About Ashley Brown

Ashley Brown is the President of KVC Nebraska. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Ashley brings more than 20 years of experience in child and family services.

Professional Role and Leadership

As President, Ashley leads KVC Nebraska’s strategic, operational and financial efforts. She builds strong partnerships and ensures high-impact outcomes. She works to strengthen agency culture and make KVC a great place to work.

Ashley’s leadership is shaped by her journey. She started as a family support worker and served in many roles over the years. Her experience includes supporting foster families, providing therapy and leading teams. The relationships she’s built have shaped her into the leader she is today.

Ashley’s top Gallup strengths are Harmony, Discipline, Communication, Responsibility and Relator. She believes leaders don’t need to have all the answers and encourages learning together to find the best solutions. Her approach is open, honest and focused on learning. She encourages failing fast and learning quickly to find new solutions.

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Credentials and Achievements

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker
• Gallup Certified Engagement Champion
• 20+ years of service in child and family wellbeing
• Experienced therapist, family support worker and leader

Favorite KVC Value

Ashley’s favorite KVC Value is Urgency and Innovation Mark Our Approach. She believes every person deserves individualized care. She often asks, “What would I want for my loved one?” She ensures we meet unique needs with urgency and compassion.

Life Outside Work

Ashley loves spending time with her husband, Tony, and their son, Nathan. She also enjoys snuggling her dog, LeRoy. Her favorite hobbies include reading, golfing, traveling and attending concerts or musicals.

Recommended Read:

A Workplace That Cares: What Makes KVC Nebraska Special
This blog shows how KVC supports staff to do their best work while having fun.

Ashley’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“If I weren’t employed at KVC, I would still be a donor. The mission speaks to me no matter what. KVC uses donations wisely to meet real needs for children and families.”

About Gloria Christian

Gloria Christian is the Director of Clinical & Prevention Services at KVC Nebraska. She holds a Master of Arts in Counseling and leads clinical and prevention programs that improve the lives of individuals and families across Nebraska.

Professional Role and Leadership

Gloria coaches therapists, interns and team members to do their best work. She develops programs focused on prevention and mental health treatment. Her leadership centers on accountability as a form of compassion, encouraging self-awareness and open conversations to support growth and wellness.

Gloria’s top Gallup strengths are Ideation, Input, Strategic, Learner and Achiever. She leads with thoughtful strategy and a commitment to continuous learning.

She holds credentials as a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner and DBT Trainer and Clinician.

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Credentials and Achievements

• Master of Arts in Counseling
• Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner
• DBT Trainer and Clinician
• Leads clinical and prevention programs statewide

Favorite KVC Value

Gloria’s favorite KVC value is Family Connection Drives Our Culture. She believes connection is the core of healing for individuals and families and that this value sets KVC apart.

Life Outside Work

Gloria treasures time with her family. She has a 30+ year marriage, two children and two grandchildren. She enjoys boating, swimming with her grandson, reading, cooking, crafts, golf and playing board games or cards.

Recommended Read:

Preventing Suicide: Learn the Warning Signs and Risk Factors
This blog shares important information to help recognize and prevent suicide.

Gloria’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“I would advocate for quality mental health services for individuals and families. I would share KVC’s incredible work with Nebraska leaders and volunteer my time and resources to support our mission.”

About Cassandra Dittmer

Cassandra Dittmer is the Director of Quality & Impact at KVC Nebraska. She holds a Master’s degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is licensed in the State of Nebraska as an Independent Mental Health Practitioner and a Certified Marriage and Family Therapist. With a deep belief in aligning culture, standards and strategy, she supports teams to thrive while ensuring KVC delivers high-quality, impactful services.

Professional Role and Leadership

In her role, Cassandra leads efforts that shape workplace culture, drive performance and support continuous improvement. She guides teams to meet high standards through collaboration, accountability and a focus on people’s wellbeing.

