Leadership
“I’ve stayed in this field for decades because of the people—the residents, their families, and the teams I’ve had the privilege to lead. It’s an honor to help create a place that truly feels like home.”
Melissa Schmidt
NHA, CDP
Administrator
Melissa has more than 25 years of experience in senior living, spanning Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living, and Independent Living communities. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Health with a concentration in Long Term Care Administration and Gerontology and has been licensed in multiple states throughout her career.
At Premier Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Melissa leads a dedicated team that provides care with kindness, ensuring residents feel safe, valued, and respected. She takes pride in creating a supportive environment where staff are empowered and families feel confident in the care their loved ones receive.
“I’ve dedicated my career to healthcare for the past two decades because I find profound fulfillment in guiding elderly patients on their journeys to health and happiness.”
Amy Graham
RN
Director of Nursing
Amy Graham is a pivotal member of our team, leading a dedicated group of nurses and support staff on an impressive 22-year journey. She started as an evening shift LPN, advanced to a Treatment Nurse, and earned her RN, ADN in 2005. Amy then assumed the role of Director of Nursing (DON) at a sister facility before returning to Premier in the same position in 2006. Her expertise extended to serving as a facility consultant in 2008. In 2018, Amy returned as DON while simultaneously achieving her BSN in 2023. Amy is driven by her deep love for the elderly, her passion for nursing, and her dedication to her residents. She sets an inspiring example of perseverance and strength, not only for her four children and six grandchildren but also for her team. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Amy actively engages in her community through youth sports and her church.
“My purpose as Admissions Director at Premier Nursing & Rehab Center is to be the guiding hand for new residents and their families, ensuring a smooth transition into our care— It’s not just a job; it’s my passion to provide comfort, support, and a brighter start to every resident’s stay.”
Patrice Clyde
Admission Director
Patrice brings over a decade of dedicated service and a passion for helping others to her role as the first point of contact for new residents and their families. Born and raised in Kinston, NC, Patrice relocated to Jacksonville in 1991 with her family, where her father owned a business, and her mother was a dedicated teacher. With over 11 years of experience at Premier, Patrice’s journey began after earning her CNA certification at Coastal College, where she has since excelled in various roles. Her warm and helpful nature, cultivated by her upbringing in a family-oriented environment, drives her passion for supporting residents and their families during the onboarding process. Outside of work, Patrice cherishes spending time with her own family.
Melissa Schmidt
NHA, CDP
Administrator
Melissa has more than 25 years of experience in senior living, spanning Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living, and Independent Living communities. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Health with a concentration in Long Term Care Administration and Gerontology and has been licensed in multiple states throughout her career.
At Premier Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Melissa leads a dedicated team that provides care with kindness, ensuring residents feel safe, valued, and respected. She takes pride in creating a supportive environment where staff are empowered and families feel confident in the care their loved ones receive.
“I’ve stayed in this field for decades because of the people—the residents, their families, and the teams I’ve had the privilege to lead. It’s an honor to help create a place that truly feels like home.”
Amy Graham
RN
Director of Nursing
Amy Graham is a pivotal member of our team, leading a dedicated group of nurses and support staff on an impressive 22-year journey. She started as an evening shift LPN, advanced to a Treatment Nurse, and earned her RN, ADN in 2005. Amy then assumed the role of Director of Nursing (DON) at a sister facility before returning to Premier in the same position in 2006. Her expertise extended to serving as a facility consultant in 2008. In 2018, Amy returned as DON while simultaneously achieving her BSN in 2023. Amy is driven by her deep love for the elderly, her passion for nursing, and her dedication to her residents. She sets an inspiring example of perseverance and strength, not only for her four children and six grandchildren but also for her team. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Amy actively engages in her community through youth sports and her church.
“I’ve dedicated my career to healthcare for the past two decades because I find profound fulfillment in guiding elderly patients on their journeys to health and happiness.”
Patrice Clyde
Admission Director
Patrice brings over a decade of dedicated service and a passion for helping others to her role as the first point of contact for new residents and their families. Born and raised in Kinston, NC, Patrice relocated to Jacksonville in 1991 with her family, where her father owned a business, and her mother was a dedicated teacher. With over 11 years of experience at Premier, Patrice’s journey began after earning her CNA certification at Coastal College, where she has since excelled in various roles. Her warm and helpful nature, cultivated by her upbringing in a family-oriented environment, drives her passion for supporting residents and their families during the onboarding process. Outside of work, Patrice cherishes spending time with her own family.
“My purpose as Admissions Director at Premier Nursing & Rehab Center is to be the guiding hand for new residents and their families, ensuring a smooth transition into our care— It’s not just a job; it’s my passion to provide comfort, support, and a brighter start to every resident’s stay.”