After an incredible 37-year career with HomeCare & Hospice (HCH) and Total Senior Care, Sue Nelson, Chief Financial Officer, has announced her retirement, with her last day December 31st. Her journey with the organization began in September 1987, when Mrs. Nelson joined as Business Manager for what was then Home Healthcare of Cattaraugus County. Since then, she has played a vital role in the growth and transformation of the organization.
Reflecting on her career, Mrs. Nelson shared her pride in the team’s accomplishments: “Being part of a team that grew from just licensed home healthcare to the addition certified hospice programs, and later to a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) with Total Senior Care, has been remarkable. Together, we expanded into Chautauqua, Allegany, Wyoming, and Genesee counties, bringing comprehensive care to so many communities.”
“Sue, you are the piece that made the difference. Your 37 years of leadership and dedication to Community Care of WNY have left an indelible impact, and your contributions will never be forgotten. When I joined the organization in 2022, you were already considering retirement. Yet, you decided to stay on, offering a few more years of your exceptional expertise and guidance. I am ever grateful for her support, wisdom, and unwavering commitment during that time. Your legacy is one we will continue to honor as we move forward,” stated Melissa Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer.
Mrs. Nelson’s passion for accounting began during her time at West Valley Central School, where a business class sparked her interest. She pursued a degree in accounting at Alfred University, but it was her personal experience that ultimately led her to HomeCare & Hospice.
“After my father was diagnosed with cancer, we kept him at home when treatments were no longer working. That experience showed me the importance of care at home, and the mission of this organization was calling to me,” she explained.
Over nearly four decades, Mrs. Nelson has been a key advocate for the organizations’ patient-centered approach. She admires the teamwork involved in delivering care for both HCH/TSC patients and is especially passionate about Total Senior Care.
“The TSC program is incredibly beneficial but still underutilized. It’s amazing to see how much it can improve the quality of life for patients.”
Sue’s retirement plans include spending more time with her husband, Dave, her two sons, Nathan and Nick, and their four grandchildren. Living locally, Sue looks forward to being an active part of her family’s lives, as well as enjoying some travel adventures with her husband.
As she bids farewell, Sue expressed her deep appreciation for her colleagues: “I will miss my work family the most. When you work with such dedicated people, they become a big part of your life—sometimes even more than your own family during the day.”
Sue’s legacy of dedication, compassion, and leadership leaves a lasting impact on HomeCare & Hospice and Total Senior Care. Chad Kirk, who joined Community Care of WNY in August 2024, will take over the reins from Sue Nelson as Chief Financial Officer. Starting January 1, 2025, Chad will assume full responsibility for leading the organization’s financial operations, continuing the legacy of excellence and dedication established during Sue’s remarkable tenure.
