In the pursuit of growth, Royal Oaks is excited to introduce Aventur, our new parent company. This new chapter will help us expand opportunities in retirement living, explore new ventures, and diversify how we grow—all while staying true to the excellence and care that have made Royal Oaks Arizona’s leading life plan community.
The Aventur leadership will continue the Royal Oaks decades-long legacy of excellence with their extensive experience, and their progressive and accountable approach as they foster a culture of genuine care and support that inspires both staff and residents.
With a rare ability to cut through complexity and chart a clear, strategic course, Gretchen leads Aventur with a blend of visionary thinking and grounded expertise. Whether navigating change or scaling impact, she brings clarity where others see chaos—guiding the organization not just to move forward, but to move forward with purpose. A true boots-on-the-ground leader, Gretchen leads by example—never asking her team to do anything she wouldn't do herself, and making every decision with a deep passion for serving seniors and supporting those who care for them.
A proud MBA graduate and honored commencement speaker from the University of Phoenix (2009), Gretchen’s career has been marked by both achievement and inspiration. In 2018, she was named Arizona LeadingAge Emerging Leader of the Year, a testament to her commitment to excellence in leadership and service.
When she’s not driving innovation at Aventur, Gretchen is literally driving—sharing a passion for speed and adventure with her husband and son. From car racing to dirt bike riding, she lives life at full throttle, both professionally and personally.
With over 22 years of experience in accounting, Carter brings a deep understanding of financial strategy, compliance, and stewardship—especially within Arizona’s nonprofit and government sectors. His career includes leadership roles across mission-driven organizations, most notably serving as CFO of Royal Oaks Retirement Community and Director of Finance at the Arizona Opera, where he helped both organizations drive financial clarity and operational excellence.
A proud Arizona State University alum, Carter is passionate about giving back. He actively contributes his time and expertise to the Arizona State Board of Accountancy, his parish at St. Joan of Arc, and various community service efforts through the Knights of Columbus.
Outside the office, Carter’s world revolves around his family. He and his wife are the proud parents of three amazing children—Caitlin, Colter, and Tucker—who keep life fun, full, and always on the move.
csmitherman@royaloaks.com
623-815-4129
Dina’s journey is a powerful reflection of dedication, compassion, and lifelong growth. Beginning her career in 1989 as a Certified Nurse Assistant at Royal Oaks, she returned in 1997 as a Registered Nurse, setting in motion a path marked by both personal and professional excellence. With support from the organization’s scholarship program, Dina earned her undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees from the University of Phoenix—never losing sight of her passion for serving older adults.
Her inspiration to work in Senior Living stems from deep relationships with her grandmothers, which helped her recognize that quality care and nurturing environments are essential for people to truly thrive as they age.
Dina served as the Director of Health and Residential Services for Royal Oaks championing a whole-person approach to aging. Her leadership brought to life the belief that staying happy, active, and healthy is the cornerstone of vibrant living. Now, as Chief Operating Officer of Aventur, Dina brings her clinical expertise, operational insight, and a deeply rooted sense of empathy to the forefront. Her positivity is contagious, and her commitment to excellence continues to shape the future of Aventur and the well-being of those we serve.
dcapek@royaloaks.com
623-815-4184
