2024 Conference & Tradeshow

Join us Monday evening for our kickoff Welcome Reception and visit with both old and new friends.

Using real-life examples and illustrated with compelling videos and stories, Marc provides an entertaining, educational, and inspiring presentation on the keys to living like a champion and delivering championship quality, mission-driven care. Marc shares lessons that apply to life in general from his firsthand experience covering 3 different Olympics (Barcelona, Sydney, and Athens) and 3 different National Senior Games (the Senior Olympics.”)

With the Paris Olympics underway during the FALA Conference, this will be a very timely presentation that will include a video pep talk from 3-time Olympic Gold Medalist and 9-time Olympic Broadcaster Rowdy Gaines.    

Marc’s presentation will use the Olympics and the Senior Olympics as a backdrop to document the dramatic change in the both abilities and the desires of older adults. For example, at the first modern Olympics in 1896, the winning time in the Marathon was 2:58:00. Today, the world record in the 70-74 year-old age group is 2:54:19.  In the 1904 Olympics, the first with a 50-yard freestyle, the winning time was 29.9. Marc won the 70-74-year-old age group in the 2022 and 20203 National Senior Games with a time of 25.0.  

Understanding the dramatic shift in the culture of aging will help caregivers improve their own lives, care providers improve their businesses, and those needing care find and experience joy in their lives.   

• Marc Middleton is a television journalist, media entrepreneur, author, publisher, and filmmaker who focuses on the changing culture of aging. He is the Founder and CEO of Growing Bolder, a Florida company that produces and distributes health, well-being, and active lifestyle content creation for the 50+ demographic. Middleton is a multiple Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, host of the TV programs Growing Bolder and What’s Next!, host of Growing Bolder radio, and Fountain of Youth podcast, publisher of Growing Bolder Magazine, and writer, producer, and director of the Emmy-nominated documentary 􀀁lm Conquering Kilimanjaro. Middleton is the author of Growing Bolder, Defy the Cult of Youth, Live with Passion and Purpose, and Rock Stars of Aging, 50 Ways to Live to 100. In his free time, Marc enjoys painting and is a 7-time Masters Swimming world record holder and a Masters Track and Field All-American.

  
  Marc Middleton

  CEO

  Growing Bolder

Don't Get it twisted: It's not Dementia! Today, we embark on a crucial journey into the complexities of caring for the elderly in assisted living facilities, where distinguishing between dementia and other conditions posing similar challenges is paramount. As Operators, owners, executive directors, and caregivers, we understand the profound impact of cognitive decline on the lives of our residents. However, it's imperative to recognize that not all cognitive changes stem from dementia. From delirium to depression, urinary tract infections to sensory impairments, a myriad of conditions can mirror dementia symptoms, presenting unique challenges in diagnosis understanding. In this session, we will delve into strategies for identifying these conditions, providing passionate care, and enhancing the quality of life for our residents, as well as avoiding deficient practices. Together, let us navigate this intricate landscape with empathy, knowledge, and a steadfast commitment to optimizing the well-being of those we serve in assisted living facilities as we strive to operate in excellence.

• Tina Carlyle is an Advanced Practice Nurse with a Masters Degree in Nursing and a minor in gerontology, Board Certified Dementia Educator. She has more than 29 years of clinical and 15 years of healthcare management experience. As a Senior Executive, she has a successful and extensive track record when it comes to clinical education, sales, marketing, business development, and strategic planning.

  
  Tina Carlyle is an entrepreneur, owner-operator of Assisted Living Facilities, as well as a Healthcare Consultant Firm. She's an author and has won many awards for her Entrepreneurial growth and commitment such as, the 2023 Top 40 Woman of the Year for Volusia/Flagler counties. She was chosen as the top entrepreneur throughout Florida by the African American Entrepreneurs Association. She was the Hometown Hero of 2018 and the Administrator of the Year 2017 and more.  She has an excellent track record in managing Assisted Living facilities and remaining deficiency-free. Tina prides herself on being a loving wife and grandmother while juggling the joys of being a Healthcare consultant, inspirational, and motivational speaker.   

