Our Team
Samantha Bergonia
Executive Director
A certified Otago instructor with a passion for fall prevention work and a diverse background in healthcare, education, and advocacy, she brings a deep commitment to promoting wellness and independence among older adults, as well as a unique blend of expertise to the Central Oregon Otago Program. Outside of her role as Executive Director, Samantha is an avid rock climber, skier, and live music attendee.
Board of Directors
Jenni Neahring M.D.
Jenni Neahring is a palliative care doctor at St. Charles who lives in Bend and actively seeks out ways to improve the health of her community. She has a passion for finding sustainable ways to improve the lives of our aging population. She has been involved in projects to help people age in their own homes, create age-friendly cities, and prepare for their medical care as they age. In her free time, she volunteers on several boards and usually chooses to be out rock climbing.
Yvonne Peterson
Yvonne Peterson retired from a Steel company in Ohio and moved to Bend to be closer to her sister. She volunteers for The Giving Plate and Bethlehem Inn. She hikes in the warmer months and plays board games every week.
Louis Capozzi
Following 40 years in corporate communication and public relations, Lou pursued a second career teaching in graduate programs in New York City and Oregon. Active in both the profession and the community, he volunteers on both national and local non-profit boards.
R. Lynn Smith
Lynn has called Central Oregon home for the past 13 years, embracing the region’s natural beauty and active lifestyle. His professional background includes extensive leadership experience, having served as an Executive Director, Regional Manager, and Vice President of Operations for Senior Housing.
Outside of work, Lynn is an avid outdoor sports enthusiast. He has been a dedicated member of the Mt. Bachelor National Ski Patrol for over 13 years, reflecting his commitment to safety and adventure. Lynn’s passions extend to rock climbing, mountain biking, and backpacking, among other pursuits, making him a true lover of the great outdoors.
Whether on the slopes or in the boardroom, Lynn’s energy and dedication shine through in everything he does.