2025 Programs of Excellence - Health and Wellness

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Every year NCOA’s National Institute of Senior Centers honors outstanding efforts made by senior centers across the nation to offer innovative, creative, and impactful programs for older adults. Each program is proof of the important work that happens at senior centers. And these programs serve as models for senior center staff across the country to implement in their communities. Join us for our Programs of Excellence webinar series where we highlight each category with a presentation by a subject matter expert and the winning programs.

This webinar features the Health and Wellness category. This award category highlights programs and services that improve the health and well-being of older adults through programs, screenings, and education. Special emphasis on strategies that expanded reach in terms of new partners, new participants, or increased engagement.

In this webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Highlight best practices from Programs of Excellence programs.

2. Describe innovative, creative, and impactful programs for older adults.

3. Analyze innovative ways senior centers have improved the health and well-being of older adults in their communities.

Amanda Krisher

Associate Director, Behavioral Health

NCOA

Amanda Krisher, MSW, LCSW, brings over 15 years of direct practice and program management experience to the National Council on Aging where she serves as the Associate Director for Behavioral Health in the Center for Healthy Aging. A seasoned professional in the older adult care industry, she previously was the Senior Director for a live virtual training program for older adult care professionals and a clinical social worker for a community health program and hospice organization. She received her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Maryland School of Social Work in Baltimore and is a Licensed Certified Clinical Social Worker in Maryland and Virginia. As a leader in older adult care, she has presented at national conferences and statewide meetings.

Paula Woischke, MS

Director

Whitney Senior Center, St. Cloud, MN

Paula Woischke holds a Master of Science in Gerontology and is a certified Community Health Worker. As the Director of the Whitney Senior Center in St. Cloud, MN, she leads initiatives focused on reducing social isolation and supporting older adults, including health coaching, Evidence-based Health Programs, and community engagement. Paula is deeply passionate about keeping older adults healthy and has a strong commitment to improving their quality of life.

Tina Doyle

Director

Berlin Senior Center

Tina Doyle has served as Director of the Berlin Senior Center since 2008, after six years as Assistant Director. With over 23 years of experience in senior services, Tina has led the Center in developing programs that support active aging, wellness, and meaningful community connections.

Under her leadership, the Berlin Senior Center received national recognition from the National Council on Aging (NCOA) with the 2024 Intergenerational Program of Excellence Award and the 2025 Health and Wellness Program of Excellence Award. These honors reflect the Center’s commitment to innovative, impactful programming for older adults. Tina also recently oversaw the Center’s 40th anniversary celebration, marking four decades of service and engagement in the Berlin community.

Lewis Dudley II

Social Services Coordinator

H.J.C. Bowden Multipurpose Senior Facility

Lewis Dudley II has served as the Social Services Coordinator at the H.J.C. Bowden Senior Multipurpose Facility for the past seven years, bringing passion, dedication, and innovation to his role within the Fulton County Department of Senior Services. Throughout his tenure, Lewis has been instrumental in building and expanding meaningful partnerships with a variety of organizations to address the complex needs of the senior population. His collaborative efforts include working with the Gateway Center to combat senior homelessness, partnering with CHRIS 180 to provide critical mental health resources, and connecting with National Home Care Services to support caregivers through compensated care opportunities.

Lewis holds a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University and is actively pursuing state licensure. Known for his charisma, vibrant personality, and exceptional patience, Lewis naturally connects with individuals from all walks of life. His approachable demeanor and tireless commitment to service have made him a trusted advocate and valuable resource for seniors and their families alike.

Sheila Sayles

Facility Manager

H.J.C. Bowden Multipurpose Senior Facility

Sheila Sayles has dedicated over two decades of service to the Fulton County Department of Senior Services, demonstrating exceptional commitment and leadership. For the past 22 years, she has been a cornerstone of the H.J.C. Bowden Senior Multipurpose Facility, where her dedication to excellence and community impact has been unwavering. In 2022, Sheila was promoted to Facility Manager, a role in which she continues to thrive by fostering a supportive and engaging environment for seniors and staff alike.

Sheila holds a master’s degree in Business Administration and Project Management from Liberty University. Her academic background, combined with her extensive professional experience, enables her to manage operations efficiently while championing innovation and continuous improvement. Known for her fearless leadership and proactive approach, Sheila consistently rises to meet challenges head-on, inspiring those around her with resilience and determination.

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2025 Programs of Excellence - Health and Wellness
Select the "View On-Demand Recording" button to begin.  |  60 minutes
Select the "View On-Demand Recording" button to begin.  |  60 minutes This webinar features the Health and Wellness category of NISC's 2025 Programs of Excellence. This award category highlights programs and services that improve the health and well-being of older adults through programs, screenings, and education. Special emphasis on strategies that expanded reach in terms of new partners, new participants, or increased engagement.