Our Team
Our amenities, activities and programs make BrightStar Senior Living an exceptional place to live. Our staff make it feel like home.
Learn more about our dedicated team of professionals at our community.
-
Michaela Back-Cramer
Executive DirectorMichaela Back-Cramer is thrilled to join BrightStar Senior Living as the Executive Director in her hometown of Mason, Ohio. A Mason native, Michaela grew up on Reading Road and attended St. Susanna School before graduating from Ursuline Academy. She went on to earn her degree from Wright State University and later obtained her Nursing Home Administrator License for the state of Ohio.
With over a decade of experience in senior living, Michaela’s journey began as a caregiver during her high school years. Her passion for serving seniors has since flourished into a dedicated career in the field.
Michaela currently resides in Miamisburg with her husband, Aaron, and their two beloved dogs, Pig and Jasper. Outside of work, she is an active board member of a local community theatre group and seizes every opportunity to participate in performances.
If you're exploring senior living options in the Mason area, Michaela warmly invites you to visit BrightStar Senior Living and say hello!![]()
-
Meeka Breeding
Facility Care SpecialistMeeka Breeding is a dedicated Facility Care Specialist with a lifelong passion for senior living. With extensive experience in the field, she most recently concluded a rewarding seven-year tenure at Bickford Assisted Living. Prior to that, Meeka contributed her skills at Astoria in Germantown, where she honed her expertise in providing compassionate care to seniors.
In her current role, Meeka oversees both the housekeeping and maintenance departments, ensuring that the facility operates smoothly and maintains a welcoming environment for all residents. Committed to continuous growth, she recently achieved her Medication Technician license, enabling her to responsibly manage medication distribution within the community.
Meeka's dedication to her career is matched only by her enthusiasm for building meaningful connections with residents and their families. In her free time, she enjoys music, spending quality time with friends, and learning the unique stories of the residents she serves. She invites you to stop by and say hello—she would love to get to know you!![]()
-
Sarah Miller
Life Enrichment DirectorMeet Sarah Miller, our spirited Life Enrichment Director! With six years of caregiving experience, Sarah has been a shining star at BrightStar for the past three years, where her incredible journey has led to her well-deserved promotion.
Living in Hamilton with her boyfriend and her lovable dog, Moose, Sarah is a Certified Dementia Practitioner who brings her passion for connection and compassion to everyone she meets. She believes in enriching lives at every stage and is dedicated to creating meaningful experiences for our residents. Through her innovative ideas and creative programming, Sarah has elevated our Life Enrichment program in extraordinary ways, ensuring that every day is filled with joy, engagement, and purpose.
When she's not busy crafting engaging activities, you can find Sarah lost in a good book, whipping up delicious treats in the kitchen, or enjoying sunny days at the park with Moose. Her vibrant energy and heartfelt dedication make her an invaluable part of our team. Stop by to say hi—Sarah can’t wait to connect with you!![]()
-
Kristi Englemon, LPN
Director of Health and WellnessKristi Englemon has been a dedicated member of the BrightStar community since its inception. As the Director of Health and Wellness, she plays a key role in ensuring the highest standards of care and creating a welcoming, home-like environment for both residents and staff.
Kristi’s healthcare career began early, as she attended nursing school while still in high school and graduated as a Licensed Practical Nurse. With over eight years of experience in nursing, Kristi has spent the past four years at BrightStar, making significant contributions to our mission. Recently, she achieved certification as a dementia practitioner, further enhancing her skills and commitment to comprehensive, patient-centered care.
In her leadership role, Kristi is known for her dedication to fostering a positive atmosphere, where residents and staff alike feel valued and cared for. Her warm, family-oriented nature is evident in every interaction, and her focus on quality care remains a central part of her work.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Kristi enjoys spending time with her family, as well as reading and writing, which allow her to stay engaged and explore her personal interests.
Kristi's leadership, compassion, and experience continue to be a driving force behind the success of BrightStar, and we are proud to have her as part of our team.![]()
-
Ray Recchia
Director of DiningRay is a highly experienced chef with a rich culinary background. As a first-generation American with Italian roots, he brings a deep connection to his family's culinary heritage. With over 27 years in the culinary industry, Ray has honed his skills and expertise in the art of cooking. He is "classically trained," which means he has a strong foundation in traditional culinary techniques that form the basis of many exquisite dishes.
Ray's commitment to his craft is evident through his membership in the American Culinary Federation, a respected organization in the culinary world. This affiliation reflects his dedication to maintaining high standards and staying updated on the latest trends in the culinary industry.
For a significant portion of his career, Ray served as a corporate chef, showcasing his ability to not only excel in the kitchen but also manage and lead culinary teams. This experience has provided him with valuable insights into the culinary business, including the importance of consistency, quality, and innovation.
Ray's culinary specialties primarily revolve around Italian cuisine and pastries. His Italian roots likely contribute to his profound understanding of the flavors, techniques, and traditions that make Italian food so beloved worldwide. Whether it's crafting a perfect pasta dish, preparing a classic Italian dessert, or experimenting with innovative Italian-inspired creations, Ray's expertise shines through in every dish he creates.
Ray is a seasoned chef with a strong background in Italian cuisine and pastries. His culinary journey, deep-rooted in his Italian heritage and classical training, has paved the way for a successful career in the culinary world. His dedication to the art of cooking, combined with his years of experience, positions him as a notable figure in the field.![]()
Scheduled a Guided Visit
We look forward to welcoming you or your loved one to our community. Contact us to schedule a visit or call 608.849.2322 to learn why we’re a top choice among senior living communities.