From Nursing to Leadership: Chanel Dale-Lateef’s Journey to Executive Director at Shipley Living Senior Living Community in Wilmington, Delaware 

May 02, 2025 | News | Reading Time 3:00 Minutes

At Shipley Living senior living community in Wilmington leadership is not just about oversight — it’s about ensuring vibrant living and compassionate care. Embodying that spirit is Chanel Dale Lateef. After serving a successful year as the Director of Nursing in healthcare at Shipley Living, Chanel has been promoted to Executive Director. Shipley Living is a full-service, rental, continuing care retirement community offering independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing. 

Chanel’s path into senior living wasn’t traditional — but it was heartfelt. Originally earning her bachelor’s degree in sports management, she never imagined herself working in long-term care. “It was a happy accident,” she recalled. “While searching for a job in my field, I applied to be a recreation director at a long-term care facility. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it turned out to be the beginning of a fulfilling career.” 

Over the past decade, Chanel has worked in long-term care as a Social Services Director. Realizing she wanted to do more for the residents, to expand her impact beyond social support and into clinical care, she decided to go into nursing. In addition to becoming a nurse, five years ago she became a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator, and she is also Infection Prevention Certified,  

As Director of Nursing at Shipley Living, Chanel was responsible for ensuring residents received the high-quality care they deserved. “When I originally started here, I wasn’t considering the Executive Director role,” she said. “But when it became open, I thought to myself, ‘We can be even greater than we are already. We have a great team, a great support system. I want to lead this team and be part of its success.’” 

Now, as Executive Director, Chanel oversees the operations of Shipley Living with the same compassion and drive that guided her nursing leadership. She credits Life Care Services (LCS), the organization that manages Shipley Living, with supporting her growth. “The team has taken the time to get to know me and understand my leadership style. LCS looks for the best in employees and supports the best next steps for the future.” 

Chanel described herself as someone who values openness and comfort. “I like having people feel comfortable in my presence,” she said, a trait that undoubtedly resonates with both residents and staff. Explaining what she loves most about senior living, she said, “I love getting to know the residents and their families. I also enjoy clinically providing the best care possible.” 

In Chanel’s eyes, Shipley Living is special. “Shipley is home for the residents,” she said. “And staff is the heart.” 

With Chanel Dale Lateef at the helm, that heart beats strong.