Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Andreano.
Hi Mary , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My decision to pursue a career in nursing was inspired by a personal experience with my grandmother and a desire to become a hospice nurse. To achieve that goal, I attended a diploma nursing program in the evenings while balancing other responsibilities. Upon graduation, I quickly learned that most hospice organizations required at least two years of acute care experience before considering candidates for hospice nursing positions.
I accepted a position at a hospital in Philadelphia, where I cared for patients on an HIV/Oncology unit. This experience provided a strong clinical foundation and prepared me for a successful transition into hospice care.
Over the past 30+ years, I have built a rewarding career in hospice, serving in a variety of leadership and clinical roles, including bedside hospice nurse, team leader, clinical director, administrator, and executive leader. I have also had the opportunity to help establish several hospice organizations across the country in partnership with two national hospice providers.
Twenty years ago, a group of dedicated hospice professionals came together with a shared vision of creating a hospice organization committed to maintaining the highest standards of care. Their goal was to ensure that every patient and family received the exceptional compassion, support, and clinical excellence they deserved. I am proud to be part of that legacy today.
Until May 1, 2025, I served as Vice President of Clinical Services. Following the retirement of one of the organization’s founders, I transitioned into my current role as President and Administrator, where I continue to uphold our mission of delivering outstanding hospice care and leading an organization dedicated to excellence.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Personal and professional growth is never without obstacles or challenges. Each time you overcome an obstacle, you become stronger, wiser, and better prepared for future success. Being able to face challenges with resilience and determination is essential to providing the highest level of care and service to patients, families, customers, and staff. The lessons learned through adversity help build the confidence, knowledge, and skills needed to succeed and make a positive impact on others. Caring for patients and families at the end of their life presents unique challenges, as everyone dies as uniquely as they have lived. We learn every day and must remain open to learn from each patient and family experience.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Grace Healthcare Services was founded from a deeply personal experience. After witnessing a close friend struggle to find compassionate and knowledgeable hospice care, a founder, recognized the need for an organization built on empathy, integrity, and excellence. This inspired the creation of Grace Healthcare Services with a mission to provide person-centered hospice care, hire caregivers who are genuinely passionate about serving others, and help bridge the gap in hospice education.
Today, that founding vision continues to guide everything we do. Our culture is rooted in compassion, teamwork, and continuous learning, ensuring that every patient and family feels supported, respected, and understood throughout their care journey.
With more than 100 years of combined leadership experience, Grace Healthcare Services has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional hospice care across New Jersey. We proudly serve families throughout Atlantic, Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, and Union Counties.
Our brand: The Meaning Behind The Mark:
At Grace Healthcare Services, our mission is rooted in a single, profound symbol: 恩 (pronounced ēn), the Chinese character for grace.
The character 恩 is made up of two parts – each carrying deep meaning that reflects our commitment to compassionate, intentional care:
因 (yīn), means cause or purpose
It portrays a person resting within shelter, an image of calm, safety, and intention. For us, it represents care that is mindful and deliberate, where every action and word carries meaning and respect for life’s final chapter.
心 (xīn), means heart
It symbolizes compassion, empathy, and the emotional strength it takes to comfort others. It reminds us that true care flows from the heart, offered freely and received deeply.
Together, these parts form 恩: a union of purpose and heart – a model for how we care.
What makes you happy?
Professionally, I find great joy in seeing hospice professionals grow, develop, and expand their skills within their roles and throughout the organization. Supporting others in their professional journey and watching them achieve success is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.
Personally, my greatest joy comes from my family. Spending time with my daughter, son-in-law, and grandsons brings immense happiness to my life. The moments we share together are truly cherished and provide me with a deep sense of fulfillment and gratitude.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gracehcs.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracehealthcareservices
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gracehealthcare
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grace-healthcare-services
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@gracehealthcareservices
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/grace-healthcare-services-edison-2