  
  Tina Carlyle

  CEO

  Access Senior Resources & Consulting, & Angel's Senior Living II ALF

Telemedicine 2.0 allows for physical examination and therefore would allow members of Assisted living communities to receive, connect with all sorts of doctors, subspecialists with the enormous advantage that they would not have to leave the facility to see their doctors. Their doctors on the other hand are able to do entire consultation/visit with physical exam. Increasing access, improve clinical outcomes, reduce hospitalizations, improve compliance with care, reduce cost to payers and assisted living facility owners.

Significantly create a new standard of care within assisted living facilities by connecting members to their doctors w/o having to be shuttled around to their regularly scheduled medical appointments.

• Dr Martinez is a internist and cardiologist who has extensive cardiovascular research experience and treats patients now for over 20 yrs in the S. FL communities. He has two succesful cardiology o􀀂ces in Miami and Palmetto Bay. He has a passion for new health care related technological advancements.

  
  Melvin Martinez

  cardiologist

  private cardiology/internal medicine

This presentation explores the differences between Social Security Retirement and Social Security Disability programs – Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Attendees will learn how disability benefits are determined, what the differences are between Social Security Retirement and Social Security Disability, what benefits come along with each program, how and when each type of benefit comes into play, and what happens when SSI is converted to SSDI.

This presentation helps ALF staff understand how to effectively navigate Social Security Benefits. Understanding the differences between Social Security programs ensures staff􀀂 can o􀀂er accurate information and support to aid and guide administration and the client’s care planning process. The topic is timely and relevant as it helps enhance the ability of sta􀀂 to understand the complexity of Social Security.

• Sharon Reich is a Senior Trust Advisor for AGED, Inc. where she works with clients to implement and administer special needs trusts. She has been involved with the trust industry since 1991 and specializes in providing Trust services to seniors and persons with disabilities. Sharon speaks throughout the community to educate and promote awareness of special needs trusts and government benefits.

  
  Sharon Reich

  Senior Trust Advisor

  AGED, Inc.

This presentation will lead participants through an exploration of dementia, a prevalent diagnosis in long-term care settings, and its unique challenges. The speakers will delineate the primary types of dementia, highlight their distinctions, and delve into the disease’s prevalence. Emphasis will be placed on behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and the associated symptom manifestations. The trajectory of BPSD symptoms, their impact on patients and caregivers, and the challenges they pose for healthcare professionals will be scrutinized. Attendees will gain insights into the application of non-pharmacological interventions, crisis intervention techniques, and pharmacological interventions utilized in response to behaviors.

Addressing the needs of patients with BPSD necessitates a collaborative approach with mental health care teams to unravel the intricacies of delivering holistic, evidence-based care to these individuals. Given the potential stress and burnout associated with the care of individuals with BPSD, this presentation underscores the importance of sta􀀁 being equipped with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of dementia care. By providing enhanced knowledge and compelling insights, this presentation aims to elevate patient care, and overall well-being, and concurrently reduce caregiver stress and mitigate burnout in the long-term care setting.   

• Dr. Charissa Duffy, is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and serves as the Director of Clinical Affairs and the Clinical Residency Program at Mindcare/Psych360. Dr. Duffy brings a passion for quality care, evidence-based practice, and transformative leadership to her role. With a commitment to advancing mental health services, Dr. Duffy leverages her extensive academic background and clinical expertise to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals. She is dedicated to advancing mental health initiatives and endeavors to integrate current evidence-based practices and strategic operations that promote employee satisfaction and quality patient care and outcomes.

  Charissa Duffy

  Director of Clinical Affairs

  Psych360

This workshop will engage learners with didactic infection prevention knowledge in three critical domains: Hand Hygiene, PPE and Environmental Care. Learners will hear the principles of IP and then join presenters in three different zones to learn and play infection-prevention games designed to engage and teach.