Cassandra’s top Gallup strengths are Strategic, Achiever, Self-Assurance, Input and Futuristic. She leads with purpose and clarity, always thinking about what’s next and how to move people and systems forward. She believes real change happens when people feel seen, supported and inspired.

Cassandra is a Gallup Certified Engagement Champion, Gallup Certified Global Strengths Coach and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor. She’s proud to serve as a leader who blends empathy and excellence to support team members and the families they serve.

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Credentials and Achievements

• Master’s degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy
• Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP)
• Certified Marriage and Family Therapist
• Gallup Certified Engagement Champion
• AAMFT Approved Supervisor
• Leads statewide performance and improvement strategy

Favorite KVC Value

Cassandra’s favorite KVC Value is Urgency and Innovation Mark Our Approach. She believes doing the right thing requires courage, flexibility and creative thinking. Meaningful progress depends on both heart and strategy.

Life Outside Work

Outside of KVC, Cassandra enjoys running, crocheting, reading and spending time with her family. She finds joy in movement, learning and creating.

Recommended Read:

A Workplace That Cares: What Makes KVC Nebraska Special
This blog captures what makes KVC unique: its commitment to team member growth, supportive culture and meaningful community impact.

Cassandra’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“If I weren’t employed at KVC, I would continue to advocate for children and families. Everyone deserves connection, safety and support.”

About Theresa Goley

Theresa Goley is the Director of Permanency at KVC Nebraska and holds a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. With a deep commitment to child safety and family wellbeing, Theresa ensures that KVC’s foster care program consistently delivers excellent services to youth and foster families across the state.

Professional Role and Leadership

In her role as Director of Permanency, Theresa leads with a focus on safety, quality and compliance. She oversees foster care operations to make sure they meet the standards set by DHHS, Probation, Public Health Regulations and The Joint Commission. Her leadership plays a key role in maintaining high-quality care and supporting foster families across Nebraska.

Theresa is especially proud of the program’s growth in Western Nebraska, where KVC partnered with Probation to meet the urgent need for more foster homes. Thanks to her leadership, this expansion has not only met community needs but continues to thrive.

Theresa’s top Gallup strengths are Responsibility, Belief, Achiever, Individualization and Competition. She is driven to succeed and values individual strengths. Theresa is always available to support her team. She encourages open communication and shared focus on doing what’s best for kids.

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Credentials and Achievements

• Successfully expanded KVC’s foster care services to Western Nebraska in partnership with Probation
• Ensures program compliance with state and national standards
• Leads a high-performing team that delivers safe and compassionate care

Favorite KVC Value

Theresa’s favorite KVC Value is “What would you want for your child,” because it centers every decision around the best interests of the child. She believes that when we lead with this question, we make choices rooted in love, safety and long-term impact.

Life Outside Work

Outside of her work at KVC, Theresa loves spending time with her beautiful granddaughter and enjoying the outdoors with friends. Bonus when the weather is warm and sunny!

Recommended Read:

The Power of Love: Siblings Thrive After Traumatic Early Childhood
See how healing and connection transformed the lives of two siblings in foster care.

Theresa’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“If I weren’t employed at KVC, I would continue to share the message of the incredible work our teams do and volunteer my time as an advocate. I would make sure the right message is being told to our Nebraska Legislature and to the people making decisions that impact Nebraska families.”

About Hannah Tamayo

Hannah Tamayo is the Director of Developmental Disability Services at KVC Nebraska. She holds a Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management and brings nearly two decades of experience in the field. Hannah is passionate about creating inclusive communities where individuals with disabilities can live, work and thrive.

Professional Role and Leadership

Hannah leads with a servant heart, ensuring individuals with disabilities are fully included in Nebraska’s communities. She partners with others to build spaces where all people feel valued. With 18 years of experience, she advocates for inclusive supports and believes strong outcomes come from a shared and communal approach.

Hannah’s top Gallup strengths are Woo, Communication, Includer, Positivity and Input. They reflect her energy, optimism and commitment to building connection. She empowers her team through encouragement, empathy and listening.

