Meet Westerwood’s Leadership Team: Part 2
Behind every great community is a group of people who show up—day after day, year after year—with purpose, heart and a true belief in what they do. At Westerwood, those people are our leaders. In part two of our leadership series, we’re shining a light on the long-time staff whose commitment makes life extraordinarily special for our team and residents.
Sami Baker, Director of Marketing & Sales
Years of service: 6
Sami leads the sales and marketing department at Westerwood, but her calling for senior living first began when she visited her grandmother’s community. She realized how much happiness a simple connection could bring seniors, especially to those without family nearby. “It showed me how much joy a little attention and care can bring,” she says.
Today, that same spirit continues to guide her work. Sami is driven by her passion for helping seniors find not just a place to live, but a true sense of community, purpose and belonging. She draws daily inspiration from the meaningful relationships she’s built, and from being part of a mission-driven team that fully supports residents and their families.
“It’s a community where relationships grow and every day feels special. I love being part of a place that truly feels like family,” she adds.
Favorite motto: “People want to live where people love to work.” -James Rouse
Valerie McConnell, Director of Nursing
Years of service: 13
Valerie’s passion for senior care began early—first in dining services and then as a nursing assistant—where she quickly fell in love with the meaningful relationships she built with residents and their families. That experience inspired her to pursue nursing and become a leader focused on making a real difference in the lives of those she serves.
“We care for our residents like they’re our own family ,” she says. “Many of us have done exactly that over the years.” Valerie finds happiness when residents begin to feel at home. “Helping someone regain strength, feel loved and smile again—that’s the best part of what we do.”
Favorite motto: “Happiness attracts happiness, always focus on the positive.” -Anonymous
Carol Gilbert, Director of Assisted Living
Years of Service: 25
Carol played a key role in opening and establishing Westerwood’s Assisted Living community when it welcomed new residents in 2000. With a background in nursing and a passion for leadership, she was drawn to senior living because it allowed her to support both residents and the nursing staff in a meaningful way.
What truly drives Carol is creating memorable moments—whether it’s sharing a laugh, offering a kind touch or simply taking time to have a heartfelt conversation. “Most days, it’s about making someone smile,” she says. “I might join an activity, show my silly side, or just ask how someone is doing. Those little moments matter.”
She describes Westerwood’s culture as one that’s genuinely caring and loving, and she feels honored to be part of a community where compassion leads the way.
Favorite motto: “Take one day at a time.” -Billy Graham
Kristin Kullberg, Director of Resident Services
Years of Service: 7
Kristin’s path to senior living began as a personal trainer, where she was inspired by her older clients. “Their goals were about living fully—playing with grandkids, traveling, staying independent—and I wanted to help make that possible,” she shares. That’s the moment she realized that she wanted a career where she could make senior’s dreams a reality.
She chose Westerwood because it stood out from other communities. “The way staff and residents interacted was something special. The building felt vibrant, well cared for and everyone was so warm and welcoming,” she says. Kristin describes the culture as one of mutual respect: where people of all ages, backgrounds and roles feel seen and supported.
Favorite motto: “My motto is to treat the residents in the way that I would want someone to treat my grandparents.” -Kristin Kullberg
Jay Dorsey, Director of Culinary Services
Years of Service: 2
Jay began his career during a time when senior living meals were limited to tray lines and stereotypes, but he’s proud to have shaped a new era of dining that’s fresh and flavorful.
He was initially drawn to Westerwood because it’s not a cookie-cutter and feels homier than other senior living communities. He describes the culture as resident-driven, where spontaneous moments—like pop-up cornhole tournaments, chair volleyball games and vibrant happy hours—create a fun atmosphere. His favorite part of each day is walking through the dining rooms and seeing staff serve residents and guests with pride and care.
“The true highlight of the year is when families join us at the holiday buffets,” he says. “It’s like the modern-day Norman Rockwell photo.”
Favorite motto: “I always end our meetings or presentations by saying, ‘Thank you for allowing us to serve you.’ After so many years in this field, I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to serve such an incredible group of people, and for the joy of meeting so many fascinating friends along the way.” -Jay Dorsey
Jennifer Sanchez, Director of Human Resources
Years of service: 17
With nearly 20 years in human resources, Jennifer Sanchez has built a culture at Westerwood where staff and residents feel respected, supported and appreciated.
“We’re a warm, welcoming place where residents and staff feel like family,” she says. Jennifer was drawn to senior living to make a meaningful impact and chose Westerwood for its nonprofit mission and strong sense of community.
Jennifer is particularly proud of the supportive community programs—like the Hero Fund, which helps with emergencies, such as medical bills or car repairs, and HEART Cards, which recognize great work through peer and resident praise.
She also loves Westerwood because the staff consistently pitch in to support one another—whether it’s helping with daily tasks, covering shifts or sharing rides to work.
Favorite motto: “When people feel valued, they give their best.” -Anonymous
Learn more about the leaders at Westerwood
From serving delicious meals to making everyday life run smoothly, our leaders show up with a smile and a love for what they do. Want to see how it all comes to life? Learn more about our staff or give us a call at 614-890-8282 to schedule a tour. We can’t wait to welcome you and show you around.
