Home » Our Leadership Team

Our Leadership Team

Cissy Nickel

Executive Director

Growing up in Crofton, Maryland, Cissy originally pursued a degree in art before her career took a different path through publishing and the nonprofit sector. Ultimately, she found her true calling in senior living, where she is passionate about building meaningful relationships and helping residents and families navigate life’s transitions with compassion and care.

Outside of work, Cissy loves to travel, spend time on the water, compete in billiards, and cheer on the Baltimore Orioles and Washington Commanders. She is the proud mother of two children, Nathan, who lives in Crystal City, and Amelia, who lives in Boston. Known for her warmth and positive energy, Cissy believes that genuine connections are at the heart of both exceptional care and a fulfilling life.

Julia Miller

Sales & Marketing Director

With nearly six years of experience in senior living, I am passionate about helping families find the right community and ensuring residents feel truly at home. I enjoy building meaningful connections and guiding families through one of life’s most important decisions with care and compassion.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my dog, Auggie, exploring local trails on hikes. I also enjoy running and unwinding with a good murder mystery book.

Mary Rex

Business Office Coordinator

My name is Mary Rex, and I have dedicated over 17 years to the healthcare field, building a career centered on compassion, service, and helping others. Throughout my professional journey, I have had the opportunity to own and operate my own business, which strengthened my leadership skills, work ethic, and commitment to providing exceptional support to those I serve.

Originally from Pennsylvania, I relocated to Maryland several years ago and proudly made it my home. Family is at the heart of everything I do. I am the proud mother of four children, including one child with special needs. This experience has taught me patience, resilience, empathy, and the importance of advocacy, qualities that I bring into both my personal and professional life.

I am deeply family-oriented and passionate about helping others. Whether supporting residents, families, colleagues, or members of my community, I strive to make a positive difference through kindness, dedication, and genuine care. My goal has always been to serve others with integrity while creating meaningful connections and fostering trust.

Roodna Destime

Resident Lifestyle Director

I am Roodna “Roodie” Destime, Resident Lifestyle Director at Tribute at Melford in Maryland. With a decade of experience in the healthcare industry, I have held various positions in assisted living, hospitals, and skilled nursing care. In addition to my expertise in event planning, I have a passion for acting, fashion, traveling, and content creator. I also value social connections and am a proud mother.

Victor Jaiyeola

Health and Wellness Director

Victor Jaiyeola is excited to join Tribute at Melford as the new Health & Wellness Director. Originally from Houston, Texas, Victor moved to Maryland to pursue his nursing degree and has since built more than 10 years of experience in senior living.

Victor is passionate about providing compassionate care and supporting the health and well-being of residents. He brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and a genuine heart for serving others to his new role.

Outside of work, Victor enjoys movies and is a dedicated Houston sports fan. Of course, his favorite football team is the Houston Texans, and he proudly cheers on the Houston Rockets for basketball. When he’s not watching a game or a good movie, Victor loves spending time with his two tiny Yorkies, Sebastian and Franklin.

Victor is excited to become part of the Tribute at Melford community and looks forward to getting to know the residents, families, and team members who make the community so special!

Deon Brown

Director of Culinary Experience

Born and raised in Maryland, where I started my culinary journey. I have a professional degree in culinary arts, from Pittsburgh. I have been in the industry for over 30 years, my primary focus has been in hotel restaurant management, before transitioning to senior living. Served honorably in the US Army, IRAQ war veteran. While in the military I competed in culinary competitions, stacking honors medals and awards then ultimately the chef of the year. I enjoy the great outdoors, hunting, fishing, mountain biking, playing sports, riding dirt bikes and motorcycles. I enjoy cooking and seeing the smile on people’s faces after they enjoy a great meal.

Derek Mitchell

Director of Building Services

I’m Derek Mitchell, new Maintenance Director for Tribute at Melford. I’m a husband, father of 2 wonderful kids, and a proud 21-year Retired Air Force veteran. In my spare time, I love to fish, watch football and basketball, and travel whenever I can, preferably internationally. I live my life always striving to be kind and compassionate, spreading positivity wherever I go. My go-to statement is “Kindness is the language that the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” With that said, I’m happy to be a part of the Tribute at Melford team and looking forward to working with you all.