2025 Compassionate Leadership Award Winner and Nominees

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Millersville, Maryland – October 22, 2025 – The Coordinating Center, a statewide leader in person-centered care coordination, excited to announce the 2025 Compassionate Leadership Award nominees and recipient. The Compassionate Leadership award was created in 2019 and established by The Coordinating Center’s Board of Directors in honor of Karen-Ann Lichtenstein, former President/CEO of The Center for 26 years (with The Center for 35 years). This award recognizes an extraordinary coworker not only for their outstanding commitment to the mission and values of The Coordinating Center, but in the characteristics of compassionate leadership both at The Coordinating Center and in their daily life.

The 2025 Compassionate Leadership Award nominees, Tanjen Walker, Prisicilla Lissik, Colby Bearch, Mary-Ellen Overmier, Heidi Falter, Sharon Holloway, Ruja Luitel, Emily Retz, Darby Sincliar, Lisa Lamberton, Amber Adames, and Erin Corn, were recognized on October 22nd during a special Coworker Appreciation event hosted by Dr. Teresa Titus-Howard, President and CEO, and Karen-Ann Lichtenstein, retired CEO, in celebration of National Case Management Week. This special event featured a keynote address by Joe Machicote, a nationally recognized speaker, executive coach, former board member, and #1 best-selling author of Own Thy Stuff!

This year’s winner is Tanjen Walker, an accomplished human services professional with a deep commitment to quality care management.  Tanjen, who has been with The Center for 19 years, was recently promoted from Program Manager, Community First Programs to Program Director, Medical Day Care Services Waiver program.

Tanjen’s leadership style is described as person-centered and mission-driven, consistently embodying the values and vision of The Coordinating Center. She is known for her tireless work ethic, often working beyond scheduled hours to ensure every client and coworker receives timely, individualized support. Tanjen leads by example, holding herself and others to high standards of service, collaboration, and continuous learning. Outside of The Center, Tanjen donates her time to support the unhoused through soup kitchens, clothing drives, and serves as a volunteer Trustee for her church. She is also a backup foster care provider for Baltimore City, reflecting her deep commitment to vulnerable populations.

“It is truly an honor to recognize Tanjen Walker as this year’s Compassionate Leadership Award recipient. Tanjen’s compassionate leadership style and unwavering commitment to quality care management sets a remarkable example for all of us. With so many extraordinary nominees, each embodying the values and vision of The Coordinating Center, selecting just one winner was an incredibly difficult decision. I am deeply grateful for the compassion, dedication, and leadership shown by every nominee.” said Teresa Titus-Howard, PhD, MHA, MSW, President/CEO, The Coordinating Center.

About the Nominees:

Priscilla Lissik, Director, Homeless Support Services has been with The Center for 20 years and was awarded the Compassionate Leadership Award in 2021. Her leadership style is defined by deep empathy and unwavering support for her team and community. Outside of The Center, she volunteers with her church, providing meals to Grassroots, lunches to a half-way house, and serving in the music ministry. She also participates in homeless resource days, outreach counts, and serves on a committee that helped establish ongoing Medicaid dental services for adults in Maryland.

Colby Bearch, Chief Operating Officer, has been with The Center for 14 years. His leadership style is centered on team building, mentorship, and collaboration. Colby is recognized for fostering professional growth, creating an inclusive environment, and empowering others through open communication and trust. Outside of The Center, Colby volunteers with organizations such as Utilization Review Accreditation Commission (URAC) where he serves as a member of their Accreditation Committee, serves on the Maryland Interested Parties Advisory Group (IPAG), appointed by the Maryland Department of Health, and holds a leadership role at his local yacht club.

Mary-Ellen Overmier, Clinical Care Coordinator, Rare and Expensive Case Management (REM) Program, has been with The Center 12 years. Her leadership style is defined by advocacy, innovative thinking, and unwavering support. She is known for her compassion, acceptance, and a passion for learning, always striving to remove barriers and improve outcomes for clients and coworkers. Outside of The Center, Mary-Ellen volunteers at her church, working in the kitchen, teaching Sunday school, and mentoring others in supporting people with disabilities or complex healthcare needs.

