Jennifer Gugnacki began her professional career in a much different place than where she is now.
“I actually went to school for criminal justice and figured out that’s not what I wanted to do,” Jennifer said.
That was before she started working at a nursing home in Utica, New York and discovered a love for helping others.
“It’s my passion to really take care of people and help people,” Jennifer explained. “Especially the older generation. The older population is really where my heart is.”
Jennifer joined Brookdale almost five years ago. She explained that she wanted to work for a company where she believed in their values. In her time with the company, Jennifer has excelled, quickly becoming an Area Nurse Manager responsible for communities in New York, Vermont and Rhode Island. Jennifer says she loves what she does, and enjoys the challenges that come along with overseeing multiple communities across several states.
“The most enjoyable part is going to meet with new people, new families, and new residents,” Jennifer said.
When Jennifer’s not on the road helping at her communities, she likes to spend her time outdoors with her partner of 23 years. The two enjoy golfing and hiking, and this summer, they want to try their hand at kayaking.
Jennifer says she’s right where she wants to be in life. She is content reflecting on her career and the path she took to get where she is now.
“To me, I feel like everything just happened for a reason.”
