Chief Operating Officer
Melinda Forstey is the COO of Serving Seniors, where she is responsible for the oversight and overall management of all programs, services, housing operations and human resources.
In July 2024, Forstey was named as CEO Designate by the board of directors as successor to CEO Paul Downey, who announced his retirement effective in May 2025. Forstey continues in her role as COO until that time.
Over the past 15 years at Serving Seniors, Forstey has spearheaded multiple affordable housing projects throughout San Diego County, as well as the expansion of Serving Seniors’ nutrition program, which grew from 650,000 meals to over 1.4 million in the last three years.
Ms. Forstey serves on the Board of the National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP), a leading organization advocating for a wide range of essential services and policies for senior health and well-being. She is also an active member of LeadingAge.
Ms. Forstey serves on the Board of the National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP), a leading organization advocating for a wide range of essential services and policies for senior health and well-being. She is also an active member of LeadingAge. Forstey holds an MBA in Information Systems from San Diego State University. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
