Riverwood Retirement Community Leadership Team
Jeanine Brooks — Executive Director
My journey in long-term care began at 18, driven by a deep love for my grandmother. I became a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to ensure her well-being, which sparked my passion for helping others. Over the years, I held various roles, including Social Worker, Admissions Director, and Resident Services Coordinator, eventually earning my Long-Term Care Administrator’s License. I served as an Administrator for two decades, dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of seniors.
Joining the Regency family, I am inspired by the company’s core values that align with my own—a servant’s heart and a commitment to empowering employees. I look forward to bringing the same dedication and passion to Riverwood. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren, watching HGTV, and crafting.
Amanda Weeks — Community Consultant
I joined Riverwood in July 2022 with nearly 10 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Being a part of Riverwood means making a difference, and I take great pride in my work, helping others in the aging community. My 7-year-old daughter is the light of my life, and when I’m not spending time with her, you can find me curled up with a good book.
Tamara Copeland — Outreach Liaison
“Do unto others what you would have them do unto you.” – Luke 6:13
This parable has guided my 25+ years in healthcare, inspiring me to live a positive and influential life. I am deeply grateful for the men and women who have enriched my life, teaching me valuable skills like sewing and crocheting. Listening to sweet memories over a glass of sweet tea is the icing on the cake. It’s always a great day at Riverwood! When I’m not at Riverwood, you can find me reading, gardening, and spending time with my family.
Lisa Caldwell — Activities Director
I joined the Riverwood team in December 2021. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Shorter College and a Master’s degree in Business Administration. After many years in the corporate world, I fell in love with working with seniors through various roles throughout my career. It’s a joy and a privilege to serve our residents at Riverwood. I love spending time with my family and friends.
Dewey Hudgins — Maintenance Director
I began my career working with seniors three years ago in a senior memory care facility in Rome, Georgia, and joined the Riverwood family in 2023. While I love the facility and the staff, I am here for the residents, ensuring their home is safe and all their maintenance needs are met. It gives me great pleasure to see them smile when I help with a remote that isn’t working or a door that won’t latch. I feel I’ve found my calling as “the man who fixes everything” for 70+ seniors daily, making their lives a little better each day. When I’m not fixing things, you can find me fishing or watching college football. Roll Tide!
Misti Hudson — Director of Nursing
My passion for helping and caring for others began when I was young, inspired by watching my grandmother care for those in need. I started in the medical field 14 years ago, and during that time, the Lord placed a desire in my heart to become a nurse. I’ve been blessed to work with the senior community for 10 years, and now, as Director of Nursing, I have the amazing opportunity to be a voice for our residents, ensuring they are well cared for, valued, and loved. I have three children and three grandchildren. I attend a local church, love studying the Bible, and enjoy traveling, reading, watching movies, and spending time with my family.
Samantha Waddell — Memory Care Coordinator
I began my medical career as a retail pharmacy technician as a teen and later became an IV pharmacy technician at a multi-specialty clinic. It was there that I discovered my passion for caregiving and decided to enroll in nursing school. I graduated as an LPN in May 2004. As an LPN, I have had the honor of working in various fields, including skilled nursing, hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, home healthcare, hospice care, and IDD group homes.
I started my journey at Riverwood in the fall of 2021 as a charge nurse, and I am now excited to take on the role of Memory Care Coordinator. I am passionate about making a direct difference in the lives of so many.
In a world that can become confusing so quickly, I hope to provide the consistency and clarity that my residents and their families deserve.
In addition to being a nurse, I am extremely proud of my three wonderful children. I love watching them pursue their dreams and grow into successful individuals. Outside of spending time with my children, I enjoy traveling, spending time with my fur babies, and indulging in my long-time hobby of photography.
Brandy Hawkins — Business Office Manager
I am originally from Rome, but I currently reside in Summerville. I joined Riverwood in May 2022 as the Business Office Manager. I hold an associate degree in Business Technology and am currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. I have always had a passion for helping others, and Riverwood is the perfect place for me to do so!
Outside of work, I have two children who have my heart. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, and we are often found at a ball field or training field.