Stephanie Newcomb-Whitehead

Facility Manager

Ms. Newcomb-Whitehead has been an employee of Family Counseling Center, Inc., since March 2006, initially as a Youth Outpatient Counselor, and most recently as Program Manager for the agency’s HAVEN program, a federally subsidized program working with homeless families. She possesses a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas, and brings experience in managing an apartment complex in the Denton area.

She stated, “I have always been drawn to seniors in my past personal and work experiences and my church activities. I love their knowledge and the life experiences they share, and look forward to helping them begin a new chapter in their lives through this facility. It is my commitment to treat everyone here as I would have wanted my grandparents to have been treated had they had the opportunity to experience this type of living arrangement.”

Marsha Hayes

Assistant Facility Manager

Ms. Hayes has been an employee of Family Counseling Center, Inc., since August 2001. She is a Community Advocate with the Mentoring and Foster Care programs for the agency, coordinating the Angel Tree & Christmas in July activities. Along with staff from the Johnson County State’s Attorney Office, she was instrumental in the creation of the 3D-VIP (Victim’s Impact Panel). She stated, “I look forward to creating a warm, friendly and loving environment and making the transition as pleasant as possible for the residents and their families as they leave what has been home and become a member of our community.” She is the daughter of Ann and Art Miskowski of Goreville. Ms. Hayes has five children and seven grandchildren.

Dawn Hazel

Support Services Manager

Ms. Hazel has been an employee of Family Counseling Center, Inc., since August 1994. She is currently a secretary/receptionist at the Pope County Administrative office, and possesses past supervisory, computer and inventory control experience. She stated, “I am looking forward to being a part of a facility that is much needed by the seniors of our area.” She and her son, Chris, make their home near Eddyville, and she is the daughter of J.D. and Vera (Terry) Hazel.

Bryan Throgmorton

Guest Services Manager

Mr. Throgmorton possesses a Bachelor’s Degree from Murray State University and past experience in food service planning and preparation. He stated, “I envision Autumn Ridge to be more than just a supportive living facility. I want it to be a home for our residents. The dietary staff and I will be committed to making this vision a reality.” Mr. Throgmorton is the son of Bobby and Sherry Throgmorton of Vienna.

Melissa K. Wentworth

Assessment Coordinator/RN

Ms. Wentworth brings 10 years of nursing experience, with the last five years dedicated to the geriatric population. She stated, “As a Johnson County resident, I am excited to be a part of this new facility and provide assistance to individuals, most of whom I have known for most of my life.” She, along with her husband, Travis, and children, Blake, Brooklyn and Briley Grace, reside in the New Columbia area. Ms. Wentworth is the daughter of Gary Choate of Simpson and Barbara Cheek of Carbondale.