Our Staff at BrightStar Care® Happy Valley

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

  • Andri Purkanto

    Owner

    Prior to BrightStar Care, Andri worked for multinational companies in global leadership roles. He developed a depth of knowledge and experience in management, operations, technology and execution. Andri’s lifelong pursuit is to find an opportunity to indulge his intellectual passion of life, enjoy doing it, and at the same time contribute something beyond himself to an organization in ways that help employees, customers, societies, and mankind. 

    He holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Colorado State University and an MBA from The Pennsylvania State University.

    In addition to his professional work, Andri serves on the Executive Committee of the WellSpan York Health Foundation (York, PA) and on the Board of Directors for Edenwald Senior Living (Towson, MD). He also lends his expertise as an Advisory Board Member to WellSpan VNA, Penn State York, and the York County School of Technology.

    Andri Purkanto
  • Ryan Guzzino

    Owner
    Prior to acquiring BrightStar Care, he had 14 years of corporate financial experience in 3 different international manufacturing companies, most recently overseeing financial operations for the United States and Asia. Ryan was instrumental in searching out business opportunities that carried the purpose and passion characteristics that Andri and Ryan were looking for. He quickly settled on BrightStar Care for its ability to transform the lives of people around them while providing a service that is integral to their community. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance and MBA from Pennsylvania State University.
    Ryan Guzzino
  • Lorelei Palemine MSN, RN

    Director of Nursing

    Lorelei is our director of Nursing for Skilled & Compliance Officer of BrightStar Care of Baltimore and South-Central Pennsylvania. Lorelei brought over 20 years of diverse healthcare experience and she is noted for her compassion with patients and their families. She goes above and beyond her duties to ensure comfort and quality care. Lorelei gains satisfaction helping clients age in place  where their stories and memories are created. She earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing from University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center Quezon City, Philippines and Master of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ.  She is also wound care certified. Her background and education magnified her knowledge of nursing practices, individualized patient care, family relations, professional networking, staff development, and other relevant clinical and operational skills required of an effective nurse leader.​

    Lorelei Palemine MSN, RN
  • Amy Grace RN

    Director of Skilled Services
    Amy is our director of Skilled Services for BrightStar Care of Baltimore and South - Central Pennsylvania. She is committed to helping every BrightStar client find and receive the highest quality of care possible. Amy comes to BrightStar with 20+ years of experience in many areas. Amy started her healthcare career as a personal care assistant in a nursing facility, went on to further her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant, Licensed Practical Nurse, then finally a Registered Nurse. Amy brings her expertise in IV infusion-having work in the industry for over 10 years. She also has experience in Home Health, Hospice and Hosptial settings. Her many years of leadership rounds her out as our DON. She is dedicated to working with our clients and staff, making sure everyone is happy and properly cared for! She pursued her career as a registered nurse because of her passion and love of caring for others.
    Amy Grace RN
  • Maddie Leader, MSN, RN

    Skilled Clinical Manager

    Maddie Leader is an experienced Registered Nurse with a Master of Science in Nursing and a strong background in skilled home care and clinical leadership. She has managed interdisciplinary teams, coordinated complex care plans, and supported patients across post-acute, home health, and senior-living settings.

    Maddie specializes in clinical oversight, quality assurance, and ensuring that every patient receives safe, evidence-based skilled care. She was recognized as the 2025 North East Nurse of the Year, reflecting her excellence in clinical practice and commitment to patient outcomes.

    With her advanced training and hands-on nursing experience, Maddie is dedicated to strengthening clinical standards and helping families navigate care with confidence.

    Maddie Leader, MSN, RN
  • Tonya Markle, BSN

    Assistant Director of Nursing​

    Tonya graduated from Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota with a Bachelor of Science-Nursing. She also hold another Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and for a short time was an Art Teacher and a preschool teacher until she decided to become a nurse. She has been a nurse for 19 years with experience in psychiatric nursing, home health and long -term care. Tonya’s education career shows her passion for teaching and how she applies that to education of patients, families and caregivers. Tonya prides herself on my ability to break complex concepts, medical terminology into more easily understandable terms.

    Tonya Markle, BSN
  • Andrea Bendig MSN RN CM DN CDP

    Certified Dementia Consultant and Case Manager

    Andrea is a registered nurse with 30 years of experience specializing in the care of older adults and individuals with dementia.  She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and Management from Western Governors University.  She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Certified Dementia Live Coach and Education Partner with Age-u-cate, as well as a case manager and patient advocate.  Andrea's background includes serving as a director of nursing in home care, assisted living and memory care, giving her a well-rounded perspective on aging in place and care transitions.  With a deep understanding of both clinical and emotional aspects of aging, Andrea is passionate about creating care plans that enhance quality of life and promote dignity in aging, while supporting family members through the journey.

