Our Team
Committed to Providing Exceptional Care
Bringing our clients and their families peace of mind begins with forming a dynamic, experienced, and caring team that supports and respects each individual’s aging, illness, and injury journey. For over 20 years, our team has been at the heart of our mission. We all share a common passion for caring, supporting, and advocating for our clients. Whether you need our services now or you are planning for the future, we are here for you because we care. Meet the team working day in and day out to redefine your journey with dignity and respect.
Meet the CareFor Team
Executive Team
Catherine Vergara
RN, BSN, CCM, TxCG
Chief Executive Officer
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Catherine Vergara leads a dynamic team to enhance client experiences and optimize service delivery. With a rich background in strategic client management and a passion for innovative solutions, Catherine excels in driving client satisfaction and operational excellence. Her expertise in developing tailored strategies and fostering strong client relationships has significantly contributed to CareFor’s growth and reputation. Catherine’s commitment to excellence and her proactive approach make her a key asset in delivering top-notch service solutions and ensuring client success in the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.
Meg Lawhon
Chief Operating Officer
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Megan Lawhon spearheads initiatives to enhance client engagement and satisfaction. With a robust background in client management and a deep understanding of the healthcare sector, Megan excels in crafting innovative solutions and leading high-performance teams. Her role at CareFor involves optimizing service delivery and building strong, collaborative relationships with clients to drive success and growth. Megan’s expertise in aligning client needs with CareFor’s strategic goals ensures exceptional service and impactful outcomes in a rapidly changing industry. Her leadership continues to elevate client experiences and operational excellence.
Gary Loudamy
Chief Strategy Officer
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Gary Loudamy plays a pivotal role in shaping and executing strategic initiatives to drive growth and operational excellence. With a solid background in operational leadership and strategic planning, Gary focuses on enhancing service delivery, optimizing processes, and fostering innovative solutions to meet evolving client needs. His strategic vision and adept management skills contribute to CareFor’s success in providing high-quality healthcare solutions. Gary’s commitment to operational efficiency and client satisfaction ensures that CareFor remains at the forefront of the industry, delivering impactful results and exceptional value.
Debbie Pearson
RN, BSN, CCM, TxCG
Founder, Author
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Debbie Pearson is the founder of CareFor, where she drives growth and builds strategic partnerships to enhance the company’s market presence. Leveraging her extensive experience in business development and client relations, Debbie excels in identifying new opportunities and crafting tailored solutions that meet the needs of diverse stakeholders. At CareFor, she plays a crucial role in expanding the company’s reach and fostering collaborative relationships that support long-term success. Debbie’s strategic acumen and dedication to excellence ensure that CareFor continues to thrive in a competitive landscape, delivering innovative healthcare solutions with a focus on client satisfaction.
Leadership Team
Kacie Andrews
RN
Director of Clinical Services
With more than eight years of nursing experience, including six years in hospice and palliative care, Kacie serves as the Director of Clinical Services at CareFor. In this role, she leads interdisciplinary teams dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality, patient-centered care at the end of life. Guided by a leadership philosophy rooted in empathy, integrity, and accountability, Kacie specializes in training clinical staff and cultivating a culture of dignity and respect for patients and their families during life’s most vulnerable transitions. Outside of work, she enjoys time with a growing family and remains passionate about lifelong learning, continually seeking opportunities to expand knowledge and skills.
Kaisha Harris
PHR, PHRca, SHRM-CP
Director of Human Resources
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Kaisha Harris leads HR strategy and initiatives to support organizational growth and employee engagement. With extensive expertise in HR management and a strong background in employee relations and compliance, Kaisha focuses on optimizing talent acquisition, development, and retention. At CareFor, she plays a key role in fostering a positive work environment and implementing policies that drive performance and satisfaction. Kaisha’s strategic approach and commitment to creating a supportive workplace ensure that CareFor attracts and retains top talent while enhancing overall organizational effectiveness.
Wendy Nagel
Controller
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A native Texan, Wendy has an extensive background living across various locations, including Texas, Boston, Denver, and Mexico. This diverse experience enriches her professional expertise and adaptability. Outside of work, Wendy values quality time with family and friends, including her beloved dog, Luna, and cat, Thomas. Wendy is passionate about getting lost in a good book, gardening, recreating cherished family recipes, and exploring new destinations through travel. Her broad life experience and personal interests contribute to a well-rounded and highly qualified approach to her role.
