12/12/2025
Today, we celebrate an extraordinary chapter in Hospice of the Panhandle’s history.
Please join us in congratulating and thanking Maria Lorensen, our Development Director, on her last day of work – December 12, 2025 – as she retires after 17 remarkable years of service.
Maria began her Hospice journey in 2008, leading what would become a historic capital campaign. With a goal of $3 million to build our inpatient facility and main office, Maria’s leadership and dedication helped raise $4 million, laying the foundation—literally—for the compassionate care we provide today.
After the campaign's success, Maria stepped into the broader world of fundraising, guiding signature events like Hollywood Nights and Light Up a Life with creativity, passion, and heart.
Roughly eight years ago, she expanded her role once more—this time taking on the full scope of our marketing efforts. From website upgrades and commercial development, to managing our Facebook presence, weekly newspaper articles, press releases, and media relations, Maria’s steady hand has shaped how our community understands and connects with our mission. She has led and supported the work of Jim Klein and his team, and Candi Rice, with deep respect and genuine collaboration.
Before joining Hospice, Maria served for 12 years as editor of The Martinsburg Journal, sharpening her gift for storytelling—one she later used to tell our story so beautifully.
Maria’s service extends well beyond our walls. She is an active member of the Martinsburg Rotary Club, Airport Authority Secretary, incoming Chair of the Martinsburg-Berkeley County Chamber of Commerce, a member of St. Joseph Church, and a committed volunteer in countless community organizations. And every Wednesday morning, you can find her on WRNR and TV10 with Board Member Bill Stubblefield, sharing Hospice updates with warmth and clarity.
Anyone who knows Maria also knows she’s always on the move—literally. A dedicated walker, she circles the MOB most days at lunchtime, greeting others with her signature smile.
Maria, your leadership, heart, and unwavering commitment to this mission have shaped Hospice of the Panhandle in ways that will be felt for decades.
We are profoundly grateful for your service, and we wish you all the joy, rest, and fulfillment this next chapter will bring.
Please join us in celebrating Maria and thanking her for 17 years of extraordinary dedication.