    Andrea Bendig MSN RN CM DN CDP
  • Jaime Benedict

    Senior Director of Community Outreach​ MD & PA
    Jaime has an extensive background in the healthcare industry and has dedicated her career to helping others.  With almost 20 years of experience, Jaime has earned a degree in Cardiovascular Technology and an Associates Degree from Central Penn College in Applied Science focused in Physical Therapy.  Jaime has a demonstrated history of working in various healthcare settings including nursing homes, home health, geriatric rehabilitation and long-term care. Throughout her career, Jaime has been a driving force to strengthen relationships with strategic partners. Jaime’s combination of passion, compassion, and clinical competence will make a substantial positive impact on the Maryland and Pennsylvania senior care landscape.
    Jaime Benedict
  • Alyssa Minichiello

    Director of Community Outreach​

    Alyssa began her career with BrightStar Care in 2017 as the Recruitment Manager.  She is responsible for growing our incredible field staff by posting jobs, phone screening candidates and scheduling interviews.  She came with over 5 years of recruiting experience and holds a BA from Penn State in Journalism.

    Alyssa Minichiello
  • Jennifer Van Beckum

    Director of Community Outreach​
    Jennifer’s experience as a teacher, trainer and coach will serve her well as BrightStar’s new Director of Community Outreach in Baltimore City/Baltimore County. She has always been a relationship builder, whether working in schools, mentoring teachers or coaching parents. From there she moved into sales roles in Chambers of Commerce, where she grew the membership and formed partnerships with other associations within the community. Her passion for providing great customer service coupled with her love of people will bring continued growth to BrightStar Care of Baltimore.
    Jennifer Van Beckum
  • Heidi Taverna

    Director of Community Outreach​

    Heidi brings more than 15 years of experience in physical therapy and senior care, with a strong background across long-term care, short-term rehab, personal care, and independent living settings. She previously served as Director of Rehabilitation for Powerback Rehabilitation/Genesis HealthCare, where she led clinical operations, coordinated closely with nursing teams, and developed individualized restorative and exercise programs to support resident safety and independence.

    Her clinical career also includes extensive work as a Physical Therapist Assistant in acute care orthopedics, neurology, cardiovascular units, and outpatient therapy. Known for her strong communication skills and calm, supportive approach, Heidi is dedicated to motivating clients, promoting functional mobility, and enhancing overall wellness for older adults.

    Heidi holds an Associate of Applied Science degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant from Central Pennsylvania College and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She is passionate about helping seniors maintain strength, confidence, and a meaningful quality of life at home.

    Heidi Taverna
  • Holly Heller

    Manager of Operations​

    Holly started at BrightStar Care as a Customer Care Manager in 2016. In 2018, she transitioned to the role of HR Manager and in 2020 she became our Vice President of Operations. Holly plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient operation of the BrightStar office. Her responsibilities encompass a wide range of areas including oversight of recruiting, billing, payroll, IT support, customer and employee satisfaction, training, credentialing, scheduling, and all aspects of Human Resources. Holly’s background includes extensive experience with office administration, accounts payable and receivable, and payroll.

    Holly Heller
  • Ashley Garner

    Customer Care Manager​
    Ashley has been in the healthcare field since 2007. She chose the healthcare industry because that is where her passion lies. She specializes in dementia care and working with geriatric patients. She enjoys providing compassionate and optimal care for clients who are in their homes. Ashley previously had experience as a CNA and working as a Recruiter and Patient Coordinator. 
    Ashley Garner
  • Ethan White

    Manager of Sales Intake & Customer Care​
    Ethan White joined BrightStar Care in 2022. Ethan's passion, motivation, and positivity for helping individuals embodies the core values of the BrightStar team.  Finding the right fit for caregivers and clients is an aspect of this career that Ethan enjoys and he cherishes the opportunity to help as many people as he can. There is always a solution to every problem.  Ethan is a Penn State graduate with a degree in Criminology.  When Ethan is not working, he enjoys cheering on his Philadelphia Eagles and spending time with friends and family. Every day Ethan looks forward to making a difference in people's lives and creating a positive impact on the communities we serve.
    Ethan White
  • Brianna Nelson

