Arabella of Longview is thrilled to announce that Paula Prince Matthews, the Independent Living Activities Director, has been nominated for the prestigious Texas Radio Hall of Fame. Paula’s remarkable career in radio, spanning over 38 years, has earned her this well-deserved recognition.
Paula Matthews embarked on her radio journey at the young age of fifteen, marking the beginning of a lifelong passion for broadcasting. From her early days at KFRO AM radio to her tenure at renowned stations like KYKX and 104.1 The Ranch, Paula left an indelible mark on East Texas radio. Her dedication to her craft and her community was evident throughout her career, as she won awards for her outstanding public service efforts and garnered nominations for her contributions to the field.
Reflecting on her career, Paula shared, “Radio will always be a very large part of my life and my passion for music. One of the most fun things I enjoyed about radio was getting to meet the many singers, entertainers, and listeners along the way.”
Despite facing the unexpected challenge of being laid off in 2017 due to budget cuts, Paula’s resilient spirit led her to a new and fulfilling chapter in her life. In 2018, she joined Arabella of Longview as the Activities Director, where she quickly became an integral part of the community. Her dedication to enriching the lives of residents through engaging activities and events earned her recognition as the Activities Director of the Year in 2018.
“Paula’s friendship with her residents is amazing to see through images on social media and in person. They truly love her and know their lives are enriched through her passion, love, and hard work. The Longview team is truly a dynamic family,” shared Jane Randolph, Vice President of Engagement at Civitas Senior Living.“We sure are blessed that radio took a back seat for Paula, and she made her way to Arabella of Longview!”
Reflecting on her transition from radio to senior living, Paula expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue making a positive impact. “I never knew I would be as passionate about this job as I was about radio, but I am,” she remarked. “I’m honored and humbled every day to work for a company as great as Civitas Senior Living. Thank you for believing in me and giving me this great opportunity.”
Paula’s remarkable journey from the airwaves to the heart of Arabella of Longview exemplifies her unwavering commitment to serving others. Her genuine connection with residents and tireless dedication to fostering a vibrant community has made her an invaluable member of the community
