Valerie McGhee
Since rising to the post of CEO of Larksfield Place in 2004, Valerie McGhee has re-energized the Larksfield community with her enthusiasm and focus. “Our goal is always to be unquestionably better than our competition,” says McGhee. Her desire to raise the level of care for seniors grew from her role as a mental health and aging therapist. She served as Director of Adult Services for Tri-County Mental Health Services in Kansas City, Missouri, and in Wichita, established the ecumenical, educational Shepherd’s Center. McGhee was Associate Professor of Gerontology at WSU, and Director of Wesley Medical Center’s Senior Friends Program.
“Caring for seniors is a privilege,” she says. “Your heart must be connected to others to offer a gentle, helpful spirit.”
McGhee describes Larksfield Place as “top-notch” in the quality and breadth of services offered. “Personal training and exercise, a computer center, library, bank, our fabulous restaurant and living accommodations, are all part of our incredible standard program. Come see us. You will like what you see.
Marc Riley
Meet the Vice President of the Health Care Center, Marc Riley, whose intense drive to offer the best care matches the power of his favorite ride, his Honda Gold Wing motorcycle.
“Last year’s excellence is this year’s standard,” Marc says. “My goal and personal mission is simply to serve the community members and staff of Larksfield Place beyond expectations.”
Marc’s career in the pharmaceutical and biotech fields led to a decision to recently obtain a Master’s degree in Health Care Leadership from Friends University. He also served as Administer-in-Training at Catholic Care Center. This experience gave him firsthand knowledge of issues related to community member care and sparked the most interest. “I believe this opportunity at Larksfield Place is the perfect fit.”
After living in Texas and Oklahoma, Marc has made Wichita his permanent home. He is a U.S. Navy veteran, a member of the Kansas Patriot Guard, and father of three.
“I’ve always wanted to improve the quality of life for people,” he says. “I am excited for the opportunity to further improve upon the wonderful care at Larksfield Place.”
Amy L. Hall
To meet Larksfield Place’s Health Promotion Services Director, Amy L. Hall, is to understand why the residents with whom she works are so energized by her example. Amy projects a love of life and health that is contagious.
“I am passionate about educating people on the benefits of regular activity,” says Hall. “I take pride in my ability to motivate seniors and others to adopt a healthy lifestyle.”
After 20 years as a health promotion director for a hospital-based fitness and wellness facility, Amy has worked with every age group, from the very young to the very old. Although, in terms of fitness, age is relative.
“Our real age is determined by how active we are and how well we function in our day-to-day lives,” she smiles.
Hall takes her own advice to heart. She is an avid biker, gardener, swimmer, and has run the Pikes Peak marathon five times, three times with her mother.
“It’s never too late to experience the benefits of exercise,” Hall adds. “If you have health, you have everything!”
Janie Armstrong Jones
As Director of Resident Services, Janie Armstrong Jones coordinates all Larksfield Place activities. Generating new event ideas is easy, she says. They walk through her door every day. “I love hearing what is of interest to residents,” she says.
From booking special speakers to organizing large scale events, Jones enjoys creating a calendar full of quality choices. “We truly provide something for everyone.”
A mother of five, Jones’ talent for calendar management seems to come naturally. And her sensitivity to residents shines through.
Jones’ introduction to the community came through her father, who was one of the first residents of the Larksfield Place Health Care Center.
“I was here often, and became acquainted with so many wonderful people,” says Jones.
Grateful for the care her father received and familiar with the people, Jones accepted a job as Activity Director for the Health Care Center.
Fourteen years later her responsibilities are much more broad, but her attention remains focused on creating educational and entertaining choices for each resident. “My door is always open.”
Tammy Flaming
Marketing Director Tammy Flaming helps future community members of Larksfield Place feel right at home. From a first tour to the last unpacked box, Tammy makes the process of moving simple. She provides references for movers and estate sale companies, helps with paperwork and, most importantly, provides motivation and encouragement.
Tammy’s enthusiasm for Larksfied Place is contagious. “I came on a three-week temporary assignment,” she says. “I fell in love with the people here.”
Her on-the-go role at work is mirrored at home. Tammy and her husband, Bryce, are the proud parents of Hanna, Camden, and Gracie, who keep them busy with volleyball, basketball, and many other activities.
For the thankful community members at Larksfield, Tammy is one who makes all the difference. Her ability to establish rapport and trust helps each person feel at home. Her enthusiasm is appreciated by many.
Sharron Dillon
Before Larksfield Place opened its doors for the first time, Sharron Dillon joined the community as retirement counselor.
Introducing families to Larksfield Place and helping new community members find perfect accommodations is a joy for Dillon, whose own mother has been a community member for 15 years. “I love working with the young at heart,” Dillon says.
What makes life at Larksfield Place so special? Everyone here is focused on helping the mind, body, and spirit be as healthy and vibrant as possible.
Just as important, Larksfield Place offers everything under one roof. “Activities, dining venues, a Fitness Club—and the parties!—we have it all. Our excellent health care services are particularly important, so spouses can remain near each other, no matter the situation.”