Commonpoint Queens Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Commonpoint Queens has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and administration.

Driven by service and justice, Commonpoint Queens extends its reach across 52 sites, offering comprehensive support from early childhood programs to senior services and mental health resources, fostering community connections throughout the borough.

Leadership Roles at Commonpoint Queens

  • Chief Executive Officer - Danielle Ellman
  • Chief Financial Officer - Jason Rok
  • Chief Operating Officer - Craig Lastres
  • Chief of Staff - Karen Strauss
  • Danielle Ellman - Chief Executive Officer

    Danielle Ellman, the Chief Executive Officer at Commonpoint Queens, directs the organization's overarching strategy and vision. Ellman guides the social services organization in meeting the diverse and evolving needs of Queens residents, ensuring programs align with the core Jewish values of service and justice. Overseeing operations across 52 sites, Ellman champions the expansion of services, which include early childhood programs, summer camps, senior services, and mental health resources. This leadership role involves fostering community connections and ensuring that Commonpoint Queens remains a vital resource for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. By driving strategic initiatives, Danielle Ellman ensures the organization's continued impact and growth within the borough, solidifying its commitment to supporting the entire community.
    Danielle Ellman

    Jason Rok - Chief Financial Officer

    Jason Rok, the Chief Financial Officer at Commonpoint Queens, manages the organization's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Rok oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility across 52 diverse program sites. This critical function supports the delivery of essential services such as early childhood education, senior care, and mental health resources. Jason Rok's leadership ensures the financial stability required to sustain and expand Commonpoint Queens' reach within the borough. By maintaining robust financial controls and exploring funding opportunities, Rok enables the organization to continue its mission of meeting evolving community needs and fostering vital connections for residents of all ages and backgrounds.

    Craig Lastres - Chief Operating Officer

    Craig Lastres, the Chief Operating Officer at Commonpoint Queens, executes the operational framework that supports the organization's extensive service delivery. Lastres manages the day-to-day functions across 52 sites, ensuring efficient and effective provision of early childhood programs, summer camp, senior services, and mental health resources. This role involves optimizing resource allocation and streamlining processes to enhance the community's access to support and opportunities. Craig Lastres works to maintain the high standards of service delivery that define Commonpoint Queens, focusing on operational excellence. By overseeing the logistical and administrative aspects of the organization, Lastres directly contributes to the mission of building connections and providing comprehensive support throughout Queens, ensuring seamless program execution.

    Karen Strauss - Chief of Staff

    Karen Strauss, the Chief of Staff at Commonpoint Queens, provides strategic support and operational coordination across the organization. Strauss facilitates communication and collaboration between departments, ensuring alignment with the executive leadership's vision and the organization's mission. This role involves managing key projects, enhancing internal processes, and supporting the Chief Executive Officer in driving strategic initiatives. Karen Strauss plays a vital part in optimizing the effectiveness of Commonpoint Queens' extensive network of 52 sites, which offer a wide array of services from early childhood programs to senior support. By streamlining operations and fostering efficient workflows, Strauss directly contributes to the organization's ability to meet the diverse needs of the Queens community and build lasting connections.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Membership Organizations

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Commonpoint Queens Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Commonpoint Queens?
    Commonpoint Queens is led by Danielle Ellman (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Jason Rok (Chief Financial Officer) and Craig Lastres (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Commonpoint Queens’s executive team?
    The executive team of Commonpoint Queens includes leaders such as Danielle Ellman (Chief Executive Officer), Jason Rok (Chief Financial Officer), Craig Lastres (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Commonpoint Queens have?
    Commonpoint Queens has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Commonpoint Queens’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Commonpoint Queens includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff.