West NY News

Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. has appointed Dana Corwin as Interim Director of the Office for Aging Services. Corwin steps into the role following the retirement of Dr. Mary Ann Spanos, who served the aging population in Chautauqua County for decades.

“Dana Corwin is an exceptional leader and advocate for the aging community,” said Wendel. “Her deep knowledge of healthcare, coupled with her passion for service, makes her the ideal person to carry on the important work of the Office for Aging Services. Dana has been an integral part of this office for years, and I am confident that under her leadership, we will continue to provide critical services to our seniors and their families.”

Corwin, a registered nurse and Mayville resident, joined the Office for Aging Services in 2008. Throughout her tenure, she has been instrumental in providing advocacy, connecting clients with essential services, and responding to emergencies.

Previously serving as Deputy Director of the Office for Aging Services, Corwin supervised programs such as home care, health and wellness initiatives, Meals on Wheels, and NY Connects, which assists seniors, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers across the county.

“I am honored and excited to take on this role,” said Corwin. “Having worked alongside Dr. Spanos for many years, I have learned a great deal about the importance of creating a network of care for our seniors. I look forward to continuing her legacy while also bringing my own perspective to the table.”

Wendel expressed gratitude to Spanos for her years of service and praised her commitment to Chautauqua County's aging population.

“I want to personally thank Dr. Mary Ann Spanos for her dedication and leadership,” said Wendel. “She has made a lasting impact on our community, and we are fortunate to have had her at the helm for so many years. I trust she will enjoy retirement. Dana’s appointment ensures that we will continue to build on that strong foundation.”

Corwin echoed those sentiments by thanking Spanos for her mentorship and guidance.

“Dr. Spanos taught me so much about not only the logistical side of running this office but also the heart behind it,” Corwin added. “Her passion for helping people stay in their homes and connected to their communities is something I will carry forward in this new role.”

As interim director, Corwin will continue advocating for seniors and vulnerable populations in Chautauqua County. She highlighted her team's dedication to addressing unmet needs through collaboration with various county departments and external partners.

“We are always looking for ways to improve the lives of our clients,” Corwin said. “Our team knits together a ‘quilt of care’ by identifying any gaps in services and finding solutions, whether through county resources or our many community partners. It’s an approach that I am proud to continue.”

Corwin is a graduate of Union Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, Notre Dame of Maryland University, and Bellevue University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

“I am most proud of the opportunity to help those in need,” said Corwin. “This role allows me to expand my passion for healthcare with my dedication to serving the community. I look forward to continuing advocacy for the seniors, caregivers, and families of Chautauqua County.”