Meet our Community Engagement Team

Cathy Samatas, started working part-time as a health educator in CJE’s Center for Healthy Living in 2018. In her new role, Cathy provides leadership and actively participates in the assessment, planning, coordination and facilitation of programming to increase consumer engagement with many of CJE’s businesses/operational areas.   Cathy has extensive experience in developing community outreach programs, managing events, networking, and designing community-based learning initiatives including evidence-based practices for healthy living.  She has BS in Psychology from Loyola University (Chicago, IL) and a MA in Psychology/Gerontology from Northeastern Illinois University (Chicago, IL).

Esther has been a CJE staff member since 1987 during which time she has held many positions in community-based programming. She is a trained leader for Healthy Eating, Take Charge of Your Health and Food $ense.  Ms. Craven is also the coordinator for several popular and longstanding programs such as: The Lakeshore Mercaz Center for Older Jewish Adults, Community Senior Adults (held at Lieberman Center) and a variety of Lunch and Learn programs. She is CJE’s lead Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) trainer for all SHIP-trained staff members.  

Tamara Kushnir Groman is a Senior Life Educator at CJE SeniorLife.  She focuses on financial and legal matters in her work with older adults. Tamara has a law degree and has a practice background in legal services with the Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago. She also worked as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable James Epstein. Tamara received her BA in Politics, Philosophy and Economics from the University of Pennsylvania and her law degree from Loyola University Chicago. She is an active community member volunteering at food pantries and other service organizations. 

Casey Shipman joined CJE in 2019. Her roles have included Program Support Specialist, Program Coordinator for the Instant Israel Project, and most currently as the Virtual Programs Coordinator. She has experience in non-profit development, fundraising, marketing, event planning and administration at various Chicago non-profit organizations. Casey received her BFA from Michigan State University in Acting. She is also an active volunteer for service organizations and environmental groups throughout Chicago.

Sharon Shapiro is a Program Support Specialist at CJE SeniorLife.  Sharon has a BA in English from Loyola University Chicago and a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from Dominican University. She has a background both as an academic librarian and corporate researcher.  Sharon has extensive experience in database research, training, project management, and customer service.