Heidi Falter, Marketing and Communications Project Manager, has been at The Center for four years. Her leadership style is collaborative and compassionate, blending creativity with problem-solving. Heidi is passionate about volunteering and leads The Center’s #TCCInAction service program. Outside of The Center, Heidi volunteers with The Children’s Home supporting youth who have experienced trauma and contributes her artistic talents to community events like the Arbutus Arts Festival, which she is the Director of.

Sharon Holloway, Team Manager, Rare and Expensive Case Management (REM) Program, has been with The Center for just under two years. Her leadership style is warm and calming, leading by listening and supporting both clients and coworkers. Outside of The Center, Sharon volunteers weekly at Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital as a “cuddler,” comforting infants in need. Sharon’s commitment is for a minimum of 100 hours of service per year, two hours per week.  She also supports neighbors in hospice care and is active in environmental stewardship in her community.

Ruja Luitel, Director of Quality Improvement and Outcomes Management has been with The Center for eight years. Her leadership style is defined by leading by example and empowering others. Outside of The Center, Ruja volunteers at CCBC supporting youth engagement, serves on their Youth Council, provides free tutoring for community college students, and helps families connect with resources through local food banks.

Emily Retz, Program Director, Model Waiver, has been with The Center for six years. Her leadership style is proactive and collaborative. She consistently models positivity, empathy, and respect and is known for her advocacy, strategic thinking, and ability to lead. Emily leads her local PTA as Chair of the Sunshine Committee, recognizing teachers and staff, and serves as Education Advocacy Lead for a grassroots organization to keep the community informed about education issues.

Darby Sincliar, Intake Coordinator, Model Waiver, has been with The Center for 11 years. Her leadership style is defined by thoroughness, fairness, and a commitment to removing barriers for families and coworkers. Outside of The Center, Darby volunteers at the American Legion, supporting fundraisers for food banks, military care packages, and families in need. She is also an active volunteer in a local daycare parent involvement committee.

Lisa Lamberton, Clinical Care Coordinator, Rare and Expensive Case Management (REM) Program, has been with The Center for two years. Her leadership style is quiet yet impactful, she inspires others through her actions, resourcefulness, and deep compassion. Outside of The Center, Lisa volunteers as a “Class Mom” at her children’s school and volunteers in support of her daughter’s gymnastics team.

Amber Adames, Team Manager, Community First Programs, has been with The Center for 12 years. Her leadership style is described as the backbone of her team, always teaching, guiding, and supporting others with respect and positivity. She creates a fun, inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued. Outside of The Center, Amber and her spouse are dedicated to charitable acts, helping those in need through direct acts of kindness and support.

Erin Corn, Supports Planner, Community First Programs, has been with The Center for three years. Her leadership style is recognized for being ethical and collaborative, with a strong commitment to learning and removing barriers for clients and coworkers. Outside of The Center, Erin is enrolled in school full time working on completing her degree. She uses her skills to support friends and families in need, providing massage therapy to hospice patients and helping others navigate complex care systems, reflecting her compassion beyond formal volunteer roles.

ABOUT THE COORDINATING CENTER
Your Health, Your Journey. Our Priority. TM

Founded in 1983, The Coordinating Center has been a leader in care management, delivering person-centered support to individuals with disabilities and complex medical needs. Its mission is to partner with people of all ages and abilities and those who support them to achieve their goals for independence, health, and meaningful community living.

For more information visit coordinatingcenter.org.

The Coordinating Center Announces New Name for Family Resource Fund: Introducing The Center’s Bridge Fund

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Millersville, MD – October 1, 2025 – The Coordinating Center is proud to announce that its longstanding Family Resource Fund has been renamed The Center’s Bridge Fund, reflecting a renewed commitment to bridging gaps in access to essential resources for individuals and households across our community.

Why the Change?
The previous name, “Family Resource Fund,” did not fully reflect the breadth or impact of what the fund supports, nor the diversity of those served. While the fund has always helped the families The Center serves, its reach extends to a wide range of individuals and households, providing critical support to those facing barriers to essential resources. 

What Does the New Name Mean?
The Center’s Bridge Fund communicates the idea of bridging gaps in access to resources, services, and supports that address critical and quality-of-life needs. The new name better aligns with The Coordinating Center’s mission and values, clearly conveying purpose and impact to donors, partners, and the community. 

