Meet Maria DeAngelo: Clinical Care Coordinator at Barclay Friends

Ten Years of Nursing, Learning, and Perspective

For ten years, Maria DeAngelo, Clinical Care Coordinator, has played a key role in fostering clear communication and thoughtful coordination within the skilled nursing neighborhoods at Barclay Friends. “Maria has been a constant source of strength and stability for our team,” says Maria Kiwagama, Director of Nursing. “Her dedication to resident-centered care, attention to detail, and openness to growth have shaped her journey from a floor nurse to an outstanding Clinical Care Coordinator. She leads with compassion, consistency, and grace, handling even the most challenging situations with calm professionalism. Maria is truly my right hand, and her ability to make others feel heard and valued is one of her greatest strengths.”

Can you describe your role as Clinical Care Coordinator? What does a typical day look like for you?

My role is to bridge the care and communication between CNAs, nurses, families, and doctors. A typical day for me starts by listening to report from night shift. Afterwards, the interdisciplinary team meets every morning to discuss important things and follow up on any needs for residents. I then round on each floor and talk to each nurse to ensure we both have understanding of the current events with each resident. I can help with any outstanding issues, while also trying to accomplish things on my to do list that are a priority. If doctors or providers are coming that day, I discuss with them anyone they may need to assess and they will take care of anything we need as well.

Learn more about Skilled Nursing at Barclay Friends

You recently celebrated your 10-year anniversary. What does that milestone mean to you?

It means a lot to me to still be here and still enjoying what I do, the residents, and the people I work with. I started working here out of nursing school, there is so much I have learned about nursing, myself and life in general.

What do you find most meaningful about working with older adults?

I find it meaningful to constantly be reminded about how precious life is. I feel grateful to be reminded of that every day. It honestly makes me call my mom more often.

What have you learned from residents that has shaped your perspective on aging?

It can be very hard but also very beautiful. Some things you do now can or can not shape how you age later so you have to find balance.

What do you enjoy most about being part of Barclay Friends?

I love being a nurse. I like taking care of people, the flexibility, that every day is different, and that I get my steps in. My short commute is also 10 out of 10!

Do you have a favorite memory or story that stands out from your time here?

I’ve had so many, it’s hard to choose just one. The days go by pretty fast.

How do you like to spend your time outside of work (any hobbies or interests you’d like to share)?

I like nature, tea, coffee, exercising, traveling, card games, spending time with my fiancé, friends, family, and dog.

What motivates you to continue growing in your role?

The ability to learn new things and find ways to do things better or more efficiently while keeping true to Barclay Friends.

Who has been a mentor or inspiration in your career?

The supervisors who worked with me when I was a new nurse. Until I became a supervisor myself, I had no idea how much they did, and I so appreciated them taking their time with me and helping me so much.

What advice would you give someone interested in a career in nursing?

If you want to, go for it. There are so many options and different avenues you can go into.

What are you most excited about in your work right now?

The start of a new year; it feels fresh, and one month closer to flu season being over.

Are there any personal projects or goals you are focusing on in the coming year?

I will become an aunt this spring and I am planning some cool trips.