Brittany Matus-Ray, the assisted living administrator at Oak Hammock at the University of Florida, was born and raised in Williston, Florida. Raised with love and care by her grandparents, her passion for nursing began at an early age. In high school, Matus-Ray completed courses to become a certified nursing assistant, or CNA, and spent seven years in the role, recognizing it as the foundation of her lifelong career in senior healthcare.

She joined Oak Hammock in 2014 as a licensed practical nurse, or LPN. From there, her commitment to care and dedication led to rapid advancements within the organization, from admissions and marketing nurse to assistant director of skilled nursing, and now, her current role leading a healthcare team within Assisted Living. Matus-Ray’s swift rise was driven by her passion for the residents and exemplary customer service. In addition, she sees patient advocacy and quality care as an essential part of overall patient satisfaction.

In her current position, Matus-Ray oversees the day-to-day operations of staff, CNAs, nursing, dining and maintenance teams. She manages clinical and regulatory issues and coordinates educational and appropriate training for all staff. She’s also a full-time student, pursuing her registered nursing, or RN, degree.

Recently, Matus-Ray sat down to share her experiences:

What do you like most about your job?

I love people and strive to develop deep bonds and lasting relationships. It doesn’t feel like work because I genuinely love what I do. From the moment I stepped into Oak Hammock, it felt like home. I’m proud to say that I build strong relationships with our residents, their families and loved ones, ensuring they trust the healthcare we provide is the best possible.

In previous roles, I didn’t have the authority to lead change, but now, when I see something that needs fixing, I can act to make things right. I value the opportunity to improve, and I always aim to provide the highest level of compassionate care. I also find joy in leading and encouraging our staff to strive for excellence in all they do. It is imperative as healthcare providers we show empathy, caring and kindness in all our endeavors.

How do you apply the WeCare theme to your work?

The WeCare values—welcoming, exceptional, courteous, attentive, responsive and empathetic—are at the core of everything we do. They guide our interactions with residents, families, guests, vendors and team members. I am very customer-service driven and always try to put myself in the residents’ shoes. As a healthcare professional, my work is an essential part of our residents’ lives, and I aim to provide comfort and care as they navigate changes. I also firmly believe in doing what you say you’ll do.

Can you share some positive experiences with residents?

One story that comes to mind is about a resident whose husband was hospitalized and not expected to recover. She couldn’t drive herself, so I offered to take her. I held her hand as she sat with him in his final moments. Afterward, we visited their favorite spot—Steak and Shake—for a hamburger and milkshake. It was a deeply meaningful moment for both of us and gave me deep satisfaction that I made difference for her.

Another recurring experience is sitting with residents as they transition in their final days. I always make sure someone is there with them, offering comfort and companionship at the end.

I’ve spent time on the porch or taken walks with residents, simply being there to listen or offering a shoulder to cry on. I truly provide a caring manner from the heart. Since 2006, I’ve kept a box of every letter and card from residents and their families. Looking back on those mementos reminds me of the difference I’ve made.

Quote from a former resident’s son:

Brittany Matus-Ray is, without a doubt, the finest nurse I have ever come across in all my experiences in and out of hospital settings. Brittany went out of her way to support our family during the painful last months of my mom’s cancer. That type of compassion is not taught in any nursing textbook – you either have it as part of our work ethos or you do not. Brittany’s heart is as big as anyone’s I have ever met in the medical profession. And that made all the difference to my family. – Joshua

What might people be surprised to learn about you?

I have two daughters, ages 17 and 10, and they are my lifeline. My girls are active in sports, and we love to travel together. My youngest daughter already has a passion for geriatrics and dreams of working in memory care. She even says she wants my job one day! My oldest daughter is considering a career in the military, possibly in the Navy or Air Force. My grandfather still lives in Williston, and we are very close. My family is my biggest support system.

I’m also honored to have received an “OHICAN!” scholarship for my RN certification. I encourage my colleagues to take advantage of this opportunity as well. The Oak Hammock Employee Scholarship Fund, “OHICAN!” is managed by Oak Hammock residents and the director of human resources. It covers all costs for approved degree or certification programs, helping to reduce or eliminate student loan debt. To date, over $100,000 has been awarded directly to schools on behalf of scholarship recipients.