Strength in Leadership. A Commitment to Serve – The Women of Heather Glen

Strength in Leadership. A Commitment to Serve – The Women of Heather Glen

March is a time of reflection and celebration. Across the country, National Women’s History Month encourages us to recognize the courage, leadership, and compassion of women who have shaped our communities, families, and nation. At Heather Glen Senior Living, this month provides a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the remarkable women who lead, serve, and care for others within our own community every day.

This year, we are proud to celebrate the theme “Strength in Leadership. A Commitment to Serve – The Women of Heather Glen.” Through their dedication, professionalism, and compassion, the women of Heather Glen create a place where residents feel supported, families feel confident, and care is delivered with dignity and warmth.

Leadership That Begins with Compassion

Senior living communities thrive because of the people who guide them. At the heart of Heather Glen’s leadership is Executive Director Andrea McGowan, whose journey in healthcare reflects both determination and a genuine passion for serving others.

Andrea began her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant and steadily advanced her education and training to become an EMT and later a Licensed Practical Nurse in 2007. Over the past two decades, she has worked across long-term care, acute care, home care, and personal care environments, gaining a deep understanding of how to care for individuals at every stage of life.

After serving as a Wellness Director, Andrea expanded her leadership by becoming a Personal Care Home Administrator in 2016. She later earned certification as a Certified Dementia Practitioner, continuing her commitment to excellence in senior care. Today, Andrea leads the Heather Glen team with a focus on quality care, innovation, and empowering staff to serve residents with compassion and dignity.

Outside of work, Andrea enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, traveling, painting, exercising, and even boxing. Her energy and dedication shape the culture of Heather Glen in ways residents and families experience every day.

Supporting Families Through Important Decisions

Navigating senior living options can be overwhelming for families. Kim Garrison, Director of Marketing & Admissions, has spent nearly two decades helping seniors and their loved ones find clarity and support during these important transitions.

Kim has served seniors since 2005 and believes that families deserve compassionate guidance when exploring personal care and memory care options. Her work extends beyond Heather Glen through her involvement in the Lehigh Valley Aging in Place network, where she has served as a board member and past president. Through this work, she helps connect families with trusted professionals and community resources.

Kim’s commitment to dementia awareness is deeply personal. After experiencing dementia within her own family, she joined the steering committee for Dementia Friendly Lehigh Valley, an initiative dedicated to creating supportive environments for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. She is also actively involved with the Delaware Valley Alzheimer’s Association, serving as a team captain, ambassador, and Grand Champion fundraiser.

Her work reflects the heart of Heather Glen’s mission: helping families feel supported, informed, and confident as they make decisions about care.

Guiding Families with Compassion

Another familiar and trusted face for families is Jessica Mitchell, Community Liaison. Jessica has worked in healthcare since 2001 and entered the senior living field in 2007 after witnessing the profound impact caregivers had on a loved one in memory care.

That experience inspired her to dedicate her career to supporting seniors and their families. At Heather Glen, Jessica walks alongside families as they consider the transition into senior living, helping them understand their options and providing reassurance during what can be an emotional time.

Her calm and compassionate approach helps families feel comfortable and confident as they take the next step toward care. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with her daughter and extended family.

Championing Excellence in Memory Care

Providing exceptional memory care requires both skill and compassion. Jennifer Woolley, Memory Care Director, brings both to her role as she leads Heather Glen’s memory care program.

Jennifer is a Certified Dementia Practitioner with a strong commitment to person-centered care, ensuring that residents living with dementia receive support that honors their dignity and individuality. She also prioritizes education for staff and families, helping them better understand the unique needs of those living with memory loss.

Her dedication to dementia advocacy extends beyond the community. Jennifer has served on the Alzheimer’s Walk Committee for several years and participates in Dementia Friendly Lehigh Valley. She is also a Dementia Live and Compassionate Touch trainer, equipping others with practical tools for compassionate dementia care.

Jennifer’s work has been widely recognized. She received the Alzheimer’s Association Julie H.C. Bailey PRIDE Award, and her efforts in memory care have even been featured in national media, including Oprah Magazine.

Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys traveling, visiting Disney World, crafting, listening to music, exploring wineries, and supporting animal rescue efforts.

A Commitment to Resident Wellness

Ensuring the highest standards of health and safety is the responsibility of Tabitha McIlhaney, Director of Wellness. Tabitha has been a valued part of the Heather Glen team for several years and plays a vital role in overseeing resident health and care services.

A Licensed Practical Nurse and graduate of Lehigh Carbon Community College, Tabitha expanded her education by earning a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Southern New Hampshire University in 2022. Her experience across acute care, long-term care, and personal care environments provides a well-rounded perspective on resident wellness.

Tabitha has also served as a Medical Assistant instructor, bringing an educator’s perspective to supporting and training staff members. Her commitment to continuous improvement helps ensure that residents receive attentive, high-quality care.

Outside of work, Tabitha enjoys life as a sports mom and wife, off-roading in her Jeep, and vacationing with her family at the Outer Banks.

Creating Joyful Moments Every Day

Life at Heather Glen is filled with meaningful experiences thanks to Becky Trollinger, Activities Director. Becky has spent decades creating engaging activities that help seniors stay connected, active, and fulfilled.

Her career began in 1981 as a therapeutic recreation assistant in long-term care. In 2001, she stepped into the role of Activities Director and has continued to serve residents in personal care and memory care communities ever since.

Becky brings creativity and enthusiasm to every day, designing programs that encourage connection, laughter, and lasting memories. From celebrations and creative activities to special outings and seasonal events, her work helps residents experience joy and purpose.

Outside of Heather Glen, Becky loves spending time with her family, especially her two grandsons. She also enjoys trips to the beach, attending theatre performances, and visiting New York City.

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Upcoming Event – March 19, 2026

4 – 6 PM

Celebrating National Women’s History Month  

Heather Glen will also celebrate National Women’s History Month by hosting a designer purse raffle in partnership with MillbrookHome Care. All proceeds will benefit Bloom for Women, Inc., which will be in attendance to share in the celebration and impact of this initiative.

To learn more about our community and the dedicated team (https://www.hgseniorliving.com/meet-our-team) who care for residents each day, visit Heather Glen Senior Living and discover how compassionate leadership makes a difference in senior living and memory care. Contact us to schedule your tour today.