Leadership

Cathy Barker, MS, is a seasoned nonprofit executive with nearly 30 years of experience leading organizations in the social services sector. Since joining Jewish Family Service of Dallas in 2010, she has served in key roles—including Chief Operating Officer and Chief Development Officer—before being named President and CEO in 2018. Under Cathy’s leadership, JFS Dallas has experienced significant growth and transformation, expanding from a $3 million to nearly $14 million operation, increasing its staff to more than 115 professionals, and broadening service delivery to three locations across North Texas. She has championed program innovation, operational excellence, workforce development, and long-term sustainability. A trained clinician, Cathy’s background in mental health informs a leadership style grounded in compassion, inclusive decision-making, and trauma-informed care. She is widely respected for her integrity, strategic vision, and unwavering dedication to strengthening lives through comprehensive, accessible services.

Brenda is a seasoned finance leader with more than 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, bringing specialized expertise in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Since joining JFS Dallas in May 2025, she has focused on operational excellence, financial stewardship, and efficiency to navigate the complexities of social services, healthcare management, and reimbursement. Brenda is passionate about serving clients and ensuring access to high-quality care. She finds deep satisfaction in translating complex financial strategies into tangible improvements that expand access, reduce barriers, and strengthen the trust families place in JFS Dallas.

Deizel Sarte, RN, MAS, FACHE, began her career as a pediatric nurse at Children’s Hospital of Orange County before joining North County Health Services (now TrueCare) in San Diego, where she advanced to Chief Operations Officer during her 18-year tenure. Under her leadership, the organization grew from $40 million to over $80 million in annual revenue while serving 13 locations with more than 800 employees. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from California State University, Fullerton, and a Master's in Advanced Studies in Leadership of Healthcare Organizations from the University of California, San Diego. Since joining JFS Dallas in 2019, Deizel has led major strategic initiatives, including COA re-accreditation, IT modernization, and the opening of JFS’s first and second primary care clinics.

Leah joined JFS Dallas in 2016 and has 15+ years of professional experience in Jewish community nonprofits. As CAO, she oversees strategies for fundraising, grant writing, communications, and community engagement to ensure sustainable growth and visibility for the agency. She holds a Master of Communication Management with a concentration in Organizational Communication from the University of Southern California and a Master of Arts in Jewish Nonprofit Management from Hebrew Union College. Leah is passionate about strengthening the JFS Dallas mission through meaningful relationships and impactful storytelling that connect the community to the agency’s work.

Clinic Locations: JFS Northpoint and JFS Parkside Health Centers

Dr. Esquivel is a board-certified Family Medicine physician who is passionate about preventive medicine, chronic disease management, women’s health, and adolescent medicine. She has served as both a treating physician and Chief Medical Officer at Federally Qualified Health Centers across the country. Dr. E is committed to expanding access to healthcare for underserved communities.

Sally joined JFS Dallas in 2021 and has 15+ years of experience working in the mental health field as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years as a clinical leader.  As VP of Programs, she leads and supports JFS programs to address emotional, nutritional, and financial health.  She is responsible for the strategic direction, development, execution, and evaluation of program initiatives related to behavioral health, PLAN, CFS, Food Pantry, and Patient Access.   She has a passion and commitment to drive impactful evidence-based programs that meet the needs of the community through collaboration and empowerment.  

An experienced human resources leader, Ashley has more than 10 years of experience working across education, nonprofit organizations, and mid-size corporations. She joined JFS Dallas in 2025 and leads the HR department, guiding every stage of the employee life cycle to ensure staff can thrive in service to the community. Ashley holds a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Strategic Human Resource Management from Grand Canyon University and is a SHRM-Certified Professional. She is passionate about building equitable systems that expand access and opportunity for all.

Carey joined JFS Dallas in 2018 while completing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. In her role, she oversees multiple departments dedicated to streamlining access to care. Her therapeutic background and passion for the individual experience guide her leadership, ensuring services are both responsive and compassionate. Carey is deeply committed to meeting people where they are—whether supporting clients, colleagues, or students in training—making her a trusted advocate for accessible, person-centered care throughout the community.

Jill joined us in 2023 and oversees Career and Financial Services and the Food Pantry. Jill holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, a Master’s in Teaching, and a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology. Jill brings over 30 years of experience in public education, including roles as an elementary school teacher, assistant principal, elementary school principal, and adjunct professor. Before joining JFS Dallas, she spent five years with a nonprofit organization, providing site-based coaching and professional development for school districts. Known for her entrepreneurial mindset and clear communication, Jill excels in leading teams and nurturing talent. In her role, she continues to mentor high-performing teams, driving sustainable, impactful results across the organization.

Daniel joined JFS Dallas in early 2024, bringing more than 30 years of accounting experience across senior living, real estate, banking, manufacturing, and nonprofit organizations. As Controller, he leads the accounting team and oversees financial operations for both the agency and the JFS Foundation. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business Control Systems with a major in Accounting from the University of North Texas. Daniel is committed to providing timely, accurate financial reporting that supports strategic goals and ensures strong stewardship of resources entrusted to the agency.