For Tammi McMann, caring for people begins with listening. As the Talent Engagement Specialist at Oak Hammock, McMann spends much of her time supporting team members through employee relations, onboarding, hiring, interviews and orientation. But her role goes far beyond processes and paperwork. What she enjoys most is building relationships and understanding what employees need so she can help them find opportunities to succeed.
“I think my talent is understanding what people need and helping them connect with the right resources and support,” McMann says.
That “people-first” approach comes naturally. Before joining Oak Hammock, McMann spent 32 years with Progressive Orthodontics, beginning as a receptionist and eventually becoming the practice administrator. She joined Oak Hammock after learning about an opportunity in human resources and will celebrate five years with the organization in March 2027.
With her warm, engaging smile and genuine commitment to making a difference in the lives of Oak Hammock team members, McMann has earned the respect of her peers and administration.
As the VP of Human Resources Sofia Mendez-Bork said, “Tammi’s ability to build genuine rapport across all departments, paired up with her professional approach, makes her an invaluable team partner. Her skillful coordination of events makes a meaningful impact on our HR team and the services we provide.”
With more than 350 team members at Oak Hammock, McMann knows that every individual brings something different to the community. She looks for ways to connect individuals with opportunities while also helping them understand the many resources available to them.
“I try to create an opportunity for them and get a feeling about who they are by listening to them,” she says. “Every day I come to work, we create our environment, energy and passion.”
Recently McMann reflected on her role at Oak Hammock:
What do you like about your job?
I enjoy my job! I would describe myself as an advocate for Oak Hammock’s team members and hope to continue helping strengthen the community’s culture.
I am proud to develop relationships with all our colleagues and feel as though I am making a difference by helping fill open positions with the right people.
Although my day-to-day work does not involve as much resident interaction as I would like, I understand my work has a direct impact on the resident experience. I serve our residents by maintaining a team, training and caring for them.
I want to continue to help with our culture at Oak Hammock.
How do you apply We Care to what you do?
The WeCare values of welcoming, exceptional, courteous, attentive, responsive and empathetic are integral to our work at Oak Hammock. My goal is simple: keep learning, keep growing and keep helping people.
I see our We Care philosophy as an important reminder to lead with kindness, empathy and respect.
One of the most important ways I put WeCare into practice is by listening. Whether I am welcoming a new team member, helping someone navigate a workplace concern or looking for ways to support professional growth, I take the time to understand the person behind the situation.
I feel a strong team creates a stronger community. I value resident feedback through Oak Hammock’s WeCare surveys and appreciate hearing what residents enjoy and where there are opportunities to improve.
What Inspires You About Oak Hammock?
I am truly inspired by the generosity of Oak Hammock residents. From supporting the Helping Hands fund to contributing to employee scholarships and the end of the year appreciation recognition, residents continually demonstrate their commitment to the people who care for them. This is a wonderful community.
Our benefit programs here are such a positive part of the entire employment package. We are very generous to our team members and that deserves more recognition.
I also encourage team members to embrace the same spirit of lifelong learning that I see throughout Oak Hammock, including through the community’s Institute for Lifelong Learning.
I love to learn and encourage our team members to do the same.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I feel I am an open book and not much would surprise people. Outside of Oak Hammock, family is at the center of my life.
I was born in Upper Sandusky, Ohio and moved to Gainesville when I was 14.
My husband, Michael, and I have been married for 39 years. We met at St. Augustine Beach, became friends before we began dating, and married just six months after we met.
Today, our family includes two wonderful children and four amazing grandchildren who keep us busy and bring so much joy. I especially love dancing with our grandchildren and cherish the times when the entire family can be together.
Our grandchildren call us “Maw Maw” and “Pap Paw.” I love to see my family and grandchildren all together. It makes my heart full!
Family togetherness is also reflected in the way we give back. Each May, our family volunteers at Fishing For Vision, a fundraising event started by my brother that supports children with vision needs and helps fund the Florida Kidsight Foundation. Our extended family also gathers for Christmas—an occasion that brings together approximately 33 family members.
“Tammi is the kind of HR professional who makes a difference not only through her expertise, but through the genuine care she shows for the people around her. She is dependable, approachable and always willing to help, bringing professionalism, compassion and a positive spirit to everything she does. Tammy is a true team player and a valued part of the Oak Hammock family. We are grateful for the many ways she supports our employees and helps make our workplace a great place to work.” – Sonja Donlin, Chief Operating Officer
“I have enjoyed working closely with Tammi since her arrival at Oak Hammock. She seems to have an endless supply of energy and brings enthusiasm to everything she touches. She is someone the team can count on—always willing to help, quick to respond and ready to step in wherever she is needed. Her positive attitude, attention to detail and genuine care for others make working together easier and help keep all of us moving forward.” – Danelle Nix, Executive Office Administrator, Assistant to the CEO
“Tammi is always working behind the scenes and remains firmly mission-focused. She is Oak Hammock’s best supporting actress—someone who sees the big picture, stays focused and puts in the work. She never seeks accolades or recognition; she simply rolls up her sleeves, gets the job done and makes a difference. Her dedication, perspective and quiet determination are invaluable to the team.” – Rose Crowder, Catering Manager