BUHLER, Kan. – Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community is celebrating key changes in its nursing leadership team. The organization is pleased to announce the promotion of Rachel Perry, RN to Director of Nursing, the addition of Lindsey Thiessen, RN, BSN as Staff Engagement & Education Manager, and to honor the dedicated service of Londa Tipton, who transitions fully into the role of MDS Coordinator after decades of leadership in long-term care.
Rachel Perry, RN – Director of Nursing (DON)
Rachel, formerly Assistant Director of Nursing, recently earned her RN and will step into the role of Director of Nursing.
“I was inspired because others saw something in me that I didn’t yet see in myself,” Rachel said. “When both Nathan [Administrator] and Londa [former DON] spoke into my future, I felt God’s confirmation that this was a calling. It is an absolute honor to step into this role. Sunshine Meadows has such a strong foundation, but I believe God is calling us to an even higher level, and I feel humbled to be part of that journey while doing the work I truly love.”
Rachel has been instrumental in strengthening teamwork and unity within the nursing department. As DON, she looks forward to preserving that spirit of collaboration while continuing to provide the highest standard of care to residents.
Lindsey Thiessen, RN, BSN– Staff Engagement & Education Manager
Joining Sunshine Meadows is Lindsey, a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fort Hays State University. She brings 17 years of clinical and leadership experience from Hutchinson Clinic, where she served in nursing before becoming Director of Risk and Compliance. Lindsey is also a Certified Healthcare Risk Manager and Certified in Healthcare Compliance, and she currently serves on the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber Board of Directors and is an alumnus of Leadership Reno County’s Class of 2024.
“I was drawn to this role because it allows me to combine my clinical background with my passion for building upon and supporting staff development,” Lindsey said. “When employees feel valued, educated, and engaged, it directly enhances the quality of care and safety for our residents.”
Her first priority is implementing a comprehensive dementia training program to further equip staff to provide compassionate, person-centered care.
Honoring Londa Tipton, RN – MDS Coordinator
Londa joined Sunshine Meadows in 2016 as Director of Nursing and graduated with her ADN from Hutchinson Community College in 1994. With 31 years in nursing, including 25 years as DON and 7 years in MDS leadership, her entire career has been dedicated to long-term care. In 2023, she transitioned into the MDS Coordinator role while continuing DON responsibilities for more than two years.
“My heart is with the elderly—they have so many stories and so much love to give,” Londa shared. “I’m so proud of Rachel and her hard work to carry on the nursing traditions here at Sunshine Meadows.”
Her leadership strengthened both the nursing department and the accuracy of MDS reporting, ensuring compliance and supporting resident care. As she now focuses fully on MDS, her expertise continues to be a cornerstone of Sunshine Meadows.
A Community of Care
“Each of these women brings unique strengths that reflect the mission of Sunshine Meadows—Creating a home surrounded by Christ’s love,” said Nathan Spencer, Executive Director. “We are blessed to have Rachel stepping into leadership, Lindsey joining with her passion for staff growth, and Londa continuing her invaluable work in MDS. Together, they form a strong foundation for resident care now and in the future.”
About Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community
Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community is a nonprofit full continuum of care provider located in Buhler, Kansas. Guided by its mission, “Creating a home surrounded by Christ’s love – giving your life dignity and purpose,” SMRC serves residents through Independent Living, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, Memory Care, Respite Care, and our newest service – STAY Your Way – a program developed to empower seniors to stay in the home they love for life.
