JupiterFIRST Leadership
Pastor Chip Jurskis
CO-LEAD MINISTER
Chip Jurskis, an ordained minister with United Church of Christ, grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, and earned a B.A. in Religion from the University of Georgia. He continued his studies at Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan, earning a Master of Arts in Religion.
After a summer in youth ministry, Chip returned to Atlanta, where he founded a campus ministry at Emory University, later transforming it into Bread Coffee House—a relational, service-driven outreach inspired by his love of local coffee houses and live music.
In 2012, Chip joined JupiterFIRST as the Minister of Family Life and was unanimously called to be Lead Minister in 2023. He and his wife, Amy, an educator, have been happily married since 1992 and are proud parents of their two adult children, Arden and Lily. He does not miss Atlanta traffic.
Pastor Robin Bird
CO-LEAD MINISTER
Thank you for your interest in our leadership team. A full biography and additional information about Pastor Robin will be posted here shortly. We look forward to sharing more about her background, experience, and vision in the coming days. Please check back soon for updates.
Pastoral Staff
Matthew Farmer
DIRECTOR OF MUSIC & WORSHP
Matthew Brian Farmer is a Senior Executive Artistic Director and entertainer with more than 20 years of experience in arts leadership, entertainment management, and performance. A Palm Beach County native, he studied Music and Arts Management at New York University and Vocal Performance, Piano, and Sacred Music at Westminster Choir College.
As a classically trained vocalist, Matthew has performed internationally, including as a guest soloist at the Vatican, and has entertained audiences aboard major cruise lines. He serves as Senior Executive Artistic Director of Old School Square Center for the Arts in Delray Beach and is the Founder and President of Coastal Bay Arts Project. Additional highlights include recording under the Universal Records label, guest soloist appearances at Princeton University Chapel, and performing with the Voices of Liberty for Walt Disney World Entertainment.
Matthew’s deep expertise in performance and arts management, combined with a vision for creative, impactful artistic experiences, allows him to lead with creativity and inspire communities through music and the performing arts.
Sherlyn Burnham-Kuehn
YOUTH MINISTER
Sherlyn Burnham-Kuehn, our Youth Minister, was ordained at JupiterFIRST in May 2024 and joined the staff in 2021. A Tampa native, she holds a B.A. in English and an M.A. in Theology from Palm Beach Atlantic University.
Part of JupiterFIRST since 2016, Sherlyn has served in various ministries, including music, children’s programs, and momsFIRST. With over 20 years in student ministry, she is passionate about helping youth grow in faith. Sherlyn was locally ordained at JupiterFIRST Church in April of 2024.
She enjoys playing piano, reading, and walking her terrier mix, Celeste. Sherlyn and her husband, Henry, have two daughters, Lili and Helen.
Marthe Hjortshoj
CHILDREN’S MINISTER
Marthe Hjortshoj (pronounced Mar-ta Yort-soy) has over 13 years of experience in children’s ministry. She earned her M.A. in Ministry, specializing in Children, Youth, and Family Ministry, from Wesley Seminary in 2022.
Since joining JupiterFIRST in 2018, Marthe has led kidsFIRST Children’s Ministries with a passion for helping kids love God, love people, and love God’s Word. Marthe was locally ordained at JupiterFIRST Church in April of 2024.
A Disney enthusiast, Marthe loves visiting Walt Disney World with her husband, Andy. They cheer for the Pittsburgh Steelers but remain divided on college football and MLB!
Susie Smith
DIRECTOR OF SENIOR MINISTRIES
Thank you for your interest in our leadership team. A full biography and additional information about Susie will be posted here shortly. We look forward to sharing more about her background, experience, and vision in the coming days. Please check back soon for updates.
Judy Harris
PRESCHOOL CO-DIRECTOR
Thank you for your interest in our leadership team. A full biography and additional information about Judy will be posted here shortly. We look forward to sharing more about her background, experience, and vision in the coming days. Please check back soon for updates.
Jennifer Dunn
PRESCHOOL CO-DIRECTOR
Thank you for your interest in our leadership team. A full biography and additional information about Jennifer will be posted here shortly. We look forward to sharing more about her background, experience, and vision in the coming days. Please check back soon for updates.
Professional Staff
Michelle Premuto
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Michelle joined our church family and staff on November 1, 2021, after 36 years in Holiday, Florida. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Stetson University.