Impact and Opportunity
This change creates a stronger identity, making the fund more memorable and marketable for fundraising events and campaigns. The tagline, “Bridging Gaps. Meeting Needs. Enhancing Lives,” reinforces the fund’s commitment to improving lives and reducing barriers for all. 

“This name change is more than a rebrand, it’s a renewed promise to our clients, donors, and partners. The Center’s Bridge Fund embodies our dedication to bridging gaps and meeting needs for all individuals and households. Every dollar raised goes directly to those we serve, and together, we can create lasting impact and opportunity.” Teresa Titus-Howard, PhD, MHA, MSW, CCM, President and CEO

Invitation to Engage
The Coordinating Center invites donors, partners, and community members to support The Center’s Bridge Fund’s expanded mission. https://www.coordinatingcenter.org/donate/

Please note: The Center’s Bridge Fund is available only to clients served by The Coordinating Center and is not open to the general public. Together, we can help more people overcome barriers and access the resources they need to thrive.

ABOUT THE COORDINATING CENTER
Your Health, Your Journey. Our Priority. TM

Founded in 1983, The Coordinating Center has been a leader in care management, delivering person-centered support to individuals with disabilities and complex medical needs. Its mission is to partner with people of all ages and abilities and those who support them to achieve their goals for independence, health, and meaningful community living.

For more information visit coordinatingcenter.org.

Advancing Care Coordination: The Coordinating Center Announces FY2026 Board Appointments

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Millersville, Maryland – October 1, 2025 – The Coordinating Center, Maryland’s premier nonprofit care coordination organization for individuals with disabilities and complex medical needs, is proud to announce the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors: Dr. Shereé M. Tilley-Whitaker, Alexis Malfesi, and Caitlin Houck. Each will serve a three-year term beginning October 1, 2025.

“We are thrilled to welcome these accomplished professionals to our Board,” said Teresa Titus-Howard, PhD, MHA, MSW, CCM, President and CEO of The Coordinating Center. “Their leadership, lived experience, and expertise in healthcare and education will greatly enhance our mission to improve outcomes for those we serve.”

Dr. Shereé M. Tilley-Whitaker is Coordinator for Student Access and Achievement at the Howard County Public School System. A seasoned educational leader, speaker, and equity advocate, she brings more than 20 years of experience in advancing student success. Dr. Tilley-Whitaker also brings a personal connection to The Coordinating Center as a parent advocate, partnering with the organization for over a decade to support her son Darren, who lives with a life-altering injury sustained at age five.

Alexis Malfesi serves as a Value-Based Care and Payment Specialist at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), within the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI). With a strong background in healthcare strategy and policy, she leads national efforts to improve care for populations with complex health needs through value-based care models and quality initiatives.

Caitlin Houck is Executive Director of the Maryland-National Capital Homecare Association. A Registered Nurse and senior healthcare executive, Houck brings extensive experience in home and community-based care. Over the past decade, she has led high-performing organizations across clinical, operational, and regulatory domains in the D.C. metro region.

The Coordinating Center also announces a transition in Board leadership. After fourteen years of dedicated service, including four years as Chair, James Karpook will step down from his role and continue to support the organization in a consultant capacity as a non-voting member for the next year. The Center extends its deepest gratitude to James for his visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing the mission.

Succeeding James as Chair is Carole Taylor, a Board member for ten years whose appointment marks a significant moment in The Coordinating Center’s continued evolution. Carole brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal passion to her new role. As Chief Operating Officer for The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore, she oversees technology and operations for more than ten local nonprofit organizations.

Her leadership is distinguished by a deep commitment to operational excellence and strategic governance, demonstrated through her prior role as Chair of the Governance Committee, where she championed best practices in board performance and CEO evaluation. Carole’s advocacy is rooted in lived experience. As a Parent Representative and mother of an autistic child, she brings heartfelt compassion and an unwavering dedication to the mission of The Center. Her voice has consistently emphasized the importance of inclusive leadership and thoughtful policy development, guiding the board through complex decisions with clarity and empathy.

