Our Leadership
Corporate Leadership
Joshua Stevens
Josh is an entrepreneur and leader with a passion for improving the lives of elders. He has vast experience in the senior housing and senior care industry. As a mission-driven entrepreneur and founder...
Joshua Stevens
Josh is an entrepreneur and leader with a passion for improving the lives of elders. He has vast experience in the senior housing and senior care industry. As a mission-driven entrepreneur and founder, Josh had developed, owned, operated, and acquired more than 40 senior housing communities across the Midwest and Southeast prior to founding EmpowerMe Wellness. His experience as a senior housing operator is what led him to found EmpowerMe, with the belief that there is a huge opportunity for positive change in the healthcare services sector of the industry. Josh’s dedication to serving seniors began more than 18 years ago when he spent several years working on the front lines of hospice agencies. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from Eastern Illinois University and a Juris Doctorate, cum laude, from Washington University in St. Louis. Prior to undergraduate studies, Josh was an enlisted member of the United States Marine Corps. He resides in St. Louis, Missouri, with his wife of 15 years and three children. He is a long-standing member of The Journey Church in St. Louis, serves as a member of the Board of Trustees of Niagara University, a member of the Board of Directors of NIC MAP Vision, a member of the Executive Board of the American Seniors Housing Organization, a member of Young Presidents Organization and a member of the Chairs Council of Greater St. Louis.
Kenneth H. Hannah
Ken is a highly motivated and effective leader with recognized expertise in finance and operations.
Kenneth H. Hannah
Ken is a highly motivated and effective leader with recognized expertise in finance and operations. For over 30 years, he has been personally responsible for growing companies big and small, and developing numerous Fortune 1000 leaders during his career. As Chief Operating Officer for EmpowerMe Wellness, he manages operations and finances across our nationwide footprint, ensuring we continue to grow to meet the ever-expanding needs of our aging population. Most recently, Ken served as Chief Financial Officer for Caleres, Inc., a 144-year-old, $3 billion global footwear company. Prior to joining Caleres, Hannah served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer to JCPenney, was named Executive Vice President and President of Solar Energy at MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc., and held senior executive leadership positions in finance and operations with The Home Depot, The Boeing Company and General Electric. Ken holds an MBA in International Business from Saint Louis University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. He and his wife Amy have five children. He is a member of the Board of Directors for the St. Louis Zoo Association and Meta Materials, Inc., and he serves on the External Advisory Board at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Isaac Hagerman
With over 16 years’ leadership experience in the field of senior housing, Isaac has a proven track record of bringing exceptional health services to senior living communities all across the country.
Isaac Hagerman
With over 16 years’ leadership experience in the field of senior housing, Isaac has a proven track record of bringing exceptional health services to senior living communities all across the country. As Chief Partnership Officer for EmpowerMe Wellness, he oversees the implementation and management of our integrated healthcare platform at hundreds of communities nationwide. Isaac started his career with a family-owned Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living provider in Southern California. He went on to serve as Chief Operating Officer for a clinical consulting firm specializing in Assisted Living and Memory Care clinical practices, and later, as Vice President of Health and Quality for a senior housing provider with 32 communities operating in six states. Isaac has served on several nonprofit boards and committees and has been highly active as an advocate for local and state public policy.
Joseph “Jody” Mitchell, MD
As the Chief Medical Officer of EmpowerMe Wellness, Dr. Joseph “Jody” Mitchell oversees and manages clinical practices, focuses on staff development for field clinicians...
Joseph “Jody” Mitchell, MD
As the Chief Medical Officer of EmpowerMe Wellness, Dr. Joseph “Jody” Mitchell oversees and manages clinical practices, focuses on staff development for field clinicians, and utilizes the most current research and practices to provide better outcomes for residents of senior living communities nationwide. As an experienced healthcare leader, Dr. Mitchell brings over a decade of experience to his role. He has an eye on the future of healthcare, with a persistent drive to use technology to create better medical outcomes. But most importantly, he has a deep, life-long passion for improving the lives of seniors. Prior to coming to EmpowerMe Wellness, Dr. Mitchell served the clinicians, patients, and families of Owensboro Health in Owensboro, Kentucky, most recently in the roles of Medical Director of Outpatient Services and Medical Director of Athletic Training Services. He also served as Owensboro Health’s Medical Director of Healthpark, Kentucky’s only facility certified by the national Medical Fitness Association. Originally a Kentucky native, Dr. Mitchell recently relocated to St. Louis with his wife, Kate, and their three children. In addition to earning a Doctor of Medicine degree with a clinical focus on primary care in 2011 from the University of Kentucky, Dr. Mitchell is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree from Western Kentucky University. He completed his Family Medicine residency and a Sports Medicine fellowship from the University of Kentucky in 2015 and 2016, respectively, and received the Resident Teacher of the Year Award in 2014 and 2015.
