Parker Health Group, Inc., a nationally recognized leader in aging services, recently announced that President and CEO Roberto Muñiz, a Senior Health Fellow and Instructor at the Bloustein School, will retire by the end of 2026 after nearly 28 years of visionary leadership.
Since joining Parker in 1998, Muñiz has led the organization through an extraordinary period of growth and innovation. What began as a small nonprofit operating two single-site nursing homes serving approximately 110 residents has evolved into a comprehensive continuum of care supporting more than 16,000 older adults and their families each year.
Under his leadership, Parker expanded from two nursing homes into an integrated system offering residential care, home and community-based services, mental health and case management, and many more supportive services for older adults. He also championed the development of New Jersey’s first small-home model of nursing home care, creating warm, household-style residences that foster autonomy, dignity, and strong relationships.
Muñiz strengthened Parker’s statewide impact through major strategic partnerships, including collaborations with senior housing organizations to expand services within affordable housing communities. He co-created the Parker Advanced Care Institute with VNA Health Group, bringing primary medical care directly into the homes of seniors through visiting physician services. In 2023, he helped launch the Parker Division of
Geriatrics at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, advancing research, education, and interdisciplinary innovation in senior care.
Muñiz’s leadership extends well beyond Parker. He recently completed a two-year term as Board Chair of LeadingAge, the national association representing more than 5,400 nonprofit aging services providers serving millions of older adults across the country. He also serves on the Advisory Council for Vision Centre, supporting leadership development in senior living.
Beyond his executive leadership and service on numerous local and state boards, Muñiz is a long-time educator at Rutgers University. He is a Senior Health Fellow and Instructor at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, where he plans to continue educating and inspiring students to pursue careers in healthcare, particularly in aging services.
“Parker has been my life’s work,” said Muñiz. “For nearly three decades, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside extraordinarily talented people who share a passion for serving older adults. Together, we have built an exceptional and truly special organization that is strong, stable, and positioned for an even brighter future. This is the right moment for me to begin my next chapter.”
Marguerite Schlag, Ed.D., RN, Parker Trustee, praised Muñiz’s impact, stating, “Roberto’s leadership transformed Parker into a national leader in aging services. His unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and person-centered care has improved the lives of countless older adults. We are deeply grateful for his extraordinary service and look forward to celebrating his remarkable legacy.”
Parker emphasized that the transition will be thoughtful and deliberate, and that its mission, vision, and strategic direction remain firm. The organization will continue advancing its commitment to enriching the lives of older adults through high-quality care, innovation, and compassionate service. Throughout the transition, Muñiz will remain fully and actively engaged as President and CEO, ensuring continuity and stability.
For more information about Parker’s comprehensive continuum of care and services, visit parkerlife.org.