By Samantha Crawford, Corporate Director of Communications, UMC
UMC has a long history of evolving to meet the needs of older adults, and today, that evolution continues with the launch of Young Professional Minds, a new advisory board designed to bring emerging leaders into the conversation about the future of senior care.
At UMC, we wholeheartedly believe that young adults bring invaluable energy, curiosity, and purpose. Under the mentorship of UMC leaders, Young Professional Minds will explore the realities of senior living, understand how mission-driven organizations operate, and contribute ideas that can shape programs, services, and community impact.
Meet the Inaugural Members of Young Professional Minds
This exceptional group represents the next wave of changemakers—students and emerging professionals who are already demonstrating leadership in service.
Ciara Dixon
A senior at George Mason University majoring in Psychology with a concentration in Health Psychology and a minor in Spanish, Ciara brings both academic rigor and real-world experience to the board. She is a Behavioral Therapist supporting adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and serves as an Activity Assistant in a rehabilitation center, where she creates therapeutic programs tailored to residents’ holistic needs. She offers a unique combination of research skills, direct-care experience, and passion for mental and community health.
Elizabeth Ellis
Elizabeth serves as an Advisory Associate in KPMG’s Internal Audit & Controls practice, supporting healthcare clients in New York. With a B.S. in Applied Mathematics and Finance from George Washington University, she has a strong background in data modeling, analytics, and financial strategy. Elizabeth has contributed to The GW Investment Institute as an analyst with the Phillips Fund, Real Estate Investment Fund, and Quantitative Investment Fund. Her analytical mindset and commitment to positive change will bring fresh ideas to UMC.
Emma Delaney
A senior at Rowan University majoring in Psychology with a concentration in Behavioral Neuroscience, Emma is passionate about understanding the human brain. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in Psychology with a focus on Neuroscience. Emma is no stranger to UMC – where assisted residents and our Tapestries Memory Care program as an intern at Pitman Manor, our Gloucester County community. She is QPR certified, a suicide prevention certification provided by Rowan University, as well as essentiALZ® certified, a national Alzheimer’s certification provided by UMC. Emma is also an active member of Rowan University’s Neuro Club, where she learns valuable insights from professionals in the field. Emma brings enthusiasm, empathy, and firsthand connection with UMC residents to the new board.
Maura Kelly‑Yuoh
Maura is a rising leader in the field of Health & Human Services. After pursuing a Master of Public Health and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Biological Anthropology from George Washington University, she earned the role of project analyst at CAI – where she works directly with children and youth agencies to improve program delivery, staff support, and operational systems. Maura has served in research & administrative assistant roles across George Washington University – including the Fitzhugh Mullan Institute for Health Workforce Equity, the International Medicine Program, and the Data Science Department. She’s also interned with the National Center for Children’s Vision and Eye Health at Prevent Blindness, composing educational e-newsletters and classroom lessons for physicians, teachers, and parents. Maura brings a deep understanding of health systems, advocacy, and community engagement—skills essential to designing the future of senior support services.
Why This Matters: The Power of Including the Next Generation
Today’s young leaders are looking for opportunities to do meaningful work. By joining UMC’s Young Professional Minds, they are showing their commitment to shaping the future of aging services.
In return, UMC is offering:
Mentorship and leadership development
Exposure to nonprofit governance
Opportunities to contribute ideas and see them brought to life
A space where their voices are valued
A chance to help build the future of an organization rooted in faith, compassion, and community
In an ever-changing world, innovation requires more than staying current. It requires inviting new ideas and embracing perspectives that challenge us to think differently. Young Professional Minds reflects UMC’s belief that the best way to lead into the future is to build it together, across generations.