Jacob Miller
As Chief Financial Officer for EmpowerMe Wellness, Jake Miller is tasked with implementing our fiscal strategy with an eye toward creating value for the communities we serve...
Jacob Miller
As Chief Financial Officer for EmpowerMe Wellness, Jake Miller is tasked with implementing our fiscal strategy with an eye toward creating value for the communities we serve. Jake has extensive experience guiding healthcare companies through periods of rapid growth, executing capital raising and merger/acquisition transactions and building exceptionally high performing finance teams. Most recently, Jake served as head of finance for molecular diagnostics company Geneoscopy, where he oversaw corporate strategy, finance and supply chain efforts. Prior to joining Geneoscopy, Jake was VP of Finance and Corporate Treasurer for Essence Healthcare/Lumeris, a market-leading Medicare Advantage plan and technology-enabled services company developing novel care management programs for seniors nationally. Jake began his career in investment banking where he advised clients on merger/acquisition and fundraising activities in the seniors housing sector. Jake holds a degree in economics from Vanderbilt University.
Carrie Ward, SPHR
As Chief People Officer, Carrie leads EmpowerMe’s Human Resources and Recruitment efforts, working to provide our team members with the best possible employee experience.
Carrie Ward, SPHR
As Chief People Officer, Carrie leads EmpowerMe’s Human Resources and Recruitment efforts, working to provide our team members with the best possible employee experience. Carrie has an extensive history of leading companies through periods of rapid expansion. Formerly Chief Human Resources Officer for GardaWorld and Chief Operating Officer for Major Brands, Inc., Ward’s expertise spans multiple disciplines and has created substantial value for the companies she has served. A magna cum laude graduate of St. Louis University’s John Cook School of Business, Carrie has earned black belt Six Sigma certification. She is active with a number of civic service organizations, serving on the boards for the United Way of Greater St. Louis, Banded Brigade Outdoors, and the Veteran’s Business Resource Center.
John M. Howell, Jr.
As the Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at EmpowerMe Wellness, John leads the brand marketing, digital, corporate communications, and customer success teams...
John M. Howell, Jr.
As the Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at EmpowerMe Wellness, John leads the brand marketing, digital, corporate communications, and customer success teams. As a long-time sales and CPG-trained marketing professional, Howell brings over 25 years of experience to his focus on B2B and B2C acquisition and retention initiatives. He has a passion for leading cross-functional teams that make strategic changes to benefit both the consumer and the business. Prior to his current role, Howell was the Vice President of CX & Marketing at Centene Corporation, a Fortune 50 healthcare provider. While at Centene for six years, he managed the company’s consumer experience initiatives, brand marketing, digital transformation, strategic insights, loyalty & rewards, and the corporate creative teams. While at Enterprise Holdings Inc. for over 11 years, Howell led the research, creative development, execution, and all strategic brand marketing initiatives for the company’s rental, truck, fleet acquisition, and remarketing businesses. In addition to these segments, he worked to build vital partnerships with manufacturers through innovative co-marketing programs. He was also responsible for overseeing brand advertising and all marketing activities for the company’s franchise operations in Mexico and South America. Howell began his career in sales and trade marketing with Procter & Gamble in 1987. From there, he joined the pet food marketing team at Nestle/Purina Company where he was the brand manager on Puppy Chow. In 1997, he became the brand director for Roundup weed killer in Monsanto’s agriculture division. Howell joined Maryville Consulting, a private IT consulting firm, in 2000 as its vice president of sales and marketing. Howell is a native of St. Louis. He received his Bachelor of Arts in economics from Vanderbilt University and his Master of Business Administration from the John M. Olin School of Business at Washington University. Howell and his wife, Virginia, reside in St. Louis with their three children and two dogs.
