Shannon brings over a decade of experience in senior care, beginning her journey in 2013 with a commitment to finding the ideal living arrangements for seniors. With a comprehensive understanding of the spectrum of care, encompassing skilled nursing and assisted living, she possesses valuable insights into optimizing residents’ quality of life. Shannon’s transition to memory care settings has further deepened her dedication, reflected in her active involvement as a volunteer for the Alzheimer’s Association. Beyond her professional pursuits, Shannon finds joy in her role as a mother to three boys and relishes adventures to Disney World, alongside cherished moments with her 9-month-old Great Dane puppy.
Experienced Team
Experienced Memory Care Team for Secure and Comfortable Care
At Buckingham Heights, our team is the heart of everything we do. Families trust us to provide compassionate memory care, personalized support, and peace of mind during one of life’s most important decisions. From nursing and wellness to recreation and dining, every member of our team is committed to creating a safe, engaging, and welcoming environment where residents feel valued, respected, and at home.
With years of experience caring for seniors living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, our team understands the unique challenges memory loss can bring. We work closely with residents and their families to provide thoughtful support, meaningful engagement, and the reassurance that comes from knowing your loved one is in caring and capable hands.
Executive Director
Jennifer Deleon-Rivera
Admissions Director
Shannon Valli
Director of Nursing
Jillian Morascini, RN
Jill obtained her nursing degree from Medical Careers Institute, a Bachelor of Science degree in sports & leisure management, as well as an associate’s degree in science. She has worked in the senior living industry for 17 years. Jill manages the day-to-day healthcare operations of Buckingham to ensure resident’s needs are met. Jill ensures our residents are treated with respect and dignity as their healthcare needs change. Her high energy level lends itself to a culture of caring and compassion. In her spare time, she enjoys the outdoors with her family.
Assistant Director of Nursing
Wendy Davis, RN
Wendy obtained her nursing degree from Goodwin College, her Master’s degree in exercise science from the University of Connecticut and Bachelor of Science in physical education/corporate fitness from the University of Maine. Wendy worked for 27 years in corporate fitness and wellness; developing wellness programs, instructing exercise classes, teaching wellness seminars and personal training employees to reach their health and fitness goals. Wendy gained invaluable experience working in a group home environment and supporting the Hartford Hospital Respiratory Department while going to nursing school. Her compassion, empathy and willingness to help others, while being an advocate for those that need a voice; are just a few of her strengths. Utilizing her skill set to assist the Health & Wellness Director lends itself to meeting the needs of our residents and supporting a work-life balance for our associates.
Recreation Director
Amanda Aaron
Amanda began her journey into working with our elders as a volunteer more than 20 years ago when the needs of her family members led her to the door of skilled nursing care. She has been working in field of therapeutic recreation since 2005 where she found her passion working with those with dementia. Amanda has been a culture change educator and strives to find creative solutions to bring joy and purpose to the everyday experiences of those she feels privileged to care for. Her goal is to further the perception of what aging looks and feels like regardless of what additional challenges our elders face. Outside of work she takes every opportunity to escape to the hills of North Carolina with her son for some time spent in nature.
Business Office Manager
Janira Melendez
Culinary Director
Wade Boynton
Wade Boynton brings a lifelong passion for cooking to his role as Culinary Director. His passion began at age 12 when he took his mother’s challenge to prepare his own meals. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Wade has built a diverse career spanning intimate family-owned restaurants to high-profile events, including cooking for the Vice President under a Secret Service escort. Over time, he found his true calling in creating comforting, high-quality meals for seniors, finding deeper fulfillment in serving this community than catering to Hollywood elites. When he does find time away from the kitchen, he enjoys golfing with friends and exploring the outdoors with his loyal dog, Luca.
Team Members
A Community Backed by Experienced Team Members
The 20 Year Club
Jonell Costa (LPN)
Zahida Begovic (CNA)
Shurmay Hackett (CNA)
Rita Schmidt (Receptionist)
Victoria Opuko-Adu (CNA)
Shannon Mckay (Recreation Aide)
Charles Turner (Receptionist)
Denise Turner (Receptionist)
Carmen Flores (CNA)
The 15 Year Club
Kimberly Booth (LPN)
Kimberly Buth (CNA)
Marcia Davis (CNA)
Tina Ewusi (CNA)
Bene Odoi (CNA)
Andrea Clifford (LPN)
William Perkins (Receptionist)
The 10 Year Club
Millicent Agyemang (CNA)
Rosalind Barton (CNA)
Sharisa Layaw (Scheduler)
Shailaja Balaji (Recreation Aide)
Gail Gruszczynski (LPN)
The 5 Year Club
Donald McQuaid (Maintenance Tech)
Lecia Hinds (CNA)
Colina Lee (CNA)
Trust
Why Families Trust the Team at Buckingham Heights for Memory Care
Choosing a memory care community is about more than finding support for a loved one as it’s about finding a team you can trust. Families throughout Glastonbury and the greater Hartford area turn to Buckingham Heights because of our experienced caregivers, personalized approach to care, and long-standing commitment to resident well-being. Many of our team members have dedicated years, and even decades, to serving our community, providing the consistency, compassion, and familiarity that help residents and families feel confident and supported every step of the way.
What Our Families Are Saying
“Buckingham Heights is the gold star standard if you are looking for the best memory care for your loved one. They have the best staff that continually puts my mother’s needs first as they provide exemplary service. Highly recommend as I have done with many friends!!”
By Dawn W
How We Can Help
Connect With Our Buckingham Heights Team
Schedule A Personal Tour
The best way to experience the warmth, compassion, and dedication of our team is to visit Buckingham Heights in person. We invite you to meet our staff, explore our community, and learn how our personalized approach to memory care helps residents feel supported, connected, and at home.
Schedule a tour today and discover why so many Connecticut families trust Buckingham Heights for memory care.
Janira has a background in Applied Science and began her career as a Registered Medical Assistant in a hospital setting, where she provided patient care for over 11 years before transitioning into an Office Coordinator role. She later advanced to an Executive Assistant position within the Hartford Public School system, where she spent over five years gaining valuable experience in Human Resources and developing strong leadership skills. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a devoted wife and mother to two children, Mia (8) and Na’im (4), who inspire her daily and shape the person she is today.