Civitas Senior Living Co-Founder Transitions to Chairman; New CEO Announced
December 1, 2025
FORT WORTH, TX — Civitas Senior Living has announced in a press release that Co-Founder Wayne Powell will move into the role of Chairman of the Board, where he will continue guiding organizational vision, governance, and long-range strategy.
President Cooper Vittitow has added CEO to his title. He brings extensive operational and strategic experience shaped by more than 18 years in the senior living field.
The Civitas story began long before its official founding in 2012. Powell, who was raised by his grandparents, often shares that his earliest experiences with them shaped his desire to rethink what senior living could be. With Co-Founder/Managing Partner Jay Dempsey, his career evolved into a mission to create communities where both residents and employees could thrive. That mission led to the partnership between Powell and Vittitow, whom Powell mentored from his earliest role in the industry.
Civitas now owns and operates 32 communities across several states, with a dedicated team of more than 2,500 individuals serving more than 5,000 seniors nationwide.
“This transition reflects years of thoughtful succession planning,” said Powell. “I was inspired early in life to give seniors a place to call home. Cooper shares that same commitment. His approach to people, operations, and long-term thinking makes him the right person to guide Civitas into its next era.”
“I am honored to step into this role,” said Vittitow, who has served Civitas in roles ranging from executive director to chief operating officer. “Civitas has always believed that when you care deeply about people, everything else follows. That philosophy has shaped my entire career. I look forward to continuing our work with residents, families, and employees across every community.”
The transition follows a multi-year succession plan designed to support continuity, stability, and long-term organizational strength. Civitas will continue carrying forward its mission to provide thoughtful service and meaningful experiences for seniors.