Our Team
Casa Iskali is served by a dedicated hospitality team committed to excellence, care and personal attention.
Each member of our team contributes to creating an environment where guests feel welcomed and supported. From administration and planning to kitchen and on-site service, we work together to ensure that every retreat experience reflects our mission of hospitality.
Itzel Ramos
Managing Director - itzel@iskali.org
Itzel serves as the Director of Operations at Iskali and Managing Director of Casa Iskali. She also supports the Christian Parenting Initiative, funded by Lilly Endowment. Originally from Santa Maria del Oro Durango, Mexico, she holds an Associate Degree in Nursing from the University of Texas and built a successful career in the healthcare and administrative field before discerning a vocational call to ministry. After living her initiation retreat in March 2022, she formally joined Iskali’s leadership in January of 2024. dedicating herself fully to the organization’s mission of forming young adults in faith, leadership and purpose. Her work is driven by deep conviction, strategic leadership, and a heartfelt commitment to serve the Latino Community with excellence and integrity. A devoted wife and mother to her two sons, Itzel strives to lead by example in her home and in her work, encouraging other women to embrace leadership with faith, courage and compassion.
Ivon Mondragon
Hospitality Team Lead - ivon@iskali.org
Ivon was born and raised in the North Side Of Chicago, Illinois, alongside her five siblings as the second oldest of six children. Her parents originally from Michoacan, Mexico, instilled in her a strong foundation of faith, culture and community. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a minor in Marketing. From a young age, Ivon has been committed to serving though retreats and community life with Iskali. At 20 years old, she lived her Initiation Retreat through Iskali, an experience that deepened her faith and strengthened her dedication to mission-centered service. Ivon joined Casa Iskali in February 2023, beginning as part of the kitchen staff. Through her strong work ethic, humility, and willingness to grow, she expanded to the main administrative office. Today, she serves as the Head of Hospitality. In her role, Ivon brings excellence, reliability, and a heart of service. She is eager to continue gaining experience, refining her skills, and contributing meaningfully to the mission of Casa Iskali.
Esthela Padilla
Kitchen Staff
For Esthela, waking up to a new day is a reason to thank God, especially when she gets to share and work at Casa Iskali. She describes her work there as something she does with dedication, effort, and joy. Esthela works in the kitchen, always making sure that everyone who visits Casa Iskali leaves satisfied and feels right at home.
Alejandra Rios
Kitchen Staff
Alejandra Rios was born in Los Angeles, California, to parents originally from Mexico. She spent most of her life in Mexico before relocating to Chicago, Illinois, where she currently resides. Alejandra holds a Diploma in Pastry Arts and has a strong passion for working in the kitchen, particularly in baking and food preparation. She brings creativity, dedication, and attention to detail to everything she prepares. At Casa Iskali, Alejandra serves as a valued member of the Kitchen and Hospitality Team. She enjoys creating warm and welcoming experiences for guests and takes pride in serving others with care and excellence.
Isela Ramos
Kitchen Staff
Isela Ramos, originally from Los Angeles and raised in Guanajuato, Mexico, is a dedicated member of the Casa Iskali team. She has built a fulfilling life with her husband, Jorge, and their three children, and has spent 11 years working with couples. Isela also contributes to the Catholic community as a host on Radio Maria Chicago and a communion minister at Nuestra Señora La Rosa Mística in Cicero, IL. Her work at Casa Iskali seamlessly integrates with her spiritual values, and she appreciates the support from her colleagues while eagerly welcoming new faces to the community.
Jazmine Mondragon
Kitchen Staff
Jazmine was born and raised on the North Side of Chicago, Illinois, to parents originally from Michoacán, Mexico. She was raised with strong values rooted in faith, culture, and family, which continue to guide her life. Jazmine is currently a senior in high school and aspires to pursue a career in nursing, motivated by her desire to care for others and make a positive impact in people’s lives. Since October 2025, Jazmine has served as part of the Kitchen Support Staff at Casa Iskali. While balancing her responsibilities as a full-time student, she contributes to the team with dedication, kindness, and a willingness to serve. Jazmine takes pride in supporting the hospitality mission of Casa Iskali and helping create a welcoming environment for all who visit.