Contact: Renee Dain
SVP, Communications & External Affairs
240.653.2834
Millersville, Maryland – The Coordinating Center, Maryland’s statewide, premier nonprofit care coordination organization for children and adults with disabilities and complex needs is excited to announce the 2024 Compassionate Leadership Award nominees and recipient. The Compassionate Leadership award was created in 2019 and established by The Coordinating Center’s Board of Directors in honor of Karen-Ann Lichtenstein, former President/CEO of The Center for 26 years (with The Center for 35 years).
The Compassionate Leadership Award recognizes an extraordinary coworker not only for their outstanding commitment to the mission and values of The Coordinating Center, but in the characteristics of compassionate leadership both at The Coordinating Center and in their daily life.
We are pleased to announce that this year’s winner is Matthew Slade, LCSW-C, CCM, Team Manager, REM Program. Matthew has been with The Center for ten years. Matthew is active on several committees at The Coordinating Center, including our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Committee, where he was instrumental in shaping our culture statement emphasizing how at The Center we lead with respect, acceptance and compassion,” said Teresa Titus-Howard, PhD, MHA, MSW, President/CEO, The Coordinating Center.
Matthew’s leadership style is defined by his unwavering support, inclusivity, and integrity, consistently advocating for both clients and colleagues while fostering a collaborative environment that values professional development and diverse learning styles. Matthew’s commitment to inclusivity is apparent during all the meetings that he leads. He normalizes how coworkers learn differently, and he shares information in multiple ways to support all learning styles. Outside of The Center Matthew provides advocacy and support to LGBTQIA+ youth and pro bono therapy services to Veterans and individuals with limited financial resources who experiencing mental health crises in his part-time private practice.
This year’s nominees are Tanjen Walker, Sherell Townes, Megan Bazzett, Ruja Luitel, Heidi Falter, Sara Breidenstein, Jamie Smith and Stephanie Carey and the winner Matthew Slade were announced on October 8th, by Karen-Ann Lichtenstein, who joined coworkers for a special Coworker Appreciation event, coinciding with National Case Management Week, which official kicks off on October 14th.
About the Nominees:
Tanjen Walker, who was recently promoted to Program Manager for Community First Programs has been with The Coordinating Center for 18 years! Tanjen leads with strength, compassion and empathy. Outside of The Center, Tanjen is deeply involved in her church, where she leads community outreach efforts, supports the homeless, and works tirelessly to assist underprivileged individuals in the community.
Sherell Townes, who was recently promoted to Director of Coordination of Community Services has been with The Center for ten years. Sherell leads by example, offering constant support and encouragement. Sherell is committed to continuous learning and growth and was recently accepted and attended the Professional Leadership Program for Women at the Nancy Grasmick Leadership Institute at Towson University. Outside of The Center she regularly volunteers with her church, volunteering to support the homeless and leading orientation for new members through their Next Steps Team program.
Megan Bazzett, Director of Community First Programs has been with The Center for two years. Megan’s leadership style is defined by her ability to balance empathy and firmness, leveraging her passion for neurodiversity, mental health, and wellness. Outside of The Center Megan volunteers with several nonprofits, such as Back on My Feet, whose mission is to empower people experiencing homelessness or addiction to achieve their best lives and The Sharing Table dedicated to serving meals and distributing groceries to families in need.
Ruja Luitel, Director of Quality Improvement and Outcomes Management has been with The Center for over seven years. Ruja leads by example. She also understands that success comes from empowering and including others. Outside of The Center Ruja volunteers at CCBC to support their youth engagement activities and serves on their Youth Council. She also provides free tutoring for students in community college and serves as an advocate for organizations helping families in need connect to community resources through food banks.
Heidi Falter, who was recently promoted to Marketing and Communications Project Manager has been at The Center for three years. Heidi Falter’s leadership style is collaborative and compassionate, blending creativity with problem-solving. Outside of The Center Heidi volunteers regularly with organizations like The Children’s Home which provides residential therapeutic care for children who have experienced abuse and neglect. She also volunteers annually to support the Arbutus Arts Festival sharing her artistic talent to foster community.
Sara Breidenstein, Homeless Support Services Coordinator, has been with The Center for three and a half years. Sara’s leadership style is compassionate and hands-on. Outside of The Center, Sara serves on the NAMI Howard County Board of Directors and participates in volunteer events, such as coordinating NAMI walks to support mental health. She openly shares her life experiences and recently spoke with several high school students about her journey, providing support, resources and encouragement. Sara recently published twoblogs on NAMI Howard County’s website including, “Hospital doesn’t need to be a scary word” and “Breaking free from the Stigma of Mental Illness.”
Jamie Smith, Supports Planner IV, for Community First Programs has been with The Center for more than 13 years. Jamie’s leadership style is compassionate and collaborative, characterized by her deep empathy for clients, commitment to teamwork, and dedication to mentoring others. Outside of The Center Jamie serves as a respite foster parent, caring for children when their foster parents have other obligations that the child cannot attend.
Stephanie Carey, Team Manager, Care Coordination Associates and Bilingual Interpreters has been with The Center for two years. Stephanie Carey’s leadership style is deeply empathetic and inclusive, characterized by her unwavering commitment to advocacy, continuous learning, and genuine care for her team. Outside of The Center Stephanie often participates in her neighborhood activities to promote inclusion and belonging. Stephanie is very active in support of the LGBTQIA community, providing mentorship and support.
About The Coordinating Center
Founded in 1983, The Coordinating Center has been at the forefront of the care management industry, providing person-centered support for people with disabilities and complex medical needs.