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Credentials and Achievements

• Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management
• 18 years of experience in the developmental disability field
• Leads inclusive programming that supports people with disabilities
• Former KVC foster parent and adoptive parent

Favorite KVC Value

Hannah’s favorite KVC value is The Heart of Our Work is Helping People. Her personal mission is to impact the disability community in meaningful and lasting ways. KVC gives her the opportunity to do that every day.

Life Outside Work

Outside of work Hannah stays busy with her four amazing children. They enjoy exploring their community, attending local events, visiting friends and family and spending time outdoors when Nebraska weather allows it.

Recommended Read:

Supporting Individuals with Developmental Disabilities through Inclusive Communication
This blog explores ways to improve communication and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities.

Hannah’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“Before my current role I had the experience of being a KVC foster parent. We were fortunate to adopt our three beautiful daughters and I can truly say KVC has made a lifelong impact on our family.”

About Nicole Deere-Andersen

Nicole Deere-Andersen is the Director of Human Resources at KVC Nebraska. She holds a Master of Arts and Management degree with an emphasis in Human Resource Management. With a passion for people and purpose, Nicole ensures that KVC’s workplace culture, practices and policies align with organizational goals and values, creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported and empowered to do their best work.

Professional Role and Leadership

As Director of Human Resources, Nicole guides leaders and supports employees across KVC Nebraska. Her work centers on fostering a fair, engaging and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. She believes that when people feel seen and heard, they bring their best selves to their work; and that translates into stronger outcomes for children, families and communities.

Nicole’s leadership style is rooted in connection and active listening. By understanding others’ perspectives and aligning them with KVC’s mission and values, she helps build trust and shared purpose throughout the organization.

Her top Gallup strengths are Input, Relator, Connectedness, Arranger and Developer, reflecting her ability to connect meaningfully with others, organize complex systems and bring out the best in people.

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Achievements and Credentials

• Master of Arts and Management with an emphasis in Human Resource Management
• Leads the development and implementation of KVC’s Workplace Violence Prevention Program, ensuring compliance with Joint Commission standards and advancing employee safety and wellbeing
• Builds systems that foster engagement, fairness and growth across all levels of the organization

Favorite KVC Value

Nicole’s favorite KVC value is “Diverse perspectives are key to our progress.” She believes progress thrives when diverse people unite to share ideas, challenge assumptions and create solutions. To her, diversity isn’t just a value; it’s a source of strength and creativity that drives meaningful change.

Life Outside Work

Outside of work, Nicole enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new places and discovering new books. As life grows busier, she savors each moment and stays grounded in the present, finding joy in simple acts of connection.

Recommended Read:

Fostering Cultural Competence: Supporting Black Children in Foster Care
This blog highlights the importance of understanding and celebrating diversity to better support children and families.

Nicole’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“If I weren’t employed at KVC, I would continue to advocate for KVC Nebraska in the community and online. I’m passionate about people and connection, and I’d always find a way to support this mission of care.”

About Michaela Breault

Michaela Breault is the Administrative Supervisor of Developmental Disabilities Services at KVC Nebraska. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education K–8 and Special Education K–12. Michaela brings a passion for building relationships, guiding others and creating meaningful systems of support.

Professional Role and Leadership

In her role, Michaela leads with empathy and collaboration. She helps guide the Developmental Disabilities program by developing thoughtful processes, sharing resources and supporting her team. She takes a strategic approach to challenges and works alongside specialists to problem solve and build on their talents.

Michaela’s top Gallup strengths include Relator, Empathy, Strategic, Developer and Responsibility. These reflect her thoughtful leadership and people-first mindset. She is a certified Mandt Instructor, serves on the Connection Council and co-edits The Bulletin newsletter.

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Credentials and Achievements

• Certified Mandt Instructor
• Member of the Connection Council
• Co-editor of The Bulletin
• Bachelor’s degree in Education and Special Education

Favorite KVC Value

Michaela’s favorite value is Collaboration fuels our improvement. She believes that every participant benefits when team members work together with one goal in mind: delivering the best care possible. Collaboration allows the team to provide personalized services that empower individuals to grow, learn and become confident self-advocates.