Anthony Stannard, DPT
Anthony holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Northern Arizona University. From the onset of his clinical career, Anthony developed a passion for treating the senior population...
Anthony Stannard, DPT
Anthony holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Northern Arizona University. From the onset of his clinical career, Anthony developed a passion for treating the senior population, obtaining certifications and advanced training with Parkinson’s disease, dementia, vestibular dysfunction, and balance impairments. Anthony came to the senior living industry in 2011, starting as a treating clinician and moving quickly into a leadership role. Prior to joining EmpowerMe Wellness, Anthony served as a Division Director overseeing multistate development and operations within senior living incorporating home health, outpatient therapy, and mobile physician services. With over a decade of experience of developing and operating senior living partnerships, Anthony is committed to being a trusted healthcare advisor at corporate and local levels.
Lucas Donnelley
Lucas joined the team in 2020 as Managing Director of EmpowerMe Holdings. Prior to EmpowerMe, Lucas was the Managing Director of Dreampact Ventures...
Lucas Donnelley
Lucas joined the team in 2020 as Managing Director of EmpowerMe Holdings. Prior to EmpowerMe, Lucas was the Managing Director of Dreampact Ventures, an early-stage Venture Capital firm. Lucas created and ran the Dreampact due diligence and deal flow processes, as well as managing the day-to-day operations of the firm. Lucas started his career with J.P. Morgan, where he worked in New York with executive leadership in the Wealth Management business to develop and execute the firm’s highest strategic priorities. Lucas graduated with honors from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
James L. Smith
As Senior Vice President & General Counsel at EmpowerMe, James directs the legal department. Prior to EmpowerMe, James was a founding partner at Kamykowski, Gavin & Smith...
James L. Smith
As Senior Vice President & General Counsel at EmpowerMe, James directs the legal department. Prior to EmpowerMe, James was a founding partner at Kamykowski, Gavin & Smith, where his practice focused on defending healthcare providers in various aspects of civil litigation. During his 20+ years as a defense attorney James also defended large corporations in various legal actions and represented individuals in federal criminal matters, including claims involving anti-kickback issues. James received his undergraduate degree from Maryville University. He received his law degree from Washington University School of Law in St. Louis.
Shea Long
As the SVP of Product at EmpowerMe Wellness, Shea leads the Product, Payer Strategy and Technology teams. As a long-time Product and Technology professional, Shea brings over 25 years of experience to his focus on B2B and B2C Product initiatives that drive growth and enhanced customer experiences...
Shea Long
As the SVP of Product at EmpowerMe Wellness, Shea leads the Product, Payer Strategy and Technology teams. As a long-time Product and Technology professional, Shea brings over 25 years of experience to his focus on B2B and B2C Product initiatives that drive growth and enhanced customer experiences. He has a passion for leading cross-functional teams that make strategic solutions to benefit both the resident/patient and the business. Shea has brought Human Centered Design techniques to the business to deliver exceptional Product experiences. Prior to his current role, Shea led the Product organization at ModivCare (the largest Social Determinants of Health solutions provider in the nation). He was responsible for building a Product organization from the ground up to deliver Mobile Application solutions for Members to engage with their care, Home Delivery Solutions for Medical Necessitated Meals, Remote Patient Monitoring solutions, and Medication Adherence capabilities. While at Centene, Shea was the Staff Vice President of Commercial Innovation at Centene Corporation, a Fortune 50 healthcare provider. He led the development of new capabilities to drive dramatically improved digital member experiences via mobile app solutions, significant member engagement in their healthcare, rural healthcare initiatives and Social Determinants of Health solutions. Shea was seen as a pioneer in the payer space in his use of Lyft as a tool to close Access to Care issues related to transportation. In addition to these accomplishments, he is known as a leader in developing vital partnerships with providers through innovative technology integrations and business models. Shea began his career in Product Development with Space Systems Division in the U.S. Air Force AT&T in 1988 building classified satellite systems. From there, he joined the AT&T Product team at AT&T Wireless developing mobile solutions for business and consumer clients. From there, he went on to work at high growth companies such as Savvis and TierPoint in the Cloud Services space. Shea is a native of St. Louis. He received his Bachelor of Science in Business from the U.S. Air Force Academy and has a certificate from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business for Corporate Innovation. Shea and his wife, Heidi, reside in St. Louis with their two daughters.
