Goddard and Hall Senior Living is seeing its first leadership transfer in 14 years as the executive director of the Worcester not–for–profit has announced her retirement.
Joan Cusson stepped down from her executive position on Friday after originally joining the organization, colloquially known as Goddard/Homestead, in 2012. During her tenure, Cusson grew the provider’s continuum of care and updated its senior living model to meet the changing needs of older adults, according to a Friday press release.
Founded in 1874, Goddard/Homestead became a member of Worcester-based social services provider Ascentria Care Alliance in 2025. Goddard/Homestead operates two independent living apartment homes in Worcester: 36-unit Goddard House on Main Street and Homestead Hall on Homestead Avenue, which houses 32 private rooms, according to the organization.
“Joan’s legacy is one of transformation, compassion, and excellence,” Kristine Binette, Ascentria vice president of senior living operations, said in the release. “We are deeply grateful for her years of service and wish her the very best in her well-earned retirement.”
Cusson is succeeded by Paul Sullivan, who has been working as Goddard/Homestead’s program director of Homestead Hall since 2018.
Before coming to Goddard/Homestead, Cusson worked as director of both philanthropy and business development at Holy Trinity Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Worcester and served in leadership positions at Florida-based Polaris Group and NovaCare Rehabilitation, out of Pennsylvania.
In fiscal 2024, Goddard/Homestead generated $7.91 million in revenue and held $16.74 million in assets, according to nonprofit financial tracker Candid.
Mica Kanner-Mascolo is a staff writer at Worcester Business Journal, who primarily covers the healthcare, manufacturing, and higher education industries.
