Ascension Living Alexian Village Tennessee Live at Home
Providing Quality Care
For 16 years, Melissa Rief has been providing personalized care to the residents at Ascension Living. Now, for the past seven months, she has expanded her duties as the regional executive director. “Each day brings new opportunities, rewards, and challenges,” shares Rief. “These challenges can range from ensuring regulatory compliance to managing associate training and professional development.” Rief was inspired to enter the healthcare industry by her mother’s dedicated work as a registered nurse, and her career was later nurtured by those around her. “My colleague, Vicki, played a crucial role in my career by mentoring me and advocating for me to be given an opportunity in a management role,” says Rief.
My main strength is my ability to relate to all individuals with a variety of different perspectives, beliefs, and backgrounds.”
My Credentials
Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management:
Walden University – Minneapolis, MN
Certifications:
Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant, Chattanooga State Community College – Chattanooga, TN
Foundations of Ministry Leadership Program, Ascension Living
1. What do you love most about your profession?
The opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of others. Through my actions and words, I strive to embody and share God’s love, bringing comfort and healing to those in need.
2. What is one of your happiest professional moments?
The happiest moments are when I get to witness residents after a few months of living in the independent living retirement community. I can often see a weight lifted off of them since they have made the decision to move into Ascension Living Alexian Village. I typically hear words like “I should have made this decision many years ago.” It means so much to me because I get to see how happy living here makes them.
3. What’s the key to making a great first impression?
The key to making a lasting first impression is to be authentic and to give the other person your full and undivided attention. This shows respect and appreciation for the individual you are meeting.
4. What is your philosophy when it comes to the care of your patients?
My philosophy is to treat the individuals we care for as if they were family, extend kindness, and to listen to, understand, and serve together.
5. What is your best advice for patients?
Always seek and maintain a sense of purpose in life, regardless of your circumstances. Even in the face of health challenges, there are countless ways to contribute and connect. For instance, if mobility issues limit physical activity, consider reaching out to someone with a thoughtful gesture like a ‘thinking of you’ card.
- 423.886.0100
- 437 Alexian Way Signal Mountain, TN 37377
- ascensionliving.org/alexianvillagetn
