Our Senior Living Team

With more than 20 years of experience in senior living, most with Smith communities, Amanda inspires her staff to employ a person-centered approach. “I believe in cultivating a sense of community, encouraging residents to take joy in life as they make new memories. It goes along with living life to the fullest.”

Mike knows what’s important to residents. Over a decade ago, he gained those insights as a server at Smith Village during summer breaks from college. Mike rejoined the Smith family as a Smith Crossing sales counselor. “I build relationships with seniors and their families, to make their move to Smith Crossing as easy as possible,” he says.

Kara brings a sense of hospitality to every encounter with prospective residents. And as they prepare to move in, she eases the transition for them and their families. “I like seeing residents make friends and take part in activities. It’s gratifying to hear them say, ‘We made the right choice.’”

Amy is part of the team that helps our residents in Assisted Living, Memory Support and Skilled Nursing Care and Rehabilitation balance independence and safety so they can make the most of every day. She loves getting to know them. “Each one has a fascinating history, and I enjoy hearing about all their adventures.”

“I like working with residents and their families,” says Gabby, “so that I can interact with so many people every day.” Further, she feels, the Assisted Living residents are like family to her and she learns from them. Residents are most heart-warming when they share a cameo of their life story, Gabby adds, “Because they’ve led such wonderful lives.”

For Alexis, one of the most profound realizations early in her tenure at Smith Crossing was, “People, who work here, really value residents’ quality of life. Our common goal is to make sure we meet residents’ needs and respond to their preferences.” As residents get to know her, she appreciates how they say they can talk with her about what they want or need.

One reason Kim likes collaborating with seniors is, “Their knowledge. You can see their experience in their eyes.” Although she finds residents are loving, some have decided to give her a good-natured rough time for being White Sox fan. “They offer me something to think about every day. My team and I are brightening their day…and they’re brightening ours too.”

Dr. Tang credits her affection for older relatives as her inspiration for developing a special rapport with older adults and an appreciation for the opportunity to treat them. As a teenager, Dr. Tang expressed to her father, a school principal, her desire to help older adults. He encouraged her to help others by practicing medicine. Today, the Smith Crossing residents who have become her patients have around-the-clock access to Dr. Tang via her mobile phone. She also likes hearing from patients’ family members. “They help give me a more complete picture,” says Dr. Tang.

Lisa fondly remembers growing up with her grandparents who lived with her family. She believes this is why, “I’ve always had a connection with older adults.” As for working at Smith Crossing, she feels lucky she’s benefitted from its values and gained valuable experience. Another thing she likes: the family atmosphere and spirit of teamwork.

“Smith’s goal of caring for residents and helping them live their lives is special: To live every day to the fullest,” Tisha says. Plus, she believes this is a mandate for the staff members to enjoy their job and feel appreciated. Her perspective emanates from Tisha’s closeness to her late grandmother, who had dementia. “I’ve always wanted to be there for other grandmas.”

Teresa has worked among geriatric residents more than two decades, and she finds Smith Crossing “a very peaceful place—residents, staff and management included. It’s a family-like setting.” She’s keen on interacting with her coworkers and talking with the residents because, “I enjoy listening to the journey they’ve been on.”

“The culture at Smith Crossing is patient-centered service,” says Abdul. He often sees seniors who are vulnerable and need help. He and his team of professionals dedicate themselves to give rehab residents their best chance to increase their independence and regain their health. “I problem-solve all day,” he adds, “and if I can contribute to someone’s happiness that’s a good day for me.”

Jennifer derives a sense of fulfillment when she’s working with hospitals, families, future residents and patients to help people move into Smith Crossing, either for the long-term or for short-term rehabilitation. She says, “I love giving tours. They are a great way for everyone to be sure our community is the right fit for living here or for a brief rehab stay.”

“The best parts of Smith Crossing are our team, our residents and our leaders, not the bricks,” says Jason. “When I walk into here I get a warm feeling, it’s like coming home.” Previously executive chef, he now feels more in touch with residents  because he’s out of the kitchen and getting to know them so he can shape their dining experiences. He adds, “They’re some of the most interesting people I know.”

For Jaime, her role with short-stay rehab patients is rewarding because, “I make sure they are OK, monitor their weight and discover what may become problems before they occur.” She works with Chef Jason on nutrition guidelines. And she is filled with joy when a rehab patient or resident with a poor appetite finally becomes strong by eating what reminds them of home.

After gaining experience at Tinley Park’s Convention Center and training at Joliet Junior College, Steve joined Smith Crossing in 2016 and today is maintenance supervisor, responsible for 14 staff members. “We keep Smith Crossing very clean and functioning well, and help residents maintain their homes with repairs and refreshing,” he says. “We’re also first responders if there’s a problem,” and he loves getting to know the residents.

Kathy, who began working at Smith Crossing soon after it opened in 2004, says one of the best parts of her day is hearing residents’ tales. “It’s fascinating to learn how they raised their kids, for instance with no cell phones or computers.” And she thinks she received the best compliment from a visitor who asked Kathy if she could recommend a good housekeeper because residents rave about her team.

Colleen says she enjoys watching newly hired employees succeed. “I’m happiest getting to know people and helping them to develop professionally,” she adds. She accepted Smith Crossing’s invitation to join the staff because, “Smith Senior Living has been here almost 100 years; it has earned a great reputation. And it’s a friendly, welcoming environment.”