Celebrating 15 Years of Compassion, Teamwork, and Growth at The Gardens
At Mt. San Antonio Gardens, our employees play an important role in creating a welcoming and supportive community. For the past 15 years, Margie Reeves, LVN Clinical Coordinator at Oak Tree Lodge, has been a dedicated member of The Gardens team, building meaningful relationships with residents and colleagues while continuing to grow in her career.
Margie’s journey at The Gardens began as a per diem floor nurse. Through hard work, dedication, and a passion for learning, she embraced opportunities for professional development and advanced into her current role as LVN Clinical Coordinator. Throughout her career, she has found fulfillment not only in providing care but also in connecting with residents and supporting her fellow employees.
“What I enjoy the most is the communication I get to have with residents, the good and the bad, and the relationships I build with them. It’s interesting to learn about what they’ve done in the past and hear their stories. The same goes for staff. I enjoy making sure they have what they need, providing skills training, and making learning fun and enjoyable.”
For Margie, these connections have been one of the most meaningful parts of her career and a major reason she has remained at The Gardens for 15 years.
“What has kept me here are the relationships I have with residents and staff. We all work together as a team.”
That spirit of teamwork was especially evident during one of her most memorable experiences at The Gardens. When residents from another senior living community were forced to evacuate due to nearby wildfires, employees came together to welcome them and help them feel comfortable during a difficult time. Staff even transformed an office into a temporary closet to accommodate the visiting residents’ needs. It was a moment that demonstrated the compassion, flexibility, and willingness to help others that make The Gardens community so special.
As Margie celebrates 15 years of service, her journey reflects the opportunities for professional growth, meaningful relationships, and teamwork that are part of the employee experience at Mt. San Antonio Gardens. From her beginnings as a per diem nurse to her current role supporting residents and staff, she continues to make a positive difference in the community.
Thank you, Margie, for 15 years of dedication, leadership, and compassionate service. Your commitment to residents, colleagues, and continued learning is a wonderful example of the people who make The Gardens such a special place to live and work.
Jay Labinger is a Gardens resident, he was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. Jay received his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Harvey Mudd College. He attended Harvard University where he earned a Ph.D. He was an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Notre Dame. His career has included positions with Occidental Research Corporation & Atlantic Richfield. He is the Administrator of Beckman Institute at the California Institute of Technology as well as a Faculty Associate in the Chemistry Department. He enjoys reading, playing the piano, tennis and traveling. He has published books on the history of chemistry, sociology of science and literature & science. Here at the Gardens, Jay is part of the Conservation & Sustainability Committee the Green Fund as well as many other groups through the Gardens Club.
Jane Hurd is a Gardens resident, she was born & raised in a small town in Arkansas. After she received her BA from the University of Arkansas she moved to California and taught seventh grade English in Porterville CA. After two years she moved to Los Angeles and worked for the Department of Health Services and pursued a master’s degree in public administration from USC.  She served as CEO for two Los Angeles area hospitals. She continues to consult as an executive coach for CEOs of healthcare companies.  She has served on several boards including Mutual of America Insurance Company, YMCA of Metropolitan LA, LA Visiting Nurses Association and Inland Empire Girl Scouts. Jane is an award-winning author and plays several musical instruments. Here at the Gardens, Jane is part of the newly formed Bequest Committee, as well as many other groups through the Gardens Club.
