Employee of the Month

Derek Hammersley achieved the honor of March Employee of the Month at Country Living at Westview Commons. He began his tenure with the Westview family of companies in April 2022; starting as a dietary aide at Westview Health Care Center. Prior to working within Westview, he was employed at a variety of restaurants—holding a bartending certificate from that employment stage—so hospitality service comes naturally to him. After a few months in the position in Westview’s Dietary Department, he transitioned to his current role in the Maintenance Department at Westview Commons. He speaks of a great deal of fun that he is having in maintenance at these Dayville, CT facilities. Whether it is preparing and painting walls, repairing various pieces of equipment and structures, or the techniques and aesthetics of landscape arts—Derek appreciates learning valuable skills from his colleagues in the Maintenance Department. Regarding his joy for his work (and moreover, his outlook on life) Derek quotes one of his favorite movies: “Life’s a garden, dig it!”

Derek grew up in Tewksbury, MA, not far from the city of Boston, MA. Currently he resides in nearby Plainfield, CT. Most of his schooling took place in Massachusetts, and after his family moved to Connecticut he completed his diploma through the Penn Foster program. Derek is the son of David Hammersley and Adrienne Schilling and is the brother of Alison Hammersley. He is immensely proud of his sister who lives in Los Angeles, CA pursuing a career in motion picture production. Derek and his family see each other as much as possible—whether physically or digitally. To him, maintaining family bonds is one of the most important things in life. He deeply appreciates that while things may change in his life, family is a concrete constant.

" To him, maintaining family bonds is one of the most important things in life...."

Being recognized for this distinction meant a lot to Derek, and it provided him with the opportunity to both be appreciated and express his appreciation for his colleagues. “I am so excited to receive this award! It’s an honor to earn Employee of the Month at Westview Commons. I learn so much here and it continues to help me evolve with greater knowledge and experience. Our residents at Westview Commons are so warm and inviting, and I work with such an awesome group of people. I am proud to be a part of such a polished, professional setting—truly humbled to receive Employee of the Month!”

David T. Panteleakos, Executive Vice President of Westview Commons, values Derek’s work ethic in his positions and his camaraderie among coworkers. “Derek has shown us all at Westview Health Care Center and Country Living at Westview Commons that he can have a stellar impact across multiple departments. I am delighted to know how he not only takes pride in his work but also excitement in his development through his experiences here.” Mr. Panteleakos continued: “He is a pleasure to work with, and I know how much our team of dedicated staff and our wonderful residents appreciate his presence. Congratulations to Derek!”

Country Living at Westview Commons is a 75-unit independent and assisted living community conveniently located in picturesque Northeastern Connecticut. Affiliated with Westview Health Care Center, a nationally-ranked nursing facility according to CMS and U.S. News and World Report for the past years, Westview Commons is a 115,000 square foot catered living facility dedicated to a genuine 5-star experience including outstanding service, culinary expertise and professional in-house entertainment. Located in Dayville, CT, Westview Commons combines convenience, tranquility and comfort; providing a lifestyle that seniors deserve.