Vince Skrinak’s story begins in the small coal mining town of Portage, Pennsylvania, where he spent a happy and formative childhood surrounded by community, service, and the example of a father who quietly helped everyone around him. That early model of generosity shaped Vince’s entire life and still guides him today: if someone needs help, you help. Simple. Natural. The right thing to do. 

After leaving Portage for Penn State University, Vince’s life changed forever during his junior year when—after two years of prodding from a persistent classmate—he agreed to go on a date with a young woman named Peg. That day in 1953 a partnership began that has now lasted more than 73 years, including 68 years of marriage. Peg has been at the heart of every chapter of his life, from his Navy service to their joyful years at The Culpeper. 

At just 12 or 13, Vince knew he wanted to be in the Navy. After earning a ROTC scholarship, he pursued civil engineering degree—a role that allowed him to serve his country while doing the work he loved. Across 23 years of active duty, including tours in Norfolk, Hawaii, Ottawa, and Vietnam, Vince found deep pride in being part of an organization where every single job contributed to something greater. Though he spent one difficult year away from Peg during his time in Vietnam, the rest of his naval career allowed them to remain together, building a life defined by loyalty, purpose, and service. Retiring in 1978, Vince joined TRW in providing engineering support to the Department of Energy in the shale oil production and nuclear waste disposal. He retired a second time from TRW in 1995 to spend time traveling and enjoying retirement. 

Vince and Peg moved to The Culpeper in 2015 after discovering what he affectionately calls “the best cottage on the hill,” complete with a sweeping view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. From the moment they arrived, they became woven into the heart of the community. Their cottage view became a favorite stop for Marketing, and Vince and Peg welcomed prospective residents with warmth, honesty, and enthusiasm. Multiple families have made their first impression of The Culpeper through Vince’s gracious hospitality and genuine love for his home. 

A proud veteran, Vince also assisted for years with raising and lowering the American flag at The Culpeper, as well as participating in “Flags for Heroes” ceremonies—roles he viewed not as duties, but as honors. His sense of respect, patriotism, and quiet discipline made these moments meaningful for residents and team members alike. 

Vince’s leadership deepened even further through his multiple years on the Resident Council, including service as Treasurer, where he offered guidance, encouragement, and thoughtful insight. Known for his positivity, reliability, and steadiness, he is widely admired by residents and team members who consider him a pillar of the community. 

In the past year, Vince’s impact grew profoundly when he became part of The Culpeper’s new team member orientation. During a segment called Moments that Matter, Vince welcomes new hires by inviting them into what he calls “my home.” He offers wisdom about maturity, compassion, connection, and the importance of adapting to life rather than expecting life to adapt to you. His message resonates deeply—so deeply that new hires frequently call him their favorite part of orientation. Since his involvement, The Culpeper has seen a dramatic reduction in new‑hire turnover, clear evidence of the powerful influence he brings simply by being himself. 

To Vince, living in a LifeSpire community means belonging to a place where people care, listen, and respond—whether it’s medical needs, social connection, or something as simple as suggesting a new item and seeing it appear on the menu next week. He treasures the sense of unity: a community where everyone contributes, everyone is welcomed, and everyone matters. 

Among all his accomplishments, Vince remains most proud of his marriage to Peg, his devoted son, and the fulfilling life he built through service—first to his country, and now to his community. He has never sought recognition, insisting he simply does what feels natural: live fully, give generously, and lift others along the way. 

It is this spirit—steady, humble, and deeply impactful—that makes it an honor to recognize Mr. Vince Skrinak as this year’s Influencer of the Year at The Culpeper.