Our Staff

Rabbi Michelle Stern leads Shabbat and holiday services, shares her deep love of music by integrating it into prayer and programming, and facilitates dynamic Jewish learning sessions. In addition, she provides spiritual guidance to residents, clients, family members and staff members during transitions that occur in a health care setting.

A board-certified chaplain, she has worked in numerous hospitals, nursing homes, congregations and schools on the East Coast and the US Virgin Islands. Rabbi Stern’s interest in eldercare and the intersection of spirituality and health grew during her rabbinical internships in long term care and acute care hospitals.

Before joining CJE, Rabbi Stern worked as the staff chaplain in the emergency and intensive care units at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, where she also trained as a mindfulness meditation facilitator.  She received her Bachelor’s degree from Mount Holyoke College and holds a Master’s degree and ordination from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College.  

Jenn is the Religious Life Coordinator at CJE SeniorLife. In this position, Jenn is responsible for seeing that the religious and spiritual needs of our residents and community members are met by coordinating religious services, holiday celebrations and other opportunities for engagement throughout the year. Her work can often include visiting with clients, teaching classes and leading prayer and song sessions. Additionally, she provides in-house education for CJE staff around Jewish holidays, culture and traditions. A native Chicagoan, Jenn has worked in the local Jewish community for many years. She received her bachelor’s degree from Gallatin School of Individualized Study at New York University and is currently pursuing a master’s at Northwestern University.