Our Leadership Team
Great Leaders set out to make a positive difference in people's lives.
At St. Joseph Senior Living, we are guided by a dedicated team of leaders who embody our mission to make a positive difference in people’s lives. Each member of our leadership team brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents. Get to know the individuals driving our community forward:
Rachael Hock, MBA, LNHA - Executive Director
As of January 1, 2023 Rachael was named the Administrator of St. Joseph Senior Living. Previously, she had served as Assistant Administrator and in various other capacities at SJSL. In her capacity as SJSL’s Administrator and as a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (State of Ohio), Rachael oversees the daily operations – that entails Nursing, Therapy, Dining Services, Social Services, Life Enrichment, and Housekeeping/Laundry.
In 2013, Rachael began her SJSL career in Independent Living’s Dining Services area while attending college. She graduated from Kent State with a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in Nursing Home Administration. Rachael obtained her Master Business Administration in healthcare management from Walsh University in 2019. While finishing her collegiate work, Rachael worked in SJSL’s business office prior to having been appointed Assistant Administrator.
Rachael lives in Canton with her dog and two cats.
Sheila James - Director of Business Development
With over 30 years of experience in the senior living sector, Sheila James embodies a leadership journey grounded in compassion, expertise, and strategic growth. Her career began as a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA)—a role that instilled in her deep empathy and a firsthand understanding of resident care needs. From there, Sheila ascended through several leadership roles, including Marketing Director, Director of Business Development, and Executive Director at a luxury senior living community.
Currently, as Director of Business Development & Marketing at St. Joseph Senior Living, Sheila is responsible for external marketing and census development for the campus—playing a pivotal role in sustaining and expanding community engagement and awareness.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Sheila treasures her roles as a mother of two children and a grandmother to two grandchildren, whom she considers her proudest accomplishments. When she’s not elevating resident experience or advancing census success, you’ll likely find her planning her next travel adventure, bringing her passion for discovery to life.
Leatha White-McFarren - Director of Life Enrichment
Leatha joined the St. Joseph Senior Living team as the Life Enrichment Director with 24 years of experience in the senior healthcare setting as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant/Therapy Manager. Leatha and her team oversee Life Enrichment activities for the Long-Term Living, Memory Care, Assisted Living, and Independent Living.
She has a passion for enriching the lives of our seniors through meaningful and purposeful programming. In her spare time, Leatha enjoys spending time with her husband, Chris, of 28 years, and her four children.
Kelli Shaw - Director of Dining Services
Kelli Shaw is the Director of Food and Nutrition Services at SJSL since December 2021. She is responsible for providing nutritious and delicious meals for our campus and adhering to residents’ specific dietary needs. Kelly started out as “the Happy Cart” girl, giving residents drinks and snacks at a local hospital. Kelli worked her way up to the dietary supervisor. She enjoys her line of work it feels good going home for the day knowing that you make a difference in someone’s life, even if it is through their stomach.
She lives in Perry Township with her Great Dane and enjoys spending time with family.
Brian Harbert - Chief Financial Officer
Brian has worked in the healthcare industry for the past 25 years, the most recent four which were at St. Joseph Senior Living. Brian graduated from Walsh University with a major in Finance.
Brian resides in Canton, as he has done his entire life.
Amy Casline, LSW - Director of Social Services
Amy graduated from Malone College with a Bachelor’s Degree in social work. She has been a licensed social worker in the state of Ohio for 14 years. Her career began in Child Welfare and Mental Health Services. In 2018, Amy came to St. Joseph Senior Living as the Director of Social Services. Her passion is helping others. Her position at St. Joseph’s allows her to advocate for residents and their families, provide safe discharges for the Wellness Center, assist residents with services from auxiliary professionals, and engage residents in family through Plan of Care meetings.
Amy is widowed and lives in Canton, Ohio. She spends her spare time with her children and grandchildren.
Darla Ollis -Director of Houskeeping and Laundry
Darla joined St. Joseph Senior Living in 2014 as the Supply Clerk until 2018, when she was promoted to the Director of Housekeeping and Laundry.
Darla has been an STNA for over 31 years. She enjoys being with her family and friends. The beach is her happy place, and she gets all the snuggles she can from her grandson.
Michelle Mattern - Director of Human Resources
Michelle’s Journey at St. Joseph Senior Living began in 2016 as a prn receptionist. Her exceptional talent and positive attitude quickly made her a valuable asset to the team. Over time, she extended her support to the business office and social services before stepping into the role of Human Resources assistant. Through her dedication and hard work, Michelle has now achieved the position of HR Manager. Known for her approachable nature, employees feel at ease when talking to her. Her cheerful demeanor often leaves visitors with a smile or two. Michelle strives to be a reliable advocate for all staff members.
During her free time, Michelle indulges in reading, aiming to achieve 50 books per year. To unwind, she finds solace in coloring activities. Michelle’s interests include a deep love for
Hello Kitty, 80’s music, and TikTok. She eagerly embraces the holiday season, being the first to play Christmas music and spreading festive cheer well in advance.
Paul Cherry - Director of Maintenance
Paul Cherry joined the SJSL team as Maintenance Director in November of 2022. He has gained experience as a Maintenance Director by working for multiple facilities within Stark County. Paul’s professional experience began in real estate, which led to his involvement in residential and commercial maintenance. In his capacity, he maintains the campus infrastructure with his team. He maintains a safe and secure campus for both employees and residents. He ensures all equipment is functioning properly and safely. He oversees environmental compliance at Federal, State, and local levels. He leads the training of all staff in Emergency Preparedness.
Paul is a 2008 graduate of Ashland Theological Seminary with a Master’s of Divinity. Over the years, he has worked in real estate while holding ministry positions. He is married with four children and resides in the countryside of East Canton.