When Nancy Summers began her career at what is now Cumberland Health & Rehab, the facility was still being built. She remembers pulling stickers from brand-new kitchen equipment, helping train the first kitchen staff, and welcoming the facility’s very first resident.
More than three decades later, Nancy is still there—and her commitment to residents remains at the heart of everything she does.
Throughout her 35 years of service, Nancy has grown professionally alongside the facility, serving in several dietary and food service leadership roles and witnessing firsthand how every department contributes to a resident’s quality of life.
Some of her most meaningful memories involve seeing that teamwork in action—from watching therapists help residents regain the ability to eat following a stroke to seeing CNAs stop by her office because they noticed a resident wasn’t eating and knew exactly which favorite food might tempt them.
“That’s the kind of care that makes this place special,” Nancy shared. “Everyone looking out for our residents the way they deserve.”
She has also witnessed friendships and even love stories unfold, including two residents who met at Cumberland, fell in love, and eventually married. Before meeting her future groom, the bride barely ate. After finding each other, she blossomed—smiling, eating well, and planning a new life.
Through organizational changes, long days, staffing challenges, and countless meals served, Nancy has remained committed to the residents and coworkers who have become like family.
“We are a family, and Cumberland is our home,” she said. “After 35 years, this is more than a job. It’s a calling.”
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