Kathy Winn, Board President, SVP and Chief marketing and communications officer
Kathy Winn is senior vice president, chief marketing and communications officer at Compassus. Winn oversees all marketing, communications, brand and development of strategies to support growth and operations utilizing a data driven approach to supporting the organization’s integrated home-based care services.
Rebecca (Becky Tillman)
Rebecca Tillman has served in the nonprofit sector for over 22 years, beginning as a Hospice Volunteer Coordinator, matching volunteers with patients in need. Over time, her passion for helping others led her to become the Executive Director of the Compassus Living Foundation, where she upholds the mission of assisting patients and families in financial distress. Tillman is dedicated to ensuring patients live their final days with dignity and quality of life, while leading a foundation that positively impacts lives.
Kurt Merkelz, MD, FAAHPM, SVP and Chief Medical Officer
Dr. Kurt Merkelz, a seasoned physician and healthcare executive with over 17 years at Compassus, provides strong leadership and insights to support the Compassus Living Foundation. With extensive experience in hospice care across diverse communities, Dr. Merkelz leverages his understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families. A husband and father of four, Dr. Merkelz brings faith-based values and deep commitment to serving the communities impacted by the foundation’s efforts.
Connie Smith, People experience program manager
Connie Smith joined Compassus in 2016 as a hospice social worker before transitioning to her current role as People Experience Program Manager at the Home Office. She leads initiatives such as Compassus Cares and Hearts of Gratitude, aimed at supporting and elevating the team member experience. Smith also drives fundraising efforts for Living Hope in Cape Town, South Africa, and champions workplace belonging across Compassus, fostering a culture where every team member feels valued and supported.
Ashton Jones, Foundation Partnership and Community Outreach Manager
Ashton Jones is the Foundation Partnership and Community Outreach Manager at Compassus. In this role, Jones oversees foundation partnership efforts, working closely with Compassus’ joint ventures to strengthen relationships and align strategic goals. With a focus on fostering impactful partnerships and enhancing community outreach, Jones plays a role in advancing the mission and services of Compassus, bringing compassion and care to those in need.
Nicole Medrozo, Board Secretary
Nicole Medrozo, a New Jersey native, was inspired at a young age to pursue a career in law to contribute to society and help others. After earning her JD from Penn State Dickinson, she gained experience in roles including judicial clerkship, prosecutor and health care legal counsel. Medrozo’s most rewarding work has been serving those in need, and she draws inspiration from her Compassus teammates and family, including her two young boys, in continuing to pursue her mission to do good and serve others.
Cheryse Wodecki, RN, MSHA, CHPN Board Member
Cheryse Wodecki is a seasoned healthcare executive with over 36 years of clinical and operational leadership experience across acute care, post-acute care, and hospice settings. She currently serves as Hospice Vice President of Clinical Operations, overseeing strategic initiatives across 175 locations and leading national teams focused on quality, compliance, and operational excellence. Wodecki is recognized for improving outcomes, building sustainable care models, and advancing leadership development programs for clinical executives. She holds a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration and maintains RN licensure in Arizona and California.