Infection prevention knowledge is foundational to infection prevention practice. A recent NCAL report found that 86% (44 of 50) states have recently enacted  regulations for infection control and emergency preparedness. The NCAL director of policy and regulatory affairs said in a recent press release, "States are making changes as they determine how to best serve their specific resident populations in the years ahead, and we anticipate this trend will continue".

• Caryn Arnold MBA, RN, BSN, CNOR-E, a-IPC Medical Science Liaison Caryn is a Medical Science Liaison and works directly with customers and internal stakeholders as a subject matter expert, scienti􀀂c resource and collaborator. She is a resource for clinical data and clinical implementations and serves to support customer strategic initiatives. She has developed and delivered educational presentations and works with clinicians to advance their education goals.

  
  Caryn Arnold

  Medical Science Liaison

  Medline Industries, LP

According to the American Psychiatric Association, 2-6% of the U.S. population exhibit a hoarding disorder. This tendency doesn’t suddenly disappear when a person enters a senior living community. So, if you have worked in eldercare for any length of time, you have likely encountered hoarding.  But, what is hoarding and how does it differ from being a “pack rat?”  This session will explore hoarding in senior living by first defining hoarding and identifying the types of hoarding behaviors.  The session will look at the scope of the issue in various levels of senior living (e.g., independent/assisted living, SNF, senior housing), reasons why individuals may hoard, health conditions that might lead to hoarding behavior, and the effects (physical, social, emotional) of hoarding behavior.  Approaches and signs for recognizing hoarding behavior will be addressed.  Finally, strategies to address hoarding in senior living will be offered including how to balance interventions with resident rights, standardized assessment to determine the severity of hoarding, the dos and don’ts of communicating with a hoarder, and practices for supporting the hoarder toward a place of health and well-being.  Additional evidence-based tips for supporting individuals who don’t think they hoard and for living with someone who is hoarding will be offered.  When dealing with a hoarder you need to make the most of your encounters. By learning a new way to break down the barriers of hoarders you can make a difference in their quality of life and teach them, their families, and staff how to help them understand it and help them.  

This is relevant because as individuals downsize and move into AL/IL, there are times when hoarding behavior occurs.  It is a tricky situation for providers to navigate.  This session will offer strategies and techniques to address the situation while still respecting freedom and individual rights.

• Dr. Kathleen Weissberg, (MS in OT, 1993; Doctoral 2014) in her 30 years of practice, has worked in rehabilitation and long-term care as an executive, researcher and educator.  She has established numerous programs in nursing facilities; authored peer-reviewed publications on topics such as low vision, dementia quality care, and wellness; has spoken at numerous conferences both nationally and internationally, for 20+ State Health Care Associations, and for 25+ state LeadingAge affiliates.  She provides continuing education support to over 30,000 therapists, nurses, and administrators nationwide as the National Director of Education for Select Rehabilitation. She is a Certified Dementia Care Practitioner, Certified Montessori Dementia Care Practitioner, Certified Fall Prevention Specialist, and a Certified Geriatric Care Practitioner.  She serves as the Region 1 Director for the American Occupational Therapy Association Political Action Committee and is an adjunct professor at Gannon University in Erie, PA.  

  
  Kathleen Weisberg

  National Director of Education

  Select Rehabilitation

This keynote message is to inspire, encourage and let leaders know that, all Good Leadership always needs H.E.L.P. (Honor – Empower – Loyalty – Professionalism). The message will provide insight and discussion regarding effective leadership for professionals in the assisted living profession.  It will allow attendees to participate in an interactive message, share experiences, and participate in discussing proactive ways to succeed and lead through crucial conversations regarding:  
   ∙ Honoring others and thyself regardless of race, ethnicity, and/or background
   ∙ Empowering through a high-level Emotional Intelligence
   ∙ Loyalty – Respect and Relationships
   ∙ Professionalism and Partnership in Leadership – Leadership is what Leadership does!

