PITTSBURGH, Pa. — At The Pines of Mount Lebanon, compassionate leadership is more than a philosophy. It’s a daily practice at the senior living community.
And at the center of it all is Tammy McElhose, the Executive Operations Officer, whose dedication and empathy have made a lasting impact on residents, families and team members.
With more than 20 years of experience in long-term and personal care, McElhose blends clinical expertise with heartfelt leadership. Over the past two years, she has helped The Pines grow into a regional leader in Personal Care and Memory Care, guiding the community through record census growth and continued operational excellence.
“Every decision we make begins with one guiding principle. How will this improve life for our residents?” said McElhose, whose background as an LPN helps her connect with residents and team members.
“That focus helps us create a community where residents feel safe, valued, and truly at home,” McElhose said.
The resident-first philosophy has shaped every aspect of her leadership at The Pines of Mount Lebanon. McElhose’s emphasis on compassion and communication has strengthened team relationships and enhanced the overall experience throughout the senior living community.
“Residents and their families frequently praise Tammy for her warmth and accessibility, while our team members describe her as a leader who inspires and empowers,” said Gary Renwick, an Area General Manager at IntegraCare, which operates The Pines of Mount Lebanon. “Her supportive approach fosters a culture of teamwork, respect and accountability. This continues to strengthen the community’s reputation for quality care.”
A Career Built from Compassion
McElhose’s journey in healthcare began with a simple goal. “I want to help people live well at every stage of life,” she said.
After attending St. Margaret School of Nursing, she began her career by providing skilled nursing care and wellness education to patients in their homes.
McElhose soon transitioned to a senior living community in the Pittsburgh area, where she provided hands-on care and developed strong connections with residents and their families.
As her passion for leadership grew, McElhose advanced into management roles that deepened her impact, serving as Wellness Manager, Director of Nursing, Resident Services Coordinator and eventually Interim Executive Director at senior living communities throughout the region.
Since joining the IntegraCare team at The Pines, McElhose has found the perfect place to bring her passion full circle. She channels her years of experience and her heart for caregiving into creating a home where residents feel seen, supported and celebrated. For McElhose, it’s not just a career. “It’s rewarding to make a difference in the lives of those who once cared for others, and to ensure they continue to live with dignity, purpose and joy,” she said.
Rooted in Pittsburgh, Driven by Purpose
A Monroeville resident, McElhose holds a Personal Care Home Administrator Certificate, is a Certified CPR Instructor with the American Red Cross, and continues to advance her skills in care planning, infection control and leadership.
“Tammy’s leadership and empathy truly reflect what The Pines stands for,” Renwick said. “She brings both professionalism and heart to everything she does. That’s what makes The Pines community so special.”
For more information, contact Alex Koter, Community Relations Director, at akoter@integracare.com or call 412.341.4400.