Uplands Village names Marshal Huddleston President/CEO following extensive search
Marshal Huddleston is the new President/CEO for Uplands Village (UV), a non-profit Life Plan Community in Cumberland County. The Board of Directors announced the appointment after a “rigorous and comprehensive search process,” according to a company release. According to the Board, they have full confidence that Huddleston’s leadership as President/CEO will “continue to bring clarity, stability, and inspiration as Uplands Village enters its next chapter of growth and renewal.”
What was the key to finding the right candidate? The decision followed careful evaluation of “numerous highly qualified candidates.”
That underscores the company’s commitment to “strong, mission-driven leadership.”
“Selecting the right leader for Uplands Village was not an easy task,” said Mike Readinger, Chair of the Uplands Village Board of Directors. “We sought someone who not only brings operational expertise but also embodies the servant-leadership values that have defined our community since its founding. Marshal Huddleston stood out as the leader uniquely prepared to carry forward the vision of Dr. May Wharton.”
What are the early impacts and organizational improvements:
“Since stepping into leadership, Huddleston has already driven significant improvements across operations, communication, and staff engagement, reinforcing the Board’s confidence in his appointment. His emphasis on transparency, improved workflows, and empowered decision-making has strengthened trust and alignment throughout the organization. Staff have reported increased clarity, improved morale, and a revitalized sense of shared purpose,” according to the release.
According to UV, the company has long embraced a person-directed, relationship-centered approach to care. It wants to honor:
- individuality
- purpose
- meaningful engagement
Huddleston’s leadership aligns closely with these principles, according to the company. He has emphasized that strengthening culture is essential for advancing the Eden mission, bringing more than 20 years of leadership experience in long-term care across Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama.
“Culture growth isn’t optional; it’s exactly what Uplands needs right now,” Huddleston has shared. “The Eden philosophy calls us to create a vibrant, empowering environment. When we get the culture right, excellence follows in every area of care and service.”
Huddleston says he wants a future for the company that creates a lasting impact.
“I believe the original vision of May Wharton is not just a legacy—it’s a living blueprint for what care should look like,” said Huddleston. “It is my mission to preserve her pioneering spirit while boldly advancing her dream for Uplands Village.”
Photo via UV.
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