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 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, Hailey is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations throughout campus while supporting leaders and team members in their mission to provide personalized care for our residents. Getting to know residents and their families, as well as connecting with individual team members throughout the day, are the little moments that bring her the most joy in her role. Originally from St. Cloud, Hailey joined Ecumen St. Benedict’s Community in 2023, feeling energized by the continuum of care we offer and a bond with our organization’s mission and values.
Hailey’s favorite local amenity is the Mississippi River, where she enjoys boating, fishing, and exploring the many connected parks and trails.
Away from work, Hailey can be found enjoying the company of her family and friends. Boating in the warmer months. Ice fishing in the colder months. Traveling with her husband any time of year.
Housing Director
As the Housing Director, Abby is responsible for overseeing daily operations of our independent living, assisted living, and memory care services, ensuring that residents receive the highest level of care in a safe, supportive and respectful environment. She works closely with residents and families to understand their needs and offers support and guidance as they navigate the inherent complexities of senior care, with the goal of making the process as smooth as possible. In her role, Abby leads a dedicated team of caregivers, staff and medical professionals, while also managing budgets, ensuring compliance with regulations, and advocating for the health, well-being and satisfaction of residents. Working alongside a passionate team of experts to face challenges together and find solutions that give our residents a home where they can live with dignity is what she finds most rewarding. Originally from Sartell, MN, Abby joined Ecumen in 2024, seeing the connection between her own experience with caring for a family member and the people-first approach in Ecumen’s mission.
Abby’s favorite local place to visit is Quarry Park & Nature Preserve for hiking and swimming.
Away from work, Abby is most likely with friends and family enjoying the outdoors or trying out a new restaurant.
Social Services Director
As our Social Services Director, Brenda is responsible for overseeing all aspects of resident social services, including the conducting of initial health assessments, developing personal care plans, coordinating family meetings, advocating for resident needs, maintaining community resource connections, and ensuring compliance with industry and government regulations. She’s often the voice (and attentive ear) on the phone guiding overwhelmed family members who are seeking support and resources for a loved one. In her role, Brenda enjoys building meaningful relationships with residents and their families to understand their life stories and foster genuine connections. She believes every team member has value and purpose which impacts the lives of our residents in a variety of positive ways. Originally from Pipestone, MN, Brenda has lived in St. Cloud since 1994 when she began working at St. Benedict’s Community.
Brenda’s favorite local place to visit is Munsinger Gardens along the Mississippi River where she enjoys walks, picnics and taking in the beauty of the flowers and gardens. And if it’s a bite to eat you’re after, she recommends a burger, fries and shake at Val’s, a family-owned burger shack. They have the best fries in town!
Away from work, Brenda cherishes time with her precious family, including her husband of 27 years, two daughters and a grandson. You might see them out together trying new restaurants and volunteering at a variety of community organizations.
Senior Living Consultant
As a Senior Living Consultant, Melinda is responsible for connecting with individuals and their families to help find the best option for living space and care services. From the moment of initial inquiry, she works directly with families to arrange and host tours, gather care service information, complete assessments, and schedule a move-in date. In her role, she enjoys connecting with individuals and their families, learning about their life story, and discovering what they’re most looking forward to in their future. These are connections she holds dear and continues once someone has joined the community. Originally from Gilman, MN, Melinda joined Ecumen in 2020 to continue her pursuit of working with seniors in the medical field.
Melinda’s favorite local places are the brewpubs and theaters, including Paramount Theater and Pioneer Place on 5th.
Away from work, Melinda enjoys spending time outside with her husband and two boys and running with her running group.
