Our Team at BrightStar® Senior Living Mason

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.

  • Lori Horstman

    Executive Director
    Lori holds a bachelor’s degree in social psychology and has furthered her education with a master’s degree in education, specializing in Work and Family Studies & Neuropsychology, both of which she earned from Miami University. Her dedication to dementia care is evident through her extensive list of certifications. She is certified by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP) as a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Certified Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia Care Trainer, Certified First Responder Dementia Trainer, and Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional. Lori is also a certified Teepa Snow Positive Approach to Care (PAC) Trainer, showcasing her commitment to the latest techniques and best practices in dementia care. She takes pride in developing and implementing innovative programs that engage and cognitively stimulate our residents.
    With over twenty-five years of experience as a trainer and speaker, Lori has a wealth of knowledge to share. She has dedicated over a decade of her career to Assisted Living as a Dementia Specialist, demonstrating her expertise in the field. On a personal level, Lori has experience as a dementia caregiver for her father and brother, which adds a compassionate and understanding touch to her work. Her approach is rooted in empathy and tailored interventions, ensuring each resident receives personalized care that respects their dignity and individuality.  Communication is the heart of dementia care, and Lori prioritizes creating a positive and empathetic environment for both residents and their families.  By fostering open lines of communication, she aims to build trusting relationships that contribute to the overall well-being of our community.
    In her personal life, Lori and her husband, Eric, call Springboro home. They have 20-year-old twins, Jaxon and Jordyn, and share their lives with a very pampered Doberman named Shadow. Lori's commitment to her family, her extensive qualifications, and her personal and professional experiences make her a well-rounded and empathetic individual in the field of dementia care.
     

  • Wendy Lastivka

    Sales and Marketing Director
    Wendy 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.
     

  • Brenda O’Connor

    Reception
    As the welcoming face of BrightStar Senior Living, Brenda O’Connor, is a dedicated and compassionate receptionist committed to providing a warm and supportive environment for residents and their families.
    With 40 years of experience in administrative roles, Brenda brings a wealth of knowledge in customer service and organizational efficiency to her role as a receptionist. Her primary focus is on creating a positive first impression for everyone who enters our community. Brenda understands the unique needs and challenges faced by seniors and their families, and she is devoted to ensuring that each interaction is handled with empathy, professionalism, and a genuine desire to assist.
    She is excited to contribute to the well-being of our assisted living community by being a reliable resource and a friendly face for residents and their families. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for serving others, we are honored to have Brenda as part of our team.
    My things I like doing is spending time with my family and my dogs and I love baking and giving them away.   
    Brenda loves spending time with her family and her dogs! She is an avid baker; you may get lucky one day and receive one of her homemade treats. Feel free to reach out to Brenda if you have any questions or if there's anything she can assist you with
     

  • Hanna Rosteck

    Resident Office Manager
    Hanna is a former resident of Great Falls, Montana, who has built a successful career in the field of Long-Term Care. She's a dedicated mother with two sons, aged 15 and 20. Hanna holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a specialization in Human Resource Management, and she achieved the prestigious distinction of graduating Magna Cum Laude from Purdue University.
    With eight years of experience in Long Term Care, Hanna has held roles as a Business Office Manager and Social Worker. This background demonstrates her commitment to the well-being of individuals in long-term care facilities. She oversees the financial operations of our assisted living community, ensuring transparency, accuracy, and compliance with industry standards. Her proficiency in budgeting, invoicing, and financial reporting plays a crucial role in maintaining the fiscal health of our facility. Hanna provides residents and their families with the support they need, addressing inquiries, and offering guidance to make their experience with the business office as smooth and stress-free as possible. She is committed to providing excellent customer service, both to internal stakeholders and external partners. By fostering positive relationships with vendors, residents, and their families, Hanna contributes to a harmonious and supportive community environment.
    Outside of her professional life, Hanna enjoys reading, delving into the world of true crime through podcasts, and enthusiastically supporting her child's football endeavors. These hobbies show her diverse interests and her strong support for her family.

