Staff

Common Threads staffers come from varying backgrounds, but share a concern for children, a commitment to positive social change, and a love of good food and the communities food can create and sustain.

Jillayne Samatas is a native Chicagoan. She received her B.S. in Elementary Education from the University of Arizona with a minor in Spanish and recently graduated with a Masters in Child Development from Erikson Institute. She has always had a passion for working with and helping children learn. Before joining the Common Threads team, Jillayne taught in various settings in Arizona and Chicago including after-school programs, pre-schools and elementary schools. She also completed an internship at Children’s Memorial Hospital where she coordinated the education of their patients. Studying abroad in Spain for six months made her realize her interest in culture and the arts and her passion for food. Her commitment to helping children has always been a driving force in her life and it continues to be today as she pursues her Program Coordinator role at Common Threads. Some of her favorite cuisines are Mexican and Middle Eastern. Jillayne's ultimate favorite treat is lemon bars.