Marianna Blagburn stands as a dedicated advocate for older adults, bringing over a decade of rich experience in the field of aging to her role as Director of Memory Support Services and Programming at Ingleside At Rock Creek. Her commitment is deeply rooted in fostering engaged and active lifestyles for seniors within a vibrant community setting.
Prior to her impactful work at Ingleside at Rock Creek, Marianna served as the Associate Director of Innovative Programming and Marketing at a distinguished Memory Care community in Washington, D.C. In this capacity, she pioneered a holistic approach to resident programs, meticulously weaving together elements for mind, body, and spirit enrichment. Her innovative initiatives included a nature studies field school, designed to connect residents with the outdoors, a circuit wellness program focusing on strength and flexibility to promote physical well-being, and intimate small group discussion sessions utilizing storytelling and visual arts to encourage cognitive engagement and emotional expression. Furthermore, Marianna collaborated closely with the clinical team to develop an Adult Day Social Program, specifically tailored to support individuals living at home with neurological decline, extending the community’s reach beyond its immediate residents. Her expertise also extended to staff and provider education, where she developed programs focused on addressing the critical Mental Health needs of Adults in Assisted Living Memory Support settings.
Marianna’s leadership journey includes her tenure as Executive Director of Northwest Neighbors Village, an award-winning non-profit volunteer organization. Serving the diverse communities of Chevy Chase, DC, Tenleytown, American University Park, and North Cleveland Park, she championed strategic partnerships with key figures in aging services across the District of Columbia. Her efforts significantly elevated the visibility of older adult rights and fostered vital support networks for those choosing to age in place within their own homes.
A social scientist by training and a seasoned non-profit leader, Marianna holds the esteemed Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) certification. She is also a graduate of American University’s Master’s Program in Anthropology, specializing in culture change, providing her with a robust academic foundation to complement her practical expertise. Through her multifaceted career, Marianna Blagburn embodies a profound dedication to enhancing the lives of older adults, making her an invaluable asset to Ingleside at Rock Creek and the wider community it serves.
