MEET THE TOWN SQUARE UNIVERSITY PARKWAY TEAM

STIR | Episode 18, John and Catherine McDermott

In this interview, John and Catherine McDermott, owners of TownSquare University Parkway, share their journey from diverse professional backgrounds to becoming successful business owners.

Vanessa Best serves as Center Director of our Florida-based adult day center, Town Square University Parkway. She is leveraging 16+ years of management and healthcare expertise. Her prior ownership of a state-licensed adult family care home, spanning over six years, affords her profound insight into the needs of members’ families. A native of upstate New York, she is deeply committed to delivering exceptional care and support to adults and seniors within her community. As a devoted mother of two, she actively engages her children in center activities, cultivating a family-centric atmosphere.

Denise is a senior care and dementia care professional. She is dedicated to raising awareness of dementia and long-term care solutions. With over 25 years of experience, Denise is also a published author who is passionate about educating caregivers, professionals, and the community on awareness of the disease and local resources. She has experience in research & development projects catering to solutions for combating Alzheimer’s disease.

With 28 years of experience as a nurse, Tara has dedicated her career to specializing in dementia care. After completing nursing school, Tara quickly found a passion for geriatric care, particularly in supporting individuals living with dementia. Over nearly three decades, Tara has worked in various healthcare settings, including memory care units, nursing homes and adult day centers, gaining a wealth of expertise in the complexities of dementia.

Recognized for a deep understanding of dementia’s impact on both patients and families, Tara has developed patient-centered strategies to enhance quality of life, promote dignity and support cognitive health. Known for a compassionate approach, Tara has also been a mentor to younger nurses, guiding them in the best practices for dementia care.

Skyler has spent the past decade in marketing and communications. After transitioning to the assisted living sector, Skyler found her passion in helping families find local resources and solutions. She is eager to bring resources to families with monthly educational classes, support group opportunities, and events.

With over 35 years of experience in the medical field, Laura brings a strong foundation of clinical knowledge, compassionate care, and leadership to their role as Program Director for Adult Day Dementia Care. Her background spans a diverse range of healthcare settings—from early work as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to more than 22 years in podiatry—shaping a comprehensive, person-centered approach to supporting individuals and families facing memory-related challenges.

Before taking on this leadership role, she spent two years working closely with their predecessor, gaining valuable experience in dementia care programming, team collaboration, and day-to-day operations. She is known for her strong organizational and time management skills, which help ensure that the center runs efficiently while maintaining a warm, welcoming, and enriching environment for participants.

Laura is passionate about delivering high-quality care that promotes dignity, connection, and overall well-being, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve every day.

Emily has spent the majority of her career working in human services. She has acquired skills through providing care to populations, dealing with developmental disabilities, mental health diagnoses, and, most recently, people experiencing dementia. She is devoted to connecting with people regardless of their physical or mental state to find enjoyment in life through enriching experiences. After moving to Florida from Massachusetts, she began working in dementia care through an activities department at a local assisted living facility. Now, at Town Square University Parkway, she’s excited to aid the team in continuing to provide dynamic care through their innovative model.