Building Careers That Matter – Five Nurses Celebrate More Than 150 Years of Combined Service
At Ohio’s Hospice, we don’t just offer jobs—we create lasting careers where compassionate professionals build meaningful connections with patients, families and teammates over decades of service.
Five remarkable nurses prove this every day, having built their careers at Ohio’s Hospice over nearly three decades each. Personal care specialist Diane Kovacs leads with 33 years of service, followed by senior director of mission excellence Terri Gross with 31 years. Director of care Kerrie Cush, RN care manager Robin Leptak and RN care manager Caroline Menda each bring 29 years of dedicated service to our mission.

Together, these five professionals represent 151 years of combined experience—a testament to Ohio’s Hospice as a place where careers flourish and commitment to our mission grows stronger with each passing year.
For Cush, the journey has been enriched by the relationships she’s built. “The thing I’ve enjoyed most is meeting new teammates and learning from them,” she reflected. “This organization has been my professional home for so long that it’s shaped who I am as a caregiver.”
Senior director of education and staff development Julie Wickline sees their tenure as extraordinary. “When I think of all the industry changes they’ve experienced—new technologies, evolving care standards, growing programs—their adaptability and continued passion for our mission is inspiring. They’ve not just witnessed Ohio’s Hospice grow; they’ve helped shape it into what we are today.”
These nurses have built their careers across every aspect of hospice care. From the admission and referral process that first welcomes patients and families, to the daily bedside care provided in homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes and our Hospice Houses—their expertise touches every part of our patients’ journeys.
Their longevity speaks to something deeper than job satisfaction. It reflects Ohio’s Hospice’s commitment to nurturing careers where professionals can grow, lead and make a lasting impact on the communities we serve. These nurses have mentored countless colleagues, refined best practices and pioneered innovations in compassionate care.
At Ohio’s Hospice, we invest in our team members’ growth and provide the support needed to build fulfilling careers in service of our mission. Whether you’re just starting your healthcare journey or looking to advance your expertise, we offer an environment where your commitment to caring can flourish for decades to come.
Ready to start your career story at Ohio’s Hospice? Discover opportunities to grow with us.