassion, trust, and a place that truly feels like home. Leadership plays a vital role in shaping that experience, influencing not only the quality of care but also the sense of comfort and belonging residents feel each day.
At Victoria Court Memory Care, providing exceptional memory care in Cranston, RI starts with people who lead with empathy and purpose. At the center of this commitment is Executive Director Rhoda Smith, whose personal story, professional journey, and heartfelt leadership guide the community’s mission every day.
In this interview, Rhoda shares her background, her path into senior living, and the values that shape her work. Her story offers a meaningful look at what families can expect when choosing memory care in Cranston, RI—and why Victoria Court continues to be a trusted choice for residents and their loved ones.
A Personal Journey into Senior Living Leadership
The foundation of compassionate memory care in Cranston, RI begins with leaders who understand the importance of connection, culture, and personal history. Rhoda’s early life experiences shaped her ability to relate deeply to others and appreciate the stories that make each individual unique.
Her journey into senior living was built over years of hands-on experience and heartfelt dedication. From her first role in a senior living community to her leadership position today, Rhoda’s career reflects the consistency, growth, and compassion families value when choosing memory care in Cranston, RI.
1. Can you share a little bit about yourself?
My family immigrated to the US from Laos in the mid-1970s. (We were one of the first Laotian families to immigrate to Rhode Island during this time!) My father had been in the US since the 1960s, training as a mechanical engineer for the U.S. Army. He returned to Laos several years later, and brought my mom and brother back to the U.S. with him. I was born and raised in Providence alongside my two siblings. Lao and Thai were my first languages, and I didn’t begin speaking English regularly until I started preschool.
2. How did you start working in the senior living industry?
My mother was a Registered Nurse, so I grew up around seniors. One of my earliest memories was going to work with my mother and visiting the seniors. I just remember how happy it made me feel. It warmed my heart that I could make such a difference in their lives.
When I was 16 years old, I started my first job working as a dietary aide for a senior living community. I soon transferred departments to work as an activities assistant, eventually being promoted to Activities Director. This was my career for many years until I received my Administrator’s License in 2017 and became the Executive Director at Victoria Court Memory Care, a trusted provider of memory care in Cranston, RI.
Leading with Compassion, Trust, and Connection
High-quality memory care in Cranston, RI depends on strong leadership, clear values, and a culture built on respect. Rhoda believes compassionate care starts with trust—both among staff and with residents and their families.
By fostering open communication and genuine relationships, she creates an environment where residents feel known and supported, and staff feel empowered to provide exceptional memory care in Cranston, RI every day.
3. What values guide you in your work and leadership every day?
Compassion, honesty and trust, kindness, resilience, patience, and integrity.
4. How do you support residents in feeling truly at home and cared for?
Getting to know them on a personal level. Knowing their history and backgrounds, nicknames, pet peeves, close family and friends. Helping them feel comfortable by encouraging and fostering their independence and decision making, which is essential in memory care in Cranston, RI.
5. How do you foster a positive and supportive culture among staff?
I have an open-door policy and always make time to listen to and support staff. I do anything I can to help staff with their current roles or with any future pursuits they may have.
6. What is a favorite memory you have shared with another resident or staff member?
I will never forget one year when we hosted our staff Christmas party/potluck. We played games, laughed, and later on after the party, one of my employees came up to me. Teary-eyed, she thanked me for one of the best Christmases she has ever had. It really meant a lot to me that just that one hour of celebrating made her feel special and included.
Finding Joy and Balance Beyond the Office
Providing exceptional memory care in Cranston, RI requires balance, reflection, and self-care. Rhoda finds renewal in activities that allow her to recharge and bring renewed energy back to the community.
Her passion for cooking, travel, and connection extends into her work, where small moments—like sharing a home-cooked meal—create meaningful experiences that enrich daily life in memory care in Cranston, RI.
7. Outside of work, what hobbies or interests help you recharge?
Some of my hobbies include going for car rides, hiking, listening to music, swimming in our pool, and traveling! I love going out to eat, but also cooking at home. I cook almost every day and enjoy making all different types of cuisines, including Thai, Lao, and Italian food. I’m a true foodie!
I also love to cook for our residents! I cooked lunch last week and one of our residents came to my office and handed me a note afterwards. It said, “Thank you for making lunch. It was one of the best meals I’ve ever had!”
Inspiration, Gratitude, and the Rewards of Memory Care
For those working in memory care in Cranston, RI, inspiration often comes from the people they serve and the teams they work alongside. Rhoda credits her team for their shared commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and joyful home for residents.
Recognition is meaningful, but it’s the everyday moments—seeing residents feel secure, engaged, and genuinely cared for—that define the rewards of providing memory care in Cranston, RI.
8. Who or what inspires you most in your work, or what are you most grateful for in your career?
My team! I’m grateful for the commitment and longevity of our management team and support staff. We all have the same goal, and that’s to provide a safe and happy home for our residents. It’s an honor to care for residents and their families. They chose our community, and it’s a privilege to be able to support them through memory care in Cranston, RI.
9. What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?
There have been so many rewarding moments in my career. This past year, the Rhode Island Assisted Living Association (RIALA) honored me with the Executive Director Hero Award of 2025. Now going into 2026, this will be my 9th year as Executive Director of Victoria Court Memory Care, serving families seeking memory care in Cranston, RI.
10. What’s your favorite part of your job?
“I truly love coming into work every day, even though some days are more challenging than others. I have learned so much from so many people. Just seeing our residents happy, safe, and well cared for makes every day worth it—especially in memory care in Cranston, RI.”
Leadership like Rhoda’s is what defines exceptional memory care in Cranston, RI. Her compassion, dedication, and commitment to meaningful relationships influence every aspect of life at Victoria Court Memory Care.
For families exploring memory care in Cranston, RI, Victoria Court offers more than support—it offers understanding, respect, and a true sense of home. Through thoughtful leadership and a shared mission, the community continues to provide a safe, nurturing environment where residents can thrive and families can feel confident in their choice.