MEET YOUR TEAM
The Wirthwein Marketing Team: Integrity, Experience, and Personable Service
Christine A. Wirthwein, President
Christine Wirthwein established Wirthwein Marketing in 1989 and continues to lead the award-winning organization. With a distinguished background in senior marketing, Christine contributes unparalleled expertise in strategic planning, sales, marketing, and advertising for the senior housing industry. Since beginning her career in 1983, she has supported over 200 communities nationwide.
Christine is recognized as a dynamic presenter, speaker, author, and trainer. She has participated in prominent events including LeadingAge and Ziegler conferences, among others at the state level. Christine co-authored “Inside Advice for Senior Housing Marketing” with Phyllis Thornton—a widely regarded industry resource. She also served as an annual judge for the Mature Market Resource Center’s creative competitions. She also served as the sole faculty member for the highly respected Marketing Professional Certificate Program, sponsored by Leading Age of Illinois.
Melinda Whitehead, Account Services Director
Melinda Whitehead manages accounts, oversees media placement, coordinates client services, and directs project workflows. Her expertise spans customer service, marketing, and administration, offering clients thoughtful and reliable support throughout each engagement. Additionally, Melinda handles budget management, financial oversight, and executive administration.
Before joining Wirthwein Marketing in 2009, Melinda held positions with the Buffalo Sabres, Buffalo Niagara Partnership, Peek’n Peak Resort & Spa, and North American Health Plans, where she led initiatives in sales, marketing, budgets, vendor/client relations, event management, and sponsorships.
Candi Thornton, Art Director
With 25 years of experience across graphic design, marketing, sales, and client management, Candi Thornton has delivered measurable outcomes for both local and international clients, including McGard LLC, Daemen College, and MPR Restaurants. Candi excels at producing logos, flyers, ads, videos, banners, and other digital and print materials, utilizing advanced proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat Professional, Premiere Pro, and Microsoft products. She streamlines processes for improved workflow and enhanced client satisfaction, fostering cooperative relationships and positive communication.
Candi holds a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design and a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education (with a theatre minor) from Daemen College.