Our Team

WORKING TO IMPROVE THE LIVES OF THOSE WE SERVE

Serving the Columbia Gorge for over 50 years, Columbia Basin Care is the only independent, not-for-profit care facility in the region. We operate with a skilled, dedicated staff, a volunteer Board of Directors, and a management company that provides oversight and support. With a resident-centered approach, we emphasize personal attention and continuity of care for each individual.  

Dr. Elizabeth Flores

MEDICAL DIRECTOR 

Dr. Flores obtained her medical degree from UCLA medical school in 2004. She then obtained a specialty in geriatric medicine with Kaiser Permanente’s Long Term Care Program.
Her expertise lies in helping older individuals improve health outcomes and age in place by bringing timely and comprehensive medical care to where they live.

Dr. Flores is bicultural and fluently bilingual (Spanish & English). She is a devoted wife and mother of two healthy teenage children and enjoys live theater, dancing, and exploring Oregon’s natural beauty outdoors.

Kara Cooper, NP

ASSISTANT MEDICAL DIRECTOR
GERIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER 

Kara Cooper, NP has a passion for taking care of the elderly and has training in caring for patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

In her spare her time, Ms. Cooper enjoys running, watching college football, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Tristan Sheppard

Environmental Services Director

Tristan joined Columbia Basin Care in 2024 as the Environmental Services Director and comes from a Fire and Life Safety background for over 6 years, positioning him perfectly for the job of maintaining a safe environment for residents and staff. Originally from Parkdale, he has always enjoyed what the gorge has to offer and is proud to serve his community through his work at Columbia Basin Care.

In his personal time, he enjoys volunteering as a Firefighter and EMT and learning new skills to improve his knowledge.

Joe Fischer

FOOD SERVICE DIRECTOR

Joe worked nearly three years as a cook at Columbia Basin Care before transitioning into managing the kitchen as the Food Service Director.

Joe is uniquely equipped for this role, having worked throughout 15 years as a certified nursing assistant and certified medication aide, and eight years with Heart of Hospice. In addition, he is a certified administrator for Assisted Living Facilities/Resident Care facilities.

Delena Gordon

SOCIAL SERVICES DIRECTOR, LPN

Delena is a Licensed Practical Nurse and has worked in long-term care for more than a decade. She graduated from Pioneer Pacific Community College in 2008 with an associates degree in Nursing. She first joined Columbia Basin Care as a charge nurse before transitioning into the role of Social Services Director. “My work here is rewarding,” she says. “I enjoy the daily interaction with the residents.”

She enjoys spending time with her family and is frequently busy with arts and craft projects with her children. 

Holly Ellis SPHR

Human Resources / Business Office

Alesia O’Brien

ACTIVITY DIRECTOR

Between bingo, baking, manicures and more, Alesia is busy buzzing about to ensure folks have access to fun. Creating engaging activities and events comes naturally to Alesia. “It’s a joy to come to work everyday,” she says.

Alesia was born and raised in The Dalles. She and her husband, Mike, raised three sons. The couple enjoy camping, snowmobiling, grandchildren, and spending time at their family ranch in eastern Oregon.

Gwen Berry

Medical records director

Gwen has worked at Columbia Basin Care for over 20 years. She was a CNA for 15 years before an injury caused her to change her position to Office Assistant. Through diligent and accurate work combined with her office experience, she was the natural choice to take over the Medical Records Director position in 2024. Gwen easily fit into her new role, with knowledge that is unmatched and a warmth that can be felt.

Gwen lives in The Dalles with her daughter and their 2 dogs, 2 cats and 2 bearded dragons. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family.