Hartwell Place Leadership.
Meet our Leadership Team.
The leadership team at Hartwell Place is committed to creating a community where individuals and families affected by dementia can feel fully supported in a beautiful, residential environment. Guided by a mission of compassionate service, they work alongside residents, families, and team members to foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring every decision reflects the community’s values and long-term vision.
Let’s Connect!
Learn more about Hartwell Place by giving us a call at 773.923.2774 or filling out the form on this page.
Jennifer Vernoski
Executive Director
Jennifer has over 20 years of experience working with adults with dementia. She previously worked at Eastside Adult Day Services in Issaquah, WA and locally at Rush Alzheimer’s Family Care Center before joining Chicago Methodist Senior Services in 2014 as a Program Coordinator. Since 2018, Jennifer has served as the Executive Director of Hartwell Place. She oversees operations, including working with residents, families, and the care team, while managing the day-to-day functions and compliance regulations at Hartwell Place.
Trish Parker
Outreach Coordinator
Trish’s mother lived with Alzheimer’s disease and Trish observed how caregivers helped her mother live her final years with dignity and grace. This experience inspired Trish to start her own home care business prior to moving to Chicago and joining the CMSS team. As the Outreach Coordinator, Trish enjoys helping older adults and their families find and obtain the care they need.
Denise Goch
Life Enrichment Manager
Denise has more than 30 years of experience working with older adults. She cared for her parents who both had dementia and realized it was her calling. Denise has worked in home care and in assisted living communities. She is a Certified Nurse Assistant and a Certified Dementia Practitioner. She leads with her heart and enjoys learning to engage with each resident individually. As Community Life Coordinator, Denise creates engaging programming for residents.
Emma Kokolus
Program Services Coordinator
Emma graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a degree in Biochemistry and Spanish Language and Literature. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Work at Loyola, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). In 2021, Emma volunteered with CMSS’ Bringing Art to Life program and discovered her passion for working with older adults with neurodegenerative diseases, particularly in fostering their creativity and emotional well-being. Emma currently manages the community’s volunteer program, facilitates Saturday life enrichment programming, supports Executive Director Jen in initiatives, and oversees front desk operations.
Isha Mollfulleda
Day Club Coordinator
In 2013, Isha began volunteering at CMSS as an activities assistant. She realized that working with older adults was her calling. Isha started working at Hartwell Place as a Resident Associate in 2022. In addition to working directly with residents, she managed the Hartwell Place front desk on weekends. In her newest role as the Day Club Coordinator, Isha enjoys getting to know each member and ensuring they have the best day possible.
Friends & family testimonials
It is very apparent that my mom is well cared for and loved here.
A caring and beautiful place. I appreciate the commitment to care at Hartwell Place.
It is very easy to communicate needs or concerns to any staff member. The team really works hard to provide engaging activities for residents. I love how they reach out to get family members involved in activities too.
The staff make my mom feel valued and cared for, even on her challenging days.
