Team

Get to Know our Exceptional Team

Stacy Gatto

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Stacy Gatto is an accomplished senior living professional with nearly 30 years of experience in the industry. Since beginning her career in 1996, Stacy has held diverse roles—from activity director to sales and admissions, ultimately becoming an administrator. In April 2024, Stacy joined The Village on Morehead as Executive Director, where she oversees the community’s operations and fosters a culture rooted in harmony and respect for both residents and team members.

A longtime Charlotte resident, Stacy has also served as an instructor for the North Carolina Assisted Living Administrator certification program for 18 years, mentoring over 500 students. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Wright State University.

Outside of work, Stacy is a golf enthusiast, certified Zumba instructor, and yoga lover who enjoys live music and beach vacations. She lives in Pineville, NC, with her two children, Tyler and Avery.

Zachery Ellwood

Senior Director of Life Enrichment

Zachary Ellwood joined The Village on Morehead in October 2023 and brings over nine years of experience in senior living. As Senior Director of Life Enrichment, Zachary is passionate about creating dynamic, inclusive programming that inspires residents to stay active, engaged, and fulfilled. In addition to leading life enrichment efforts at The Village on Morehead, he also supports other luxury communities in enhancing their offerings. Zachary oversees all transportation operations—both medical and recreational—and works to bring high-quality entertainment and diverse experiences to the community.

He holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology and is a certified water aerobics instructor, personal trainer, and massage therapist. Outside of work, Zachary enjoys running, hiking, biking, playing sports, and spending time with friends and family. He is deeply inspired by seeing older adults embrace new experiences and live life to the fullest.

Brandon Studebaker

Senior Director of Dining Services

Brandon Studebaker is a seasoned hospitality professional with over 20 years of experience in hotel and restaurant operations. He joined The Village on Morehead in October 2023. He oversees daily dining operations, leads budget planning, and consults on dining strategies for luxury senior living communities across Houston, Austin, Charlotte and Nashville.

Known for building strong, high-performing teams, Brandon has a proven track record in multi-unit dining, bar operations, and driving both cost savings and revenue growth. He previously directed Nashville’s first tri-branded hotel.

Brandon is passionate about the power of food to bring people together. He lives in Charlotte with his wife, Emily, and their two young children, Presley and Jackson. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, traveling, Braves baseball and volunteering with Feeding Charlotte and Dilworth Soup Kitchen. He’s also a bourbon enthusiast and proud dog dad to two boxers, Folly and Camo.

Cynthia Henry

Director of Sales & Marketing

Cynthia Henry brings extensive experience as a high-performing sales and marketing professional, known for exceeding goals and building lasting client relationships. With a keen ability to understand individual needs, she combines strategic thinking with exceptional communication to deliver meaningful results for both residents and families.

A proud Charlotte resident, Cynthia is deeply engaged in her community through active involvement with Rotary, the Chamber Presidents Club, Habitat for Humanity, the American Cancer Society, and other volunteer efforts—reflecting her commitment to service and connection.

Outside of her professional life, Cynthia enjoys 40 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Earl. Together, they share a love for travel, kayaking, and spending time on Lake Wylie. They are the proud parents of two daughters, Hillary and Katie, with whom they’ve created a lifetime of cherished memories.

Steven Poole

Director of Sales

With over 10 years of sales experience in the senior living and property management industries, Steven offers deep expertise in both sales and operations within senior living communities. His three years of personal caregiving for his mother provide him with a unique perspective, combining professional knowledge with personal compassion. This allows Steven to connect with families on a meaningful level and genuinely understand their emotional journey.

Steven is a certified dementia practitioner. His expertise and commitment to the care and well-being of others are evident in both his professional role and his volunteer work. Beyond his career, Steven generously volunteers his time delivering medical equipment to those in need, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in his community.

Corey Sparks

Director of Plant Operations

Corey Sparks brings over 15 years of expertise in HVAC and building maintenance to his role as Director of Plant Operations at The Village on Morehead. A Charlotte native, Corey joined the community five months before its official opening and quickly advanced from Plant Operations Assistant to his current leadership role. Prior to that, he played a key part in opening four other luxury senior living communities over the past five years.

Corey holds multiple certifications, including EPA Type III, Certified Pool Operator (CPO), OSHA compliance, and Maintenance Technician. At The Village on Morehead, he oversees all aspects of plant operations—from HVAC systems and maintenance to housekeeping, landscaping, and safety compliance—ensuring the community runs smoothly and safely.

Known for his hands-on leadership and high standards, Corey is passionate about creating spaces that enhance residents’ comfort, safety, and quality of life. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching his son’s basketball team and spending time with his family, reflecting his deep commitment to mentorship and community.