Meet Our Team at Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
At Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing compassionate care and ensuring the well-being of our residents. Let’s introduce you to the key members of our team:
Our team comprises a diverse group of professionals, including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants, social workers, therapists, dietary staff, housekeeping staff, and many others!
At Rose Garden, we follow “The Rose Garden Way” – treating others as we want to be treated. Our warm and inviting facility in Toms River, NJ ensures that every resident’s stay is both productive and comfortable. We take pride in providing dignity, respect, and exceptional care to all who call Rose Garden home.
In 1976, Andrew began his professional journey by applying for a part-time Social Service worker position at a nursing home. This role marked the start of his career in long-term care. Shortly after, he transitioned to a full-time role, finding both a home and a career in the field.
By 1980, Andrew achieved his aspiration of becoming an Administrator, managing a 110-resident skilled nursing facility in Eatontown, NJ, where he stayed for five years. Driven by a strong desire to own his own facility, Andrew, despite having no resources, was determined to turn his dream into reality. In 1985, he identified a small, struggling 61-bed facility and enlisted the help of a wealthy friend to make the purchase. With his contribution being “sweat equity,” he secured a 50% share in the facility, which he managed for 21 years.
Throughout this time, Andrew envisioned moving from the outdated 1929 facility to a new, modern setting. His dream materialized in 2005 with the opening of Rose Garden.
Andrew remains deeply committed to the field of long-term care and is dedicated to providing the best facility in the industry. His vision for excellence is supported by a team of exceptional professionals, and their collective commitment to being the best is unwavering.
Mrs. Dinaz Bengali
Dinaz Bengali, brings 25 years of experience to her role, where she provides leadership and guidance to the nursing department. She oversees all nursing operations, ensuring exceptional care for residents. Dinaz has a proven track record in driving initiatives that enhance patient outcomes and improve resident and family satisfaction. She is highly skilled in staff development, coaching, mentoring, quality improvement, and excels in interpersonal communication.
Kelly L. Zeitler
Kelly understands that the admission process can be stressful and that families often feel overwhelmed. She is here to guide you through every step, ensuring the transition is as smooth as possible. With 30 years of experience in healthcare, Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge to assist families during this time. While many of our referrals come directly from hospitals, we also welcome referrals from the community and other long-term care facilities, including assisted living centers. Kelly is available Monday through Friday to answer any admission-related questions or to provide a tour of our facility.
Jim Greene
As Food Service Director at The Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation James plays a crucial role in overseeing that the food service operations are efficient, high-quality, and meet the dietary needs of residents. James has built an impressive 26-year career working as a cook across several healthcare facilities, including Point Pleasant Hospital and Brick Hospital, now known as Ocean University Medical Center. During this time, he capitalized on management education opportunities, earning certifications as a Dietetic Assistant, Food and Nutrition Supervisor, and ServSafe Manager. His commitment and expertise led to his promotion to Head Chef, and by 2010, he advanced to the role of Food Service Director. Since joining the Rose Garden team in 2019, James has continued to excel as Food Services Director, demonstrating his extensive experience and dedication to creating a positive dining experience for the residents.
Dana-Lynn Dunne, ADC
Dana-Lynn Dunne has been with the Rose Garden family since 2015, starting as an Activities Assistant and later earning her ADC (Activities Director Certification) was promoted to Director of Recreation in 2023. Dana- Lynn plays a significant role in enhancing the quality of life for residents by planning, organizing, and overseeing recreational activities and programs that promote physical, mental, and social well-being. Dana-Lynn enjoys creating a vibrant and engaging environment for residents, helping them maintain their independence, dignity, and joy in daily life.
Kevin Bassinder
Kevin Bassinder, a National Certified Activities Director specializing in Education, Memory Care, and Assisted Living Facilities, joined Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in 2008 and has been the Director of Special Events & Marketing since July 2023. Kevin began his career as an Assistant Dining Room Manager and progressed through roles including Caregiver, Activities Director, Arts.
Meaghan McDowell
Meaghan McDowell earned her BSW from Georgian Court University and went on to receive her MSW from Monmouth University. She joined the Rose Garden team immediately after graduation and has been a vital member for over a decade. Her dedication and compassionate nature are evident in the way she supports residents and their families.
