Recognizing Leaders Shaping the Future of Memory Care: The 2025 Innovation Awards Class
The landscape of memory care is constantly evolving, driven by dedicated professionals committed to enhancing the lives of individuals and families facing the challenges of dementia. Recently, a distinguished group of leaders where recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to the field. These individuals represent the forefront of innovation, pushing boundaries and setting new standards of excellence.
This article highlights the exceptional individuals named to the Memory Care Innovation Awards Class of 2025, showcasing their diverse expertise and unwavering dedication. Let’s explore the professionals who are truly making a difference.
Pioneering Memory Care Support & Strategy
A strong foundation of leadership is crucial for effective memory care. These individuals exemplify that, driving program development and strategic vision.
* Angela Champlin serves as Director of memory Care Support Services at HumanGood, championing best practices in support.
* Ashland Ghaffari, a Creative Strategist with William James Group, brings innovative thinking to program design.
* Brenda Gurung leads as National Director of Memory Care at kisco Senior Living, overseeing national initiatives.
* brooke Nooe directs Dementia Care at Brookridge Retirement Community, focusing on specialized care approaches.
* Cara Skrypchuk is the Vice President of the Memory Care Center of Excellence at Trilogy Health Services, establishing industry benchmarks.
* chet Mitchell directs Activities and memory Care at Belmont Village Senior Living, enriching resident experiences.
* Dawn Platt guides National Memory Care Programs at Finding Senior Living, ensuring consistent quality.
* Dr. Raj Kalra is the Founder/Owner/Physician at aroha Memory Care by MD Senior Wellness, integrating medical expertise with compassionate care.
* Emily Sitzes functions as the EverTrue laclede Groves Wellness Director at EverTrue, prioritizing holistic well-being.
* Jamie Johnson serves as Corporate Director of Memory Care at Merrill Gardens,leading corporate-wide memory care strategies.
* John swanson is the CEO and Founder of Willow Valley Development Corp., shaping the future of senior living communities.
* Kassandra Aragon works as an Activities and Memory Care Specialist at Belmont Village senior Living,providing direct resident engagement.
* Liz Plozner-Chalfa is a Regional Director of Operations at juniper Communities, overseeing operational excellence.
* Megan Deaton manages Memory Care Programs at Community First Solutions, coordinating comprehensive care plans.
* Mindi Manuel is a senior Manager of Area Clinical Support at Sodexo, providing clinical guidance and support.
* Nicole Graham leads as Executive Director at Lumina Las Vegas, ensuring exceptional care and community life.
* Otmar Donald is a Life Enrichment Manager at Westminster at Lake Ridge, fostering engaging and meaningful activities.
* Sallie Carlin directs Memory Care at Willow Gardens at United Hebrew, providing dedicated leadership.
* Ted tzirimis is the CEO of Intrex, driving innovation in senior living technology.
* Teresa Krueger serves as Executive Director at WesleyLife, leading organizational growth and impact.
* Trina Anderson is a Divisional Director of Memory Care at Senior Lifestyle, overseeing multiple communities.
Elevating Skilled Nursing Memory Care
Specialized care within skilled nursing settings requires a unique skillset and dedication.These professionals are rising to meet that challenge.
* Amber Freeman, SLP, a Speech Language Pathologist at Garrison Geriatric Education Center, advances communication strategies.
* Danielle Long is a Speech Language Pathologist and Assistant Director of Rehabilitation at Rosewood Rehabilitation, providing comprehensive therapy.
* Kayla Howard serves as Activities Director at Dyersburg Health & Rehabilitation Center, creating stimulating environments.
* Kelly Hutchins directs Quality Assurance & Education at cherokee County health & Rehabilitation Center, ensuring high standards of care.
* lindsay Burson is an Occupational Therapy Assistant at Rock Creek of Ottawa, supporting residents’ functional abilities.
* Melissa Smuin