Tiara Stingley, DPT
Tiara is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with more than 20 years’ experience in the field, with more than a decade spent in leadership roles for healthcare organizations across the country...
Tiara Stingley, DPT
Tiara is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with more than 20 years’ experience in the field, with more than a decade spent in leadership roles for healthcare organizations across the country. As Divisional Vice President, she oversees hundreds of clinicians across a nine-state region, helping them provide exceptional care for the senior living community residents they serve. Tiara received her doctorate from Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, and she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from Lipscomb University. She has extensive expertise in (and a personal passion for) providing incontinence care. In 2021, she was named State Advocate of the Year (Geriatrics Section) by the American Physical Therapy Association. Tiara resides in Denver, Colorado.
Lisa Meyer PT, MBA
With over 30 years in the rehab industry, Lisa was recruited specifically to lead the launch of EmpowerMe in 2017. Formerly, Lisa spent 20+ years at RehabCare...
Lisa Meyer PT, MBA
With over 30 years in the rehab industry, Lisa was recruited specifically to lead the launch of EmpowerMe in 2017. Formerly, Lisa spent 20+ years at RehabCare, one of the largest providers of post-acute rehab services in the country. There, as Division VP, she had full P&L responsibility of over 350 clinics located in senior living communities across the Midwest with annual revenue exceeding $120 million. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from St. Louis University and a Master of Business Administration from Maryville University. She has been a licensed PT for 34 years. Lisa lives in Columbia, Illinois on her family ranch and has two adult children.
Jennifer Keeney, MOT, OTR/L, CDS
Jennifer is an Occupational Therapist with 18 years of experience working with seniors. She graduated from the University of Florida with her Master...
Jennifer Keeney, MOT, OTR/L, CDS
Jennifer is an Occupational Therapist with 18 years of experience working with seniors. She graduated from the University of Florida with her Master of Occupational Therapy degree in 2005. Jennifer is also a Certified Dementia Practitioner, an LSVT BIG, and PWR! Moves certified instructor, and a certified Rock Steady Boxing instructor. In 2021 she received her Professional Certificate in Gerontology from Bellarmine University. When Jennifer isn’t leading her team and growing EmpowerMe’s footprint, she’s a multi-event world-champion equestrian and former member of the UF Equestrian Team. She loves spending time out on the water with her husband Scott and daughters Emma and Cora. Jennifer resides in Floral City, Florida.
Diana Williams Hartke
Diana has more than 30 years’ management experience in the skilled nursing field. At EmpowerMe, she serves as Divisional Vice President of Operations, focusing on supporting our field teams...
Diana Williams Hartke
Diana has more than 30 years’ management experience in the skilled nursing field. At EmpowerMe, she serves as Divisional Vice President of Operations, focusing on supporting our field teams serving seniors in Skilled Nursing Facilities nationwide. Diana graduated from the University of Evansville in Indiana with an Associate of Science degree. Developing strong relationships with residents and customers is the foundation of everything she does, both professionally and personally. She is passionate about working with seniors and making an impact in their quality of life. Diana has resided in Dieterich, Illinois, for more than 25 years. She enjoys gardening, cooking, and traveling, but her favorite pastime is spending time with her family and grandchildren.
Jesse Voyles, PT, MPT
Jesse is a Physical Therapist with 12 years of clinical experience in the SNF and ALF settings. She has a Master of Physical Therapy degree from Maryville University...
Jesse Voyles, PT, MPT
Jesse is a Physical Therapist with 12 years of clinical experience in the SNF and ALF settings. She has a Master of Physical Therapy degree from Maryville University, is certified in Vestibular Rehabilitation and OTAGO fall prevention, and is an APTA member. Jesse has spent her career providing person-centered care to the senior population and is a passionate advocate for her patients and co-workers. Her interests include being active, spending time outdoors with her family, reading, and watching sappy Hallmark movies. Jesse currently lives in O’Fallon, Missouri with her husband and three children.
Nick Hughes
As the President of EmpowerMe Wellness, Southeast, Nick Hughes manages the sales process and business development throughout the Southeast...