Life Outside Work

Michaela enjoys spending time with her partner Kelsi and their extended family. She also enjoys traveling, going to concerts, watching and playing sports and caring for indoor and outdoor plants.

Recommended Read:

A Remarkable Life: Caring for Individuals with Disabilities
This blog explores how caring and personalized support helps people with disabilities thrive in their communities.

Michaela’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“If I weren’t employed at KVC, I would continue supporting our mission by donating time and money to community organizations and advocating for better systems. That includes engaging with elected leaders and staying informed about key issues that impact people we serve.”

About Becca Crook

Becca Crook is a dedicated Foster Care Supervisor at KVC Nebraska with a Bachelor’s degree in Family Science. She empowers her team by providing guidance, support and opportunities for professional growth. Becca’s leadership ensures families provide safe and loving care for youth in foster care.

Professional Role and Leadership

As a Foster Care Supervisor at KVC Nebraska, Becca focuses on fostering autonomy while offering clear direction. She leads by setting clear expectations and prioritizing collaboration. Becca works closely with her team to navigate challenges together, emphasizing high-quality work and shared problem-solving.

Her leadership style reflects her top strengths: Includer, Restorative, Harmony, Arranger and Woo which help her create an environment where every team member feels heard, supported and motivated to contribute their best.

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Credentials and Achievements

• Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician
• TIPS MAPP Trainer
• Recognized by KVC Health Systems as a Top 10 Health Systems Manager for leading a highly engaged team

These accomplishments highlight Becca’s commitment to safety, training and professional excellence in her role supporting foster families.

Favorite KVC Value

Becca values Diverse Perspectives because she believes they are essential to progress. She fosters a culture of curiosity on her team, encouraging asking questions, listening actively and understanding each person’s unique story. This approach helps avoid assumptions and builds deeper respectful connections.

Life Outside Work

Outside of KVC Nebraska, Becca enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons. They love outdoor adventures, socializing with friends and family and relaxing. Her favorite place to unwind is by the river in Colorado, a spot she treasures for peace and rejuvenation.

Recommended Read:

FAQs About Becoming a Foster Parent in Nebraska
Learn more about foster parenting and how you can make a difference.

Becca’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“If I weren’t employed at KVC, I would advocate for greater awareness of the urgent need for foster parents in our community. Spreading the word is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to help. There are not enough foster homes to meet the needs of children who require safe supportive environments while working toward permanency.

Education is key. Understanding that every behavior a child shows is a form of communication and meeting youth where they are emotionally, developmentally and behaviorally can transform their journey. By raising awareness and fostering empathy, we can inspire more people to open their hearts and homes to children who need them most.”

About Maggie Dworak

Maggie Dworak is the Administrative Supervisor at KVC Nebraska and holds a Bachelor of Arts in English. With a sharp eye for detail and a heart for service, Maggie ensures KVC’s daily operations run smoothly so her teammates can focus on delivering high-quality care to children and families.

Professional Role and Leadership

In her role as Administrative Supervisor, Maggie is the behind-the-scenes force that keeps things organized and efficient. She oversees schedules and documentation, supports the administrative team and helps improve communication across departments. Maggie is known for being dependable, detail-oriented and solution-focused.

Her leadership style is rooted in empathy and understanding. She takes time to get to know each team member’s strengths and goals and offers personalized support to help them grow. Maggie’s top Gallup strengths are: Empathy, Discipline, Harmony, Achiever and Woo. They help her create a calm and structured environment where people feel seen, heard and encouraged.

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Credentials and Achievements

One of Maggie’s greatest professional achievements is her long tenure with KVC Nebraska. Over the years she has become a trusted go-to resource for staff and leadership, known for her insight and steady presence.

