Her Story
About Carolyn
Carolyn Engert, LNHA, is a dedicated long-term care administrator with eight years of experience serving older adults and supporting the teams responsible for their care. She earned a double major in Long-Term Healthcare and Healthcare Administration from Ohio University, complemented by a minor in business and gerontology, and received an outstanding graduate award during her senior year. Her career is particularly focused on dementia care, Alzheimer’s support, and memory care, with an emphasis on creating safe, comfortable environments where residents feel valued, respected, and cared for.
As an Administrator at Country View of Sunbury and Foundations Health Solutions, Carolyn combines operational leadership with a hands-on approach to resident care. She believes effective leadership means leading by example and remaining connected to the people and daily operations of a facility. Rather than managing solely from behind a desk, she actively works alongside staff and supports activities, meals, housekeeping, and other aspects of resident life. Her commitment to quality and regulatory excellence has contributed to her facility achieving a deficiency-free annual state survey, reflecting strong standards of compliance, teamwork, and resident care.
Carolyn’s leadership philosophy is grounded in compassion, perseverance, education, and continuous learning. Inspired by her grandfather’s emphasis on education and mentorship, as well as mentors who encouraged her throughout her career, she believes healthcare professionals should continually develop their knowledge and share it with others. She is passionate about making a meaningful difference for residents and families, particularly those navigating the challenges of dementia and aging. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Carolyn demonstrates the same discipline and determination in her personal pursuits, including completing a half Ironman, reflecting her commitment to setting ambitious goals and persevering through challenges.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Carolyn
01What do you attribute your success to?
My grandpa emphasized the importance of education, work, continuing to learn, and pushing yourself. He taught me to be a friend, mentor, and to constantly educate myself on the changing rules and regulations in this industry to be successful for the residents we care for.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
A man told me I wouldn't be successful in this field. I took that and ran with it, deciding I would show him someday that I would be successful, and here I am.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Keep pushing yourself. Every day you're making a difference, even if you might not see it in that moment. Know that every family member you come in contact with, you are going to make a change in their life forever. Never give up. Females need to be there to comfort families and residents.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Finding people who really want to be part of this field, not just for the money but who want to make a difference and serve seniors. COVID did a damper on the industry, and we're still rebuilding and showing people it's not what it used to be.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Always treat people with respect. Never ask workers to do something I wouldn't feel comfortable doing myself. Lead by example by working beside everybody. Foundations' core values like being a reason why a housekeeper doesn't have to pick up trash really stick out to me.
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