Meet Our Staff

Rodney Denman, Divisional Director of Operations

Rodney joined HallKeen Assisted Living Communities in 2013 as the Regional Director for Operations, bringing then twelve years of Assisted Living leadership roles in both marketing and operations throughout New England and New York with a specialization in occupancy growth and systems infrastructure for challenged communities, both market and affordable. As the Divisional Director of Operations, Rodney continues to contribute to the architecture of HKALC’s Sales and Operations, and primarily provides direct support to individual communities as needed to produce strong predictable outcomes and stability with positive working climates. His philosophy and approach continues to be, “do a few simple things really, really well, over and over”, and to put “people ahead of process” to create a winning climate that supports process execution.

Julia Hannon, Resident Life Director

Julia has worked with seniors and in Assisted Living communities for over a decade and feels so fortunate she gets to go to a job every day that she loves. She believes in the “person-centered” approach to programming, and always strives to connect with each resident on an individual level. Finding the right mix of interests for an individual, and helping them maintain a sense of purpose in their lives here at River Mills, is her goal. She has a true passion for this work and loves to share it! In her personal time, she enjoys playing with her two young children, reading, and being active.

Donna Skwira, Connections Life Enrichment Director

Donna has worked in Memory Care and Assisted Living for over 15 years. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and Montessori Certified in Dementia. She thrives on residents connecting on an individual level using four important elements: Emotional, Social, Cognitive and Physical aspects in the programs she does. Donna is very much a people person, who prides herself on providing an outstanding and enjoyable experience. When not working, Donna enjoys cooking, visiting her family, spending time with friends, being active in her church, and spoiling her adorable cat, Smokey.

Katelyn DeJean, RN, Assistant Resident Care Director

Katelyn has worked in healthcare for the past 13 years, and caring for others has always been her passion. Before becoming a registered nurse, she worked as a CNA for six years in several skilled nursing facilities, where she developed a true appreciation for caring for the elderly.
Outside of work, she’s a proud mom to her amazing 4-year-old daughter, who keeps her busy and makes life so much fun. In her free time, she loves taking her to the beach, going shopping together, and spending time with animals. She’s also currently pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, which has been her lifelong dream.

Alex Martin, Director of Community Relations

Alex was born and raised in Westfield, went to school for business marketing and graduated in 2017. From there he went into marketing in the assisted living arena and fell in love- it’s been his passion ever since. He enjoys meeting new people and helping navigate the difficulties of transitions. In his personal time, Alex enjoys traveling and snowboarding.

Peg Sullivan, Business Office Director

Peg has been working in the senior living field for the past 20 years. Her leadership roles have included serving as vice president of operations at a non-profit life care community and executive director in assisted living/memory care communities in Connecticut. Prior to this, she spent 12 years supporting the Air Force as a civilian employee. She is the proud mom of two adult children and busy grandmother to seven! She enjoys bringing her golden retriever, Lucy, to visit residents when time permits.

Carolyn Bauch, Food and Dining Director

Carolyn joined the River Mills team in early 2024 and brings with her over 20 years of experience in assisted living communities throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts. She is driven by a genuine love of cooking for seniors, and creating meals that bring comfort, joy, and a sense of home to the residents. She takes pride in preparing nutritious, flavorful food while honoring individual preferences, traditions, and dietary needs. Through thoughtful menu planning, hands-on leadership, and a deep respect for the residents she serves, she strives to make every meal a positive and enriching experience! Aside from cooking and baking, Carolyn enjoys spending time with her husband, 5 children, and 3 dogs.