It will allow attendees to participate in an interactive message, share experiences, and participate in discussing proactive ways to succeed and lead through crucial conversations regarding:  
   ∙ Honoring others and thyself regardless of race, ethnicity, and/or background
   ∙ Empowering through a high-level Emotional Intelligence
   ∙ Loyalty – Respect and Relationships
   ∙ Professionalism and Partnership in Leadership – Leadership is what Leadership does!

• Dr. Michael A. Cadore Sr. has proudly served his community for over three decades through education, public safety, civic engagement, and mentoring. He previously served as the Associate Dean of Enrollment and Engagement Initiatives but currently serves as the Executive Director of Community Engagement for External A􀀁airs at Eastern Florida State College. Dr. Cadore’s background in professional football helped instill the value of teamwork, dedication, and focus. His journey began at Eastern Kentucky University, where he received national recognition as a record-setting kick returner. Dr. Cadore continued his football career in the National Football League when the New Orleans Saints drafted him. He 􀀂nished his professional football career in Montreal, Canada. His athletic excellence led him to be inducted into the 2014 Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame and the 2020 Eastern Kentucky University Athletics Hall of Fame. Seeking a way to give back to the community, Dr. Cadore became a law enforcement o􀀃cer, where he served the City of Rockledge until his retirement in 2019. He now serves as a Rockledge city councilman. He continues to support the community through mentoring, community service opportunities, inspirational messaging, and workshops on leadership and business. His community e􀀁orts led to him receiving the Distinguished Alumni Award for 2021 from Eastern Florida State College and the 2022 Distinguished Service Award from Eastern Kentucky University. Throughout all his endeavors, Dr. Cadore prioritizes faith and family. He has been happily married to his high school sweetheart, Cornelia Cadore, for 31 years, and they have three children. He strives to live by the motto, “If you don’t serve your community now, don’t expect your community to serve you later.”

  
  Michael Cadore

  President

  Magnus Solutions

This course will provide ALF administrators/Executive Directors and AFCH Providers with a strong foundation in emergency preparedness as it relates to planning for and being equipped to handle potential emergencies and disasters that may result from the tropical cyclones, tornados, 
flooding, and wildfires.

CEMP's are required to be updated and reviewed annually by AHCA.  This presentation will provide historical information regarding CEMP's, any updates from AHCA regulations, and have a general overview of how, what, and why should be included in the CEMP.

• Troy Conner has over twenty-five years of experience in customer satisfaction while working as an account manager and field sales representative for the service industry. Mr. Conner has over 5 years' experience working for licensed general contractors. Mr. Conner has worked with high-profile customers with demanding response times and situations. These situations often created high-stress environments and his role was to ensure effective communication and reduce the stress level of both the staff and customer throughout the process. Mr. Conner has worked with associations throughout his career as a member of the Ohio Hotel & Lodging Association, a board member of the Ohio Trucking Association, a member of various committees for the American Trucking Associations, a member of the Florida Assisted Living Association and serving on the board of the Collier/Lee Chapter, various chapters of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association and serving on the board of the Hillsborough Chapter, various chapters of the Community Associations Institute and past President of the South Gulf Coast Chapter. Mr. Conner’s career has included working in sales in the trucking, pest management, geothermal heating and cooling, and restoration industries as well as the owner and manager of an independent motel. Mr. Conner received his bachelor’s degree in political science from Capital University in Columbus, Ohio. Mr. Conner also was designated an Associate Certified Entomologist by the Entomological Society of America in 2022. In his spare time, Mr. Conner also enjoys cycling, SCUBA diving, and serving at his church.

