Call Us Today 202-349-3400

Meet The Grand Oaks Team

Since 2000, they’ve provided high-quality, personalized assisted living services and amenities to every resident in a caring and respectful way. Our staff believes in improving the quality of life for all residents through physical, social, and spiritual activities, premier care services and programs, and dedicated nursing. Learn more about the Grand Oaks team below.

Laurie Henley, ALFA

Laurie Henley, ALFA

Executive Director

Laurie joined the Grand Oaks team as the Executive Director in 2015. She received her bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Laurie has worked in the senior living industry for over 25 years and held a variety of financial and executive management positions in Virginia, Florida, and Georgia. Laurie is passionate about serving seniors and has dedicated her career to providing great care through assisted living options.

Learn more about Laurie and her role at Grand Oaks.

Beth Abate, DNP, MSN, AGPCNP-BC, ANP-BC, RN-BC

Beth Abate, DNP, MSN, AGPCNP-BC, ANP-BC, RN-BC

Nurse Practitioner

Beth graduated from The Catholic University of America in 2009 with a master’s degree in Nursing, Adult Nurse Practitioner track. In May 2017, Beth graduated with her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from the Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing. Her capstone project was titled “Methods to Reduce Avoidable Emergency Department Visits in Assisted Living Facility.” Her passion is to promote aging in place. In her spare time, Beth enjoys spending time with her family.

Learn more about Beth and her role at Grand Oaks.

Jill Youens, RN, CDP

Jill Youens, RN, CDP

Director of Nursing

Jill is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Certified Musical Therapist, and a Certified Wound Care Nurse. She joins us after working 15+ years in skilled nursing and assisted living communities in Virginia.

Learn more about Jill and her role at Grand Oaks.

Michelle Hill, RN, CDP

Michelle Hill, RN, CDP

Director of Resident Services

Michelle joined the Grand Oaks team in 2021. She is a Registered Nurse and Certified Dementia Practitioner. Michelle has been working in the senior living industry for the past six years and enjoys spending time with our residents. In her free time, Michelle enjoys hiking and traveling and is a lover of all things caffeinated.

Learn more about Michelle and her role at Grand Oaks.

SylviaGrace Shaw-Thompson

SylviaGrace Shaw-Thompson

RN Coordinator, Oasis Neighborhood

After becoming her dad’s caregiver and working 12 years in oncology, 22 years in the ICU, and 24 years in the ER, SylviaGrace saw a career in geriatric nursing and memory care as the next step. As the Oasis RN Coordinator, she manages staffing, develops resident programs, conducts assessments and care plans, and provides dementia education for families, caregivers, and staff. SylviaGrace enjoys traveling with her church and spoiling her grandbabies in her free time.

Jordan Asrat

Jordan Asrat

Director of Activities

Jordan joined Grand Oaks in 2015 and has over 18 years of senior living expertise. As a Certified Dementia Practitioner and Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional, she thoughtfully curates engaging, personalized activity programs that enhance residents’ quality of life. Jordan’s background spans memory care and hospice, fueling her compassionate approach. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, exploring new places, and spending time with loved ones, all of which inspire her dedication to her role.

Learn more about Jordan and her role at Grand Oaks.

Andrew Conlin

Andrew Conlin

Executive Chef

Chef Andrew Conlin began his culinary journey as a brick oven cook before completing professional training at the Culinary Institute of America. He apprenticed in New York, Boston, and Chicago, eventually becoming Executive Chef at multiple high-end restaurants. He earned recognition as Innovative Chef of the Year and was nominated for DC’s Young Chef award in 2007. Now, Chef Andrew brings his expertise to Grand Oaks, showcasing years of culinary experience.

Learn more about Chef Andrew and his role at Grand Oaks.

Alvin Noval

Alvin Noval

Front House Manager

Alvin has been a dedicated member of Grand Oaks since 2010. As Front House Manager, he ensures a high-quality dining experience while managing staffing, scheduling, and compliance. He finds working in assisted living particularly fulfilling, as it allows him to create meaningful, positive experiences for residents while addressing their dietary needs and personal preferences. His strengths in adaptability, problem-solving, leadership, communication, and time management enhance residents’ quality of life.

Jermaine Pendleton

Jermaine Pendleton

Director of Facilities

Jermaine joined Grand Oaks in 2012 and has over 19 years of experience. He oversees building operations, maintenance, and transportation, promptly addressing residents’ needs. He is committed to exceptional customer service and transparency, instilling confidence in his staff and residents regarding the care of their community. Outside of work, Jermaine can be found performing with his inspirational go-go band (OutDaBox X’Perience), mentoring, and giving back to the homeless and less fortunate communities. 

Polima Sainvil

Polima Sainvil

Environmental Services / Laundry Manager

With over a decade of industry experience, Polima oversees housekeeping and laundry operations for Grand Oaks residents. Educated at Haiti State University, his diverse background equips Polima with a unique skill set. He adapts well to fast-paced environments while always maintaining a positive attitude. His impact is evident through the positive feedback received from residents. Polima enjoys spending quality time with his family, practicing his faith, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Fema Watson-Brown

Fema Watson-Brown

Business Office Manager

Fema joined Grand Oaks in 2018 and has nearly 20 years of experience. Her duties include managing accounts receivable and payable systems, overseeing billing, resolving discrepancies with residents, maintaining financial files, and more. Her fascination with numbers led her to her current career path. In her spare time, Fema enjoys spending time with her two daughters and serving the community as a member of the Feed the Community ministry at her church.

Kevin Webber

Kevin Webber

Director of Sales

Kevin joined Grand Oaks in 2017 after working in senior living sales management since 2003. He takes pride in being part of the highly esteemed community that includes Grand Oaks, Sibley Memorial Hospital, and Johns Hopkins. He enjoys building personal relationships with residents and staff. In his spare time, Kevin enjoys biking, cross country skiing, and hiking. Kevin spends several weeks every Fall in Maine hiking and biking and has visited over 35 national parks. 

Meet our activities team

Meet our Activities Team and learn how they positively impact residents’ lives.

Meet our activities team

Meet Executive Chef Andrew Conlin and learn more about dining at Grand Oaks.

Amazing Staff

“The staff is absolutely terrific. They’re kind and they have a sense of humor, which is always important. They take care of more than just my physical needs. They make living here a happy experience.” Read More

Patricia Wertman

Resident