Her career spans the medical, legal, and nonprofit sectors, including roles as Controller, Director, and Senior Accountant. She later transitioned to to directing Finance and Administration, serving at First United Methodist Church of Clearwater and Palm Harbor United Methodist Church.
Since 1995, Michelle has run Angel Tax Services, providing tax and bookkeeping services to small businesses and individuals. She also enjoys knitting, crocheting, and singing—talents we hope to see in action at JupiterFIRST!
Celso Contreras
DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
Celso joined JupiterFIRST in September 2024 as Director of Technology, overseeing tech support for church services, events, and daily operations. A South Florida native from Hollywood, he moved to the Treasure Coast in 2023 but has visited the area for over 20 years.
He holds a B.A. in Broadcast Communication from Barry University and an M.A. in Communication from Queens University of Charlotte, where he earned Phi Kappa Phi honors. His career spans broadcasting, video production, content creation, and multimedia.
Outside of work, Celso enjoys time with his wife and dog, surfing, skateboarding, and making music.
Elena Jacobson
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Elena Jacobson has been a neighbor of JupiterFIRST for nearly 20 years and is thrilled to step into her role as Director of Communications.
A 2015 graduate of the University of Central Florida with a B.F.A. in Emerging Media and a minor in Creative Writing, Elena has a diverse background in character animation, casting, and TV production. She’s also passionate about helping small businesses grow their online presence.
Beyond work, Elena has a love for illustration, comics, DIY projects, and historical mysteries. A longtime martial artist, she also teaches women’s self-defense. She enjoys warm beverages, pastries, and the occasional spontaneous song.
Holly Brown
OFFICE MANAGER
Holly Brown joined the JupiterFIRST team in December 2023. Originally from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, she spent 10 years in Connecticut before moving back to PA—so naturally, she’s a devoted Eagles fan!
In 2004, a cruise adventure led her to make a spontaneous move to Florida, choosing her new home by pointing to a spot on the map. Holly is a proud mother to three adult children—Aaron, William, and Cierra—and a loving grandmother to six. She has a passion for travel, having lived in Italy for two years, and enjoys reading, watching movies, and spending time on the water.
Stacey Caldera
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Stacey joined the JupiterFIRST staff in December 2023. Originally from Long Island, NY, she moved to Jupiter in 2006 with her husband and two sons. Her youngest, now a college freshman, attended JupiterFIRST Preschool in 2008—making her connection to the church especially meaningful.
Stacey loves spending time with family and friends, traveling, and exploring the beautiful beaches of Jupiter. She is excited to be part of the church team and looks forward to contributing to the community she has called home for so many years.
Mary Griffith
BOOKKEEPER
Mary joined the JupiterFIRST staff in May 2023. A North Palm Beach native, she earned a Bachelor’s degree of Business Administration in Finance from FAU but is a “Nole” at heart—her husband, Ron, and their three adult children all attended FSU, and she even shares a birthday with legendary coach Bobby Bowden!
A longtime stay-at-home mom (a full-time job in itself), Mary also worked part-time over the years. Her twin sons, Kyle and Casey, attended JupiterFIRST Preschool from 1997-1999, and their daughter, Carly, arrived seven years later. She loves reading, college football, and cool weather—though she’s spent her whole life in South Florida (thank goodness for air conditioning!). She’s also known for her delicious homemade Caesar salad dressing!
John Corsi
FACILITIES ASSOCIATE
John has been a dedicated member of the JupiterFIRST staff since 2016, ensuring the upkeep of our beautiful church building and campus—a responsibility that is no small task! From maintaining the grounds to overseeing the facilities, he plays a vital role in keeping everything running smoothly for our congregation.
Beyond his work at the church, John loves to cook! When he’s not busy with church duties or cooking up something in the kitchen, he enjoys spending time on the golf course, perfecting his swing.
David Farrell
PART-TIME FACILITIES ASSOCIATE
David joined JupiterFIRST Church in September, 2025. Born in Florida, he has been living in Stuart for the past 23 years and considers it home. He is the proud Dad to three grown daughters and Papa to four grandchildren. He also has a nine year-old husky mix named Kai who keeps him on his toes.
In his free time David enjoys watching sports and staying up-to-date on his favorite team.