Jessica Desjarlais
Hailey Vorkapich
At Watercrest, we believe in rewarding outstanding work, promoting from within, and building long-term relationships. Our culture inspires associates to recognize and celebrate one another’s gifts through service. Whether experienced or new to Senior Living, we provide in-depth training preparing each associate to make a real-life difference. Our in-house programs pave the way for associates to advance through our Career Development curriculum, and for college students to explore their Senior Living interests in our Internship program.
Watercrest associates answer a calling to serve our cherished residents and their families every day, and we are committed to continuously investing in our families of servants’ hearts.
We believe our associates deserve a competitive wage and comprehensive benefits options including health, dental, and vision, voluntary life insurance and company-paid life insurance, long-term and short-term disability, supplemental plans, 401k with employer match, paid time off, tuition reimbursement program, volunteer paid time off and associate referral program.
Our growth is your opportunity. Career Development is designed to assist associates in advancing their careers within the Senior Living industry.
Congratulations, Kristi Wilkey – Servant Leader of the Month at Market Street Palm Coast!
Kristi joined our team at Market Street Palm Coast in July 2023, selecting her core value to be Big Hearted!
“One of the reasons I love working at Market Street is that I have always believed I am a people person,” says Kristi. “I love watching the associates with their warm and generous hearts help the residents when needed and to see those residents respond. There is no care in the world we cannot handle.”
Her director says that “Kristi exudes a very caring, compassionate attitude for all of our residents, families and team members. She is very conscientious about her role and proficient in her duties providing excellence. She is a perfect fit for Market Street and valued asset.”
Congratulations, Rockeisha Hall – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Santa Rosa Beach!
Rockeisha joined Watercrest Santa Rosa Beach in February 2021, and selected her core value Truthful. I am very passionate and care about what I do, especially for our memory care residents,” she says.
Her director agrees. “Rockeisha is a very dedicated and compassionate associate who goes above and beyond in the care that she gives to our residents each and every day.”
Congratulations, Destiny White – Servant Leader of the Month at Market Street East Lake!
Destiny joined the Market Street East Lake concierge team in December 2021 and chose her core value Humor.
“I enjoy learning about the past from the eyes of the people who lived through history!” she says.
Her director feels she is a valuable member of the team. “Destiny is literally the first person you see when you walk into our community and her warm and friendly personality brings all of our guests instant happiness!”
Congratulations, Angie Satiago – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Spanish Springs!
In November, Angie will celebrate her first anniversary at Watercrest Spanish Springs! “I have a passion for taking care of the elderly, especially those who don’t have family close by. I love my people!” she cheerfully says.
Kayla Ramos, Memory Care Director, says, “Angie is an asset to our community who has willingly worked every shift in Memory Care. She has recently found her home on our night shift where she is essential in helping train the new associates and ensures the illuminate program ‘shines’ and our residents rest easy.”
Congratulations, Lance Hutt – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Spanish Springs!
Lance joined our kitchen staff in December 2021, and his core value Hard-Working describes him well! “Doing my job well, and doing it efficiently make our residents happy, and that makes me happy. I love working at Watercrest Spanish Springs because it has helped my social skills and keeps my mind and hands busy,” he says.
His director proudly states that “Lance is receiving this award for always stepping up when his team needs his presence. As a senior at The Villages Charter School, Lance is a shining indication for future leaders. He is efficient and pleasant, and we are proud to watch him grow. Congratulations, Lance!”
Congratulations, Judy Poe – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Santa Rosa Beach!
The team at Santa Rosa Beach welcomed Judy in December 2022. “I love working with a team of compassionate people that puts our residents first. It is our honor to serve and assist them in their home . . . makes for a very special environment for all,” says Judy.
Her director feels Judy’s core value of Sincere fits her well. “Judy is loved by the residents and her co-workers. She is always ready to lend a hand and makes sure everyone is all set before she leaves for the day. Judy is the definition of a team player.”
