Meet Our Management Team

Vera Lampe

Chief Executive Officer

As CEO of Bethany Methodist Corporation, Vera directly oversees our two business lines of Chestnut Square at The Glen (an independent senior living community) and Partners in Healthcare (private duty caregiver services).  Her professional life has been devoted to senior care, and for the past 17 years, she has been a dedicated member of the Bethany Methodist management team, having most recently served as Chestnut Square’s Executive Director for 14 years.

“I love working with older adults, making a difference in their lives, and learning each of their unique stories,” Vera explains.  “This organization has held a special place in my heart for a long time, and I’m honored to be serving in this new role and for the opportunities ahead.”  Vera enjoys yoga, traveling with her husband, exploring new cultures, visiting family, and learning new recipes.

Renee Bellew

Director of Sales & Marketing

“My favorite thing about working at Chestnut Square for the past nine years is getting to know prospective residents, their families and all their unique circumstances,” says Renee. “We become like a second family throughout the process, and after moving into their new home, I usually hear that it’s the best decision they’ve ever made. I think being a non-profit organization allows us to really focus on the well-being of every person.”

Renee has frequently volunteered in local school and community organizations, and also enjoys traveling, racquet sports, biking, hiking and cooking. Most of all, she loves spending time with her husband, two daughters and two grandchildren.

JAMIE WOLFE

Director of Life Enrichment

“I love the relationships I have with the residents here at Chestnut Square,” says Jamie. “I especially enjoy learning about their lives, listening to their stories and advice, and developing enriching programs with their input. This community is filled with so much warmth and positivity.”

Jamie received a Bachelor of Science degree in Therapeutic Recreation, with an emphasis in Gerontology, from the University of Wisconsin—La Crosse. She is also a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. In her free time, she enjoys traveling across the U.S. and abroad, learning about history and different cultures, and spending time with her family.

BOB PARTLOW

Facilities Manager

“Working with our maintenance and housekeeping team has been gratifying because we help make the community a safe and cheerful place for our residents,” Bob explains. “Everyone here shares a passion for serving seniors, and I was very drawn to that. I also feel a strong connection to the neighborhood because early in my career, I worked as a brick and stone mason during the construction of Gallery Park, right across the street from Chestnut Square.”

Happily married for 31 years, Bob enjoys traveling with his wife, golfing, crafting with wine corks, and spending time with his three children.

LANA MANOJLOVIC

Dining Services Manager

Lana brings extensive experience in the food, beverage, and hospitality industry, having led training programs for new restaurants across the country. She also loves catering to older adults and has served as Director of Dining Services at various senior living communities in the Chicago area.

"Chestnut Square is an amazing place filled with wonderful people,” she says. “I really enjoy knowing that one meal, one experience, one special moment can make an impact in someone’s life." Lana loves spending time with her extended family, relaxing by the beach, sports outings, and attending comedy shows.

Sharon Oidem

Director, Partners in Healthcare

“Our caregiver agency allows us to build special relationships with our clients by helping with activities of daily living, all from the comfort of their home,” says Sharon. “It’s super rewarding to know that we are enhancing someone’s life in a tangible way. Our compassionate and experienced caregivers are the heartbeat of our mission and I’m thrilled to have joined the team at Bethany Methodist!”

Sharon is a big dog lover and enjoys participating in various charitable causes including Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) and Hope for PAWS. She also enjoys traveling, being surrounded by family and friends, and riding her bike in local forest preserves.

MELANIE MYATT

Chaplain

Melanie oversees Chestnut Square’s vibrant spiritual life program and provides various religious and learning opportunities for residents of all faiths.  Her background includes time as a minister, spiritual director, preacher, and chaplain. 

“I love meeting one-on-one with people, and I appreciate Chestnut Square’s mission to focus on holistic well-being,” she explains. “For me, it’s rewarding being able to care for our residents’ spiritual needs, regardless of where they are in life.”  A proud mother of four children, ages 14 to 22, Melanie also enjoys reading, exercising, sports, and playing the piano.