Early Life
Forrest Lee Preston was born on March 22, 1933, in Massachusetts. His father was a Seventh-day Adventist pastor. Preston's early ambition was to become a medical doctor, and he trained as a certified X-ray technician. However, his path took an unexpected turn, leading him to the healthcare industry in a different capacity.
Rise to Success
In the late 1950s, Preston moved to Cleveland, Tennessee, where he co-founded Hospital Publications with his brother, Winton Russell Preston. The company created patient booklets and public relations materials for hospitals. This experience gave him insight into the healthcare system, particularly the care of elderly patients. Recognizing the need for improved long-term care, Preston founded Life Care Centers of America in 1970.
Key Business Strategies
Life Care Centers of America, under Preston's leadership, focused on providing quality care in a residential setting. The company expanded significantly, becoming the largest privately held elderly care company in the U.S., with over 200 locations across 27 states. The company’s revenue reached $3.1 billion in 2016. His business acumen and commitment to high standards of care were key factors in his success.
Philanthropy
Preston is known for his philanthropy, supporting causes related to education, healthcare, and the arts. He endowed the Benjamin M. Preston scholarship at Atlantic Union College, which was named after his father.