In addition to Carole’s appointment, the Board welcomes several other leadership transitions:

  • Hillery Tsumba, a long-standing Board member and Chief Operating Officer at the Primary Care Coalition, will serve as Vice Chair for two years, bringing strategic insight and a collaborative approach to governance.
  • Norma McCowin, Snr. Director Program Management at Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., steps into the role of Secretary for two years, continuing her work to strengthen board operations and transparency.
  • Scott Reifsnyder, CFO of GT Mid Atlantic, will remain in his role as Treasurer for one additional year, ensuring continuity and fiscal oversight during this period of strategic growth.
  • Yanfen Wu, CPA and CFO at Kranz Consulting, joins the Executive Committee as an at-large member for one year, contributing her financial expertise and passion for mission-driven work.

The Center also announces that Adith Kumar Thummalapalli, Project Engineer, City of Salisbury, as chair of the Board’s Quality Committee. A passionate advocate for accessibility and inclusion, Adith brings both professional insight and lived experience to this role. His appointment reflects The Center’s commitment to elevating consumer voices in quality improvement efforts.

Together, this dynamic leadership team reflects The Coordinating Center’s commitment to excellence, inclusion, and community impact.

ABOUT THE COORDINATING CENTER
Your Health, Your Journey. Our Priority. TM

Founded in 1983, The Coordinating Center has been a leader in care management, delivering person-centered support to individuals with disabilities and complex medical needs. Its mission is to partner with people of all ages and abilities and those who support them to achieve their goals for independence, health, and meaningful community living.

For more information visit coordinatingcenter.org.

Celinda Carr appointed to serve on Maryland’s Rare Disease Advisory Council

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Millersville, Maryland – September 29, 2025 – The Coordinating Center is excited to announce Celinda Carr, LCSW-C, CCM, Director, Rare and Expensive Case Management (REM) Program, The Coordinating Center has been appointed by the Governor to serve on Maryland’s Rare Disease Advisory Council (RDAC). In 2023 the Maryland Legislature signed into law Senate Bill 188/ House Bill 302- Rare Disease Advisory Council, for the purpose of establishing the RDAC to study and make recommendations on matters relating to individuals with rare diseases in the State.

Ms. Carr has 30 years of clinical expertise, specializing in working with adults and children with complex medical needs, including rare diseases, and has been with The Coordinating Center for 13 years. She serves as President-Elect, Case Management Society of America’s (CMSA) Chesapeake Chapter and has been on the Chapter’s Board of Directors since 2022. CMSA is an international, nonprofit organization founded in 1990 dedicated to the support and development of the profession of case management through educational forums, networking opportunities and legislative involvement. Unique in its composition as an international organization, over 70 affiliated and prospective chapters in a tiered democratic structure, CMSA’s success and strength is its structure as a member-driven society. In addition to her role on the CMSA of the Chesapeake Board, she was appointed by the Governor to serve as a Board Member of the Citizens Review Board for Children in Queen Anne’s and Kent Counties.

Dr. Teresa Titus-Howard, President and CEO, The Coordinating Center, expressed her thoughts on Ms. Carr’s recent appointment, affirming, “Celinda’s selection is a testament to her dedication and expertise in supporting individuals with rare and complex medical needs. Her leadership and commitment will be invaluable to the Council and to the rare disease community across Maryland.”

“I am honored to serve and look forward to building upon the Council’s important work. Together, we can advance meaningful recommendations and support for individuals and families affected by rare diseases across Maryland.” — Celinda Carr, Director, Rare and Expensive Case Management (REM) Program, The Coordinating Center

 ABOUT THE COORDINATING CENTER
Your Health, Your Journey. Our Priority. TM

Founded in 1983, The Coordinating Center has been a leader in care management, delivering person-centered support to individuals with disabilities and complex medical needs. Its mission is to partner with people of all ages and abilities and those who support them to achieve their goals for independence, health, and meaningful community living.

For more information visit coordinatingcenter.org.

The Coordinating Center Brings Autism Waiver Expertise to Queen Anne’s County

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The Coordinating Center, a statewide leader in person-centered care coordination, is proud to announce the expansion of its Autism Waiver Service Coordination services to Queen Anne’s County, Maryland.

“We are pleased to welcome The Coordinating Center as our new Autism Waiver service coordination provider. Their extensive experience and commitment to person-centered care will be a valuable asset to our students and families. We look forward to working together to ensure continued access to high-quality support services for children and young adults with autism in our county.” Joeleen Smith, Ed.S., Supervisor of Special Education, Queen Anne’s County Board of Education

The Maryland Autism Waiver, administered by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and the Maryland Department of Health (MDH), enables eligible individuals with ASD to access Medicaid-funded Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) and supports through age 21. These services include respite care, environmental adaptations, intensive individual supports, after-school therapeutic programs, and more.

