Executive Director Melissa Robson Helps Residents Live their Best Lives

Woodleigh Chase's new executive director, Melissa Robson, has an open-door policy, welcoming questions, comments, and suggestions from residents of the Erickson Senior Living community in Fairfax, Va. For those who know her, it's no surprise. With more than 20 years of health care experience and a nursing background, fostering meaningful relationships is her specialty.

"Residents never have to make an appointment to talk with me," says Robson. "They can reach me by email, phone, or simply stop by. I also participate in monthly town hall meetings, which give me an opportunity to share responses to frequently asked questions.

This focus on accessibility and transparency underscores Robson's broader philosophy of leadership, one rooted in empathy, respect, and clear communication.

"Making a difference in the lives of our residents and team members is paramount to me. Being a good listener, showing empathy, understanding residents, and maintaining clear, concise, and thoughtful communication all play vital roles in this position," she explains.

People person

Robson earned her bachelor's degree from Gardner-Webb University and a master's degree from Pfeiffer University. She later served as a senior vice president at Novant UVA Health Systems.

In 2018, Robson was appointed associate executive director at Greenspring, an Erickson Senior Living community in Springfield, Va. In that role, she provided oversight for clinical areas, including the campus's Resident Life and continuing care areas.

In 2022, she was promoted to executive director at Greenspring, and in May 2025, she transitioned into her new role at Woodleigh Chase.

"Melissa is a committed and thoughtful leader who excels at fostering meaningful connections with both her team and the residents she serves," says John Mann, vice president of regional operations at Erickson Senior Living. "Her strong operational expertise, organizational skills, and compassionate approach will ensure Woodleigh Chase retains its reputation for excellence in senior living."

Caring culture

Erickson Senior Living's mission of helping people live better lives resonates with Robson and is reflected in the ethos she promotes as executive director at Woodleigh Chase.

"We have an amazing team. Everyone jumps in to support one another," says Robson. "The residents are thrilled to be a part of establishing a new community. As 'pioneers,' they are paving the way for future residents and enjoying the connections they are developing with staff members. As the community grows, we look forward to welcoming more team members and residents and supporting them in living their best lives."

As executive director, Robson is responsible for the overall operation of the 42-acre community, featuring three on-site restaurants, an all-season aquatics center, professionally staffed fitness center, hair salon, theater, library, woodshop, and more.

"One of the exciting things about being part of a new community is the unique opportunity to launch new programs and initiatives," says Robson. "We send a weekly 'Chase Report' to keep everyone informed on what's happening in the community."

Away from work, Robson enjoys the support of her close-knit family. She and her husband of 30 years live in Prince William County, Va. Their two adult children are also part of the Erickson Senior Living family. Her son, Brandon, is a sales associate at The Grandview in Bethesda, Md., and her daughter, Bianca, is an operations associate at Erickson Senior Living's home office in Catonsville, Md.

When she's not working, Robson loves being surrounded by family and spending time outdoors, especially near the beach or by the water.

"We love spending time on the water," she says. "You can always find us boating, diving, fishing--really any kind of water activity."

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.

By Danielle Rexrode