  
  Troy Conner

  Account Manager

  First Priority Restoration

Business owners who want to build their dream team have to start with leadership development. The number one reason employees leave a job is not money. The number one reason they leave is because of poor leadership. Number 2 reason is they feel that what they are doing doesn’t matter. Not enough pay is the third reason why most people leave their jobs. Understanding human behavior helps us understand how to lead people properly. Retaining employees is all about creating a culture within your business that fosters growth, no matter the position.

I believe since COVID, our workforce has significantly changed. We as administrators and business owners have to focus on keeping quality help. Instead of complaining about the changes, it’s time to develop the leaders within your organization.

• Jeremy is a Maxwell certi ed business and leadership coach. He is also an international speaker, he most recently spoke to a crowd of over 2000 people in Uganda. Him and his wife own an assisted living facility in north east Florida where they also lives with his 3 kids. He has written several books with one he co authored with Brian Tracy.
  Jeremy Howell

  Business Coach

  Impact Value,LLC

From Victim to Victor! Rock bottom was not the end, but the beginning of Shelagh’s journey.  Shelagh fought her way out of the trenches to turn her life around, and now her passion in life is to open people's eyes to their greatness.  Through stories of her past, and present she will inspire you to take your life to the next level. 

• Many of you know her as our go-to insurance lady, but today she is sharing her story with us.  Shelagh Grubb had a rocky start to life with many trials and tribulations.  She decided enough was enough, and made the commitment to better herself. She removed her victim mentality and replaced it with a victor mentality.  Through trials and tribulations, she never gave up and fought her way to the top. 

  
  Shelagh Grubb

  Owner

  Excuses Are Lame, LLC

This presentation, designed for the Florida Assisted Living Association, delves into the nuanced art of "Elevating Human Connection Through Neurological Attunement". It explores innovative strategies for influencing and connecting with others in the realm of assisted living, emphasizing mindful positioning, understanding emotional and physical undertones in conversations, and the art of projecting personality for positive influence.  

Key focus areas include the intricacies of body language, essential insights about human connection, and techniques to read others more effectively. This enables deeper and more meaningful interactions, especially in the context of assisted living where empathetic communication is paramount.  

The presentation goes further, discussing general differences in communication styles, the importance of recognizing neurodiversity, and providing practical techniques for better connecting with staff, associates, residents, and professionals. These insights are crucial for fostering an environment of understanding, respect, and high-quality care in assisted living facilities.  

• Joshua J. Freitas is an award-winning memory care program developer, researcher, and author. His care and training philosophies have been featured in prominent publications, including Long-Term Living Magazine, Healthcare Provider Magazine, Science Today Magazine, local news channels, and much more. Freitas serves as the Vice President of Program Development at CERTUS Senior Living, Chief Research Officer at the CERTUS Institute, and Chief Educational Officer | Chair of the Board for the National Institute for Dementia Education.

  
  Joshua Freitas

  Chief Education Officer (NIDE) / Chief Research Officer (CERTUS)

  National Institute for Dementia Education / CERTUS Institute

Join us for an insightful presentation where we unravel the key strategies to build and sustain a thriving sales culture.  We will guide you through a comprehensive framework that simplifies the complex process of nurturing a sales-oriented environment.  From strategically selecting the right talent to providing a coaching culture and implementing retention strategies that motivate a sales force, this presentation offers practical solutions to enhance your team's performance and job satisfaction.  

As staffing and occupancy challenges continue to be at the forefront of senior living and future demand continues to grow, it is critical for organizations and communities to have a solid salesforce to connect new residents with their brand. 

• Kelly Myers is a seasoned executive with an extensive background in healthcare management, hiring, onboarding, sales operations, training, coaching and home care.  Kelly is passionate about improving sales execution by creating a solid foundation in understanding the unique needs of each customer and meeting the customer where they are on their buying journey.  In her previous role, Kelly led the entire North American and UK sales organization for a large senior living operator.  She is a founder and Chief Vision officer for KJB Sales Consulting.  In her free time, Kelly is a tri-athlete, a beekeeper, and a greyhound lover.   

