Riverwood Senior Living, Rome, GA: 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.

Summer McBurnett — Community Consultant

I am proud to be continuing a legacy of leadership in the senior care industry. My mother began her career in long-term care when I was just two years old, and her dedication inspired my own path. With over 10 years of individual experience in senior care, I am excited about the opportunity at Riverwood to live out my personal mission of serving Christ through serving others. I joined Riverwood in 2025, and every day I am grateful to be part of a team that shares my passion for compassionate care and living out Luke 6:31: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” When I’m not at work, you’ll find me spending time with my husband, my four children, and my grandchildren, tending to my garden, or 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.