Nick Hughes
As the President of EmpowerMe Wellness, Southeast, Nick Hughes manages the sales process and business development throughout the Southeast US. A leader in the therapy/rehab and healthcare industry, Nick brings over 14 years of experience to his role at EmpowerMe. He has a passion for allowing seniors to age in place and thrive in their new environment. Prior to his current role, Nick was CEO of Salus Physical Therapy, one of the largest providers of physical and occupational therapy to the senior living space throughout Florida. Nick received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from University at Buffalo after his undergraduate work at Fordham University in New York City. Nick is a native of Buffalo, NY and currently lives in the Tampa Bay Area with his wife Bethany and two daughters, Olivia, and Emerson. When he is not working and collaborating with our incredible senior living partners, Nick is outside and being active with his friends and family.
Brad Andrews
Brad brings over 14 years of experience to senior care. His career has allowed him to problem solve barriers and provide top-tier and unparalleled care to seniors both today and into the future. He enjoys assessing situations, problem-solving, and developing strategies...
Brad Andrews
Brad brings over 14 years of experience to senior care. His career has allowed him to problem-solve barriers and provide top-tier and unparalleled care to seniors both today and into the future. He enjoys assessing situations, problem-solving, and developing strategies. Brad graduated from University at Buffalo’s School of Health and Health Professions in 2008 with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. After graduation, he worked as a Physical Therapist until 2013, when he became the Co-CEO of startup Salus Physical Therapy. In April of 2022, Salus was acquired by EmpowerMe wellness and Brad became the SVP of Product Implementations. In addition to his passion for helping seniors live happy and healthier lives, he likes challenges that involve long durations of concentration - whether it be an analysis or an endurance sporting event. Brad currently resides in the Tampa Bay area with his wife Alex and their two German Shepherds. A Buffalonian at heart, Brad devotes his Sundays to the Buffalo Bills for a good portion of the year and considers himself lucky to be a Floridian for 15 years.
Therapy
Diagnostics
Tyler Witges, MLS (ASCP), MHA
As President of Diagnostics at EmpowerMe Wellness, Tyler is charged with the overall operation of the Diagnostics division. This includes contracting, instrument...
Tyler Witges, MLS (ASCP), MHA
As President of Diagnostics at EmpowerMe Wellness, Tyler is charged with the overall operation of the Diagnostics division. This includes contracting, instrument procurement, vendor relations, and finance. Tyler has over 15 years of experience in the laboratory field with duties ranging from phlebotomist to Executive Director of Laboratory Services at Mercy St. Louis where he oversaw a laboratory operation of more than 250 coworkers for three years. He has spent his years in laboratory leadership improving workflows and increasing testing capacity, both to improve patient experience and financial performance in the laboratory. A native of Teutopolis, IL, Tyler received his Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Sciences from Illinois State University and his Master of Healthcare Administration from the University of Phoenix. Tyler and his wife Kaitlin reside in O'Fallon, MO with their three children.
Pharmacy
Steve McConnell
Steve founded EverSpring Pharmacy in 2008 and has specialized in medication compliance pharmacy since 1993...
Steve McConnell
Steve founded EverSpring Pharmacy in 2008 and has specialized in medication compliance pharmacy since 1993. As President of EverSpring under the new partnership with EmpowerMe Wellness, Steve leads the pharmaceutical service line that serves senior living communities. Steve brings a wealth of industry expertise, having held several positions in the Midwest within the long-term care pharmaceutical industry including consulting pharmacist, operational clinician, executive director, and regional director of a long-term care pharmacy. Steve has earned specialized certificates in geriatric medicine from colleges such as the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia and Harvard University. Steve graduated with his Bachelor's Degree in 1993 from the St. Louis College of Pharmacy and with his Master's of Business Administration in 2002 from St. Louis University. Steve has served on several long-term care advisory boards and was a previous Arch Grants Advisory Council Member.
Kevin Brockmeyer
Kevin started his own long-term care pharmacy in 2012, servicing patients in Missouri and Illinois. After exiting that pharmacy as part of a merger with PharMerica in 2016, he served as a consultant for long-term care pharmacies across the country...
Kevin Brockmeyer
Kevin started his own long-term care pharmacy in 2012, servicing patients in Missouri and Illinois. After exiting that pharmacy as part of a merger with PharMerica in 2016, he served as a consultant for long-term care pharmacies across the country. In August 2018, Kevin became Chief Financial Officer of EverSpring Pharmacy to oversee that company's strategic growth and development. His efforts supported EverSpring's partnership with EmpowerMe Wellness, which began in 2021.