  
  Kelly Myers

  Executive

  KJB Sales Consulting

• Jessica Phaup is regarded as a confident top-notch speaker, trainer and coach.  In her previous role at a large senior living provider, she is credited for generating 520 million in annual revenue by leading a team of 4 Regional Sales Directors across 54 communities.  Her passion lies in onboarding, training and coaching sales professionals to be the best that they can be in every interaction with a prospective family.  She is trained as a Sales Gym Coach, a Richardson Sales Coach, in Sherpa Coaching and Challenger Selling.  She is a founder and Chief Curiosity and Education officer for KJB Sales Consulting.  Jessica currently resides in Columbia, SC and enjoys spending her free time on the golf course and with her family. 

  
  Jessica Phaup

  Chief Curiosity and Education Officer

  KJB Sales Consulting

• Brigitte Specht is an award-winning, goal-oriented, and dedicated sales and operations executive with years of experience in senior living in B2B sales, B2C sales, sales training, start-up management, turnarounds, and operations management. In her last role as a VP of Sales at one of the largest providers in the US, she is credited to producing 840 million dollars of annual new move in revenue across 94 assets by leading a team of 10 Regional Sales Directors and over 100 Directors of Sales. She is a founder and Chief Growth Officer of KJB Sales Consulting, a boutique sales consultant firm supporting investors and operators in senior living connecting more families in a meaningful way. Brigitte resides in Holly Springs, NC and spends her free time with her family on beautiful Lake Gaston.

  
  Brigitte Specht

  Chief Growth O􀋟cer

  KJB Sales Consulting

Understanding the 4 Parts of Medicare. The choices one has when an individual is new to Medicare and later down the road. When can someone change their coverage? Understanding the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. Understanding the basics of Part D drug coverage.  Florida Medicaid explained, how to apply for Extra Help, Florida Medicaid income limits. Medicaid versus Long-term Care Medicaid.

Individuals working in assisted living and working with the senior population should have a basic understanding of the complexities of Medicare and Medicaid to better serve their residents.  ALF administrators and staff􀀁 should take an active role in understanding the trends of Medicare and Medicaid and how a move to an assisted living community can affect the change in coverage for their prescriptions and out-of-pocket costs when bringing in skilled services to their communities. 

• 
  Shellie Ferrara

  Independent Broker

  Logical Insurance Solutions

1. Describe and define dementia, its etiology, and types
2.  Discuss behavioral issues presented by patients with dementia
3.  Discuss recent changes in the approach to treatment
4. Discuss appropriate pharmacologic options for treatments
5.  Discuss benefits and risks for the preferred and non-preferred classes of drugs

Management of behaviors in patients with dementia continues to be a challenge at all levels.  There are new pharmacologic agents and non-pharmacologic solutions currently available.  This presentation will detail those new treatments and methods.

• Professor Alan Obringer, RPh, CPh, CGP., is a licensed pharmacist and pharmacist consultant in Orlando, Florida and holds a faculty position with the University of Florida, College of Pharmacy as an Assistant Clinical Pharmacist, since 2002. Alan is currently the President and owner of Guardian Pharmacy of Orlando. He is also a managing partner in Envision Health Consulting, Alan holds a certi cation in Geriatric Pharmacy and is a strong advocate for the profession of pharmacy in long-term care.

  
  Alan Obringer

  President/Owner

  Guardian Pharmacy of Orlando

As senior living becomes more and more competitive, it can be more challenging for communities to stand out. We will take a look at reaching your audience in non-traditional and more authentic marketing efforts. I will discuss a few different creative marketing solutions to include social collaboration, social media, and using your voice in podcasts.

As the marketing landscape continues to evolve and marketing dollars are stretched, it's important to understand different options, how to use them, and why they are effective. 

