Leadership Academy 2013-14 LeadingAge New York Feb. 2014 | Page 22

Lisa Marcello
Vice President / CFO
Episcopal SeniorLife Communities

Refocusing Rehabilitation
1

How would you describe your Action Learning Project and the difference you hope it will make to
advance your organization’s mission (or the field) and benefit the individuals you serve?

Rehabilitative services are frequently thought of as a source of revenue for Skilled Nursing Facilities. We had established a program
that supported good quality of life, as determined by the resident and excellent quality of care. With changes in staff and changes
in regulations we got away from that focus. My project is to re-establish a strong rehab program, not as the implementer, but as
the leader. In this role I will work with a multi-disciplinary team to create a sustainable, quality program. Each team member has
made valuable contributions to the organization and will benefit from working together to establish goals and agree to measures of
accountability. We will utilize each person’s individual strengths to achieve success as a team. The successes achieved and lessons
learned will become a model for other projects. Ultimately, of course, the strength of our rehab program will improve the quality of
care for our current residents and allow us to be flexible as we provide services into the future.

2

How have the relationships you’ve developed as part of your project (with mentors, partners,
stakeholders, etc.) influenced this direction and you as a leader?

As a result of the work we have done in the Leadership Academy, I know myself better. Understanding myself, my strengths and my
potential has made me more self-confident and has expanded my comfort zone. This has allowed me to build meaningful relationships
with the team in order to build a stronger team. It is energizing to see others work to their strengths, (sometimes strengths they
didn’t know they had), and to see a plan come together as a result of all each members contributions to the project. Consistent
communication, (helped by utilizing the tools obtained through the academy), and transparency have enabled the team to reach goals
and more importantly, to identify new goals as we move forward.
I now have a better understanding that successful outcomes are achieved by listening, explaining, and guiding, not by directing
and doing. I am comfortable with conflict, constructive criticism and honest praise. I am able to support others in their growth and
development as leaders, while always working on my leadership skills as well.

3

What have been important turning points for you, in your own learning, as you’ve engaged with
the action learning process (you might consider a surprise, insight, setback, or challenge)?

It is amazing the positive res [