Kristy (Kris) Ross is a Resident Services Specialist for The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW), a role she began in August of 2024. She serves as the welcoming face and central hub of communication for the community, creating an inviting experience for everyone who walks through the doors. We caught up with Kris for a fun Q and A to learn more about her. Read about her below.
What are you passionate about regarding your professional role?
Professionally, being of service to our residents is my top priority. I want them to know I am here to help with anything they need, whether it’s bringing a heavy box up to their apartment, locating lost keys or offering support during an emergency. I take great pride in making sure our residents feel cared for, seen and heard. The Resident Services team help by managing residents’ requests, responding to concerns with care and promptness and assisting with keeping the OAW community running smoothly.
Favorite memory/moment to date during your time at the OAW:
One of my favorite memories is when a resident came to the front desk thinking she accidentally tossed her phone down the trash chute. Together, we walked to the trash compactor, opened the hatch and saw her phone sitting pretty on top of a box. With safety in mind and some teamwork, we were able to retrieve her phone! I’ll never forget that day – it was hilarious!
What do you think sets OAW apart from other senior living communities?
Without a doubt, the care we provide is unparalleled. Having worked at other senior living communities, I can confidently say that OAW excels at prioritizing residents’ needs and valuing their input to enhance their experience.
What is something that makes you feel proud?
I am most proud of my strength and perseverance. My life journey has not been a smooth path, but I’m proud of my determination to keep moving forward and becoming the best version of myself, without letting roadblocks prevent me from achieving my goals.
On the weekend:
You can find me sleeping! After a busy work week, my weekends are dedicated to catching up on my beauty rest. Besides sleeping, you will find me cleaning and organizing my apartment, watching a good movie at IPIC Theatre, spending time with my family and volunteering. I enjoy volunteering at pet shelters to assist with cleaning, feeding and socializing with the animals, especially with dogs dealing with extensive trauma. I want to show them so much love and care because I understand what it feels like to be disregarded.
What are some of your favorite foods and restaurants?
I love chicken so much, it’s ridiculous! By far, my favorite spot to pick up chicken is Cowboy Chicken. I also love Soul Food and a hot breakfast plate with pancakes, scrambled eggs, chicken sausage, cheesy grits and fruit on the side.
Favorite dish(es) to cook or order:
My favorite dishes to order are the pecan waffles from Waffle House, chicken alfredo from Olive Garden, Chick-Fil-A’s mac and cheese and the Crossroads taco from Torchy’s Tacos.
Tell us about your hobbies:
I love writing. At twelve years old, I started writing poetry after watching my all-time favorite movie, Poetic Justice. That movie inspired me and challenged my creativity in such a positive way. Now, I’m working on my first children’s book, and it’s going to be magical and amazing!
Share about your family:
I am the second of three children. My older brother Derek, who is my best friend, lives in Tacoma, Washington, with my beautiful niece/science enthusiast Naomi and prayerful mom, Thalia. Kamil, my extroverted and wise younger sister, resides in Lewisville, so we spend a lot of time together. She is always giving me advice as if she is the older sister. My dad, who enjoys acting as my therapist, lawyer and financial advisor, is enjoying his retirement in Waco, where he takes care of his “baby girl,” a poodle named Bella.
How would your friends describe you?
My friends would say that I am the glue holding everyone together, especially during tough times and disagreements. I am the one who makes sure we face difficult conversations head-on so that we can get back to what matters the most.
