From a young girl playing violin at the local nursing home at 7 years old, Andrea was being called to a vocation of caring for the aging and elderly. She became a Board Certified Music Therapist in 2019, serving children and young adults in special education programs across school districts and community organizations throughout New York State.

Andrea jokes she was born into the world of eldercare when she became the Music Therapist at an Assisted Living and Memory Care facility. During those formative years, Andrea quickly fell in love with spending time with those facing memory impairments and cognitive deficits. Sharing in moments of joy and connection through music encounters drove her passion. She later became a NYS Ombudsman, elder advocate for those living in long term care and rehabilitation facilities.

While practicing as a Music Therapist and visiting the aging and elderly in these healthcare settings, Andrea felt called to serve in a healthcare leadership role. It was at this time she received her Master of Health Administration and shortly thereafter gained her New York State Nursing Home Administrator license.

What drives Andrea each day is to build meaning connection with those she serves. There is no cookie-cutter story line or simple resolution for those living with memory loss or cognitive impairment. Recognizing a person before the diagnosis is key to individualized and meaningful, effective plans of care. It is Andrea’s goal to support and join others in their journey to ensure individuals live a life that is meaningful, fulfilling, and a fountain of profound, love-filled moments.