Congratulations, Michele Amey – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Myrtle Beach!
Michele joined our team in March 2023, selecting her core value of Kindness. “I enjoy making my residents and team members smile,” she says!
Her director proudly says that “Michele is a dedicated member of our overnight team. She goes above and beyond the duties of her job to enhance the quality of life for our residents.”
Congratulations, Brittany Clifton – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Spanish Springs!
Brittany is a Medication Technician at Watercrest Spanish Springs, joining us in June 2021! She selected her core value to be Boldness, explaining that “I believe in being bold and standing out! My residents are my passion, and making them happy makes ME happy!”
Brittany is a valuable and respected member of the team, and lives up to our mission “To Welcome, To Care, To Serve” with pride and dedication!
Congratulations, Regina Johnson – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Indian Land!
Regina has been part of our family for just over two years! “Serving seniors is rewarding in the joy and knowledge that I receive spending time with them!” says Regina.
Her director feels Regina lives up to her core value of Dependable. “Regina is always willing to go above and beyond her required tasks, to care for our residents and their families.”
Congratulations, Cynthia Peters – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Winter Park!
Cynthia joined Watercrest Winter Park as a Resident Care Specialist in December 2022 and selected Family as her core value. “My passion for caring for seniors started when I cared for my grandmother at her end of life. Now I am honored to serve dozens of seniors everyday at Watercrest Winter Park!” she says.
“Cynthia is loved by all of our residents, and she consistently goes above and beyond her duties,” says Executive Director Maryann. “She displays patience and compassion in her role as Resident Care Specialist. It is evident that she loves what she does. Her energy and smile is contagious!”
Congratulations, Diane Bell – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Spanish Springs!
Diane celebrates her first anniversary at Watercrest Spanish Springs; she joined our family in October 2022! She chose her core value of Authenticity, stating, “My passion for working with seniors stems from the desire to help others — whether it be a simple task like scheduling an appointment or more complex by listening and offering sympathy. The simple to the complex gives me a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment.”
Crystal Stone, Business Office Manager, says Diane is an integral part of our community. “She is always professional and shows the utmost patience with our residents and callers. She goes above and beyond to provide any assistance she can and enjoys every minute of her job,” said Crystal. “Your love for what you do shows, Diane! Thank you for your service!!”
Congratulations, Nina Gala – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Spanish Springs!
Concierge Nina Gala joined our family in October 2021. She selected Approachable as her core value, a trait that serves her well in her role. “It is my privilege to be here. I enjoy listening to our residents’ stories . . . to be a part of their lives, and I feel the same about their families, and my teammates. I LOVE being here!”
Crystal Stone, Business Office Manager, says “Nina deserves this award because she is a dedicated employee who embodies our mission ‘To Welcome, To Care, To Serve.’ Often, Nina is the “first impression” of our community, and she is always willing to go the extra mile for all residents, family members, and associates. Congratulations, Nina! Well-deserved!”
Congratulations, Tammy Hutchens – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Indian Land!
Tammy lives up to her chosen core value of Compassion. She’ll tell you, “ I love my job! The residents keep me smiling and it is so rewarding. Caring for them and showing love are the reasons i get up in the mornings.”
Her director feels the same; “Tammy is the epitome of her core value . . . she cares for residents well, and goes above and beyond.”
Congratulations, Jose Rojas – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Spanish Springs!
Jose joined the Watercrest Spanish Springs team in July 2021. “What I recognize most about working with Watercrest Spanish Springs is the shared respect the residents and associates have for one another. I am proud to work here!” he says.
Jennifer Sparkman, Senior Resident Wellness Director, believes Jose lives up to his selected core value of Caring. She describes Jose as a “hard working RCS/Med Tech who always goes above and beyond for his community.”
Congratulations, Ocie Rivers – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Indian Land!
