Meet Our Board of Directors
Guiding the Vision. Championing the Mission. Celebrating St. James.
The Celebrate St. James Cultural Arts Center is proud to be led by a passionate and dedicated Board of Directors—each bringing their unique expertise, life experience, and unwavering commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage and community spirit of St. James. Together, this team works collaboratively to shape a vibrant future rooted in art, history, and local pride.
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Natalie Weinstein, ASID Allied
Founder/President An award-winning interior designer, educator, author, and media personality, Natalie Weinstein brings vision and heart to everything she does. As co-founder and returning President of Celebrate St. James, she continues to champion cultural preservation, community engagement, and artistic enrichment through inspired leadership.
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Jack Ader
Founder/Executive Vice President A seasoned print production expert and accomplished photographer, Jack Ader blends operational excellence with creative vision. His dedication to storytelling and civic pride makes him a powerful force in preserving local heritage and driving community-based initiatives.
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Tami Vitebski
Vice President of Digital Strategy and Community Engagement Tami is a dynamic nonprofit professional who brings a wealth of experience in digital outreach, event planning, and inclusive program development. Her passion for uplifting the community is evident in everything she does. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for connecting with diverse audiences, Tami plays a key role in elevating our presence and impact both online and in person.
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Danielle DiTomasso Grenier
Vice President of Social Media and Marketing Danielle is an enthusiastic creative strategist with a strong background in social media marketing and event planning. Her ability to craft compelling campaigns and coordinate vibrant community events brings fresh energy to Celebrate St. James. She excels at building connections, amplifying community voices, and driving engagement across digital and in-person platforms.
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Dr. Maria F. Benetos, D.O.
Vice President of Membership Dr. Maria Benetos, a compassionate geriatric psychiatrist and advocate for mental wellness, brings a holistic, inclusive approach to leadership. Her commitment to diversity, heritage, and cultural connection is central to building a welcoming and engaged membership community.
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Meet Our Grant Leadership
Writing for Impact. Funding the Future. Empowering Our Mission
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Patricia Clark
Former Board President and current Grant Writer Patricia enjoyed a 36-year career with the Suffolk County Department of Social Services, culminating as Director of Management & Research. Her roles spanned finance, Medicaid, child support, and family services. Joining Celebrate St. James in 2017 as secretary, she became president in 2021, succeeding founder Natalie Weinstein. Now serving as grants manager, Pat remains a driving force behind the organization’s growth and mission to revitalize the St. James community.
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Meet Our Program Director
Creating Experiences. Cultivating Talent. Inspiring St. James.
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Jillian Mayer, BSN, RN
Director of Programs and Education Jillian is a dynamic educator and healthcare professional whose work bridges wellness, the arts, and community engagement. With leadership experience in both nonprofit and school settings, she brings a strong background in program development, student advocacy, and holistic health. A certified yoga teacher and published children’s book author, Jillian integrates creativity and mindfulness into her work. Currently pursuing her Master’s in Nursing, she is passionate about designing programs at Celebrate St. James that foster learning, wellness, and connection.
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Meet Our Dedicated Chairpersons
Collaborating closely with the Board and program leaders to bring Celebrate St. James’ mission to life—guiding events, supporting initiatives, and helping make the Cultural Arts Center a vibrant hub for creativity, community, and culture.
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Charlie McLaughlin
Chairperson, Facilities Management
Charlie, originally from the Bronx, spent nearly five decades in the life and health insurance industry. After moving to St. James in 1986 with his wife Dorothea, he raised three daughters and became deeply involved in community and volunteer work—including leading his company’s medical responder program post-9/11. Now retired, Charlie brings his passion for service to Celebrate St. James.
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Elaine Demy
Chairperson, Summer Concert Series
Elaine Demy, a longtime St. James resident, spent 21 years as executive assistant at North Shore Montessori School, where she supported school leadership, staff, and vital fundraising efforts. Passionate about community and preservation, she now brings her energy and experience to Celebrate St. James as the Summer Concert Series Coordinator.
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David Kornblith
Chairperson, Children’s Events
David, residing in St. James for five years, originates from Philadelphia and spent the last two decades in Boston. Shaped by the belief in community service, he dedicated two years to full-time volunteer work with underprivileged children in Americorps' City Year program. Excited about Celebrate St. James, David actively contributes to children's events, embracing the opportunity to strengthen community bonds in the area.
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