We now know Rick Davis as the Cedar Lake President and CEO, but there is so much more you may not know. Rick Davis’s story is a tapestry of dedication, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Born in the heartland of Ohio, Rick’s journey began with a strong educational foundation at Ohio University, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on marketing. During these formative years, he worked at a paper mill, a testament to his industrious spirit and early work ethic.
After college, Rick’s career blossomed, beginning in sales and government work. His first management role saw him running a federal job training office in his hometown. In 1985, he embarked on a journey into healthcare, focusing on older adult services and housing. Over the years, he served in various Chief Operating Officer positions, both in for-profit and non-profit organizations. Before his transformative move to Cedar Lake, Rick spent 17 years as the COO of Lutheran Social Services of Central Ohio, leaving an indelible mark on the organization.
A New Chapter at Cedar Lake
Rick’s decision to embrace the President & CEO role at Cedar Lake marked a significant turning point in his career. After 17 years at LSS, he was ready for a new challenge. When a recruiter presented him with the intriguing opportunity, the idea of moving from Ohio to Kentucky, leaving a long-term job, adult daughters, and selling a beloved home, posed substantial challenges. Yet, the allure of Cedar Lake was irresistible.
During his interview and tour, Rick was struck by the warmth and sincerity of the search committee. A particularly poignant moment came when he witnessed a therapist deeply engaging with an individual supported by Cedar Lake. The love and dedication shared between the therapist and the individual left a lasting, heartwarming impression on him, solidifying his decision.
Vision and Values
Rick’s vision for Cedar Lake is as expansive as it is compassionate. He seeks to uncover additional revenue streams and raise awareness of Cedar Lake’s invaluable services. He believes Cedar Lake is one of Kentucky’s best-kept secrets, boasting a strong culture and an impeccable reputation for providing exceptional care. Rick is profoundly moved by the stories of aging parents striving to care for their adult children, highlighting the essential role Cedar Lake plays in the community.
As CEO, Rick finds immense joy in visiting various locations, witnessing the heartfelt interactions between staff and individuals, and engaging with the Cedar Lake boards. He treasures their openness to growth and their unwavering support for his vision.
Personal Life and Passions
Rick’s personal life is a mosaic of fulfillment and joy. Married for 42 years, his wife Gwynn—a nurse at Norton in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)—has always shared his dedication to healthcare. Together, they have three daughters who reside in Ohio. Rick and his wife are avid travelers, with Europe holding a special place in their hearts. London, Iceland, and Norway are among their favorite destinations. A devoted Beatles fan, Rick has a particular fondness for Liverpool, England.
Rick’s interests paint a vivid picture of a man with diverse passions and aversions. While he harbors a palpable fear of snakes, he finds solace and excitement in perusing the box scores of Cleveland’s minor league baseball teams. His affinity for numbers showcases his analytical skills (just ask him to solve a mathematical problem), a testament to his meticulous nature. A voracious reader, Rick immerses himself in American and English history, with a particular fascination for World War II and the Kennedy assassination. His thirst for knowledge extends to YouTube, where he indulges in history videos, continually feeding his intellectual curiosity.
A Man of Faith and Compassion
At the core of Rick’s life is his deep and abiding faith. He believes his conscience is intricately connected to his faith, which provides him with strength and resilience in the face of challenges. He finds profound solace and inspiration in witnessing the tangible good work done by Cedar Lake. Whether it’s the joy of water wars or the caring interactions between staff and individuals, these moments fuel his passion.
Rick Davis’s journey is one of a man whose life is woven with threads of compassion, dedication, and unwavering faith. His path to Cedar Lake is a testament to his commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those he serves. His story is not just one of professional achievement, but of a heartfelt mission to bring love and care to those who need it most.
