Our commitment to serving residents and their families starts at the top. With hands-on experience paired with genuine compassion, our leaders nurture a thriving St. Benedict’s Community Monticello campus that includes a growing number of team members who share a meaningful pursuit. Get to know the leaders behind our daily mission.
Regional Executive Director
As Regional Executive Director, John is responsible for overseeing operations for our portfolio of senior living communities in St. Cloud, Monticello and Sartell. In his role, John enjoys the simple privilege of meeting residents and doing anything he can to help them have their best day. He credits his grandpa for teaching him how to work and learn new skills at an early age and counts those formative years as the foundation for the gratitude he feels for every opportunity to serve seniors today. Originally from Ronneby, MN, John joined St. Benedict’s Community in 2018, following nearly a decade of experience working in senior living communities beginning in his college years at St. John’s University.
John’s favorite local place would have to be Menards, where he finds the resources he needs for his latest home projects.
Away from work, John is most likely in his shed or outside with his wife and kids working on their latest project. In the summer months, when it’s time to set down the tools they board their pontoon for quality lake time.
Executive Director
As our Executive Director, Jessica is responsible for overseeing operations of St. Benedict’s Monticello campus, assist and manage the campus team, and ensure regulatory compliance. A favorite part of her daily role is connecting with her team members to lead, support and mentor them in their mission to put the needs of residents first. She also enjoys engaging with residents and nurturing relationships with them and their families. Originally from St. Cloud, MN, Jessica joined Ecumen in 2023, bringing nearly two decades of experience with various roles at senior living campuses in the region. Her career journey began with volunteer work at St. Benedict’s St. Cloud Care Center, followed by an internship there her senior year of college that ultimately led to a full-time position in therapeutic recreation after graduation.
Jessica’s favorite thing about Monticello is the population of the city and all it has to offer for food and community events.
Away from work, Jessica loves to travel with family and friends. She feels fortunate to have traveled overseas multiple times, and appreciates any chance to learn about new cultures and the food that nourishes its people.
Senior Living Consultant
As a Senior Living Consultant at St. Benedict’s Monticello, Deb is often the first person an individual or a family meets when seeking a living space in our community. In her role, Deb enjoys getting to know the people she meets, learning about their goals and care needs, and helping them find the right living space to call home. During a new resident’s move-in, she offers support and guidance for the whole family. Originally from St. Cloud, MN, Deb joined St. Benedict’s Community Monticello in 2020, bringing 29 years of experience from leadership roles at St. Benedict’s Community St. Cloud. Looking back and into the future, she feels blessed by the opportunity to build special relationships with senior living residents, families and co-workers.
Deb’s favorite local place to visit is the Monticello Community Center with its vibrant Senior Center, gym, pool, and walking space.
Away from work, Deb enjoys gardening, traveling and the company of her husband, two adult sons and daughter-in-law.
Life Enrichment Supervisor
As our Life Enrichment Supervisor, Susan is responsible for developing and delivering a variety of meaningful activity programs with a goal of encouraging all residents to reach their highest level of independence, feelings of self-worth, sense of belonging, and quality of life. In her role, Susan often engages with the family members of new residents to support their loved one’s journey with thoughtful transition that includes lifelong interests and routines. Creating a family-like relationship with residents and working with supportive team members are the most satisfying moments of her workday. Originally from Elk River, MN, Susan joined St. Benedict’s Community Monticello in 2023. She credits helping to care for her grandparents at a young age and later becoming a Junior Volunteer before starting her first job in a senior living community, for establishing the path to a fulfilling career.
Away from work, Susan is most likely with her husband traveling and hiking the Minnesota State Park system, working inside her greenhouse planting vegetables, working in her flower beds and spending time with her first grandchild.