Becca Phillips
Director of Operations
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Originally from Chicago and now firmly rooted in Austin, Becca brings a steady, thoughtful presence to complex and fast-paced work environments. She is known for her ability to bring structure to complexity, build systems that actually work, and help teams move from vision to execution. Becca’s career has taken her across varied environments, but the common thread throughout has been her ability to adapt quickly, manage competing priorities, and create processes that serve both people and outcomes.
Outside of work, Becca is a devoted mom to three teenagers and an Australian Shepherd named Wrigley.
Karen Zimmerhanzel
RN, BSN, TxCG
Director of Care Management
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Karen is the Director of Care Management at CareFor. She pursued higher education at The University of Texas, which led to a relocation to Austin. Outside of her professional pursuits, Karen is an avid sports enthusiast, frequently attending events to support her husband and their three sons. In her leisure time, Karen enjoys enriching experiences, such as listening to audiobooks, attending live music performances, and unwinding with friends and family. Her well-rounded interests and community involvement underscore her commitment to both personal growth and a vibrant family life.
Care Managers
Anne Adams
RN, BSN, CCM, TxCG
Senior Care Manager
A Texas transplant, Anne moved to the state at a young age when her father took a position as a physician for NASA. After leaving Houston, Anne pursued nursing studies at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Her nursing career began in the cardiovascular ICU, followed by a year of critical care nursing in Hawaii. Upon returning to Fort Worth, Anne discovered a profound passion for home health nursing. Having lived in Austin for over 20 years, Anne balances a fulfilling career with family life, including two children and four grandchildren. Outside of work and family time, Anne enjoys baking, gardening, and reading.
Adrienne Diaz
LCSW, TxCG
Care Manager
Born in Topeka, Kansas, Adrienne has established her career and family life in Austin over the past 14 years. With a rich background in international service as a former Peace Corps volunteer, Adrienne met her husband abroad, and together they have built a fulfilling life centered around their two children, Lola and Desmond. An advocate of continuous learning and global exploration, Adrienne and her family actively seek out new experiences and adventures. When not engaged in her professional pursuits, she dedicates her time to outdoor activities, discovering new music, and exploring the vibrant culinary scene that Austin has to offer. Adrienne’s diverse interests and international perspective contribute to her dynamic and well-rounded approach to life and work.
Sara Haddock
RN, CHPN, CCM
Care Manager
Sara has leveraged her extensive experience and dynamic perspective throughout her 25 years in the Austin area. Her deep commitment to family and friends is complemented by a profound faith that guides her daily life. Known for her vibrant and adventurous spirit, Sara embraces new experiences with enthusiasm and excels in providing support. Alongside her husband, she enjoys exploring the local live music scene and cherishes quiet movie nights at home with her Great Dane.
Karena McIlwain
RN, BSM, TxCG
Care Manager
Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Karena relocated to Austin, Texas after college to be closer to family residing in Austin and Dallas. Karena is a dedicated nurse with 22 years of experience, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to providing exceptional care. As a parent to two energetic boys, Mateo and Ayden, along with a family dog, Summer, Karena balances professional expertise with a vibrant family life. Outside of work, Karena enjoys spending quality time at parks, pools, and other recreational spots with her family.
Velma Muchiri
RN, MSN, CCM
Care Manager
Born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, Velma relocated from Kansas to Austin and remains a devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan. Outside of work, Velma prioritizes time with family, reflecting a strong commitment to personal connections. A favorite quote of Velma’s is, “Do anything, but let it produce joy.” With a well-rounded background and a passion for both professional and personal growth, Velma is exceptionally qualified to provide thoughtful and caring support to clients.
Joanne Trejo
RN
Care Manager
Born and raised in Texas, she has dedicated the past 24 years to the nursing profession, with a strong expertise in ICU. Her passion for patient care is evident in everything she does, and she truly loves her work. Outside of her career, she is a devoted wife and proud mother of three. Weekends are often spent cheering on her daughters at volleyball and soccer games, and she values every moment of quality time with her family and close friends. With a deep commitment to both her career and her loved ones, she strives to give her best in every role she holds.
Hospice
Nikki Hudnall
RN, CHPN
Hospice Care Manager
Nikki Hudnall, RN, CHPN, is a certified hospice and palliative care nurse with 36 years of nursing experience, including 19 years devoted to supporting patients and families through hospice and palliative care. She considers it a true privilege to walk beside people during some of their most vulnerable moments, offering care grounded in love, kindness, compassion, and respect.
When she’s not at work, Nikki enjoys cheering on her favorite sports teams, relaxing at the beach, spending time outdoors, and making memories with her beloved dog.
