Our People
Our people are our greatest asset. From the full spectrum of adult homecare and elder care to childcare and more, the quality services we provide day in and day out would not be possible without the hard work and passion of our dedicated staff. Each member of our team embodies the core values of our business – compassion, integrity, family, excellence, trustworthiness, accountability, and diversity – and strives to make more possible for those in our care.
Steve O’Dell | Owner
Prior to establishing Erie County BrightStar, local owner Steve O’Dell worked in healthcare for nearly 20 years, most recently in the clinical development and global launches of biopharmaceuticals. He found that the most rewarding part of his career was meeting with patients who were helped by these new products, and he began to look for a way to directly focus his efforts on patient interaction and care.
Home healthcare proved a perfect fit, and BrightStar Care was the only company that offered the full continuum of care and medical staffing. Steve is honored for the opportunity to positively impact the Erie community by providing peace of mind to patients and their families.
Steve holds board and steering committee positions with the NWPA Workforce Investment Board, the NWPA Healthcare Industry Partnership and the NWPA Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. He is active with the Independent Council on Aging, the Erie Chamber of Commerce, the local Alzheimer’s Association, the Multiple Sclerosis Society and many other non-profit groups assisting the Erie Community.
Jennifer Bisbee| Manager, Operations
I have been in the health care field for 10 years. I started as a Pharmacy Technician and then shifted my focus to Medical Secretary. After school, I worked in case management handling billing aspects for providers to consumers 60 and older. I enjoyed the interaction with the providers on a day to day basis assisting with claim issues. I eventually sought a position with BrightStar Care, where I have now been since 2009. I enjoy the ability to help those in need and assist with the provider side of billing. The best part about being in the healthcare field is it is always changing, and there is always something new to learn. Working for BrightStar Care is rewarding knowing you are helping those in need.
Ashley Cardot | Client Care Manager | Human Resource Specialist
I have been in the homecare industry since 2008. I became a caregiver for BrightStar Care in 2009 and in 2010 accepted an office position. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work in the field and also in the office; it allows me to connect with the field staff on an experienced base level. I enjoy working in the office because it is a welcoming, energetic atmosphere. I especially enjoy being a part of the Erie office because I get to know so many wonderful clients and staff!
Kristen Gehrlein | Community Liaison | Marketing Manager
I graduated from Gannon University in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and am currently attending part-time to complete my M.B.A. I quickly found that my passion was helping others with an emphasis in senior care. I believe that everyone deserves the best care possible. I can provide resources and attention in order to give them peace of mind. I strive daily to build relationships with people in the Erie community. I currently serve as the technology chair for the Independent Council on Aging. Giving back to the Erie community is important to me as I volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association, Erie City Mission, and American Cancer Society. BrightStar Care provides me the ability to foster my own person mission as well as embrace their ability in homecare and expertise in order to understand the needs of you and your family.