• Darleen Mahoney has an extensive background in Digital Media with credentials in IAB, working for large Corporate Media companies. For many years, she had experience working with clients such as Personal Injury Attorneys, Home Services, Car Dealers, and more lending her the knowledge on how to be successful and creative in marketing solutions. She started working in the senior living industry 6.5 years ago when she was brought on board with SeniorLivingGuide.com to help grow their digital presence. In that career decision, she has found a passion for 􀀂nding solutions for her clients and partners as well providing seniors and their caregivers with the best resources to have a better quality of life.

  
  Darleen Mahoney

  National Digital Sales Director

  SeniorLivingGuide.com

This presentation will guide attendees through an insightful analysis of mental health care in long-term settings. The speakers will delve into historical shifts within long-term care, evaluating their impact on individuals with serious mental illness. Attendees will gain a deep understanding of the effectiveness of mental health care in these settings, uncovering both challenges and successes in delivering comprehensive care. Engaging discussions will focus on actionable strategies for a holistic care model, promising improved outcomes through integrated approaches. The presentation will explore ways attendees can advocate for policy change, emphasizing the influential role in shaping policies for an enhanced quality of life. This concise and engaging session empowers attendees with transformative approaches to revolutionize mental health care.

Patients with Serious Mental Illness require comprehensive and collaborative mental health care, distinguishing this topic as crucial within the long-term care landscape. Acknowledging the distinct care required, we highlight the urgency for tailored mental health approaches, advocating for necessary changes in CMS regulations. This session surpasses routine discussions, presenting a compelling exploration into addressing the unique needs of patients with SMI in long-term care settings. 

• Dr. Anthony Nedelman, an esteemed clinical psychologist based in Ohio and is internationally recognized for his expertise in addressing mental health concerns across the lifespan. Renowned for his impactful presentations, Dr. Nedelman has shared his insights at conferences nationwide. These include leading workshops psychiatric illness in long-term care, staff burnout and employee turnover, and models for effective leadership in healthcare. A leader in his field, he chaired the Ohio Psychological Association’s Science and Research Committee and oversees a dedicated team providing counseling and psychological services in long-term care settings. With a commitment to both leadership and clinical excellence, Dr. Nedelman continues to make significant contributions to the 􀀃field of psychology.

  
  Anthony Nedelman

  Director of Psychology Services

  Psych360

Terri Cantrell, State Ombudsman will present all the programmatic changes within Florida’s Ombudsman Program and how they are gearing up to serve more seniors as Florida’s population continues to grow.  This will include internal system changes, strategic enhancements that will need to be accomplished legislatively, and their overall vision of being the best Ombudsman program in the country.

• Terri is originally from Cleveland, OH where she earned her bachelor’s degree from Cleveland State University. She majored in History and Gerontology and spent the early part of her career working with seniors. She spent ten years working for the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce until moving to Atlanta where she worked for the GA Chamber and American Heart Association. Most recently Terri was with the Alzheimer’s Association where she worked closely with families whose loved ones suffered from the disease.  She was appointed as the State Ombudsman in May 2022, and is grateful for the opportunity to continue serving seniors in Florida.

  
  Terri Cantrell

  State Ombudsman

Kimberly R. Smoak, AHCA’s Deputy Secretary, will present on a wide range of topics including Medicaid and the Medicaid Long-Term Manage Care Plans, the new CEMP form, new renewal application submissions, updated Alzheimer's training, and ACS increases, and much more.

• Ms. Smoak has been with the Agency for Health Care Administration since August 1995.  She is the Deputy Secretary of the Health Care Policy and Oversight Division. The Division licenses and/or certifies and regulates 30 different providers, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. In total, the Division licenses, certifies, regulates, or provides exemptions for more than 50,000 providers. 

  Ms. Smoak is also the State Survey Agency Director for the State of Florida and holds a Master of Science in Health with the program emphasis in Aging Studies. She is also a Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP). In 2009 and 2017, she received Survey & Certification Achievement Awards, presented by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for her work in Survey and Certification.

  
  Kim Smoak

  Deputy Secretary

  AHCA