Teresa Upmanis
Better known as T$, Teresa has been part of the Rose Garden Family since 2006. Teresa holds a degree in accounting from Rowan University and manages all the business and financial operations of the organization. She takes pleasure in assisting residents, their families, and employees with any needs they may have. As a lover of the great outdoors, she enjoys hiking, biking, and camping.
Tricia Groesch
In her supporting role as Assistant Administrator, Trish collaborates with the Administrator to ensure that the facility provides high-quality care in a safe, compliant, and compassionate environment. Tricia is a Rutgers University graduate, certified social worker, and certified dementia practitioner with 20 years of experience in nursing homes. She has been a valued member of the Rose Garden team for the past 7 years.
Randi Notaro
Randi has been a registered dietitian for over 30 years. She earned her BS degree in Nutrition from Rutgers University and completed a dietetic clinical internship at a large Level 1 trauma center in Miami. Throughout her career, she has worked in various roles, including clinical dietitian in acute care, certified diabetes educator in both inpatient and outpatient settings, chief clinical dietitian, and food service manager. She has spent the majority of her career as a clinical dietitian in sub-acute rehabs and long-term care. Randi joined the Rose Garden team more than four years ago and enjoys working with both the staff and residents.
Matt Babeu
As Director of Maintenance at Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation. Matt is responsible for overseeing the upkeep, repair, and safety of the facility to ensure a comfortable and secure environment for residents, staff, and visitors.
Teresa McCluskey
Teresa McCluskey began her career at Rose Garden in 2016 as a Dietary Aide, where she prepared meals for residents. In 2022, she was promoted to the position of Director of Housekeeping. In this role, Teresa oversees the housekeeping team, ensuring that the facility remains clean, organized, and welcoming for both resident, families and staff.
Ranjana Hallur
Ranjana leads the Rehabilitation Department, ensuring that residents receive high-quality occupational therapy and other rehabilitative services that promote their independence and well-being. With a master’s degree in occupational therapy and thirty-five-plus years of experience in the rehabilitation field, her skills and experience allow her to treat all diagnoses prevalent in the geriatric population. Ranjana enjoys exploring new treatment strategies and attending clinical seminars to help the residents of Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation achieve their rehabilitation goals.
Rehabilitation Professionals
Our seasoned team of physical, occupational, and speech therapists designs individual care plans.
Their expertise helps residents achieve independence and return home after surgery or orthopedic procedures.
Jim Greene
As Food Service Director at The Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation James plays a crucial role in overseeing that the food service operations are efficient, high-quality, and meet the dietary needs of residents. James has built an impressive 26-year career working as a cook across several healthcare facilities, including Point Pleasant Hospital and Brick Hospital, now known as Ocean University Medical Center. During this time, he capitalized on management education opportunities, earning certifications as a Dietetic Assistant, Food and Nutrition Supervisor, and ServSafe Manager. His commitment and expertise led to his promotion to Head Chef, and by 2010, he advanced to the role of Food Service Director. Since joining the Rose Garden team in 2019, James has continued to excel as Food Services Director, demonstrating his extensive experience and dedication to creating a positive dining experience for the residents.
Dana-Lynn Dunne, ADC
Dana-Lynn Dunne has been with the Rose Garden family since 2015, starting as an Activities Assistant and later earning her ADC (Activities Director Certification) was promoted to Director of Recreation in 2023. Dana- Lynn plays a significant role in enhancing the quality of life for residents by planning, organizing, and overseeing recreational activities and programs that promote physical, mental, and social well-being. Dana-Lynn enjoys creating a vibrant and engaging environment for residents, helping them maintain their independence, dignity, and joy in daily life.
Kevin Bassinder
Kevin Bassinder, a National Certified Activities Director specializing in Education, Memory Care, and Assisted Living Facilities, joined Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in 2008 and has been the Director of Special Events & Marketing since July 2023. Kevin began his career as an Assistant Dining Room Manager and progressed through roles including Caregiver, Activities Director, Arts.
Meaghan McDowell
Meaghan McDowell earned her BSW from Georgian Court University and went on to receive her MSW from Monmouth University. She joined the Rose Garden team immediately after graduation and has been a vital member for over a decade. Her dedication and compassionate nature are evident in the way she supports residents and their families.
Teresa Upmanis
Better known as T$, Teresa has been part of the Rose Garden Family since 2006. Teresa holds a degree in accounting from Rowan University and manages all the business and financial operations of the organization. She takes pleasure in assisting residents, their families, and employees with any needs they may have. As a lover of the great outdoors, she enjoys hiking, biking, and camping.
