Jennifer Piccione, Owner & Advocate

Jennifer is a distinguished attorney with a notable career as both a criminal prosecutor, where she advocated for victims of abuse, and a business lawyer. Yet, her true passion lies in being a staunch advocate for those in need.  A Cum Laude graduate from Loyola University Chicago School of Law in 2002, Ms. Piccione began her legal career as a criminal prosecutor for the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office. Her tenure there was marked by a notable focus on vulnerable populations, particularly as she took on the role of First Chair Attorney in the Domestic Violence courtroom. This experience further fueled her desire to make a difference in the lives of those in need.

Ms. Piccione’s career reflects a profound commitment to justice and compassion, both in her legal practice and her community involvement. Her dedication to these causes continues to drive her efforts, making a lasting impact on the lives of those she seeks to help.  Her true passion lies in ensuring that every individual, regardless of age or disability, enjoys a safe, caring, engaging and vibrant home life.

Jennifer's dedication to advocacy is deeply personal. Her younger sister, who is developmentally disabled, has been living in group homes since she was 20 years old (now 47), returning home to her family every weekend. Over the years, Jennifer has been intimately involved in her sister’s care, witnessing firsthand the challenges and shortcomings of traditional group homes. This experience ignited a fervent desire in Jennifer to improve conditions for those in similar situations, ensuring that every person with a disability or elderly individual has access to a supportive and enriching environment.

Additionally, Jennifer has been the primary caregiver for her elderly mother, who has bravely fought and triumphed over four bouts of cancer over the past two decades. Through this deeply personal experience, Jennifer has navigated various options for respite care, long-term assisted living, and hospice care. Her firsthand knowledge of these services has reinforced her belief that everyone deserves to spend their golden years in a happy, healthy, and supportive environment.

Witnessing the care and conditions in traditional assisted living and nursing homes, Jennifer was inspired to create something truly exceptional. She channeled her professional skills and personal insights into founding The Manor of Carmel, a residential community designed to provide a home-like atmosphere where seniors can thrive. The Manor of Carmel features an unparalleled caretaker-to-resident ratio, gourmet meals, daily enrichment programs, and strong community connections, all aimed at fostering a deep sense of peace and well-being for residents, caregivers, and their families.

With nearly a decade of diverse experience in healthcare, Nikka Cody is a passionate advocate for personalized, compassionate care. Her journey began in Home Health Care, where she honed her skills as a Certified Nurse Assistant and expanded her role to include Activities Director, Social Services Designee, and Memory Care Support Specialist. Currently serving as a Residential Administrator, Nikka brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to enhancing the quality of life for seniors.

Nikka earned her BA in Psychology from Ashford University and holds several healthcare certifications from Indiana Wesleyan University, further underscoring her dedication to the field. Since 2016, her career has been driven by a genuine passion for senior care, though the COVID-19 pandemic shifted her focus to seeking more intimate and meaningful connections with residents.

In a quest to return to the roots of personalized care, Nikka discovered The Manor of Carmel, a boutique residential assisted living facility with a 4:1 care ratio. Enthralled by the prospect of a more personal, community-centered approach, she knew this was the opportunity her soul had been seeking. During her interview, Nikka expressed her profound belief in The Manor’s mission and her desire to contribute to its success, regardless of the outcome.

Outside of her professional life, Nikka is a dedicated mother of four beautiful children and is supported by a loving fiancé. Her family is her greatest joy and motivation, inspiring her daily in both her personal and professional endeavors. Nikka is excited to be a part of a community that aligns with her values and vision for a better way of living for seniors.

Cathy is the supervising RN responsible for overseeing all healthcare standards, processes, and training at The Manor of Carmel.  Cathy brings more than four decades of Nursing Experience to the Manor of Carmel. As a Co-owner and the Manor of Carmel Chief Nursing/Training Officer, Cathy, in conjunction with our Residential Administrator, leads our staff of Personal Care Assistant’s (PCA’s) through their on-boarding, training and continuing education processes. 

Cathy has been a Registered Nurse for more than 40 years, and is thrilled to lend her experience and passion to the Manor of Carmel.  Cathy has specialized as a Nurse Instructor training PCA’s with multiple Homecare, Hospice, and Assisted Living Facilities for over 20 years.   

Cathy views the Manor of Carmel’s boutique model as a much-needed change and improvement in senior care.  She believes strongly in providing an alternative option beyond large nursing facilities and traditional assisted living.   The ability to create a more intimate and neighborhood experience for our residents and provide an elevated standard of care and LIVING is the driving force of her excitement for the Manor of Carmel.