As Executive Director of The Estates at Laytonsville, Sharon Barkanic brings a unique blend of hands-on caregiving experience, healthcare expertise, operational leadership, and a lifelong commitment to serving older adults. As the daughter of founder Ms. Betty Kasasa, Sharon’s journey with The Estates at Laytonsville began long before she assumed a leadership role. She grew up witnessing firsthand the vision, dedication, and compassion that transformed a family dream into a trusted residential assisted living community.
Sharon earned a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from Bowdoin College, where she developed a deeper understanding of cognition, behavior, aging, and neurological health. Her education strengthened her appreciation for the unique challenges faced by older adults, particularly those living with dementia and age-related cognitive changes.
Following graduation, Sharon expanded her healthcare and operational experience across multiple sectors of the healthcare industry. These experiences provided Sharon with a strong foundation in business analytics, process improvement, and healthcare operations. Since returning to The Estates at Laytonsville, she has leveraged this expertise to strengthen organizational performance, enhance regulatory readiness, and implement workforce development initiatives that empower caregivers through ongoing education, training, and professional growth opportunities. She believes that when caregivers are supported, empowered, and equipped to grow professionally, residents receive the highest level of personalized care.
Since the community’s founding in 2010, Sharon has served in nearly every role within the organization, including caregiver, Certified Nursing Assistant, Assisted Living Manager, Business Administrator, and now Executive Director. Working directly with residents and families throughout her career has given her a deep understanding of the physical, emotional, and social aspects of aging. These experiences shaped her belief that exceptional care extends beyond meeting daily needs, it is built on meaningful relationships, dignity, trust, and genuine human connection.
Today, Sharon proudly continues the family legacy established by her mother. Through compassionate leadership, operational excellence, strategic collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to resident-centered care, she remains dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming home where residents thrive, families find peace of mind, and caregivers are empowered to make a meaningful difference every day.