Naomi Nelson
RN, BSN
Hospice Care Manager
With over two decades of nursing experience, Naomi discovered her true calling eight years ago in the field of hospice care. She considers it a profound honor to be invited into such an intimate chapter of her patients’ lives, walking alongside them and their families with grace. Though the work is demanding, Naomi is guided by a simple, powerful mission: “I am here to make today the best today it can be.” To Naomi, every day is a gift, and she dedicated to helping others make the most of every moment.
Naomi carries that same devotion home to her family. She and her husband pour their extra time and love into their two children and their energetic Goldendoodle, making the most of every moment together.
Mandy Stalcup
LCSW
Social Worker
Mandy Stalcup is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s most challenging moments. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and her master’s degree in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin.
Throughout her career, Mandy has worked in schools, community mental health settings, hospitals, and residential substance abuse treatment programs. Her professional interests include trauma-informed care, interpersonal neurobiology, cultural humility, advocacy, social justice, equitable access to resources, expressive arts and play therapy.
Mandy is committed to walking alongside patients and families with compassion, respect, and a deep belief in every person’s dignity and resilience.
Outside of work, she enjoys exploring the world through her daughter’s eyes, dancing, singing, and seeking out new adventures.
Thad Norvell
Chaplain
Thad is CareFor’s hospice chaplain and directs our bereavement program. He believes each of life’s seasons, including end of life, is sacred and has meaning, and he serves our patients and those who care for them with intentionality and compassion.
An ordained minister, Thad has lived all over the state of Texas with a brief detour in the northeast US. He has worked in churches, non-profits, sports media, and other business settings. He is blissfully married and is a dad to six amazing humans (counting kids, kids-in-law, and step-kids) who bring him endless joy. He also loves (but pretends to mostly tolerate) the two cats. When he isn’t working, he likes to be at home, in a movie theater, at a game, or in the mountains.
Staffing
Stancy Spencer
Staffing Manager
Born at Bergstrom Air Force Base in Del Valle, Texas, and raised in Taylor, Texas, Stancy has cultivated a strong foundation of dedication and teamwork throughout her career. She has been an integral part of CareFor since 2011, where she has refined her collaborative skills and demonstrated a steadfast commitment to excellence. Her deep passion for helping others is evident in her professional achievements and personal endeavors. In her free time, Stancy finds immense joy in spending quality moments with her family and twin brother, Stan, reflecting her commitment to both her professional and personal values.
Andrea Rangel
Staffing Coordinator
A Florida native, Andrea has a deep appreciation for the sun, sand, and fresh ocean air. Her professional expertise is complemented by a rich personal life, where she balances her time between the beach, where she enjoys reading, and her kitchen, where she crafts delectable baked goods. Andrea is also passionate about gardening, continuously working to refine her skills and cultivate vibrant blooms, inspired by her mother’s green thumb. Her interest in lifelong learning is reflected in her enjoyment of documentaries, underscoring her belief that one can always acquire new knowledge and skills.
Brittni Smith
Staffing Coordinator
Born in New Orleans, LA, and having moved to Austin in 2001, Brittni comes from a customer service and staffing background and is devoted to providing care to people in need. She is driven by her daughter, Alani, and her two dogs, Daisy and Nugget. She is always willing to lend a helping hand in all that she does.
Chloe Young
Staffing Coordinator
A Central Texas native, Chloe was born in South Austin and raised between Austin and Elgin. She has been with CareFor for six years, serving as a caregiver with a true passion for helping others and making a difference in the lives of clients and families. Now as a Staffing Coordinator, Chloe is excited to bring her compassion, dedication, and hands-on experience into the office. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, baking, spending time with family, and walking scenic trails when the Texas weather cooperates.
Operations
Keri Mendoza
MBA, TxCG
Patient Services Manager
Born and raised in Lubbock, Texas, Keri comes from a background steeped in farm and ranching traditions. An alum of Texas A&M University for her undergraduate studies and the University of Texas for graduate school, Keri brings a strong educational foundation to her role with CareFor. Outside of work, Keri finds joy in a variety of activities, including savoring hot chocolate, supporting winning football teams, and immersing herself in historical fiction. An avid coffee enthusiast, podcast listener, and outdoor hiker, Keri integrates these personal interests with a deep commitment to her job.
Shelby Stebler
Patient Services Coordinator
Born and raised in Austin, Texas, Shelby has a deep appreciation for the city’s vibrant live music scene, with cherished childhood memories of attending Blues on the Green. With a passion for creative expression, Shelby spends her free time exploring various crafts, including sewing, painting, and crocheting, and is always eager to discover new hobbies. This blend of artistic enthusiasm and love for community highlights Shelby’s commitment to bringing joy and a personal touch to her professional approach.
