At CLF, we work diligently to support the foundation’s efforts not only through day-to-day operations but also through program development, fundraising, and the administration of grants.
Lori Hart
Board President
Lori is a distinguished HR Leader known for her responsiveness, authenticity, and deep engagement with diverse stakeholders. Spanning her career over two decades, Lori has honed her skills in various facets of human resource management. Currently serving as VP of People, Engagement and Performance at Compassus, Lori supports over 6,000 team members and volunteers across multiple states. Lori’s role entails strategic partnership with senior executives, implementing HR programs, managing employment litigation, and fostering employee engagement and retention. Lori holds a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification from HRCI and a Strengths Performance Coach Certification from Gallup. Lori demonstrates a passion for positive change, fostering inclusive workplaces, and maximizing organizational effectiveness. As an exceptional leader, Lori commits to excellence, making significant contributions to the field of human resources, empowering organizations to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.
Dr. Kurt Merkelz, MD
SVP and Chief Medical Officer
Dr. Merkelz is a physician and health care executive, with Compassus for over 17 years, that brings strong leadership and vision in supporting Compassus Living Foundation/Hospice Angels Foundation. Dr. Merkelz has a deep understanding of the needs and burdens faced by individuals requiring hospice involvement. Providing both oversight and direct care during this experience in both urban and rural communities across the country, Dr. Merkelz is there to assist. With strong faith-based values as a husband and father of four, Dr. Merkelz is committed to supporting the communities we serve.
Jennifer Hale, MSN, RN, CHPN, CPHQ
VP Clinical Quality and Standards at Compassus
Jennifer has been a nurse for more than 3 decades and has focused her efforts on improving the quality of care provided to individuals with serious and terminal illnesses. Jennifer is certified in hospice and palliative nursing since 2003. She is a nationally recognized expert in quality, regulatory compliance, and the application of palliative nursing across the continuum of care. Jennifer is a board member for the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association and Foundation and a member of multiple other organizations as they relate to Public Health.
Nicole Medrozo
Board Secretary
Nicole is a New Jersey native where she grew up in a culture-rich environment and met people from all walks of life. Nicole was inspired at a young age to do good and had the audacity to want to make society better. She pursued a career in law with that mindset and earned her JD from Penn State Dickinson School of Law. After a judicial clerkship, Nicole served as a prosecutor and from there, moved to a healthcare, in-house position for a large Academic Medical Center. Thereafter, she worked for a large Law firm in Atlanta, Georgia prior to coming to Compassus. Of the different roles Nicole has served, she has always found the work that serves those in need to be the most rewarding and meaningful. Today, Nicole finds inspiration from her Compassus colleagues who help and serve those in need every day; and from her family, including her two boys who she hopes to instill the same passion to do well and serve others in this world.
Rebecca (Becky) Tillman
Executive Director
Becky has served in the non-profit sector for over 22 years. Starting as a Hospice Volunteer Coordinator, one of Becky’s many responsibilities was to match volunteers with hospice patients in need. This involved looking at personalities and interests on both sides. Over time, this led Becky to finding a new passion and desire and from there, as Executive Director of Hospice Angels, she led the Foundation to its success. In upholding the mission of Hospice Angels Foundation, Becky works primarily with Social Workers in assisting patients and their families who are in financial distress situations. Helping patients live their final days with dignity and quality of life, is her daily goal. Becky is proud to work with such a great Foundation that positively impacts the lives of those in need.