The Coordinating Center is contracted by local school systems to provide service coordination for students enrolled in the Autism Waiver. In addition to Dorchester, Harford, Howard, and Worcester counties, Queen Anne’s County is now the fifth jurisdiction to benefit from The Coordinating Center’s specialized expertise in navigating complex systems and coordinating critical services.

“We are excited to bring our person-centered approach to Queen Anne’s County,” said Dr. Teresa Titus-Howard, President and CEO of The Coordinating Center. “This expansion means more families will have access to a skilled team of service coordinators who understand the unique needs of children and young adults with autism and are dedicated to helping them live their best lives in the communities they call home.”

To qualify for the Autism Waiver, children must be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder as defined by the DSM-5, require an institutional level of care, and be receiving intensive special education services through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Individualized Family Services Plan (IFSP). Financial eligibility is based on the child’s income and resources, not the family’s.

Due to high demand, the Autism Waiver is currently full. Families interested in future services should contact the Maryland Autism Waiver Registry at 1-866-417-3480 to be added to the waiting list.

ABOUT THE COORDINATING CENTER
Your Health, Your Journey. Our Priority. ™

Founded in 1983, The Coordinating Center has been a leader in care management, delivering person-centered support to individuals with disabilities and complex medical needs. Its mission is to partner with people of all ages and abilities and those who support them to achieve their goals for independence, health, and meaningful community living.

For more information visit coordinatingcenter.org.

The Coordinating Center, joins ReefPoint Group on IHT2.0 to Transform VA Healthcare.

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Millersville, Maryland – September 15, 2025 – The Coordinating Center, a statewide leader in person-centered care coordination, joins ReefPoint Group on IHT2.0 to Transform VA Healthcare. Through IHT2.0, The Coordinating Center will support the VA in enhancing healthcare services for Veterans nationwide. As part of Team ReefPoint Group, The Coordinating Center brings expertise in care coordination and permanent supportive housing to ensure Veteran-centric, healthcare-specific program needs are met.

This intentionally assembled team combines the strengths of small and large businesses, innovative technology firms, academic institutions, and nonprofit foundations, creating the breadth of capability needed to modernize Veteran healthcare.

IHT2.0 is designed to deliver meaningful improvements for Veterans while ensuring programs are carried out responsibly, efficiently, and with the greatest possible impact. Together, The Coordinating Center and the rest of Team ReefPoint Group will play a critical role in delivering enhanced services and supporting the sacred mission of the VA.

“At The Coordinating Center, we are deeply honored to join Team ReefPoint Group in advancing IHT2.0 and transforming healthcare for our nation’s Veterans. Our decades of experience in person-centered care coordination and permanent supportive housing uniquely position us to support the VA’s mission with compassion, innovation, and integrity. We are proud to contribute to a collaborative effort that prioritizes Veteran needs and drives meaningful, lasting impact.” — Dr. Teresa Titus-Howard, President & CEO, The Coordinating Center

Founded in 1983, The Coordinating Center has been at the forefront of the care management industry, providing person-centered support for people with disabilities and complex medical needs.

For more information visit coordinatingcenter.org.

 

The Coordinating Center Wins 2025 Top Workplaces Industry Award, A National Recognition

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Millersville, Maryland – September 15, 2025 – The Coordinating Center, a statewide leader in person-centered care coordination is a 2025 Top Workplaces Industry winner for the Nonprofit Industry. Energage, a purpose-driven organization that develops solutions to build and brand Top Workplaces. The Top Workplaces program has a 17-year history of surveying and celebrating people-first organizations nationally and across 60 regional markets.

Top Workplaces Industry awards celebrate organizations that have built people-first workplace cultures within their sector. The award marks them as an employer of choice for those seeking employment in the industry.

Top Workplaces awards are based on feedback from a research-backed employee engagement survey. Details about how The Coordinating Center builds a great workplace culture are available on Top Workplaces

“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “That’s something to be proud of. In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That’s paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.”

