It was the development of a geriatric psychiatric program in 1975 by the California Pacific Medical Center that gave Diane the opportunity to work directly with a community that made her happy.  Working directly with seniors through the years, has given Diane the greatest joy.  She enjoys talking to seniors and listening to the many histories they have.  Diane says, “They are a group of people that are so appreciative when you help them.  There is always so much you can do for them.”  Diane continues to serve our senior residents by coordinating services at Helios Corner in Berkeley. 

Diane was honored with the 2007 Harriet Schaffran Award of Excellence at Satellite’s house party and annual awards celebration “A New Landing.”  Diane was recognized for her commitment to excellence, strength of character, independence of spirit and caring service for others.  Diane’s commitment to the senior community has inspired her fellow coworkers to provide our residents with higher levels of service.  Her caring approach largely reflects Satellite’s mission of providing affordable, service-enriched housing that promotes healthy and dignified living .  One coworker states, “working with Diane is a pleasure. Her caring attitude and warm personality help her tremendously when working with our residents and Satellite staff.”

Almost five years ago, Diane was looking for a flexible position which allowed her to continue working with seniors.  Coincidently, Diane was offered the opportunity to create her position. Almost immediately she began working for Satellite as the service coordinator specialist overseeing twelve service coordinators and acting as a liaison between building staff and residents.  A majority of Diane’s work consisted of assisting service coordinators with conflicts, offering assistance when locating services for our properties and performing home visits with all at-risk residents.

In July 2007, Diane assumed the position of service coordinator at our newly developed Helios Corner where she has already organized various classes and events that include: a dance class, an exercise class, a current events discussion group, a meditation group, a coffee hour and a film night with discussion afterwards. Diane continues to be a great resource to the other service coordinators and regularly assists the resident services department when arranging services for our nineteen developments. Services at our developments include wellness classes, current events classes, social events and offering special presentations on various topics like community safety and health. 

Upon receiving the Harriet Schaffran Award of Excellence, Diane says, “I was shocked because you never think of yourself.  It was shocking and numbing at the same time.  I continue to do what I do because I enjoy working with seniors.” Diane is originally from Berkeley and has lived in the Bay Area her entire life.  Diane has two sons, one daughter and five grandchildren.