Ocie is a valued concierge at Watercrest Indian Land, joining our team in December 2022. Selecting his core value of Respect, Ocie says he loves “to provide the best quality service to the residents and visitors. i enjoy the positive response when giving loving care to the residents.”
Ocie’s director feels his core value is a great fit, proudly stating that “Ocie exemplifies all the qualities of a servant leader.“
Congratulations, Sabine Obas – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Winter Park!
We welcomed Sabine to Watercrest in January 2022. Executive Director MaryAnn Howell feels the core value of Integrity was well chosen by Sabine! “Sabine goes above and beyond in order to ensure safe and quality care for our residents. She is an excellent nurse and we are blessed to have her as part of our Watercrest Winter Park family.”
Sabine says “The thing I love most about working at Watercrest is being able to put smiles on the faces of my residents and my staff!”
Congratulations, Tonya Donnelly – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Santa Rosa Beach!
Tonya joined our family in May 2022, and selected Compassion as her core value. Her director certainly agrees with the choice, saying “Tonya always gives 100%! She has a special bond with our residents and treats them with love and respect.”
Tonya enjoys her role. “I love all the closeness and constant activities that are going on. When I see the smiles on the residents faces, it is acknowledgment that I’m doing my job well! I love our residents and treat them as if they were my own parents/grandparents!”
Congratulations, Loretta Smith – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Myrtle Beach!
Loretta joined the Watercrest Myrtle Beach team in December 2022, selecting Kindness as her core value. Loretta will joyously tell you, “My residents are my happiness!!”
Loretta’s director agrees, proudly stating, “Loretta has a smile that lights up the room . . . her kindness is contagious!”
Congratulations, Jennifer Sparkman, Senior Resident Wellness Director!
Jennifer has been a part of the Watercrest Spanish Springs family for seven years! She began her career there as a supervisory nurse and was promoted to Assistant Resident Wellness Director, then to Resident Wellness Director. We are proud to now announce her promotion to Senior Resident Wellness Director for Watercrest!
She selected her core value of Positivity because she finds “positive” in every situation. “You have the power to control any situation by the way you react to it – react wisely,” says Jennifer.
Jennifer is excited about her new position. “Watercrest allows me to challenge myself. Coming to work with a daily goal to make a difference in our community puts a smile on my face! I love how our leaders always believe in me . . . I’m looking forward to whatever may come in my new role!”
Congratulations, Hugh Clarke – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Santa Rosa Beach!
Hugh joined our Watercrest family in August 2021! He selected his core value of “Strong,” and is a true asset to our team! “It’s a nice place to work,” says Hugh. “I love the environment, and my coworkers keep me going! I truly love the residents!”
Hugh’s director says he exemplifies servant leadership and truly cares about our residents.
Congratulations, Bobbi Scott – Watercrest Columbia Servant Leader of the Month!
We are proud to congratulate Bobbi Scott, Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Columbia! Bobbi joined our family in January 2022, and lives true to her core value of Dependability. She consistently goes above and beyond, is happy to fill any shift, and serves our residents well, by performing extra tasks without being asked to.
Congratulations, Chrissy Heaton – Senior Memory Care Director!
Chrissy’s core value of “Love” is so appropriate as she has so much of it to share! She joined the Market Street Viera family six years ago, and her career has blossomed. In 2019, she was promoted to Memory Care Director and earned “Memory Care Director Rookie of the Year” in 2020.
Now, as Senior Memory Care Director, Chrissy is living her personal mission.
“I love working for Watercrest because they truly stand by their mission statement. It is my passion to serve our senior population and provide them with the best quality of life. My senior position allows me to be a peer mentor and help ensure we are providing the highest level of standards across our communities, toward our goal of enriching the lives of our elders.”
Congratulations, Michelle Montanez – Senior Resident Lifestyle Director!
We are proud to introduce you to Michelle Montanez, selected to serve as Senior Resident Lifestyle Director! Michelle began her career at Watercrest St. Lucie West over three years ago and chose her core value to be “Passion.” Those who know her would agree it’s a perfect fit for her!
