Our STAFF
Rev. Kari A. Olson
Growing up in Seattle, WA, church was always a place where Kari knew she was loved and where she was entrusted with meaningful leadership roles from a young age, gifts she strives to pass on in her ministry.
Kari studied Theology and Speech Communication at Whitworth University in Spokane, WA. She moved east to attend Princeton Theological Seminary, where she received awards in New Testament Studies, Reformation Theology, and Speech Communication in Ministry. Kari graduated from Princeton and in 2015 and was ordained to serve as a solo pastor in a small town in the coal region of Pennsylvania until God called her to East Falls beginning in January of 2018.
Kari also enjoys music (playing guitar and piano as well as singing), playing board games, and doing crossword puzzles. For the sake of spreading the good news of God’s love for all people, she has been willing to embarrass herself dancing on TikTok (@revkariaolson).
Michelle Palladino
Michelle Palladino is an elementary music teacher from Long Island, New York. She went to school at Westminster Choir College, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Music Education and a Master of Arts in Teaching. While in college, she participated in Symphonic Choir as well as the Westminster Concert Handbell Choir, and conducted church bell choirs in the area. She joined the music ministry at East Falls in 2019, as a choir section leader under the direction of Brenda Browne. Currently, she works teaching music to kindergarten through third grade students in the West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District. When she is not making music, you can find her at her home in Levittown, PA, playing with her dogs.
Margarita Shatilova
Margarita Shatilova is an acclaimed pianist renowned for her exceptional skills as a collaborative artist and vocal coach, with a deep passion for vocal music and opera. Originally from Russia, Shatilova held a full-time position at the prestigious Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory for over five years and holds degrees in Solo Piano Performance from the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory. Currently, she is pursuing a Master of Music in Collaborative Piano at Temple University. Her career reflects a deep commitment to collaborative artistry, showcasing her dedication to enhancing the musical journey of both performers and audiences alike.