  • Alexis Barker

    Director of Maintenance
    Alexis is a dedicated professional with a passion for both the great outdoors and live music. When not working in her role as a Maintenance Tech, where she's affectionately known as the "handy girl" by residents, Alexis can often be found at the beach, enjoying the sun and surf, or attending concerts to indulge her love for live music. With six years of experience in the assisted living and skilled facilities industry, Alexis has followed a diverse career path that includes roles such as receptionist, activities coordinator, and memory care specialist. Her journey reflects her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of seniors and her versatile skill set in this field.
    Maintenance is a collaborative effort, and Alexis works closely with fellow team members, caregivers, and administrative staff to create a seamless and efficient operation. Clear communication and teamwork are at the core of her approach to maintaining the high standards of our facility. As the Maintenance Technician she is honored to play a vital role in ensuring the physical well-being of our community. Alexis looks forward to continuing to contribute to the overall satisfaction of our residents by maintaining a welcoming, secure, and well-functioning living environment.
     At home, she shares her time with her beloved dog and cat, making every moment a memorable one.
     

  • McKenzie Moore, LPN

    Director of Health and Wellness
    As the Director of Health & Wellness, McKenzie brings not only her wealth of experience and expertise but also her unwavering dedication to providing exceptional care and fostering an environment of compassion, harmony, and excellence for both residents and staff alike.
    With a decade of dedicated service in the healthcare industry, McKenzie has charted an inspiring career path, beginning as an Activity Assistant before advancing to the roles of State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) and ultimately achieving licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Her journey exemplifies resilience, passion, and a steadfast commitment to patient care.
    Graduating second in her class from Butler Tech in 2019, she not only demonstrated academic excellence but also received the prestigious Heart and Harmony Award, a testament to her compassion and dedication to fostering a harmonious environment for both patients and colleagues alike.
    Beyond her professional achievements, McKenzie finds fulfillment in her role as a partner and parent. Having been with her high school sweetheart for twelve years, she cherishes the joys of family life, sharing the journey of parenthood with two beautiful daughters, Ellie (5) and Lanora (1), as well as the delightful chaos brought by their beloved pup, Kane.
    In addition to her professional and personal commitments, McKenzie embraces the simple pleasures of life. She finds solace and enjoyment in the pages of a good book, demonstrating her insatiable curiosity and love for learning. Above all, she values precious moments spent with family, relishing in the bonds of love and laughter that enrich her life.
     

  • Kellie Dempsey

    Director of Memory Care
    Kellie is a dedicated Memory Care Coordinator with an impressive 25-year tenure specializing in cognitive impairment. Armed with an associate degree in early childhood education, she has cultivated a wealth of experience and expertise in the nuanced field of dementia care. Kellie is not only a seasoned professional but also holds certifications as a Dementia Practitioner and a Dementia Support Group Facilitator, underscoring her commitment to staying at the forefront of industry best practices.
    Throughout her career, Kellie has consistently demonstrated a genuine passion and calling for enriching the lives of individuals grappling with dementia. Her unique blend of educational background and practical experience positions her as a compassionate advocate for those facing cognitive challenges. Kellie excels in creating supportive environments that prioritize the holistic well-being of residents, recognizing the importance of individualized care tailored to each person's unique needs.
    Driven by a profound commitment to her work, Kellie aspires to further elevate her impact within the field. Her overarching goal is to obtain an administrator's license, allowing her to assume a leadership role as an Executive Director. This aspiration speaks to her ambition to not only provide hands-on care but also to shape and influence the broader landscape of dementia care facilities.
    Kellie’s professional journey is characterized by unwavering dedication, continuous learning, and a heartfelt mission to enhance the quality of life for those affected by cognitive impairment. Her steadfast pursuit of excellence, coupled with her ambitious future goals, marks her as a standout professional in the realm of memory care and BrightStar is proud to have her as our Memory Care Coordinator.
     

  • Ray Recchia

    Director of Dining
    Ray 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.

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