Lorena I. Vivar, a San Diego native, began her journey in the medical field at a young age. In high school, she worked alongside the athletic trainer to assist athletes with injuries. Once she graduated from high school, Lorena interned at Palomar Medical Center, where she gained hands-on experience with patients and explored different departments. While in college, she started her profession in senior living by working in a memory care community, both as a medical technician and helping out with administrative work. After graduating from California State University San Marcos with a B.A. degree in human development, she continued to work with the memory-impaired and make an impact in their lives.

LaVonne Hines started her medical career during her teen years as a caregiver. Discovering a passion for the medical field, she pursued a career as a licensed vocational nurse and began to grow her expertise in the field through various courses and clinical experience. In 2008, LaVonne became a charge nurse at Las Villas del Norte. Through her skillset and a profound passion for the care of her residents, LaVonne ascended to the role of Resident Care director, where she passionately oversees the care of our senior living community. 

In her downtime, LaVonne enjoys spending time with her husband, children and grandchildren. She loves to travel, but also enjoys a relaxing day at home. With kindness at the core of her heart, she is at her best when she is helping and adding to the smiles of the people around her. 

Abby Palma, Business Office director at Las Villas del Norte, has more than 10 years’ experience in senior living. She is motivated by brightening our residents’ days, spending time listening to their stories, sharing in a puzzle or even singing a few songs of karaoke.

“What we do is much more than just a job. It becomes a passion to care for those who can’t fully care for themselves. I choose to continue in this field to show the next family the same compassion and love to their family members that was shown to my grandmother. I am proud to be a part of this senior living community.”

Roy Cornett’s entire career has been committed to bettering the lives of Escondido’s youth. He spent eight years working with the City of Escondido’s after-school programs, seven years with the local Boys and Girls Club, and 12 years volunteering with the Escondido Police Athletic League. He is extremely excited to start his next chapter, dedicated to bringing fun, excitement and experiences into this community.

Roy is a proud husband and father to a beautiful 2-year-old daughter who is always keeping him on his toes.

Chef Joseph Fernandez is from Bogotá, Colombia, and grew up in Boston, Massachusetts. His culinary career began when he was just 14, working as a dishwasher. He worked his way up, becoming one of the youngest executive chefs in the industry. He attended vocational culinary school, where he learned culinary arts, the art of pastry and fine-dining services standards. His training continued during his time as a U.S. Marine when he served on active duty as a cook, eventually becoming a chief cook at one of the largest chow halls in the Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton, California.

Chef Joseph’s goal of implementing the highest level of hospitality and culinary standards in his career is predicated on his dedication, hard work, and love of bringing food and people together, which has always been his recipe for success. He is passionate about bringing exquisite dining service to our residents.