Experienced Team
Compassion and Experienced Senior Care Team
At Northland Heights, our team is the heart of everything we do. Families trust us to provide compassionate care, personalized support, and peace of mind through every stage of the senior living journey. From nursing and wellness to dining and recreation, each team member is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment where residents feel valued, comfortable, and at home.
With years of experience serving seniors and their families, our team understands that every resident has unique needs and preferences. We work together to provide high-quality care, meaningful engagement, and the reassurance that comes from knowing your loved one is in caring and capable hands.
Executive Director
Amanda Topnick
Amanda brings over two decades of dedicated experience in long-term care. She graduated from Ohio University in 2000 with a BSH in Long-Term Health Care Administration and worked in skilled nursing until 2016 when she obtained her Personal Care Administrator license. Amanda’s journey in long-term care began at the age of 12 as a volunteer in a skilled nursing facility, fostering a lifelong dedication to the field. She is set to receive her Assisted Living Administrator license on June 29, 2024. At Northland, Amanda plays a pivotal role in guiding new residents and their families through the admissions process, ensuring a seamless transition into the community with her extensive background and compassionate approach.
Recreation Director
Leigh Ann Hillegas
Leigh has a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of seniors through meaningful engagement. A graduate of Mercyhurst University, Leigh has over eight years of experience as a Recreation Director in various facilities and spent 6.5 years researching Alzheimer’s disease at Brite Wellness. With 13 years dedicated to the YMCA childcare program while raising her children and a personal connection to gerontology inspired by close relationships with her grandparents, Leigh’s career reflects her dedication to community and care.
Business Office Manager
Karina Tucker
Meet Karina, Northland Heights’ Business Office Manager. She holds an Associate’s Degree in Radiologic Technology, a Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Imaging, and a concentration in Spanish. Before joining Northland Heights, she gained significant management experience in Urgent Care. While transitioning to her current role marked a notable shift in her career, it has been an immensely rewarding experience. In her four months at Northland Heights, Karina has acquired invaluable knowledge and looks forward to continuing her professional growth with the organization.
Director of Nursing
Ashley Maruca
Ashley Maruca, LPN, brings nearly two decades of experience in the healthcare field. She began her career in 2006 as a Certified Child Development Specialist and CNA, working with adults with intellectual disabilities and geriatrics. She earned her practical nursing degree from John D. Rockefeller in 2011 and has since built a diverse skill set, including five years as an American Red Cross CPR Trainer and nine years as a Pennsylvania Medication Administration Trainer. With extensive experience in Alzheimer’s and dementia care, Ashley is deeply committed to improving the quality of life for our residents.
Culinary Director
James White
James brings over three decades of culinary and leadership experience to his work, with a steadfast dedication to quality, care, and creativity in food service. A graduate of the International Culinary Academy, James has served as Foodservice Director in multiple senior living communities, where he managed budgets, led teams, and personally cooked and baked for residents. His career has been defined by a hands-on approach—whether increasing bakery sales through innovative product development or ensuring meal programs meet nutritional and regulatory standards. James’s commitment to senior care, paired with his passion for culinary excellence, reflects a lifetime of service rooted in community, tradition, and heart.
Building Trust
Why Families Trust the Team at Northland Heights
Families choose Northland Heights because of the relationships our team builds with residents and loved ones every day. We take the time to understand each resident’s needs, provide personalized support, and create meaningful connections that help residents feel comfortable and cared for. Our experienced staff works closely with families, offering open communication, guidance, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved one is part of a compassionate, close-knit community. Through every interaction, we remain committed to helping residents live with dignity, comfort, and confidence.
What Families Are Saying
“Northland Heights has been absolutely fantastic to work with. The care my mother received is outstanding. She is treated like a family member with respect and love. They help her live with dignity and self pride. She is never shamed for her behavior. I am always greeted by someone who is cheerful and upbeat and willing to help me with any need that may arise. The support the staff had provided me is beyond my expectations. I have nothing but rave reviews for Northland Heights”
By Denise G
How We Can Help
Connect With Our Community
Schedule A Personal Tour
Our team is here to answer your questions, learn about your loved one’s needs, and help you explore the right senior living option. Schedule a tour today and discover the compassionate care and personalized support that families throughout Pittsburgh trust.