Meet The Team

Kaile Hilliard, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado, is an alumna of Colorado State University’s Master of Social Work program. With extensive experience in skilled nursing, assisted living, and critical access hospital settings, she is an expert in regulatory compliance and quality assurance. As a former Colorado state surveyor and seasoned clinical consultant with over 17 years in the field, Kaile has successfully guided healthcare operators in achieving CMS 5-Star ratings and optimal clinical outcomes. Her expertise includes mock surveys, staff training, and crafting multi-state IDR/IIDR submissions. Kaile is the co-founder and CEO of Granite Peak Healthcare Solutions, LLC, where she works closely with facility leadership to identify challenges and implement effective strategies.

Dr. Carmen M. Taylor is a distinguished nursing executive with over 32 years of comprehensive experience spanning various sectors of healthcare. Her diverse expertise includes acute care, quality assurance and performance improvement, regulatory compliance, public health, critical access hospitals, psychiatric care, and subacute/long-term care. As both a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner (NP) and a licensed Nursing Home Administrator (NHA), Dr. Taylor brings a unique blend of clinical acumen, regulatory knowledge, and leadership proficiency to her roles.

Dr. Taylor is committed to advancing nursing education,training and practice. She has served as a faculty member at a nursing college, where she is dedicated to mentoring nurses. She continues to practice as a Nurse Practitioner, ensuring her skills remain current and relevant. Her previous experience includes serving as a long-term care and complaint surveyor, as well as participating in the Informal Dispute Resolution Committee for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Dr. Taylor's expertise is  sought in legal contexts, where she provides expert testimony on clinical matters.

Dr. Taylor’s academic credentials are extensive and impressive. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY, followed by a Master of Science in Management from Keuka College, NY. She furthered her education with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), specializing in Adult Gerontological Primary Care, from Walden University, graduating with honors. Dr. Taylor is board-certified and licensed in Colorado and holds a compact nursing license. She has recently completed her doctoral degree and is on track to complete her dual certification in Psychiatric care by 2025.

An active member of several professional organizations, Dr. Taylor is involved with the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and the National Society of Leadership and Success. Her commitment to excellence in nursing and healthcare leadership is demonstrated through her diverse roles and professional accomplishments, underscoring her position as a leader in the field.

After a balancing a thriving career as a social work director and part-time consulting work, Jessica joined the Granite Peak consulting team with over 15 years of LTC experience and continues to do great work in our new endeavors at Granite Peak Healthcare Solutions, LLC. Jessica is available to provide temporary social services work, education, system -specific social services and activities/recreation consulting.

Sarah Thomas is a Master of Social Work and Licensed Social Worker with extensive experience in healthcare. As a former surveyor and former Director of Social Services for an acute care facility, Sarah brings a wealth of knowledge in regulatory compliance and patient advocacy. Her extensive background as a case manager has equipped her with the skills to navigate complex healthcare systems, ensuring that patients receive the support and care they need. Sarah is dedicated to enhancing patient outcomes and improving the overall quality of care in the facilities she serves.

Samuel Okhiku is a Registered Nurse with a robust background in healthcare leadership and regulatory compliance. As a former surveyor, Director of Nursing, Regional Nurse, and Regulatory Compliance Manager, Samuel has a comprehensive understanding of healthcare operations and standards. His experience spans across multiple levels of nursing and management, making him an expert in ensuring regulatory compliance and fostering high-quality patient care. Samuel is dedicated to guiding healthcare facilities toward achieving excellence in both clinical outcomes and operational efficiency.