Taking over as the new Director of the Warren Senior Center following Betty Hoague’s retirement is something that Kyra Little is looking forward to.

She’s already had two years of experience as an instructor with the Strength and Balance Class on Fridays, and now she’s looking forward to an even greater task of overseeing the daily operations of the Senior Center.

Little, 36, was sworn in at the town office on Aug. 29. She has been a Rhode Island resident for the last 20 years, and has lived for several years in Bristol. She currently resides in Barrington with her husband and two children.

In a recent interview, Little spelled out her desire to continue to make seniors feel comfortable following the retirement of Betty Hoague.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with the senior population since 2007,” she said. “For over 10 years I’ve worked as a Physical Therapy Assistant in the East Bay and periodically taught senior fitness classes. I’ve helped with presentations to senior centers on fall prevention and balance issues and helped with senior aquatic therapy as well.”

Little has experience in managing her own business in working with individuals towards their fitness goals and on improvements in the areas of balance, strength, and flexibility. She is currently finishing up her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resource Management. She enjoys working with people and helping assist people towards their goals.

Throughout this time, Little developed a love and appreciation for the wonderful people at the center. She is looking forward to this new position and being able to make a positive impact in the lives of the seniors.

“I have a lot of good people to work with here,” she said, including veteran kitchen manager Ann Primiano. “This is a great place to be. I know I’m going to enjoy being around all these wonderful seniors each and every day.”

Warren Housing Authority executive director Michael Abbruzzi also feels confident that Little will handle her new job responsibilities admirably.
“I look forward to working with Kyra,” he said. “She’s a wonderful person with a great deal of energy and enthusiasm.”

Recently getting some valuable instruction and insight from her predecessor, Little knows there will be plenty of challenges ahead, but she’s more than ready to continue to make the Warren Senior Center a wonderful experience for all those already taking part in the wide variety of programs offered.

“Betty has made the transition easy,” said Little. “She’s given me an outline to follow and a notebook to go by. I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

“Everyone is very kind and welcoming,” she continued. “The Warren Senior Center is a thriving and active community center where seniors can come and have a great time. I’m so grateful to Betty Hoague for taking the time to work with me in training. She is the best. My plan is to take my queue from her and continue to provide wonderful opportunities, activities, classes, and resources for the local senior community.”

Hoague feels confident that Little will handle her new job with great enthusiasm and vigor.

“I am excited to welcome Kyra Little as our new Senior Center Director,” she announced. “Kyra brings many wonderful skills to the position and she loves working with our senior population. She has received a very warm welcome from our members and we all look forward to supporting her in her new position.”