“At The Coordinating Center, our strength lies in the values we live every day—collaboration, integrity, equity, inclusion, impact, learning, and excellence. Being recognized as a 2025 Top Workplaces winner is not just an honor—it’s a reflection of the extraordinary people who make our mission possible. We are proud to be among the top 5% in our industry for having clued-in employees who feel well informed about important decisions and cross-team cooperation. We are also thrilled to be in the top 25% for Trusted Leadership, Strong Values, Open Mindedness, Innovation, and Work-Life Balance. We will continue to lead with purpose and build a workplace where excellence thrives.”

ABOUT ENERGAGE
Making the world a better place to work together.TM

Energage is a purpose-driven company that helps organizations turn employee feedback into useful business intelligence and credible employer recognition through Top Workplaces. Built on 18 years of culture research and the results from 27 million employees surveyed across more than 70,000 organizations,  Energage delivers the most accurate competitive benchmark available. With access to a unique combination of patented analytic tools and expert guidance, Energage customers lead the competition with an engaged workforce and an opportunity to gain recognition for their people-first approach to culture. For more information or to nominate your organization, visit energage.com or topworkplaces.com.

ABOUT THE COORDINATING CENTER
Your Health, Your Journey. Our Priority. TM

Founded in 1983, The Coordinating Center has been a leader in care management, delivering person-centered support to individuals with disabilities and complex medical needs. Its mission is to partner with people of all ages and abilities and those who support them to achieve their goals for independence, health, and meaningful community living.

For more information visit coordinatingcenter.org.

 

Erica Bostwick Recognized by Baltimore Business Journal at 2025 Women Who Mean Business Awards

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Baltimore, Maryland – August 8, 2025 – Erica Bostwick has been recognized as an honoree of the Baltimore Business Journal’s 2025 Women Who Mean Business Awards.

As part of this annual program, 26 women business leaders from the Greater Baltimore area were named honorees of the awards program, which was held on August 7, 2025, at the Sagamore Pendry Hotel.

Honorees are chosen through an independent editorial review of submitted nominations, with selections based entirely on their merits, achievements and contributions to their organizations and local community. The program celebrates those who exemplify innovation, resilience, and outstanding success and are leaders who not only excel in their fields but also help to mentor the next generation.

To be eligible, nominees must be a Greater Baltimore professional based in either Baltimore City, or Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Cecil, Harford and Howard counties. For the 2025 program, almost 200 nominations were submitted.

This year, Baltimore Business Journal celebrated the event with breakfast event at the Sagamore Pendry. In addition to honoring our award winners, the event featured a panel discussion centered around forming and maintaining meaningful professional connections.

Coverage of the 2025 Women Who Mean Business honorees appeared in the Business Journal’s digital edition on Thursday, August 6, and in the print edition on Friday, August 7. To view the honorees, visit https://bizj.us/1qo7hh.

About Erica Bostwick
Erica Bostwick is Vice President of Human Resources at The Coordinating Center, where she leads transformative initiatives that strengthen workplace culture, equity, and employee well-being for nearly 300 staff serving nearly 10,000 Marylanders living with complex medical needs and/or disabilities. With over 18 years of HR leadership across multiple industries, Erica is recognized for her expertise in diversity, equity, inclusion, pay equity, and data-driven workforce strategies. She played a pivotal role in The Coordinating Center earning the Mogul Top 100 Companies with Inclusive Benefits award in 2022 and has advanced equitable compensation, expanded mental health resources, and championed succession planning to ensure organizational sustainability. Beyond her professional role, Erica is the founder and CEO of Overcoming Abuse Through Healing Inc. (OATH), a nonprofit supporting trauma survivors, and is also an author, life coach, podcaster, and singer dedicated to empowering others.

About the Baltimore Business Journal
Baltimore Business Journal is a multi-platform media company providing in-depth coverage of local business communities and breaking news. Through print, digital products such as its twice-a-day emailed news digests and face-to-face events, the Business Journal offers business leaders many avenues for making connections and gives them a competitive edge locally, regionally and nationally. Visit us at https://www.bizjournals.com/baltimore to learn more.

“Erica’s leadership embodies the very best of The Coordinating Center’s values,” said Teresa Titus-Howard, President and CEO of The Coordinating Center. “Her strategic vision, deep commitment to equity, and genuine care for our coworkers and the individuals we serve have transformed our workplace and strengthened our mission. We are proud to see her recognized among Baltimore’s most inspiring women leaders.”

