Meet Our Team

Kerry McGuinness Dzikiewicz, President

Kerry joined Mount St. Rita Health Centre in October 2023. As President of the community, she is responsible for daily operations, strategic planning and business development. Prior to joining Mount St. Rita, Kerry worked in senior healthcare communities throughout Rhode Island for many years as an Executive Director, Facility Administrator and Behavioral Health Specialist.

McGuinness holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling and a Master of Science in Health Services Administration from Salve Regina University in Newport, R.I. as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Providence College in Providence, R.I. She also studied rehabilitative services at Assumption College in Worcester, Mass.

Leslie Richardson, RN,  Director of Nursing

Leslie Richardson assumed the role of Director of Nursing in October 2023, bringing with her three decades of healthcare experience in Rhode Island, with a focus on long-term care and senior management.

Her career journey began as a Certified Nursing Assistant in 1987, and she later earned her RN from the CCRI Nursing Program in 1995. Since 1998, Leslie has held the position of Director of Nursing, demonstrating her commitment to leadership in healthcare.

Leslie’s leadership philosophy centers on delivering services of the utmost quality while honoring the dignity and individuality of each person. Her expertise extends to staff development, employee education, dementia care, subacute rehabilitation, and quality assurance. Notably, Leslie holds certifications as a Certified Dementia Practitioner & Trainer and a Certified Legal Nurse Consultant, highlighting her dedication to excellence in healthcare at Mount St. Rita Health Centre.

Maryellen Gillis, Director of Admissions and Business Development

Maryellen has been with the team at Mount St. Rita since 2017. An alum of Bishop Feehan High School, she has a deep connection with the Sisters of Mercy ensuring the community’s mission, values and philosophy are entrenched at Mount St. Rita. Dedicated to her profession in welcoming families and helping them through the process of admitting a loved one for short or long term care is her passion.