The Board of Directors of Senior Services, Inc. has appointed T. Lee Covington of Clemmons as its next President and CEO. He will assume responsibilities on January 31 and succeeds Richard Gottlieb who is retiring after 35 years as the organization’s director. Covington joined Senior Services in August, 2015 as Chief Operating Officer, bringing with him more than 25 years’ experience in nonprofit management and leadership.

For six years before joining Senior Services, Covington was the Executive Director of Rockingham County’s Aging, Disability and Transit Services, an agency with very similar programs as Senior Services. Covington is also the organist at Clemmons Methodist Church, where his wife, Carol, is music director. They have three sons, Christian, Zach and Cole.

“Lee is a visionary leader whose passion for the mission of Senior Services inspires others to work with him in serving the needs of the frail elderly in our community”, said Sandra Adams, board chair for Senior Services. “He is recognized throughout the state for his innovative, strategic work on behalf of the aging.”

Before working at Senior Services and the Aging, Disability and Transit Services in Rockingham County, Lee had 15 years of leadership roles at The Arc, a leading advocate for people with intellectual and development disabilities. Recently, he has served as President of the NC Association on Aging (NCAOA) and Meals on Wheels NC. He continues serving on the NCAOA Board of Directors and recently represented NC on an advisory committee for Meals on Wheels America. Lee holds a master’s degree in public administration and nonprofit management from UNC Greensboro and more recently, earned an Executive Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from Duke University. Covington is a graduate of the Leadership Winston-Salem Class of 2016.

He said his three years as drum major at his high school taught him a lot about “learning and leadership.” He’s hoping to be a successful drum major for Senior Services and the seniors of Forsyth County.

“I’m humbled and honored to follow in the footsteps of Richard Gottlieb and excited to begin work to continue the strong tradition that has been established during Richard’s 35-year tenure.” Senior Services has the most incredible staff, board and volunteers who make great things happen every day in the lives of seniors across our wonderful county. I am thrilled to be a part of that magic!”