Founded in 1983, The Coordinating Center has been a leader in care management, delivering person-centered support to individuals with disabilities and complex medical needs. Its mission is to partner with people of all ages and abilities and those who support them to achieve their goals for independence, health, and meaningful community living.

For more information visit coordinatingcenter.org

Dr. Teresa Titus-Howard selected to serve on Maryland Association of Community Services (MACS) Board of Directors

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Millersville, Maryland – June 27, 2025 – The Coordinating Center is excited to announce Teresa Titus-Howard, PhD, MHA, MSW, CCM, President and CEO, The Coordinating Center has been selected to serve on Maryland Association of Community Services (MACS) Board of Directors.

Dr. Teresa Titus-Howard, recognized by The Daily Record as one of Maryland’s Most Admired CEOs in both 2022 and 2024, brings more than 30 years of clinical, leadership, and healthcare management experience to her new role. Since becoming CEO of The Coordinating Center in 2019, she has taken bold steps to strengthen services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In 2020, she led the launch of The Coordinating Center’s Coordination of Community Services (CCS) program through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). Under her visionary leadership, the program has expanded significantly and now supports more than 700 individuals across Central, Southern, and Eastern Maryland.

Dr. Titus-Howard states, “I am honored to serve and look forward to working alongside MACS and its member organizations to advance equity, strengthen service delivery, and ensure people with developmental disabilities can thrive in inclusive communities throughout Maryland.”

MACS is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening agencies to better support people with developmental disabilities and their families in their own communities. This is accomplished through advocacy that promotes the highest standards of program excellence; fosters a climate that develops and nurtures a quality workforce; and results in an increased capacity within Maryland communities to support people in inclusive settings.

Founded in 1983, The Coordinating Center has been a leader in care management, delivering person-centered support to individuals with disabilities and complex medical needs. Its mission is to partner with people of all ages and abilities and those who support them to achieve their goals for independence, health, and meaningful community living.

For more information visit coordinatingcenter.org.

The Coordinating Center Promotes Emily E. Retz, MSN, RN, CPN, CCM to Program Director

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Millersville, Maryland – May 6, 2025 – The Coordinating Center is proud to announce the promotion of Emily E. Retz, MSN, RN, CCM, from Clinical Care Coordinator to Program Director for the Model Waiver Program. This Maryland Medicaid program supports medically fragile individuals, before the age of 22, to live at home rather than in a hospital or nursing facility, despite requiring that level of care.

Since joining The Coordinating Center in 2019, Ms. Retz has demonstrated exceptional dedication to pediatric and complex care coordination. Her promotion reflects the organization’s strong commitment to nurturing internal talent and fostering professional growth.

“Emily has played an integral role in advancing our care management services for children and adults with complex medical needs. She is a natural, proactive leader with a strong work ethic, skilled in relationship building and conflict resolution, and consistently assists with systems enhancements to improve outcomes and support our mission,” said Sharyn King, Senior Vice President of Population Health.

Prior to her current role, Ms. Retz worked for nearly a decade at Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital, where she held several roles, including Outpatient Nursing Care Coordinator for Pediatric Integrated Care for Complex Kids, Nurse Team Leader, Interim Nurse Manager, and Clinical Staff Nurse. Her work focused on children with multifaceted health, developmental, and social needs, where she excelled in clinical leadership, staff development, and family-centered care.  Ms. Retz also served as an Adjunct Clinical Instructor in Pediatrics at the Community College of Baltimore County, where she mentored nursing students in real-world clinical settings. She has additional experience as a Clinical Nurse II in the Pediatric PACU at the University of Maryland Medical Center, specializing in post-anesthesia care and pediatric recovery. Ms. Retz holds a Master of Science in Nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Notre Dame of Maryland University. She is a Certified Case Manager (CCM) and Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN), recognized for her expertise, compassion, and commitment to improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

As Program Director for the Model Waiver program, Ms. Retz will be responsible for program development and execution, quality oversight, training and compliance. The Coordinating Center congratulates Ms. Retz on her well-deserved promotion and looks forward to her continued leadership in advancing care management services for people living with complex medical needs.

About The Coordinating Center
The Coordinating Center has been at the forefront of the care management industry, providing person-centered support for people with disabilities and complex medical needs since 1983. Learn more at coordinatingcenter.org.