James Ruliffson
Director
Mr. Jim Ruliffson is the Director at the Mountain Retreat. He has been with St. Jude's for five years, and it has been the most gratifying career choice he has ever made. Mr. Ruliffson started his career here as a program instructor.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of watching people make dramatic positive changes in their lives. In addition to being a part of the team that helps our guests, teaching the St. Jude Program has enhanced my own views on family, community, how to build loving relationships, and building a more meaningful life in general. My personal mission, as the Director is to continue to pass on those values and knowledge of research that is an integral part of the St. Jude Program and the CBE method. I look forward to seeing you come through the doors of the St. Jude Mountain Retreat!"
Dave Herrmann
Assistant Director
Richard Santelli
Career and Academic Advisor
Mr. Santelli is the Career and Academic Advisor at the Saint Jude Retreats. He has been with the company since April 2004.. Mr. Santelli was a Principal at Johnstown High School and Superintendent at Wheelerville Central School District. Mr. Santelli holds a Master in Science of Education Administration from SUNY Albany and a Master in Science of Education from the College of Saint Rose. He is also a New York State Certified Teacher, School Administrator Supervisor, and School District Administrator, also a Veteran of the United States Army.
"I was thoroughly impressed by the social/educational program that the Saint Jude Program professes. Making the correct choices and living according to the principles that the program proclaims can indeed bring about happiness to anyone. I found that this program is not solely about sobriety, but about how to be happy. In this, I have learned as much from the students as they have from me. Though I have never struggled with addiction personally, my life has had its share of depressing, anxiety provoking times. This program has actually helped me greatly in my quest for happiness."
Cheryl Curtis
Director of Quality Assurance and Staff Development
Mrs. Curtis is the Senior Director of Quality Assurance and Staff Development. She has been with the company since 2004. Mrs. Curtis has been in her current position since late 2010. Previously, she was a Program Instructor, Director of Education, and Director. She is a Graduate of the College of Saint Rose with a Bachelor of Science in Education.
"When I decided to return to school in order to become a teacher, I had no idea that I would be teaching the best curriculum possible: how to be happy. It has been completely gratifying and life-changing for me to witness people's quest for happiness, and for the realization to come that everyone has the exact same capacity towards happiness. I am inspired on a daily basis when I see guests change their thoughts and actions in order achieve fulfillment and contentment in life, and to experience everyone around that person benefitting from those changes. The previous lifestyle pales in comparison to the new options the guests have in life, and life changes from dark and dismal to hopeful and promising. What a wonderful mission to be a part of!"
Holly Reynolds
Director of Education
Ms. Holly Reynolds is the Director of Education and an instructor at the Mountain Retreat. She has an Associates Degree in Humanities, a dual Bachelors of Science Degree in Elementary Education and Special Education, and a Masters Degree in Science of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. She is a New York State certified teacher with nine years of classroom experience in a Special Education School; where she worked with students who have been classified with emotional and behavioral disabilities.
"The Saint Jude Program curriculum is a very realistic approach to not only living a life free of substance use, but also a life full of happiness. The first time I read the text, I was so excited to see how much focus is placed on achieving one's goals and dreams, and thereby achieving happiness; rather than the topics of substance use. It focuses on creating an identity of success rather than one of defeat. Everyone faces struggles in life, but we also face insurmountable opportunities to live selflessly and joyously. This program guides people to turn what they may already know into reality. You can be happy, and when you believe that and begin to focus your energy on that pursuit, you will be!"
Joseph Reynolds
Program Instructor
Mr. Joseph Reynolds is one of the program instructors currently teaching the St. Jude Program at the Mountain Retreat. He also serves as a hiking guide for the guest "Outbound Program" after having completed the 1,000 mile Appalachian Trail in 2003.
"It is a genuine honor to guide our guests on their journey through the St. Jude Program. I have experienced first hand what it has to offer: a means of self-discovery and a path to authentic happiness, fulfillment, and self directed Neuroplasticity. The program is about more than quitting substance use. It is about Life. It is about learning, growing, facing adversity, and ultimately about finding a way to live in accordance with the reality of one's true nature and values. It is a privilege to see how this program helps people change their lives."
Theresa Baker
Program Instructor
Mrs. Theresa Baker is a Program Instructor at the Mountain Retreat. She has worked as Reservation Specialist and Assistant Director before accepting the position as a Program Instructor.
"Over twenty years ago, I lived and experienced a life full of substance use issues. Like many of our guests, I had made several attempts with traditional treatment programs. After failing after each, I realized the only person that could change my life was me. I taught myself to focus my thoughts and energies on the positive aspects of life that replaced my previous negative choices and habits. My loved ones and my newly generated lifestyle became most important to me. After working a few years here at St. Jude's, I can officially say the St. Jude Program not only confirmed my methods of self motivated change, but I'm now happier than I've ever been. I feel blessed to be a contributing attribute to Saint Jude Retreats and I look forward to helping those in need for the rest of my days!"
Mary Simons
Head Chef
Mrs. Mary Simmons is the chef at the St. Jude Mountain Retreat. She has been with St. Jude's since 2005.
"Being the chef at the Mountain Retreat is a pleasure. Cooking is my passion. I have been married for 40 years; have two boys and seven wonderful grandchildren. When I cook for the guests, I want them to feel like they are eating a dinner with family."
Marlene Bradt
House Keeper
Ms. Marlene Bradt is one of the housekeepers at the Mountain Retreat. She has been with St. Jude's since 2004.
"I love working here more and more every day. It brings so much happiness to know how many lives you can help in a small way. I have lived here in the Town of Wells for 43 years and have 4 wonderful children and 3 grandchildren. The Mountain Retreat house was owned by my in-laws, and my children grew up here. Since this house was my home for so many years I try to make every guest feel like it is their home while they are here."
