Getting to Know…Michelle Dotro

By Rebecca Weinfield / July 21, 2026

Michelle DotroName: Michelle Dotro

Title: Associate Director of Nursing

How long have you been with JSDD?
12 year’s total

Was this the position you started in?
Yes, though I started part time, then became full time.

What is your first memory of JSDD?
My first memory is going to the DDC clinic (primary care clinic) and meeting the director. It was my second day on the job. It was highly informative, and I learned, through observing the director, how to do a comprehensive exam in a short period of time.

What has most surprised you about working with JSDD?
That the team works as a highly effective unit.
Everyone comes in with their best ideas!

What are 3 words to describe JSDD?
Different, learning, exciting.

What do you find most challenging?
Always expect the unexpected here. Every day is different- which is a good thing but also, a challenge!

What do you wish other people knew about JSDD?
That we provide comprehensive, quality support to our residents.
Everything we do is for our residents.

When your friends/family find out that you work at JSDD, what do they say or ask?
Everyone knows the big building and wants to know what we do!
Many family/friends are surprised that our agency exists and offers the specific services that we provide.

Tell me about someone who has influenced you while working with JSDD?
The residents have most influenced me; they are just so happy and excited to see me every day, and they literally have a smile on their face every time I walk in the door! It confirms that the residents are happy and healthy. We can tell that they appreciate us, and it is very inspiring. Seeing them happy is just so rewarding and exciting!

What part of your job are you most excited about?
Seeing the residents every day! I spend a lot of time in the group homes, interacting with the residents and hearing about their day and I love it.

What is on your wish list for the next 5 years with JSDD?
Continued growth with the agency and being able to provide the same services that we have now, to a larger population.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about working for JSDD?
To come to work here! It is a pleasure! There is a lot of support and there is a team effort from the top down. It is pleasant and rewarding and overall, it is a positive working environment and supported on every level.

Before working at JSDD what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I’ve done some substitute school nursing in the school system.

What is your favorite thing for Lunch?
Everything! But especially sandwiches.

What is something about you that is not on your resume?
I like a lot of sports, especially football and hockey. I was a football mom for my son, who played high school football.