Michelle sums up her experience by saying, “I love coming into Watercrest every day because I feel I enrich the lives of others and have a purpose. Whether it’s providing support to a team member, leading a program, or giving a hug, I know that I am making a difference. Being a part of this company and contributing to my residents’ lives is truly the best feeling! Watercrest is family to me, and I believe, “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
Congratulations, Christine McGrath – Senior Community Relations Director!
Christine began her journey with Watercrest as Community Relations Director at Market Street Palm Coast in 2018, prior to the community’s opening! We are blessed for her talents, commitment, passion for senior living and compassion for our residents, families, and fellow associates. Anyone who knows Christine will agree that Integrity, her core value, is spot on for her!
Christine sums up her career and her recent promotion by saying, “I absolutely LOVE helping families that are none the wiser about our senior living industry. I LOVE to educate & inform them of the importance to understand assisted living, the difference between licensures, and the importance of the true nature of “aging in place!”
Congratulations, Ethan Jones – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Santa Rosa Beach!
Ethan selected his core value “Loyalty” when he joined our team in April 2021. He started as a member of our wait staff, but felt his passion would be in the Resident Care Specialist role. “I am now a Resident Care Specialist in Memory Care, and it’s such a good fit for me…. I love our residents and their families!”
Ethan’s director says he always goes above and beyond… an exemplary associate!
Congratulations, Diann – Senior Community Relations Director!
Diann joined our family as Watercrest St. Lucie West’s first Community Relations Director in 2017! All who know her would agree her core value of “Inspiring” is a perfect fit!
“There are many reasons why I love Watercrest,” says Diann. “Watching our residents enjoying themselves . . . confident they’re receiving excellent care! Watercrest inspires me every day to use my Core Value to inspire others. Watercrest truly lives their Servant Leadership Mission Statement and Vision.”
Congratulations, Diann!
Congratulations, Brittney Fielden – Senior Community Relations Director!
Brittney joined our family in 2020 as Community Relations Director at Watercrest Winter Park, and brought with her an unparalleled dedication to community, residents, families, and fellow associates. She has selflessly assisted whenever called upon to mentor new associates and demonstrate “The Watercrest Way.” Her core value, Integrity, defines Brittney well!
“I love working at Watercrest because of the family-oriented value and culture that has been built,” says Brittney. “I have had a handful of memorable, professional mentors in my career and higher education journey, and I feel led to pay it forward and be that person for others who might be newer to the healthcare industry. It is an evolving industry, with something new to learn each day, and I love that Watercrest leads the industry in modern senior living concepts, while also providing growth & leadership opportunities to all of their associates.”
Congratulations, Andrea Morales, Talent Acquisition Specialist!
Andrea comes to us with 18 years of professional experience in Hospitality and Property Management. During this time, she provided internal support to residents and served in many roles, including recruiting, hiring, training and developing talented individuals.
Her goal is to serve with passion and maintain a collaborative focus on company culture. Andrea is an Ohio native and has been a proud Floridian since June 2009. She is a dedicated wife and mother to two boys, whom she loves spending time with, never taking for granted the time that God has blessed them with to be able to do so.
Andrea’s core value is “Accountable” and she explains, “To be accountable is to lead with courage, honesty, integrity and with a responsibility to preserve a culture built on trust and being in service to others.”
Welcome to our family, Andrea!
Congratulations, Chef Geoffrey Blount – Senior Executive Chef!
Chef Geoffrey joined the Watercrest Myrtle Beach team in August 2022, selecting his core value “Nourishment.” He brings 20 years’ experience in culinary education! Together with Chef Steph Decker, he initiated the Healthy Pastry and Bread Program.
Chef loves his role, stating, “One of the most romantic and touching things you can do is nourish another person’s body using your talents, heart and soul. I am blessed to have a great team of Chefs and Culinarians around me that allows US to do this daily with our residents.”
