Smiley, Clinical Education Coordinator has been named among McKnight’s Women of Distinction for 2021. The national senior living publication is recognizing 15 women who have worked in senior living or skilled nursing for more than 15 years. Smiley, who boasts 19 years of experience in the industry, began her career in 2002 as an Occupational Therapist and quickly progressed to Rehabilitation Director in 2003. That same year she became the first Rehab Clinical Education Coordinator at MFA and now she is being honored as an industry veteran, making McKnight’s Veteran VIPs Class of 2021.

“I am very honored and humbled to be named a Veteran VIP. I would like to specifically thank Jennifer Perry, Regional Rehab Director, for nominating me. I share this honor with all my co-workers and colleagues. Clinical program development at MFA is always a collaborative effort and I am so thankful for the amazing support shown to me through my 19+ years of service.”

This is the first year for the Veteran VIPs category and the third year for the Women of Distinction awards program. McKnight’s will hold a virtual awards ceremony in May to celebrate Smiley and the other honorees.