What differentiates one skilled nursing & rehabilitation center from another? The answer is... the people who work and reside there! The people set the tone, the atmosphere, and the expectations. At The Laurels of Pender, we take great pride in ensuring that everyone feels like part of our family and that they are treated as special "guests" in our home.
The Laurels of Pender employs a team of highly qualified medical professionals, including a Medical Director, Registered Nurses, Restorative Care Nurses, a Wound Care Nurse, state tested Certified Nursing Assistants, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and a Speech Therapist. Our on-site Rehab, Dietary, Social Work, and Activities departments provide personalized and compassionate care to each guest. From the moment you walk through the front doors, the warmth and caring of the staff will begin to gain your trust and confidence, as they strive to exceed your expectations.
Each Team Member takes great pride in portraying "The Laurel Way of Caring", as they strive for excellence in providing only the highest standard of care and services to every guest, and to every family member and visitor. Come on in! Visit a while! Let us show you our very best... let us show you The Laurel Way.
Robert Woodie
Administrator
Robert Woodie is from a small community in the mountains of western North Carolina. His career in healthcare began there as he transitioned from a previous career in agriculture. He is a graduate of University of North Carolina at Greensboro and Auburn University, where he obtained an MBA. His greatest interests are quality patient care and innovative ways to care for guests at The Laurels of Pender.
Michelle Woodcock, RN
Director of Nursing
Michelle Woodcock was named Director of Nursing at The Laurels of Pender in December 2021.
A graduate of Pender High School, Michelle was employed with Black River Health Center in Atkinson as an LPN for over 20 years until she furthered her education by obtaining her associate's degree in nursing (RN). After exploring opportunities as a RN in a hospital setting, Michelle discovered her true passion was geriatrics and rural health within her community.
Michelle is very active within the Burgaw community and serves on various community boards. She is married with three children and enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Olivia Moore, PTA
Rehabilitation Services Director
Olivia Moore was named rehabilitation services director at The Laurels of Pender in December 2020.
After receiving her degree as a licensed physical therapy assistant, Olivia quickly began her career in long term care at The Laurels. Her dedication and love for the skilled nursing community is evident in her current pursuit to obtain a higher degree in healthcare management. She brings both passion for treatment as well as a positive attitude to her role that helps not only our guests, but our talented and energetic group of therapists as well.
Tara Everett, BSW, MHA
Director of Marketing
Tara is excited to be a part of the team at The Laurels of Pender! A social worker by trade, Tara received her Bachelors of Social Work from Winston-Salem State University and her Master of Health Care Administration from Pfeiffer University.
Tara has extensive experience in the health care industry working specifically with the aging population. Her work ethic and eagerness to go the extra mile for her patients awarded her the honor of being selected as a 2015 Health Care Hero finalist by the Greater Wilmington Business Journal.
Tara's passion of giving effortlessly extends beyond the guests at The Laurels of Pender. She participates
on various community boards and volunteers throughout the local area. In her free time, she enjoys kickboxing and being active with her children.
Tara resides in Atkinson with her children, Isaiah, Kailee, and Kara.