Congratulations, Chef Geoffrey!
Congratulations, Dominique Novak – Senior Resident Wellness Director!
Dominique’s core value of “Purpose” serves her well! Joining Watercrest Winter Park in January 2022, she has found her love of our company culture.
“Watercrest gives you the feeling of a sense of belonging and I truly enjoy the people I work with,” says Dominique. “There is an unprecedented alignment between personal and company values. Since acquiring my role as a Senior Resident Wellness Director, Watercrest has allowed me to challenge my professional development and makes me feel like I am contributing to a larger purpose.”
Congratulations, Dominique!
Congratulations, Michael Jones – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Myrtle Beach!
Michael joined our family in May 2022, and selected ‘Outgoing’ as his core value. “Watercrest for me is my home away from home. The atmosphere here is very welcoming. The staff is amazing and I adore the residents. To me, my job has been a true Watercrest experience!”
Michael’s director proudly states that “Michael goes above and beyond daily, to ensure our residents are well cared for.”
Congratulations, Devin Sabatini – Senior Environmental Services Director!
Devin has been part of our Watercrest family for almost seven years, and all who know him will agree that Trustworthy is the perfect core value to describe him!
After relocating to Florida, he became a member of the management staff at our very first Watercrest community, where he continued to grow his career, studying and learning all he could about senior living and the Watercrest Way.
Devin says, “I have been fortunate to assist at other Watercrest communities, and eventually move into the Senior Environmental Services role. I have been able to grow and learn so much about seniors at Watercrest . . . a place where I feel valued.”
Congratulations, Kevin Julian – Senior Environmental Services Director!
Kevin began his career with Watercrest over five years ago, as Market Street East Lake’s very first Environmental Services Director.
He selected his core value of Reliability, and those who know him agree it’s a perfect fit – Kevin is steadfast and dependable, always . . . and these qualities have contributed toward this next step in his journey.
Kevin sums up his thoughts about his new position saying, “I love the opportunity to meet and work with our Environment Service Directors, and to both help and learn along the way.”
Congratulations, Gabriela Livingston – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Santa Rosa Beach!
Gabriela joined the Watercrest Santa Rosa Beach team in July. Selecting her core value of Faithful, she shares, “I am passionate about serving people that can’t serve themselves. I love to help people. I also love the teamwork with the crew. I love bringing smiles to people’s faces.”
Her director agrees. “Gabriela is kind, passionate and dedicated to serving others.”
Welcome, Samantha Sipe – Operations Specialist at Watercrest Senior Living!
Samantha brings over 12 years of experience in senior living and has a tremendous heart and passion for serving seniors. She earned a Bachelor in Arts at Millersville University, is a licensed Administrator in Pennsylvania, and currently working toward the same license in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. A believer in servant leadership, Samantha feels that “Our consistency in providing excellence is built upon the passion of our associates.” Samantha’s role will be instrumental in providing tools for our leaders and front-line teams, to help them achieve success and ensure the best possible experience for our residents and families.
Welcome, Hailey Vorkapich – Talent Acquisition Specialist at Watercrest Senior Living!
Hailey was first introduced to the senior living industry through an internship opportunity at Watercrest, and will graduate from Liberty University with a Bachelors of Business Administration in December 2022. “This experience blessed me with not only a front row seat into the industry, but also the importance of intentionality, hospitality and servanthood necessary from the moment a resident, family member, or visitor walks through the door.” Through her opportunities and experiences, she has discovered a passion in seeing others tenaciously pursue their God-given callings, and is looking forward to many more to come.
Congratulations, Chef Scott Simka – featured in Senior Dining Association News!
