Meet the Team

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Administrator Michael Karash, LNHA

Michael, a Washington Heights native, brings over 25 years of distinguished experience to Fort Tryon, where his warm smile and welcoming demeanor brighten each resident’s day. He earned his MSW from Yeshiva University and is a Licensed Social Worker as well as a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator in both NY and NJ.

Throughout his extensive career in Long Term Health Care Administration, Michael has demonstrated his commitment to excellence through his service on NYSHFA’s Ethics & Standards Committee and his selection for NYSHFA’s Foundation for Quality Care Advanced Administrator’s training. His professional affiliations include membership in the Greater NY Health Care Association, and he was an Adjunct Professor of Gerontology at Long Island University (LIU).

Beyond his professional achievements, Michael maintains a balanced life through his passion for sports, particularly as a dedicated Little League Baseball Coach, showcasing his community involvement and leadership skills.

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Saranda Gocaj, Director of Nursing

Saranda practically grew up in Fort Tryon. While still in high school, she started working here as a private duty Home Health Aide. Discovering her passion for the elderly, Saranda became a certified Nurses Aide. She pursued further education to become a Registered Nurse, eventually rising to the position of Director of Nursing.

Saranda’s promotion brought joy to the residents, who enthusiastically applauded her. She is a proactive and energetic individual. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, taking beach walks, and cooking tasty meals.

Renee Fishweicher Fort Tryon Director of Rehabilitation

Director of Rehabilitation Dr. Renee Fishweicher

PT DPT MS

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy.
  • Renee graduated Hunter College School of Health Sciences in 1978 with a BS degree in Physical therapy and a Masters degree in Exercise physiology/Cardiac rehabilitation  from Queens College in 1995.
  • She received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Dominican College in 2012.
  • Renee is a member of the APTA  and participated in APTA task force in Virginia in 2001.

 

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Melissa Papir, Clinical Dietician

Melissa Papir is a registered dietitian and graduated with a master’s in nutrition sciences from Queens College (CUNY) in 2016. Prior to Fort Tryon Center, she served as the food service/clinical dietitian in Essex County Hospital Center in Cedar Grove, NJ, working with psychiatric patients and assessing their nutritional needs. In addition to her current role as clinical dietitian at Fort Tryon Center, she contributes nutritional education to local newspapers and blogs, fulfilling her entwined love for nutrition and writing. She is also a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and writes for their blog site as well.

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Kimberlyn Arboleda, Director of Recreation

Kimberlyn holds a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Lehman College, bringing professional expertise to her role. With a genuine passion for brightening people’s days, she finds true fulfillment in creating moments of joy and connection.

Working with seniors has always held a special place in her heart. As Kimberlyn often shares, “They’re the only ones who know true history” – a testament to her deep appreciation for their wisdom and experiences.

When not at work, Kimberlyn expresses her creative spirit through “material art” and various artistic projects. Her love for nature and animals further reflects her compassionate character and balanced approach to life.

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