Tara Lawhon
Payroll & Benefits Specialist
A lifelong resident of Austin, Tara has deep roots in the community and a strong connection to the local environment. Her commitment to balancing professional excellence with a fulfilling personal life is evident in her diverse interests and activities. Tara values time spent with her family and two dogs, Kyler and Tex, and has a passion for travel, having explored destinations, such as Ireland and Germany, with plans for further international adventures. Her creative pursuits include painting, drawing, and playing the piano, while she also enjoys unwinding with a good scary movie. Her well-rounded interests and dedication to both personal and professional growth highlight her dynamic and engaged approach to life.
Jade Ross
Compliance Coordinator
A proud Austin native, Jade has a deep appreciation for the city’s vibrant culture. With a passion for live music, swimming in the summer, making art, and cooking, Jade brings a creative and enthusiastic spirit to her work. Known for her generous nature, Jade never misses an opportunity to support local lemonade stands and always indulges in a cookie with lunch, embracing the belief that life is too short to skip dessert. Driven by a strong commitment to the power of love and the importance of helping those in need, Jade is exceptionally well-qualified to provide compassionate and dedicated care to clients, combining a joyful approach to life with a deep-seated sense of responsibility.
Robert Hastings
Billing Accountant
With over 18 years of experience in accounting, audit, and finance, Robert brings a deep well of knowledge and a strong work ethic to every project. Originally from Puerto Rico, he also has 12 years of experience in Spanish translation and interpretation, making him a valuable bridge between cultures and teams. Outside the office, Robert is passionate about good coffee and great food, often found experimenting in the kitchen or exploring Austin’s vibrant culinary scene. He enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, and discovering live music with family and friends around Central Texas.
Kseniia Akhlestina
Accounting Clerk
Kseniia was born and raised in Siberia, where she developed a strong work ethic, keen attention to detail, and a deep appreciation for nature. She brings these values into her accounting work, which she genuinely enjoys, and finds great satisfaction in helping people, supporting teams, and keeping financial processes clear, accurate, and well organized.
Kseniia is committed to continuous professional growth and regularly takes courses to expand her knowledge and stay current with best practices. Outside of work, she volunteers at an animal shelter, practices yoga, and enjoys reading books on psychology, which helps her better understand people and build meaningful connections both professionally and personally.
Tricia Kipper
Talent Specialist
Raised in a suburb of Kansas City, KS, Tricia has been a loyal fan of KC football since before they were good. With a background in nonprofit work, most recently in refugee resettlement, Tricia’s professional experience has centered around helping others and extending hospitality, and she’s eager to continue by welcoming new caregivers to CareFor. She embraces the challenge of bringing order and fun to chaos, usually by cheering at one of her three kids’ extracurricular activities. When she’s not embracing the joys of a road trip, boba tea, or laughter-filled moments with friends, Tricia might be found connecting with those around her by teaching piano lessons through her piano studio side hustle, gathering people in her home for a meal, or belting out a song at private room karaoke.
Business Development
Margaret Cardwell
Relationship Manager
Born and raised in Austin, Texas, Margaret completed her high school education at a prestigious boarding school in Rhode Island before returning to Austin for college. During her college years, Margaret gained valuable experience through an internship at CareFor. After spending five years in Houston, Margaret returned to the CareFor team, now based in San Antonio. With a strong background in the field and a deep commitment to her work, Margaret brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role. In her free time, Margaret enjoys quality moments with family and her cat, Ollie, along with watching TV, reading, and soaking up the sunshine outdoors.
Dee Blaylock
Community Liaison
Dee, a true Austinite, was born and raised in Austin, Texas. Her background in senior care spans over two decades. Her passion and extensive training lie in dementia and aging studies, with a master’s degree from Texas State University in 2016. When not assisting families, Dee is actively involved in the lives of her four children. She enjoys the outdoors and finds solace in relaxing at the beach.
Lori Drake
RN
Community Liaison
Lori Drake is a Registered Nurse with over 20 years of experience in hospice and end-of-life care, currently serving as a hospice community liaison in the Austin area. With a strong foundation in clinical care and a passion for education, she is dedicated to helping patients, families, and healthcare providers navigate the complexities of serious illness with clarity, compassion, and dignity. Lori is known for building meaningful relationships within the community and for her unwavering commitment to ethical, patient-centered care, ensuring that individuals receive the support and guidance they need during life’s most important transitions.