Scott Simka, Executive Chef at Watercrest Indian Land, was recently featured in Senior Dining Association News! The article on mentoring points out that Chef Scott is recognized by other industry chefs for having a crazy passion for his team members and residents every day. His LinkedIn page headlines “Executive Chef – Energetic, Engaged & Caffeinated – Changing the face of senior dining and senior service,” and his posts often spotlight dining team members at Watercrest Indian Land! Scott comes alive when teaching and training, saying, “Working with teams to empower them to overcome barriers to their success is what drives me and gives me a sense of purpose. It’s just something I do but not something I’ve always done.” And we are so glad you do it, Chef Scott – we are blessed to have you in our family!
Congratulations, Stephanie L’Heureux – Director of Accounting!
Please join us as we celebrate the promotion of Stephanie L’Heureux to Watercrest Director of Accounting, overseeing the financial systems of all of our senior living communities and associated brands. Stephanie is one of our longest tenured associates, having joined Watercrest just one year after our inception in Summer 2012. From her start as an accountant to her promotion to Senior Accountant, Stephanie has skillfully supported Watercrest during our growth throughout the Southeast. CFO Joanie Williams says “Stephanie embodies the Watercrest culture of servant leadership through her core value of ‘dedication. She is a talented mentor and trainer for our team members in the home office and the communities. Her contributions to our growth and success have been significant.”
Stephanie summarizes her experience with us – “Watercrest has truly always been a part of my family. I value every connection and experience I have made and feel blessed to further serve and contribute to our purpose as I enter into this new chapter of my journey.”
Congratulations, Shannon Rochester – Senior Business Office Manager!
Shannon has been a part of our family for five years – entering as a Concierge in St. Lucie West and was subsequently promoted to Business Office Manager.
Shannon’s core value is Compassion, proudly stating that “Watercrest has become my family, the residents, family members, and my teammates. My Grandfather was a resident here – the love that was shown to me by everyone when he passed was enormous. My Daughter and I spent a lot of time at Watercrest off and on the clock. Watercrest has given me the opportunity to grow and challenge myself – every day there is a new challenge. I never imagined myself on this path. I really enjoy being the first contact with all our new incoming servant leaders . . . getting to know them and teaching them about Watercrest. I love being able to live my core value daily, showing compassion to all I come in contact with. I truly love my job. This is my happy place!”
Congratulations, Cheryl Welch – Senior Business Office Manager!
Cheryl joined our Watercrest family as Business Office Manager in Winter Park almost two years ago! Her core value, Integrity, serves her well while continuously demonstrating a great work ethic and dedication to residents, families, and associates.
“I love Watercrest for the transparent work culture, the leadership (MaryAnn!), career advancement opportunities, and work/life balance,” says Cheryl. “I love the Senior Business Office Manager role because it makes it a passion in helping others, giving me an opportunity to use my skills and abilities to mentor/train present and future Business Office Managers.”
Congratulations, Sheila Fioretti – Dining Services Specialist!
Sheila comes to Watercrest with over 30 years of culinary and hospitality experience and has also owned a successful catering business. Her passion is to humbly serve all customers with superior service while exceeding their expectations – always seeking ways to step things up a notch! She believes in collaborative teamwork – that everyone, no matter what they do, is vital to the organization.
Sheila graduated with a Culinary Arts Degree from Le Cordon Bleu school of Culinary Arts and is a Certified Dietary Manager. Her core value, Passion, defines Sheila! She’ll tell you that her passion is “serving our seniors, team members and communities humbly each day with excitement and a servant heart, and empowering others to find and enhance their passion.”
Congratulations, Natasha Clemmons – Servant Leader of the Month at Watercrest Santa Rosa Beach!
Naasha joined our Watercrest Santa Rosa Beach team in June 2022, and selected her core value Patience. She enjoys her work and happily says that “It makes my day taking care of our residents!”
Natasha’s director proudly states that “Natasha is a dedicated and passionate associate, who truly values our residents!”
Whether a career in Senior Living has always been your calling or you’re still exploring the idea, Watercrest is a great place to learn about Senior Living.
