Our Staff at BrightStar Care® Greater Scottsdale

Our experienced and compassionate staff is dedicated to caring for your loved one as if they were family. Get to know our team.

  • Valerie Penwell

    Director of Nursing

    As the Director of Nursing for our Scottsdale location, my philosophy revolves around delivering compassionate, patient-centered care and fostering a strong, supportive team. With a decade of nursing experience, I've successfully managed diverse patient conditions and seamlessly collaborated with multidisciplinary teams. I believe that every person deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life at home for as long as safely possible. I actively advocate for our patients, designing care plans that prioritize not just medical needs, but also maximizing their overall well-being and preserving their independence. I'm passionate about empowering patients and colleagues with knowledge and understanding because I know that building their confidence, self-advocacy, and dignity is key to a high quality of life.

    Valerie
  • Megan Lorenz

    Southwest Regional Director
    I am Megan Lorenz and I have worked in the home care field for 25 years supporting both the elderly population as well as people with developmental disabilities. My passion is providing the best care to all people and assisting them to thrive in their own homes.
    Megan Lorenz
  • Katie Cordaro

    Regional Clinical Director
    i, I'm Katie Cordaro, serving as the Regional Clinical Director. With a robust background spanning 13 years in acute care nursing and home health, I possess a unique blend of expertise. My extensive experience equips me to effectively address the chronic health requirements of our patients while remaining attentive to emergent acute situations and adeptly managing them. Though my journey began in hospital settings, I found my true passion in home health. My goal is to uphold safe patient practices and deliver care that exceeds expectations, ensuring optimal well-being for those under our care.
  • Jessica Maldonado

    Customer Care Manager
    My name is Jessica Maldonado I am the Client Care Manager and ensure that our clients receive the care they so deserve, while maintaining the independence they want. I have worked as a caregiver for over 17 years and LNA for over 9 years in multiple settings, including facilities and hospitals. Once you realize what a difference your help can make, you want to reach as many people as you can. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling.
    Jessica Maldonado
  • Trisha Mutschler

    Customer Care Manager
    Hello, I'm Trisia, a Client Care Manager with 20 years’ experience in Home Care. I started as a caregiver and have continued to learn and grow my knowledge by working in multiple positions. I really enjoy the work that I do, I love to help our clients stay in their homes and remain as independent as they can. My goal is to continue to learn and to work with our caregivers to continue to provide the best care for our clients.
    Trisha
  • Christopher Johnson

    Branch Manager

    I'm Christopher, the Branch Manager for the Scottsdale office. With 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry, I've developed a deep passion for helping others. My work across various clinical settings has given me valuable insight into understanding and meeting the unique needs of each client. Life comes with challenges at every stage, and being able to provide solutions that make a difference is what inspires me daily. I'm committed to ensuring compassionate, personalized care for every individual I have the privilege to serve.

    Christopher Johnson
  • Erica Burgess

    Business Development Manager

    Hi, I'm Erica Burgess.

    With a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Northern Arizona University (NAU), I bring over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of living and working in various states—including New Mexico, Colorado, Tennessee, Texas, Nebraska, Kansas, Oregon, South Carolina, and North Carolina before returning to my roots in Arizona.

    I'm deeply passionate about serving others, particularly seniors. This commitment has led me to focus on enhancing the lives of older adults through compassionate care and community engagement.

    Music has always been a significant part of my life. As a saxophonist, I find joy in performing and connecting with others through melodies. Whether it's the thrill of swing dancing or the serenity of a quiet hike, music accompanies me in many aspects of life.

    Outside of my professional life, I enjoy hiking and am a dedicated Kansas City Chiefs fan. At home in Phoenix, I share my life with my two spoiled dachshunds, Jaxson and Thunder, who bring endless joy and companionship.

    Erica Burgess
  • Kassandra Lugo

    Service Coordinator
    Hi, I’m Kassandra, a Service Coordinator with a strong foundation as an operations Manager for over 4 years at another company. I bring excellent analytical and planning skills, along with a keen eye for accuracy and attention to detail. My goal is to excel as a Service Coordinator at Brightstar Care and pursue opportunities for career growth within the organization.
    Kassandra
  • Angelina Quinonez

    Administrative Assistant
    My name is Angelina Quinonez, and I am the Administrative Assistant for BrightStar Care. I have been with BrightStar for almost two years now. After spending the last 14 years in an education or legal profession I made the choice to pursue a new and rewarding career. My goal as the Arizona Administrative Assistant is to provide consistent and courteous service to all Arizona residents. During my free time I love to hike with friends, read, and travel with my husband.
    Angelina Quinonez
  • Carter Boucher

    HR Coordinator

    I am Carter Boucher, the HR Coordinator at BrightStar Care! I have professional experience in talent acquisition, as I spent time in college recruiting for OnTrac. I am a proud graduate of Regis University, where I received my bachelor’s degree in HR Management in May of 2024, while also playing on the men’s soccer team for four years. I value characteristics such as hard work, integrity, and humility which I carry with me in all facets of life. 

    Carter Boucher

Our Caregivers and Nurses

Our team of care professionals thoroughly screened and trained to provide the highest quality care to your family or your patients. Learn more about our compassionate and trustworthy nurses and caregivers.


Contact Us

Please contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation or call BrightStar Care Greater Scottsdale at 480.302.5139.

Contact Us