Janie Pierce

Administrator

Branlyn Hufferd

Director of Nursing

Branlyn is a graduate of Neosho County Community College where she earned her associates in applied science. Branlyn has spent her entire working career in healthcare and has held many positions along the way including CNA, CMT, LPN charge nurse, ADON, and DON. Branlyn has a passion for providing education to ensure we are giving the best quality and dignified care to our residents.

Amy Whyrick

Director of Human Resources

With five years’ experience, Amy brings a depth of knowledge and insight that is invaluable. Her door is always open as she provides information and advice to everyone at the facility. “I recognize that our most valuable asset is our people,” she says. “I’m here for them 100%”

Sherri Palmer

Business Office Manager

A graduate of Washburn University, Sherri enjoys interacting with Residents every day. She is always available to help them if they have issues or questions relating to their finances, Medicaid or Social Security.

Kristen Phillips

Director of Rehabilitation

Kirsten attended Washburn University and the University of Kansas Medical School. She has a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy and is committed to turning her rehab team into the best in the state.

Lea Hart-Leighty

Food Service Director

Lea attended the University of Florida where she received a Certified Dietary Manager, Certified Food Protection Professional degree. She finds real comfort and enjoyment in preparing food that brings joy and pleasant memories to the residents of the facility. Every day her team looks for ways to make a positive impact on residents, staff and their families.

Joy Hoke

Medical Records and Central Supply Director

Joy is committed to achieving excellence in her job and making the residents feel at home. She is always ready to go above and beyond and does the little things that make their lives easier.

Rodney Malloy

Director of Environmental Services

Rodney takes great pride in maintaining the facility and making sure that the residents and staff are all comfortable in the environment. He focuses on cleanliness and the proper functioning and upkeep of the building and grounds. “This is our home away from home,” he says, “and I treat it as such.”

Justin Klein

Registered Dietician

Justin is a Registered and Licensed dietitian. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Health and Exercise Sciences from The University of Oklahoma and his Master’s Degree in Dietetics from The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Before coming to Topeka Center, Justin served as the Performance Dietitian for 1-18 infantry battalion and the Combat Aviation Brigade at Fort Riley, Kansas. He has 13+ years’ experience as a dietitian, serving various roles in both clinical and performance nutrition settings throughout his career. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, traveling, hunting & fishing and watching OU sporting events.

Noel Clark

Maintenance Director

Noel holds Associate Degrees in Mathematics, Science and Construction Project Management from the College of Southern Nevada – Las Vegas, NV. Certifications include: HVAC Universal 608, Project management professional include the Project Management Professional (PMP) and Underground Tank Operation. He came to Topeka Center as a skilled operations management professional with over 35 years of experience overseeing the construction and maintenance of commercial and residential facilities. He is capable of planning and executing complex maintenance, renovation and new construction projects and has proven success overseeing multiple projects and facilities. He consistently evaluates processes and implements change to enhance strategic effectiveness across all levels of our center. Noel has extensive experience in maintenance management, construction project management, and marketing management.

Tracy Bunch

Recreation Director

Tracy has done Activities for over 20 years. She has worked in every level of care from Independent Living to Hospice Care. She has a passion for memory care and providing final wishes for hospice patients. “ I believe patients should live every day to the fullest and that you are never too old or its never late to try something new”, “I encourage my residents to try new things from taking a painting or photography class to learning Facebook to communicate with family. They feel so accomplished when they learn a new task.”