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School Advisory Council Committee Bios

The School Advisory Council Committee members provide strategic guidance and dedicated service to support the mission and future of the School of St. Mary. Rooted in our Catholic identity and committed to excellence, they work in partnership with school and parish leadership to enrich the experience of every student and family in our community.

Bringing professional expertise and a deep devotion to Catholic education—many of whom are distinguished alumni and parents—these leaders help uphold our tradition of academic excellence, faith formation, and strong community engagement.

To learn more about each member, click on the + next to their name. 

Eileen Weber, Chair

Family

Eileen is a proud second-generation alumna of the School of St. Mary. She and her husband, Brian, are the joyful parents of two sons who currently attend the school (one at each campus)—continuing a cherished family tradition.

Education & Professional Background

Eileen earned a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture Production & Marketing from Purdue University and an MBA from Lake Forest Graduate School of Management. She is an active member of the American Academy of Floriculture and Professional Floral Communicators – International. As Vice President of Lake Forest Flowers, Eileen oversees daily operations of the family-owned business. In addition to her professional work, she also serves the broader community as a 4th Ward Alderman for the City of Lake Forest.

Why I Serve

It’s truly special that my children are now third-generation students at the School of St. Mary. I’m honored to serve as SAC Chair, working in partnership with our administration, faculty, parents, and parish to uphold the Catholic values and academic excellence that define our Blue Ribbon school.

Michelle Kijek, Vice Chair

Family:

Michelle and her husband, Jerry, have one daughter, Ella, who is a fifth grader at the School of St. Mary.

Education & Professional Background:

After graduating from the University of Michigan, Michelle moved to Chicago to start a career in public relations, spending nearly two decades at leading PR agencies. She then joined her friends in starting a food and nutrition communications agency, FoodMinds. Following its acquisition, Michelle established Nutrition In Demand with two partners to pursue new challenges and gain more flexibility for family and volunteerism. Her company collaborates with food commodities, companies, and universities to create nutrition research strategies and science communications programs that help improve public health and achieve clients’ goals. Twelve years ago, Michelle and Jerry moved to Lake Forest, seeking a special place to start their family, while enjoying the blessings of a strong community and beautiful surroundings like Lake Michigan and the forest preserves.

Why I Serve:

I’m grateful to participate in the SOSM School Advisory Council because I believe we’re truly stronger when we come together as one community, by listening to each other and respecting our unique perspectives. I think we (and our families) get the most out of opportunities when we fully engage and volunteer in any way we can. I hope to be a role model for Ella, showing her the importance of being generous with our time and talents whenever possible. And I’ve made several of my closest friends at SOSM, so I love the time we have together as volunteers, parents, and parishioners.  
 

Kate Burke, Secretary

Family:

Kate and her husband, Dan, are proud parents of two daughters currently enrolled at the School of St. Mary.

Education & Professional Background:

Kate and Dan are a “Miami Merger,” both graduating from Miami University of Ohio. Following graduation, Kate built a career in client service at leading advertising agencies in Detroit, Chicago, and London. In 2021, she transitioned to the nonprofit sector, joining Reading Power, Inc. in Lake Bluff—a literacy organization serving preschool through second-grade students in under-resourced communities. She currently serves as Director of Operations, aligning daily functions with the organization’s mission to advance early literacy. The Burke family loves being part of the Lake Forest community and can often be found at the beach, the library, local parks, and community events—Kate’s favorite being the annual tree lighting celebration.

Why I Serve:

I’m honored to serve on the SOSM School Advisory Council because I believe in the strength of our community. I want to help ensure that the School of St. Mary continues to thrive and grow for current families and future generations.

 

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