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.
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Delta Walker
Administrative AssistantNine years ago, Delta moved to Ohio with her children, embarking on a journey that has taken her through various exciting and fulfilling career paths. Her professional journey began with Hilton, where she dedicated five years before transitioning to the aviation industry. Starting with Southwest Airlines and then moving on to United Airlines, those four years were among the best of her life, filled with opportunities to travel the world and meet new people.
Driven by a passion for working with others and taking care of people, Delta sought a change in career paths. When she saw the BrightStar posting for an Administrative Assistant, she felt it was the perfect opportunity to re-engage with the medical field, an area she had little experience in but always had an interest in. Since joining BrightStar, Delta has found immense joy in her role, particularly in working with dementia and memory care patients. She looks forward to continuing to learn and elevate her knowledge in this field, bringing her unique background and dedication to our community.
If you haven’t had the chance to meet Delta, stop in and get to know her—she's wonderful! -
Candace Lillard, RN
Director of Health and WellnessCandace Lillard is a dedicated Registered Nurse with extensive experience in patient care across various healthcare settings. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing from ITT Tech.
Candace is certified in BLS, ACLS, and Chemotherapy Immunotherapy. She is known for her exceptional care and compassion for residents, always striving to make a positive difference in their lives. Candace is also highly regarded by her colleagues for her supportive and collaborative approach.
Every day, she elevates our environment with her commitment and positive attitude, and we are incredibly grateful to have her as part of our team. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two young boys, traveling, and playing outside. A lifelong resident of the area, she lives just four minutes from the community and is a huge Bengals fan. -
Shelbi Cunagin
Life Enrichment DirectorShelbi Cunagin began her journey in healthcare as a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) 10 years ago. Her natural ability to serve others and bring joy to each day led to her promotion from within our organization. Inspired by her mother and sister, who are both registered nurses, Shelbi has consistently demonstrated a commitment to exceptional care.
Shelbi is the proud mother of a beautiful 8-year-old daughter and enjoys an active lifestyle, both outdoors and indoors. She shares her home with a dog and a cat, embracing the fullness of life. Shelbi’s vibrant personality and dedication shine through in her work, making her an invaluable part of our team.
Shelbi’s innovative ideas have set our department apart, enhancing the way our residents experience senior living. Her ability to connect with residents and customize their experiences ensures that they continue to make cherished memories. Shelbi’s contributions have been instrumental in making our community a place where residents can write the next important chapter of their lives.
We invite you to stop by and see Shelbi in action, or follow our Facebook page for her weekly inspirations and updates. Witness firsthand the positive impact she has on our residents and the vibrant energy she brings to our community. -
Shaylee Kirker
Director of MaintenanceShaylee is a dedicated and passionate member of our team, serving as the Director of Maintenance. She began her journey with us as a Resident Assistant and quickly demonstrated her exceptional skills and commitment, leading to her promotion from within.
Originally from Georgetown, Ohio, Shaylee has always had a natural inclination towards hands-on work, such as landscaping and renovations. She holds a vocational certificate in sports medicine, which has enriched her diverse skill set. Shaylee excels in various maintenance tasks, including facility management, equipment repair, and environmental safety, ensuring our community remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
Shaylee is known for her tender-hearted nature and her genuine love for working with the elderly population, making a significant impact on their lives and environment. She consistently seeks innovative ways to enhance our residents' living experiences, from creating beautiful outdoor spaces to ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness and functionality within our facilities.
Outside of work, Shaylee enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her dogs and family. Her favorite vacation spot is Lake Erie, where she finds relaxation and joy. Shaylee's leadership, caregiving spirit, and dedication to making a difference make her an invaluable asset to our community. -
Kristi Englemon, LPN
Scheduling CoordinatorKristi Englemon is a dedicated Scheduling Coordinator and Licensed Practical Nurse with a rich background in healthcare. She began her nursing career early, attending nursing school while still in high school and graduating as a licensed nurse. With eight years of nursing experience, Kristi has spent the last four years contributing to the team at Bright Star. Recently, she became a certified dementia practitioner, further enhancing her skills and commitment to patient care.
Kristi plays a pivotal role in creating a sense of home within our community. On the floor, she greets residents and employees by name, fostering a warm and welcoming environment. Known for her exceptional dedication, Kristi goes the extra mile to ensure that everyone has the best possible experience.
Family-oriented and joyful, Kristi brings a sense of warmth and care to everything she does.
Her welcoming nature and commitment to creating a positive environment make her a beloved member of our team. Beyond her professional duties, Kristi enjoys spending time with her family, reflecting her deep-rooted values of love and togetherness. In her free time, she enjoys reading and writing, which allows her to explore new ideas and stay engaged with her interests. -
Wendy Lastivka
Sales and Marketing DirectorWendy is a seasoned professional in the senior living industry, she brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for enhancing the lives of seniors through quality care and support. With over 25 years of dedicated service in senior living, she has consistently demonstrated a keen understanding of the unique needs and preferences of our senior population.
Her career journey has equipped her with comprehensive knowledge in sales strategies, marketing, and customer relationship management within the assisted living sector. Wendy is deeply committed to upholding the highest standards of care and service in the assisted living industry. Her role extends beyond sales; she is dedicated to ensuring that every resident receives compassionate, personalized care that enhances their quality of life.
Wendy and her husband John, have 2 daughters, Cassandra and Taylor. She is an advocate for diabetes, elder abuse, and animal rights. She has coached young women in Lacrosse and softball. She enjoys all sports and supports her daughter’s coaching of ONU’s women’s basketball and her other daughter’s pursuit of her master’s in psychology. She has a houseful of animals she and John have rescued. -
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.