Ruth, Brian, & Amber Wilkins

“We really like the relationships we have been able to make here with the residents and co-workers and to be able to help them when needed.”

When it comes to working at The Forest, the Wilkinses treat this adventure as a family affair. The family legacy of senior living hospitality began with Ruth, who joined the team 26 years ago, in 1996. “I started working here first and came to really like it,” she shares. “When better opportunities opened up that I thought would be great for my family, I informed them.”

All five of the Wilkinses – Ruth, her husband Brian, and their three children – have served Forest residents in some capacity over the years, with three members of the family still on the team today (son Justin worked as a Security Officer from 2012 to 2013, and daughter Bridgett was a CNA in Health Services from 2019 to 2021). Considering their time on campus, the relatives all appreciate the relationships they’ve forged with residents and fellow team members, as well as the ability to grow and learn in their respective careers.

Prior to joining The Forest community, Ruth worked at IBM, Brian did swing shifts at John Umstead Hospital, and Amber was a restaurant server. While each recognizes the importance of their past jobs in leading them to where they are today, they further embrace the opportunities for advancement and personal development that The Forest at Duke provides.

Beyond their important roles in our continuing care retirement community (CCRC), these members of the Wilkins family are proud grandparents and aunt to grandson/nephew, Easton.