As a native of Anne Arundel County, Maryland with over 32 years in the healthcare industry, Avis has specialized in hospice and palliative care for over two decades. She has a passion for helping individuals understand and access their healthcare benefits and services. She earned her bachelor’s in business healthcare administration in 2021 from Strayer University. Avis has received the Tribute to Women & Industry (TWIN) award and the C.A.R.E. award for her outstanding contributions to her community.

Jessica is a dedicated clinical social worker with a rich background in palliative and hospice care. Graduating with a Bachelor’s degree from UMBC and a Master’s from UMB in 2009, Jessica has honed their skills across various settings. Since 2018, they have been immersed in the world of palliative care, specializing in facilitating difficult conversations about advanced care planning. Currently, Jessica serves as the Director of Operations for a hospice agency, bringing compassion and expertise to the forefront of end-of-life care. Passionate about improving the quality of life for patients and families, Jessica continues to make meaningful contributions to the field.

After beginning her career as an accountant, Mariam discovered that she loved helping others even more than she loved working with numbers. In her current role at Morningside House Senior Living, Mariam has been delighted to find a workplace where the mission, vision, and values align with her own. Mariam loves being a resource for people. She likes to look at problems from different angles until she finds the best solution. She’s brought that passion into her family life, raising 2 children and serving as a treasurer for 4 years in their school’s PTA. Mariam loves traveling, enjoying ethnic foods, and relaxing with her friends and family.

Mary Bachkosky is an attorney, engagement coach, and mediator, and serves as an associate professor for the Legal Studies Institute (LSI) at Anne Arundel Community College (AACC). Ms. Bachkosky provides instruction and curriculum development for law-based courses like Constitutional Law, Legal Ethics, Business Law, Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Electronic Legal Research, and Civil Rights Law. As paralegal internship coordinator Ms. Bachkosky places paralegal students in internships with local law firms, nonprofit associations, courts, and government agencies assisting students in finding value in the application of academic knowledge to real-world scenarios. Ms. Bachkosky also has her own law practice where she guides clients on estate planning and business organization.

Miriam is pursuing a master’s degree in social work from Fordham University while working for Hospice of the Chesapeake in Prince George’s County as a manager of community partnerships. In this role, she provides education and support to local residents and has created long-lasting partnerships with medical groups and senior service organizations.  Miriam is bilingual and enjoys connecting with the Latino community in a meaningful way. Her family and spirituality play an important role in her career as she embraces family dynamics, shows empathy, and has cultural humility.

Nikia has a wealth of knowledge in the senior living industry. For over 20 years, she has worked in the marketing space, leading and cultivating communities that truly meet the needs of seniors and their families. She currently serves as the sales and marketing director for a Senior Living Community. She has additional experience in healthcare administration, marketing, sales, and non-profit organizations. Her educational background includes an undergraduate degree in communications with a minor in gerontology.

Rachel is an Army veteran, activist, educator, entrepreneur, and local nurse practitioner with a passion for addressing issues of discrimination, equity, and social justice. She co-founded We the People of Prince George’s County and is a member of the Maryland Academy of Advanced Practice Clinicians, Maryland Nurses Association, The NAACP- Prince George’s County Branch, and The Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association. Dr. Jordan currently serves as the Secretary for the Maryland Board of Nursing. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Trinity Washington University, a Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University.

A licensed clinical social worker with 40 years of experience in hospitals, private practice, and bereavement, Susan is passionate about assisting those navigating change and loss. Solid preparation for end-of-life issues can help ease and soften the grieving process. Susan also participates in parish ministry, the Encore Chorale, quilting, and hanging out with her young grandsons.

Teri is an Aging Adult, Advanced Illness, and End of Life Doula.  She has been serving families, individuals, and communities since 2016.   She is a trainer for hospice volunteers as well as a support doula/staff trainer.  She is an Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer, a Certified Dementia Practitioner, and an Advanced Care Planner.