Tricia Groesch
In her supporting role as Assistant Administrator, Trish collaborates with the Administrator to ensure that the facility provides high-quality care in a safe, compliant, and compassionate environment. Tricia is a Rutgers University graduate, certified social worker, and certified dementia practitioner with 20 years of experience in nursing homes. She has been a valued member of the Rose Garden team for the past 7 years.
Randi Notaro
Randi has been a registered dietitian for over 30 years. She earned her BS degree in Nutrition from Rutgers University and completed a dietetic clinical internship at a large Level 1 trauma center in Miami. Throughout her career, she has worked in various roles, including clinical dietitian in acute care, certified diabetes educator in both inpatient and outpatient settings, chief clinical dietitian, and food service manager. She has spent the majority of her career as a clinical dietitian in sub-acute rehabs and long-term care. Randi joined the Rose Garden team more than four years ago and enjoys working with both the staff and residents.
Matt Babeu
As Director of Maintenance at Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation. Matt is responsible for overseeing the upkeep, repair, and safety of the facility to ensure a comfortable and secure environment for residents, staff, and visitors.
Teresa McCluskey
Teresa McCluskey began her career at Rose Garden in 2016 as a Dietary Aide, where she prepared meals for residents. In 2022, she was promoted to the position of Director of Housekeeping. In this role, Teresa oversees the housekeeping team, ensuring that the facility remains clean, organized, and welcoming for both resident, families and staff.
Ranjana Hallur
Ranjana leads the Rehabilitation Department, ensuring that residents receive high-quality occupational therapy and other rehabilitative services that promote their independence and well-being. With a master’s degree in occupational therapy and thirty-five-plus years of experience in the rehabilitation field, her skills and experience allow her to treat all diagnoses prevalent in the geriatric population. Ranjana enjoys exploring new treatment strategies and attending clinical seminars to help the residents of Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation achieve their rehabilitation goals.
Department Head Names/Emails
Teresa Upmanis
Better known as T$, Teresa has been part of the Rose Garden Family since 2006. Teresa holds a degree in accounting from Rowan University and manages all the business and financial operations of the organization. She takes pleasure in assisting residents, their families, and employees with any needs they may have. As a lover of the great outdoors, she enjoys hiking, biking, and camping.
Tricia Groesch
In her supporting role as Assistant Administrator, Trish collaborates with the Administrator to ensure that the facility provides high-quality care in a safe, compliant, and compassionate environment. Tricia is a Rutgers University graduate, certified social worker, and certified dementia practitioner with 20 years of experience in nursing homes. She has been a valued member of the Rose Garden team for the past 7 years.
Randi Notaro
Randi has been a registered dietitian for over 30 years. She earned her BS degree in Nutrition from Rutgers University and completed a dietetic clinical internship at a large Level 1 trauma center in Miami. Throughout her career, she has worked in various roles, including clinical dietitian in acute care, certified diabetes educator in both inpatient and outpatient settings, chief clinical dietitian, and food service manager. She has spent the majority of her career as a clinical dietitian in sub-acute rehabs and long-term care. Randi joined the Rose Garden team more than four years ago and enjoys working with both the staff and residents.
Matt Babeu
As Director of Maintenance at Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation. Matt is responsible for overseeing the upkeep, repair, and safety of the facility to ensure a comfortable and secure environment for residents, staff, and visitors.
Teresa McCluskey
Teresa McCluskey began her career at Rose Garden in 2016 as a Dietary Aide, where she prepared meals for residents. In 2022, she was promoted to the position of Director of Housekeeping. In this role, Teresa oversees the housekeeping team, ensuring that the facility remains clean, organized, and welcoming for both resident, families and staff.
Ranjana Hallur
Ranjana leads the Rehabilitation Department, ensuring that residents receive high-quality occupational therapy and other rehabilitative services that promote their independence and well-being. With a master’s degree in occupational therapy and thirty-five-plus years of experience in the rehabilitation field, her skills and experience allow her to treat all diagnoses prevalent in the geriatric population. Ranjana enjoys exploring new treatment strategies and attending clinical seminars to help the residents of Rose Garden Nursing and Rehabilitation achieve their rehabilitation goals.
