Michael has dedicated his life to being a catalyst for positive change in people’s lives through his professional and personal work. He is co-founder of the Chicago-based consulting firm, Executive Resources Consulting Group, specializing in the development of leadership and the enhancement of organizational culture.

Michael is a native of Indianapolis and has resided with his family in the Chicago area since moving from the Cleveland area in 1979. He graduated from Saint Louis University with a B.S. in psychology, and from Wayne State University with both a M.A., and a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology.

He was introduced to Sr. Lorraine Mark and Christ in the Wilderness in 1994, and was instantly inspired by the work she was doing, as it paralleled his professional interest in retreats for personal and spiritual development. Michael joined the CITW Development Board at its inception in 1998, and chose to continue his contribution to this important work through Board membership and now leadership as its Chairperson.

Maria Hill, CSJ

Maria grew up in Minneapolis, MN, where she entered the Sisters of St. Joseph after graduating from High School.  She earned a BA from the College of St. Catherine in St. Paul, MN, a MA in Educational Administration from the University of Dayton, OH, a second MA in Religious Education from Seattle University, WA, and a certificate in Spiritual Direction from Center in the City in Minneapolis, MN.

Throughout her career she served in numerous ministries of education and faith formation for children, youth and adults, spirituality, administration of schools, leadership in her community, and parish ministry.  Ministry opportunities have taken her to the Twin Cities, Cincinnati, OH, and most recently the Chicago area. 

Currently she has an office in the LaGrange Center and free lances in the areas of group facilitation and spiritual direction.  In 2010 she was delighted to be invited to join the CITW Board of Directors, since the mission of this ministry is an extension of her own spirituality.

Patricia A. Justice grew up in Evanston, Illinois and now lives in Urbana with her husband Dick and son Will. Her stepdaughter Stasia and stepson Jeremy live with their families in Michigan.

 Pat worked at the University of Illinois until her retirement from her administrative position in June, 2009.  She continues to serve as an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the College of Education.  She is a frequent volunteer at her church, her son’s school and organizations throughout the community and state.

            Her first visit to CITW in the summer of 2008 and it was love at first sight.  She joined the board in 2009.

Mary Lou Pleitner, CSJ --

Sr. Mary Lou is a member of the Congregation of St. Joseph, (La Grange). She works as a part time parish secretary by day; works with the La Grange Center Community Archives, and is a spiritual companion and creator of DVD reflective slideshows and website creator in her spare time. Sr. Mary Lou loves art, nature and solitude.

Maureen Clancy, SSND
“Clancy” is a member of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, Atlantic Midwest Province.  She loves books, photography and travel. Combining nature photography into reflective presentations is a favorite past time.  As a massage therapist, spiritual director, teacher she brings a variety of skills to her many endeavors.