story and photo by
Vickie Jenkins, Staff Writer
Discover the warmth, elegance, and countless opportunities at Town Village Retirement Community, a premier independent living retirement community nestled in the heart of OKC. Dedicated to providing a welcoming, stress-free environment, Town Village offers residents the perfect balance of luxury and an active, fulfilling lifestyle.
Danna Johnson, LPN, is the Executive Director of Town Village, bringing 36 years of experience to the community. Born and raised in Dodge City, Kansas, Danna originally aspired to become a teacher, but life took her in a different direction. “I always wanted to do something that would help others,” she shared. While in school, she worked in a long-term skilled nursing facility, sparking her passion for healthcare.
Danna pursued a two-year college nursing program and worked as a nurse for 20 years. Her passion for learning and a desire to grow led her back to school, where she earned her bachelors’s degree. Since then she has served as an Executive Director in several facilities. “I wanted to become an Executive Director so I could make meaningful changes that would improve the lives of residents,” she explained. “My goal has always been to create a better, happier experience for them.”
“When we were kids, I dreamed of becoming a teacher, and my sister wanted to be a nurse. Funny enough, we ended up switching paths; I became the nurse and she became a teacher. I think it was meant to be because we both absolutely love what we do.”
When asked what qualities makes a good nurse, Danna replied, “I believe a nurse needs to have a lot of passion and must be a truly compassionate person.” She emphasized that her strongest quality is being a dedicated advocate for her residents. “The most rewarding part of being a nurse is knowing that I can make a real difference in a resident’s life. Even on the roughest days, if I can help just one resident feel better or bring a smile to their face, it gives me the strength to keep going. Staying positive for both myself and for the residents, is what keeps me motivated.”
Asking Danna what advice she would give to someone considering a career in the medical field, she replied, “I would tell them that its not going to be easy, and there will be stressful days and challenging moments, but the rewards far outweigh the hardships. There’s nothing more fulfilling than knowing you’re making a real difference in someone else’s life.”
“There are 185 apartments here, independent living and assisted living. With 33 assisted living residents, we always have a nurse, CMA, or care staff available 24/7,” Danna said. “There are two dining areas for the residents, entertainment with special events, and activities they can enjoy. Our residents are happy and as one resident said, ‘I feel like I’m living in a mansion, with my own bedroom.’ “That was a great compliment for me. I feel blessed to be a part of both worlds.”
“The residents are dear to my heart. The beauty of this field is that it allows one to grow and evolve,” Danna commented. “Whatever speciality calls to you, follow it with passion and commitment. Healthcare is more than a career, it’s a calling. The impact you can have on peoples lives is a journey that will shape not only your professional life, but who you are as a person,” Danna said with a smile.
Although Danna initially aspired to be a teacher, she chose a career in nursing. However, she feels her role as a nurse, and now, as an Executive Director, still allows her to fulfill that original passion for teaching. “In many ways, nursing and teaching go hand-in-hand,” she said. “As an Executive Director, I find myself in a position where I can guide and mentor the nursing staff, helping them not only develop the skills but to understand the deeper responsibilities that come with patient care.”
By combining her passion for teaching with her experience in nursing, Danna ensures that her team is not only competent but also compassionate, making a lasting impact on both the staff and the residents they serve.
Danna brings 36 years of nursing experience to Town Village Retirement Community, along with a deep sense of compassion, dedication, knowledge, professionalism, and respect. Her commitment to both her work and the residents is steadfast. It’s her genuine love for the residents that keeps her motivated and smiling every day.
