11/02/2025
Colonial Courtyard at Bedford is proud to announce that Tonya Leighty, our community’s Resident Wellness Director, has been named the newest recipient of the “Caring for Those Who Care” Award, an honor that recognizes exceptional team members who consistently go above and beyond to uplift residents, families, and fellow team members through compassion, integrity, and excellence in care.
For Tonya, this recognition represents not only years of hard work, but a lifelong passion for helping others. Her journey with Colonial Courtyard began in 2010, when she joined the community as a Resident Service Specialist (RSS). Her caring heart and strong work ethic quickly set her apart. In 2011, she advanced through the Medication Administration program, taking on a full-time role passing medications on second shift, where she became known for her reliability, calm demeanor, and genuine connection with residents.
When the COVID-19 pandemic forever changed the world of healthcare, Tonya felt a renewed sense of purpose. “After COVID, I realized I wanted to do more,” she said. “I wanted to expand my knowledge and my ability to help others in meaningful ways.” While working full-time daylight hours, Tonya made the courageous decision to enroll in night classes to pursue her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification. Her determination paid off, she graduated #2 in her class with honors in 2024, a milestone that she describes as one of the proudest moments of her career.
In 2025, Tonya took the next step in her leadership journey by stepping into the role of Resident Wellness Director, overseeing resident care and leading the nursing team at Colonial Courtyard. In her leadership role, she has focused on strengthening communication between departments, mentoring newer team members, and fostering a sense of unity across all shifts.
“Tonya is the kind of leader who leads by example,” said Brandy, Executive Operations Officer at Colonial Courtyard at Bedford. “She shows up every day with compassion, professionalism, and a sense of humor that makes the people around her feel valued. She doesn’t just manage the wellness team, she inspires. Her journey from RSS to Wellness Director is proof that dedication and heart can take you anywhere.”
For Tonya, the residents are the heart of everything she does.
“No matter what kind of day I’m having, I can always go talk to a resident and instantly have a smile on my face,” she shared. “I love when they stop by to show me a picture of a great-grandbaby, a drawing they made, or an idea they have. It’s like spending time with my grandparents, it just feels like home.”
Colleagues say that Tonya’s kindness, patience, and deep empathy shine through in every interaction. She’s known for her open-door policy, her willingness to lend a hand, and her ability to make others feel seen and supported whether it’s a new caregiver learning the ropes or a resident needing a listening ear.
“What stands out most about Tonya is her heart,” Brandy added. “She genuinely cares about people. She’s not afraid to get her hands dirty, she’s not afraid to learn, and she always puts residents first. She embodies everything this award stands for.”
The Caring for Those Who Care Award is presented to individuals who exemplify Colonial Courtyard’s mission of enriching the lives of seniors through compassionate service, teamwork, and joy. Each recipient is chosen for their dedication to residents and for their positive impact on workplace culture.
Tonya’s journey from her first day as a young RSS, to a Nurse leading her peers is a testament to what passion, perseverance, and purpose can achieve. Her story is an inspiration to her coworkers and a reminder that caregiving is more than a profession, it’s a calling.
As Colonial Courtyard at Bedford continues its mission of creating a loving, home-like environment for older adults, Tonya stands as a shining example of the difference one person can make through kindness, education, and leadership.
