HELIOS CARE Announces Staff Promotions

Oneonta, NY – In recognition of their exceptional contributions to our organization, Helios Care is pleased to announce the promotions of several staff members.

Kelly McGraw has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer with responsibility for management of on-going operations and the integration of strategic initiatives leading to organizational growth. “I am very excited for Kelly in her new role,” CEO and President Dan Ayres said. “Her experience and wide array of skills makes her perfect for this position as Helios Care continues to embark on a course of innovation in the delivery of care to patients with serious illness and life-limiting conditions.”

McGraw, a resident of Oneonta, joined Helios Care in 2006 serving in a variety of roles, most recently as the Director of Access, with a focus on ensuring open pathways to services and high patient and provider satisfaction. “I have always been in awe of and inspired by the dedication and commitment of our clinicians from all disciplines,” said McGraw. “I am excited to work more closely with the clinical leadership team to support our talented clinical staff, while implementing strategies to expand the reach of our mission to more members of our community who need us.”

Erika Morell, RN, has been promoted to the Director of Nursing. She is responsible for ensuring that patient care is coordinated and managed appropriately throughout all three counties and for ensuring that care and services are delivered appropriately. “With her natural aptitude for leadership, strong knowledge base and proven dedication to Helios Care, Erika is uniquely qualified to take on this expanded role,” said McGraw. “I am confident in her abilities to direct the high-quality services Helios Care is known for and strives to uphold.”

Morell, a resident of Decatur, has been with Helios Care since 2004. Beginning as an LPN, Morell piloted the utilization of LPNs to support patients between RN visits before pursuing her RN degree and most recently served as a Director of Patient Services. “I look forward to my continued service and contributions to Helios Care as it is my passion to provide care to our community,” said Morell. “I am incredibly blessed in working for such an amazing organization who provides a level of support that you will not find anywhere else.”

Ron Brooke, Jr. has been promoted to Director of Human Resources, responsible for the management of the employees of Helios Care. “I am very happy to elevate a member of our team to a position of greater responsibility,” said Ayres. “Ron has earned it and will serve Helios Care well in his new role.”  

Brooke, a resident of Maryland, has been with Helios Care since 2015, advancing through progressively more responsible positions in medical records, finance, and payroll and benefits. “Ron brings a wealth of knowledge and talent to his new position,” said Pam Finch, Chief Financial Officer. “His commitment and dedication to make Helios Care the best place to work is evident through the stewardship he shows on a daily basis.”

Additional organizational changes to support our uncompromised commitment to patient care include Lucy Straut, RN, becoming the Assistant Director of Nursing and Amy Weinmuller, RN, serving as Access Team Leader. Alisha Rule, Director of Family Support Services and Tammy Christman, Director of Volunteer Services and Community Outreach, continue to be members of the clinical management team now led by McGraw.

“I am confident that these promotions will continue to improve the experiences of our patients and families while strengthening our overall agency structure,” said Ayres. “As we continue to grow and innovate as an organization, I am confident that these leaders will help to prepare us for the future.”