Ventas Inc.'sboard named James Shelton to serve as the company's independent presidingdirector.

Shelton succeeds Douglas Crocker II, who has in line with the company'sretirement policy after servingin that role for 13 years. Crocker has also served as a director since thecompany was founded in 1998.

Shelton has served on Ventas' board since he the company in 2008. Hecurrently serves as chairman of the board's nominating and corporate governancecommittee and executive committee. As part of his new role, Shelton will chairthe board's executive sessions and act as a liaison between the independentboard members and management.

Ventas CEO Debra Cafaro was also re-appointed as chairwomanof the company's board, according to a release.