About us
About Us
For over two generations, Vernon Rehabilitation and Healthcare has been nationally recognized for delivering stellar post-hospital rehabilitation and long-term nursing care.
We are a dedicated community of specialists, caregivers, and staff driven by a mission to create transformative patient experiences.
We invite you to recover and renew in an environment of warmth, compassion, and inspiration.
Our Mission
At Vernon Rehabilitation and Healthcare our mission is to nurture and care for our residents and their families, with the goal of optimizing independence and safeguarding dignity while providing a warm and compassionate home-like environment.
Awards and accreditations
Committed to Excellence
We abide by comprehensive, patient-first standards to ensure the best experience possible for our residents and their families:
- Patients accepted on a 24-hours a day, seven days per week basis
- Daily briefing of physicians updates and nurses’ notes to case managers
- State of the art amenities like indoor lounges, personalized dining plans, and hotel-quality accommodations
Our Team
Kristi C. Dougherty, R.N., B.S.N., M.S.M., M.B.A
Administrator
Administrator at Vernon Rehabilitation and Healthcare, Dougherty was Director of Nursing at Vernon Rehab and Healthcare for seven years. Prior to her experience at Vernon Rehab and Healthcare, Dougherty held positions as Director of Nursing for a variety of Health Centers across Connecticut, most recently at WILLCARE Patient’s Choice Home Health Agency and Brookdale Senior Living. Dougherty’s early career included a position at Trinity Health Care as a supervisor and MDS clinical coordinator. Dougherty earned her Bachelors of Science in Nursing from the University of Maryland and continued her education at Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, CT where she obtained her Masters of Science in Management (MSM) and a Master’s of Science in Business Administration (MBA).
Christina Buck
Director of Food Services
Christina graduated from Johnson & Wales in Rhode Island with a Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Arts. During my 4 years of college, I started my care working as a Dietary Aide at a Skilled Nursing Facility. After a few years of doing that I was promoted to the 1st cook. During that role I worked side by side with my boss and learned the ins and out of that particular position. In 2015, I became the Food Service Director. After 13 years at that building, I then became a traveling FSD where I would fill in temporarily for buildings throughout CT. That is how I ended up at Vernon Rehab and healthcare and knew I wanted to become part of the team permanently. I have been here since 2018 and am committed to providing quality of food services to the residents. I enjoy special events and discussions with the residents during our food committees to ensure I am meeting their expectations.
Rebecca Huri
Director of Administrative Services
Rebecca Huri is the Director of Administrative Services at Vernon Rehabilitation and Healthcare. Rebecca is a dedicated employee with over 19 years of experience at the company. Prior to her role as Director of Administrative Services, Rebecca worked in the nursing department as the nursing staffing coordinator for several years. Rebecca also worked for years in the Admissions department and the Administrative Assistant role, assisting in several large projects to include the Rebecca received her Bachelor’s Degree at Eastern Connecticut State University.
Sue York
Activity Director
As an Activity Director with more than 16 years of experience, Sue creates meaningful and unique programs for Seniors with various interests and backgrounds. Skilled at creating fun and interactive programs, themed special events, enjoyable out-trips, and family appreciation events. With a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Southern CT State University, Sue combines knowledge with experience to maximize resident’s healthy lifestyle and social engagement. Previously, she worked in an Assisted Living Community at The Hearth at Glastonbury, CT. providing specialty programs for Seniors in AL setting as well as the Memory care community for Seniors with Dementia. She has 10 years’ experience as a Director of Therapeutic Recreation, managing and mentoring staff.
Amanda Hardy
Director of Admissions
Amanda comes to Vernon Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center with over 16 years of experience working in skilled nursing. She holds a BS in Physical and Health Education, as well as TRD. Prior to her role as Director of Admission, Amanda was a Therapeutic Recreation Director for 10 years. She enjoys working closely with families, hospitals, and physicians to ensure a smooth transition to the facility. We offer short term rehab, long term care, and respite. For additional information or to schedule a tour please call Amanda at (860)-858-5010.
Shantel Viera
Shantel received her associate degree in nursing from the Three Rivers Community College. She has been a DNS for 5 years and prior to that, an ADNS for 4 years. Shantel's many certifications include Wound Care, Infection Preventionist and Peritoneal Dialysis, and as if that wasn't enough, she's bilingual in Spanish!
Get in touch
Click below to learn more about the care options available at Vernon Rehab and Healthcare and plan your visit.