    Director of Customer Care Manager
    Brianna graduated from the University of Maryland with her Bachelor’s Degree in Health Service Management and was awarded Summa Cum Laude. Throughout her schooling, she focused on studying healthcare information systems, policies, marketing, research, strategic planning, and leadership. Brianna’s main focus is providing and maintaining optimal client care and employee relations.​
    Brianna Nelson
  • David Gamerman

    Director of Skilled Sales and Operation
    David graduated from the University of Maryland with his Bachelor’s Degree in Health Service Management and was awarded Summa Cum Laude. Throughout his schooling, he focused on studying healthcare information systems, policies, marketing, research, strategic planning, and leadership. David’s main focus is providing and maintaining optimal client care and employee relations.​
    David Gamerman
  • Rebecca Mauck

    Skilled/Staffing Operations Manager
    Rebecca graduated from Penn State with dual degrees in Business Management and Project & Supply Chain Management With a focus on operational efficiency and quality care, Rebecca is committed to enhancing BrightStar Care’s services and making a positive impact on the lives of those served.
    Rebecca Mauck
  • Dexie Estrera

    Finance Director

    Before joining BrightStar Care, I built a successful career in travel and hospitality, and in telecommunications, where I developed strong skills in customer service and operations.

    Since joining BrightStar Care in 2019, I have worked extensively in payroll, billing, and collections, applying my customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, and leadership skills to contribute to the organization.

    I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, majoring in Finance Management, as a special academic awardee. My diverse background has helped me grow professionally in the healthcare industry while continuing to deliver excellent service and support to the team.

    Dexie Estrera
  • Amy McCann

    Finance Manager

    Amy began her career with BrightStar Care in 2012 working a few hours a week in billing. Now as Finance Manager, Amy takes care of running payroll weekly, billing, A/R, and A/P. She grew up in the North Hills area and enjoys working for a company that makes such an impact in her community. She holds a BA from Penn State in Accounting.

    Amy McCann
  • Elaine Carnesi

    Director of Human Resources

    Elaine has serviced the health care field since 2010.  Prior to BrightStar Care, she was the Business Office Manager for Genesis Healthcare where she managed Payroll and Billing for the Staffing Division with over 1200 employees. Elaine utilizes organization and problem-solving skills to improve work productivity and atmosphere. Elaine’s first career was in Finance where she worked in commercial banking. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Loyola University with a focus on Finance and Marketing.

    Elaine Carnesi
  • Anna Novak

    HR/Recruitment Coordinator
    Anna is a graduate from Elizabethtown College with her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology Allied Health. Throughout her schooling she focused on studying healthcare, therapies, ethics and research methods. Anna’s primary focus at BrightStar is recruitment, onboarding new employees, maintaining credentials/competencies and employee relations.
    Anna Novak
  • Dianne Villagonzalo

    Recruitment Manager

    Dianne brings years of experience in recruitment, human resources, and customer support to her role as Recruitment Manager at BrightStar Care. With a strong foundation in talent acquisition and people operations, she supports the hiring of compassionate, skilled caregivers who deliver high-quality home care to clients and families.

    Before joining BrightStar Care, Dianne held progressive HR leadership roles as Head of Human Resources at Gaisano Capital, where she managed recruitment, onboarding, compliance, and payroll operations. She also worked as a Customer Service Representative and later advanced into recruitment and administrative roles, giving her a well-rounded understanding of both client service and workforce management.

    Dianne holds a Bachelor of Elementary Education and is completing her Master of Arts in Education with a focus in Early Childhood Education. She is committed to ensuring a strong caregiver workforce and helping families receive reliable, compassionate care at home.

    Dianne Villagonzalo
  • Harold Mahilum

    Recruiter
    Harold received his associate's degree in nursing at the University of St. La Salle- Bacolod and an in marketing management at La Consolacion College- Bacolod. He was exposed to community clinics, outpatient, OB-GYN, and pediatric departments during his nursing school years. He has an extensive experience in customer service and talent acquisition screening prior to working as a recruiter here at Brightstar Care starting back in August of 2022.​
  • Jiphanny Magada

    Recruiter ​
    Jiphanny joined BrightStar Care in 2020 as part of the recruiting team. She has Human Resources Recruitment and Training & Development experience. Jiphanny is adept in all aspects of HR Recruitment, including screening, interviewing, and selection. In her spare time, she loves spending with family, baking, cooking, and travelling to different places.
    Jiphanny Magada

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 Happy Valley at 814.826.3200.

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