Staff
Temple Emanuel of South Hills has a dynamic and friendly staff team working hard to meet our congregational vision of Living, Learning, and Leading Judaism. You will find members of the staff leading Temple’s vibrant ECDC and Torah Center programs; enriching and inspiring Jewish life through programming, classes, and worship services; and supporting all aspects of your experience at Temple.
Kate Louik
412-279-7687
Senior Director of Temple & ECDC Director
Kate Louik is Temple’s Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC) Director and the Senior Director of Temple. In addition to the countless things she does to support the children, families, and staff at ECDC, Kate oversees Temple’s physical facility, supports the staff team, and is involved in the day-to-day decision making for the organization.
Steph McFerron
412-279-7600, Ext. 214
Torah Center Director & Temple’s Event Coordinator
Steph McFerron is the Torah Center Director and Event Coordinator. In addition to the myriad ways she supports the children, families, and staff at Torah Center, Steph is the point person for lifecycle events (b’nei mitzvah, weddings, funerals, and more).
Sarah Mangan
412-279-7600, Ext. 212
Programming & Communications Director
Sarah Mangan is Temple’s Programming and Communications Director. In addition to her responsibilities for many events that connect Temple members to Jewish life and to one another, Sarah oversees Temple’s calendar, meets with prospective members, schedules security, generates our publicity and communications, and so much more.
Rabbi Emily Meyer
Program Associate
Rabbi Emily Meyer aides in developing and leading educational and social programs as Temple Emanuel’s Program Associate. She leads ECDC’s First Experience program, designs curriculum and resources for Torah Center, works with b’nei mitzvah students, teaches classes, and more.
Ellen Drook
412-279-7687
ECDC Assistant Director & Temple’s Communications Associate
Ellen Drook is the Assistant Director of ECDC and Temple’s Communications Associate. In addition to the ways she supports ECDC and her work in the classroom, Ellen manages Temple’s ShulCloud database and website.
Rebecca Closson
412-279-7600, Ext. 207
Finance and Development Director & ECDC Music Specialist
Rebecca Closson is Temple’s Finance and Relationship Director and the Music Specialist at ECDC. In addition to overseeing Temple’s financial affairs, Rebecca has a role in Temple’s development efforts, supporting our evolving strategic plan, and facilitating members’ connections to Temple and to one another.
Lori Blattner
412-279-7600, Ext. 200
Office Manager
Lori Blattner is Temple’s Office Manager. In addition to answering phone and email inquiries from members with personal care and attention, Lori aides in coordinating RSVPs for upcoming events, processes checks and payments received by Temple, and makes everything Temple does possible.
Melinda Freed
412-279-7600, Ext. 200
Catering Manager
Melinda Freed is Temple’s in-house Caterer and events specialist, supporting families during lifecycle events and bringing the Temple community together over shared meals.
