Where Neighbors Become Friends

Carol is known for being a strong communicator and has a history of being able to resolve conflicts. Being able to build relationships with seniors and providing them with choices that allow them to live life fully is what excites Carol most about her job. She is motivated when she is able to match a prospective resident’s needs with what Walker Methodist has to offer, while providing comfort and guidance to the families who sometimes have to make tough decisions in regards to their loved ones.

Outside of work, Carol enjoys playing golf, fishing, and hanging out with her four beautiful grandchildren. Carol has a son and a daughter, Amanda and Adam, who are the light of her life! At the end of the day, Carol would like to be remembered as someone who “said what she meant, and meant what she said” – honest and sincere.

I feel so blessed to be working my dream job. I believe I am doing what I am called to do, and I love having a bonus “family” of residents. They make my life complete.

I have been in the healthcare field for more than 20 years. With a deep passion to help others and bring joy to those around me, I joined the team at Westwood Ridge in 2014. On a daily basis, I create programs and engaging events for residents to enjoy. I’m known for finding reasons to wear a fun costume, and I am passionate about taking nothing and making it into something. In addition to overseeing life enrichment, I also help with employee appreciation initiatives. Previously, I was honored to be nominated by residents for Leading Age’s Caregiver of the Year award.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time at my family’s resort and campground in Faribault, which has been in the family for four generations. I enjoy taking trips and spending time with my husband and daughter.

After I finished my education, I was excited about the information I had learned—and how it could help the senior population. In my previous jobs as a fitness coordinator and graduate assistant, my older clients saw the most benefits from exercise, and they were passionate about the difference they were making in their lives. So, when I joined the Westwood Ridge team in 2020, I jumped right in to help residents improve their strength, balance, mobility, and overall wellness.

On a daily basis, I lead group classes, facilitate personal training sessions, and connect with new residents. I have enhanced our personal training program, group fitness classes, walking club, and more. I focus on teaching clients to use their natural movements while progressively adding weight to their exercises. This allows them to build strength, endurance, muscle, and balance much faster. With a knack for accommodating every ability level, I'm passionate about figuring out what each individual needs and helping them improve. I love hearing how residents’ daily lives are enhanced by fitness. One member told me that they were able to do some deep cleaning on their hands and knees—for the first time in years.

When I’m not at work, you can find me at the gym or practicing speaking French.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in exercise and sport science with a concentration in fitness from the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse and my master’s degree in sport management from Western Michigan University. I am also a certified personal trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, certified group fitness instructor through the American Counsel of Sports Medicine, and 200-hour yoga teacher with Yoga Alliance.

I’d spent 30 years as a Graduate Gemologist in the retail world and owned my own appraisal business, but after my mother’s passing in 2017, I felt a deep calling to pursue a more meaningful career where I could give back to the community. That is what led me to Walker Methodist Westwood Ridge.

As the Business Office Manager, my role involves managing billing, front desk operations, and ensuring a seamless experience for our guests and residents. I'm known for my friendly demeanor, customer service skills, and problem-solving abilities; I always thought I should be a detective because I enjoy solving issues and complications that come up in everyday life. These traits led to my selection in Walker’s Employee Retention Committee and for the Leadership Development Program. I was especially honored to be selected by my community as the Servant Leader of the Year in 2023. 

I appreciate watching the compassionate RAs and staff work with residents. Surrounding myself with these people encourages me to be the best person I can be. 

Beyond work, I love antiquing with my dad, which we have been doing this since I was 12 years old. I also enjoy working on puzzles and spending quality time with my cat, Pookie.

I first discovered Walker Methodist in 2015, when I helped care for a neighbor who moved here. It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the community, team, and residents. So, I applied for an open concierge position, learned how much Walker’s values match my own... and the rest is history.

I was promoted to lead concierge and graduated from Walker’s Leadership Development Program. At Westwood Ridge, I’ve served in the business office, health office, social services office, life enrichment department, and, now, resident services. I love coming to work each day. My team members and our residents really do make Walker the best place to live and work.

On a daily basis, my job is the perfect blend of administrative oversight and personal relationships. I feel honored to get to know families, solve problems with them, and help in any way I can. I also ensure our team has the education and supplies they need to be their best. I communicate and collaborate with other departments to make sure nothing falls through the cracks. Among my team members, I’m known for lending a helping hand and not being afraid of challenges. Residents also trust me to listen and find a solution. From noticing details to streamlining complicated tasks, I strive for the best outcome possible. Every day, I go home knowing I've made a difference in the lives of those I work with and serve.

In my free time, I like crafting: jewelry, sewing, soapmaking, and more. I also love to spend time with family and friends, read, garden, and laugh. My husband, Jerry, and I have three adult children—and we’re enjoying the empty-nester's life.

In the past, I worked as director of client care with Visiting Angels. I joined the Walker team in 2018 as the staffing coordinator.

My job is about connection. Daily, I develop relationships with new team members, solve problems, and help where needed. I’m known for listening, communicating well, and doing what I said I’d do. Working well under pressure, I thrive when I get to solve a problem. My day is made when I can help someone find the right career.

I participated in Walker’s 2021-2022 Leadership Development Program.

When I’m not at work, you can find me cooking and visiting my children and nine grandchildren.