Charlestown Names New Resident Life Director

Mary Poppins, the "practically perfect" character from the classic Disney film, once said, "In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun."

Jill Clippinger, the new resident life director at Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Md., takes this idea to heart, blending professionalism with joy in her leadership approach.

With a background in hospitality and service, Clippinger brings warmth and a people-first mindset to her role, creating opportunities for residents to focus on social connection and personal growth.

Valuable experience

While earning her bachelor's degree in food service management at Syracuse University in Syracuse, N.Y., Clippinger honed her hospitality skills at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla., as part of the Disney College Program. As a culinary assistant at the Liberty Tree Tavern in the Magic Kingdom, she gained valuable experience and a genuine love for serving others.

"Growing up, I was fortunate that my parents took me to Disney, and I loved it," says Clippinger. "I knew that Disney was a top-notch hospitality and guest services company, and I thought it would be great to work there."

She continues, "I spent a fall semester at Disney, where we went through extensive training, learning all aspects of the business. I did food prep and worked the line in the kitchen, and I also spent time in guest services. It gave me real-life working experience."

After college, Clippinger worked with the Aramark Corporation in its Sports and Entertainment Division; in management roles at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, Mass.; and at Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore, Md.

An impressive career

In 2003, Clippinger began her career with Erickson Senior Living as a restaurant manager at Oak Crest in Parkville, Md. Thriving in her role, she was promoted to assistant dining services director and later became director of Dining Services.

She then spent nearly four years working in finance at Charlestown before joining the resident life team in October 2025.

Throughout her 23-year career with Erickson, Clippinger has gained valuable experience in effective communication and project management--skills that directly support her new role.

"I've always had a passion for helping others, and Erickson Senior Living has given me the opportunity to explore and grow my career," says Clippinger. "The knowledge and experience I gained in my previous roles have provided me the ability to adapt quickly and lead my team with purpose."

Connection and care

Charlestown's more than 2,000 residents enjoy a vibrant, social lifestyle, thanks to the resident life team. Clippinger and her colleagues work together to offer a myriad of activities and services, including fitness classes, in-house television programming, and volunteer initiatives.

"The residents are at the heart of everything we do," says Clippinger. "Each day, I strive to create a sense of excitement around our work and connect with each team, reinforcing our shared purpose of making every day meaningful for residents."

She continues, "We have a strong team that truly cares about the people we serve. I am always available to staff members and residents, as I believe that visibility, communication, and genuine connection are the foundation of a culture of excellence."

In her new role, Clippinger has gleaned many life lessons from the residents she serves, including incorporating structure into your daily routine and lending a helping hand.

"Working at Charlestown is really rewarding," she says. "Every day, I feel like I'm making a difference. I love coaching and developing my team, but I also value the relationships I foster with residents."

More fun

Clippinger and her husband, Bill, reside in Seven Valleys, Pa. They have two children--a daughter currently in her first year of high school and a son attending the University of Delaware.

In her free time, Clippinger enjoys cheering on the Baltimore Orioles and the Pittsburgh Steelers, cooking, and traveling--especially to her favorite destination, Disney!

To learn more about independent senior living, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Danielle Rexrode