In this position, Wendy is responsible for supporting and directing all of Touchmark’s clinical services, ensuring they are in compliance with all state and federal guidelines as well as meeting the Touchmark Gold Standard. She oversees the hiring and training of new health care team members and identifies new clinical services and programs. Additionally, she gives informative presentations to the public on issues relating to dementia and other health topics.
Prior to assuming this role, Wendy served for three years as Memory Care Support Manager for Touchmark, working with all Touchmark communities providing memory care services. She offered support and education to nurses, caregivers, and other staff, reinforcing Touchmark’s person-centered care and Best Friends™ practices. Wendy started her career with Touchmark as the Memory Care Manager for Touchmark at All Saints, a position she held for 10 years. Before joining Touchmark, she worked as a Mental Health Specialist with Sioux Valley Hospital. Her health care career got underway as Charge Nurse and Social Service Designee with Beverly Healthcare/Golden Living.
Wendy holds two bachelor degrees, one in Nursing and one in Behavioral Science with a Psychology emphasis as well as a minor in Gerontology. She is board certified in Geriatrics. In addition, she earned a graduate certificate in Long-Term Care Management from the University of South Dakota. Other certifications include Best Friends Master Trainer, Eden Alternative, TimeSlips facilitator, and CPR. Additionally, Wendy has completed a comprehensive series of eight courses and requisite testing and has earned the designation of Certified Cognitive Stimulation Instructor.
Wendy also has been trained as an Alzheimer’s Association Support Group Facilitator and works with families providing care to a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease or other age-related dementia.
In 2015, after completing the comprehensive training and requisite testing to demonstrate proficiency as a Best Friends Master Trainer, Wendy draws on and shares the research-based information to design and implement programs and train Touchmark staff in the Best Friends Approach.
Away from work, Wendy volunteers with the Alzheimer’s Association. She also enjoys searching for gemstones, walking her dogs, spending time with her family and friends, and reading.
