Meet our team
Noreen Zaio, started as an licensed practical nurse (LPN) in 1983 and worked in many healthcare settings until 2011 when she pursued her Nursing Home Administrator license with the state of Illinois. She has been an Executive Director in senior living since 2012. Noreen says her motivation is that she enjoys caring for all people and making a difference in their lives.
Noreen has 4 grown children and two grandkids. She enjoys my time with family and likes to make jewelry, read or watch TV.
Dr. John O’Connell, DO
Medical Director for Fair Oaks
Joseph Escobar, Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Practitioner Joseph Escobar, MSN-FNP, is a graduate of Indiana State University and is board certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. He is available for our residents and therapy patients Monday through Friday. During his daily visits, Joseph can assess & treat acute illnesses, perform physical exams, and order labs, imaging, therapies, medications, and more. The addition of Joseph to our team provides another level of expertise and continuity of care within our facility, enabling us to better serve our patients’ and residents’ medical needs.
Cari Ison, Director of Nursing
“Care Bear” (also known as Cari) has worked at Fair Oaks since 2007. She came to the facility as an LPN and achieved her RN license shortly thereafter. Her outstanding nursing skills and leadership qualities had her quickly advancing to her current position as DON. Her dedication and devotion to residents assures that the quality of care is of the highest standard.
Cari gained a love for geriatrics as a child while visiting the residents in the nursing home where her mother worked as an LPN. She always knew that someday she would be making a difference in peoples’ lives. Cari’s infectious laugh and ready smile are a integral part of what makes Fairs Oaks a wonderful home for our residents.
Steve Sauerland, Rehab Therapy Manager
Steve graduated in 1995 from the University of Illinois in Chicago. Since the, his time working in the physical therapy rehab field has led to his passion for working with the geriatric population. Steve says he enjoys watching patients improve in their functional abilities and knowing that his expertise has helped them with their recovery.
"I am thankful that I have the opportunity to leave a footprint in patients' lives as much as they leave a footprint in mine. It is such a great feeling to watch the improvements that allow patients to move towards greater independence," said Steve. "I look forward to my future in this community and am thankful for the opportunity."
Chrissy Blair-Ribar
Admissions & Marketing Coordinator
Angela Lawrence, RN
Assistant Director of Nursing
Patty DeShane
Human Resources
Lori Tapaninen
Business Office Manager
Robin Goritz
Social Services Director
Christina Rossa
Activities Director
