Introducing Jessica Peternelj-Monea, Stark County TASC's New Executive Director

Leadership and Vision at Stark County TASC Inc.

Jessica Peternelj-Monea has taken on a pivotal role as the executive director of Stark County TASC Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals within the criminal justice system who are facing challenges related to mental health, alcohol, and drug abuse. Her responsibilities include overseeing clinical supervision for all licensed staff, developing programs, and implementing policies and procedures that enhance the client experience. She also works closely with stakeholders, agency boards, and local leaders to ensure that the clinical programming delivered by the organization continues to yield positive outcomes for those it serves.

Peternelj-Monea assumed her current position in June, following the retirement of David A. Willis, who had served for 21 years. Prior to this leadership role, she spent five years as the agency’s clinical director. At 35, she resides in North Canton with her husband, Dan, and their three-year-old son, Leo. After earning a master's degree in mental health counseling from Bowling Green State University in 2014, she became a licensed professional counselor and began her career at Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health in Stark County. Later, she worked at the IBH Addiction Recovery Center in Summit County before joining TASC.

“I was looking for a clinical director role at Stark County TASC Inc., and I applied,” she said. “It was the best decision I made for my career at that time.”

Transitioning from Clinical Work to Leadership

Having previously worked on the clinical side of the organization, Peternelj-Monea is optimistic about her transition into a leadership and management role. She believes the training and hands-on experience she has gained have prepared her well for this new challenge. “Leadership development is an ongoing process and not for everyone,” she noted. “For me, the practical experience of leading and managing has been the most effective way to prepare for this next step.”

She has participated in the Emerging Leaders course and is currently part of a leader forum led by consultant Mark Plaster. These experiences have allowed her to connect with other community leaders and continue learning and growing in her career. “There will always be more to learn, and that excites me,” she said.

Personal Achievements and Daily Joys

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Peternelj-Monea is proud of several personal achievements. Being a mother to her son, Leo, is one of her greatest sources of pride. She also values the balance she maintains between her demanding career and personal life, making sure to carve out time for fun and adventure. She enjoys traveling, trying new things, and seeking out both big and small adventures.

When asked what three things she loves having in her life each day, she found the question challenging. Ultimately, she listed her espresso machine, her family and friends, and music. These elements bring joy and comfort to her daily routine.

Reading, Movies, and Music

Peternelj-Monea is actively involved in two book clubs and recently read “The Perfect Marriage” by Jeneva Rose, which she rated a 7 out of 10. The last movie she watched was Disney's “Elemental,” chosen by her son. She also mentioned that the last song she listened to was “Little Miss Treat Me Bad” by Tender Hearted Rascals, a band featuring her husband. They were listening to the track before the band performed at May’s First Friday in Centennial Plaza.

Favorite Modes of Transportation

If asked whether she prefers riding a bike, a horse, or driving a car, her answer depends on the situation. However, she would generally choose to drive a car because it allows her to enjoy coffee and have meaningful conversations with her son during the ride. “Some of the best conversations happen while we’re driving,” she said.

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