Favorite KVC Value

Maggie’s favorite KVC Value is Collaboration Fuels Our Improvement. She believes some of the most meaningful personal and professional growth comes from learning with and from others. She lives this value by listening actively, sharing ideas and making space for every voice. Maggie builds strong teams by practicing collaboration every day, not just treating it as a value but living it.

Life Outside Work

Outside of KVC, Maggie enjoys spending time with friends and family, spoiling her dog and trying new restaurants as a self-proclaimed foodie. Whether she’s catching up over a good meal or relaxing with loved ones, she values moments that bring people together.

Recommended Read:

The Power of Love: Siblings Thrive After Traumatic Early Childhood
Discover how sibling bonds and a loving foster home changed two children’s lives.

Maggie’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“If I weren’t employed at KVC, I would donate to support the mission and volunteer my time to help in any way I could. Every child deserves safety, stability and someone in their corner. Being part of that, even in a small way, can make a lifelong impact.”

About Jensen Kenoyer

Jensen Kenoyer is the Administrative Supervisor of Developmental Disabilities Services at KVC Nebraska. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Pre-Criminology and is a certified Mandt Instructor. She has served in KVC’s Developmental Disabilities department for over three years.

Professional Role and Leadership

Jensen leads with collaboration, motivation and care. She coaches team members to strengthen all areas of their wellbeing, while building trust and support to improve the lives of individuals served. She creates space for others to explore what quality work looks like, collaborating on smoother processes that benefit both team wellbeing and outcomes.

Jensen’s top Gallup strengths are Input, Belief, Context, Achiever and Learner. She brings curiosity, strong values and a commitment to continual growth.

She completed Mandt Instructor certification and led a successful expansion of services in the Western Service Area (WSA).

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Credentials and Achievements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Pre-Criminology
• Certified Mandt Instructor
• Leads administrative support for KVC’s DD services
• Three years of service in the Developmental Disabilities department

Favorite KVC Value

Jensen’s favorite value is Collaboration Fuels Our Improvement. She believes each person is a “pointy star” with unique strengths; and that when those strengths come together, we can create well-rounded, innovative approaches that move KVC’s mission forward.

Life Outside Work

Jensen shares life with her husband and their Sheepadoodle. They love spending time with family, playing games, watching movies and using Adventure Challenge books for fun and creative date nights.

Recommended Read:

A Workplace That Cares: What Makes KVC Nebraska Special
This blog highlights what makes KVC a supportive and mission-driven place to work.

Jensen’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“If I weren’t employed at KVC, I would probably still want to volunteer to support KVC’s mission of enriching and enhancing lives, as that is vital to keeping Nebraska headed in the right direction.”

About Lauren Parks

Lauren Parks is a Foster Care Supervisor at KVC Nebraska. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and brings a strong commitment to helping children and families thrive. Lauren supports her team through coaching, encouragement and meaningful connection.

Professional Role and Leadership

In her role, Lauren coaches and supports team members as they grow professionally and personally. She ensures children and families receive high-quality services. She sees every interaction as an opportunity to connect and move forward.

Lauren’s top Gallup strengths are Adaptability, Relator, Restorative, Arranger and Positivity. She leads with flexibility, hope and trust in people’s potential. She values collaboration and believes growth happens when people feel supported.

Lauren is proud of helping grow the KVC Kids Classic into a successful, impactful event. It brings people together to support families in a fun and meaningful way.

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Credentials and Achievements

• Master’s degree in Social Work
• Leads a high-performing foster care team
• Key contributor to the success of the KVC Kids Classic
• Builds strong relationships that support lasting impact

Favorite KVC Value

Lauren’s favorite KVC Value is Diverse Perspectives Are Key to Progress. She believes innovation and growth happen when people with different voices, backgrounds and experiences come together.

Life Outside Work

Outside of KVC, Lauren enjoys golfing with friends and family, spending time with her dog and working on home projects. She also loves to travel and read.

Recommended Read:

A Workplace That Cares: What Makes KVC Nebraska Special
This blog highlights KVC’s commitment to culture, growth and community impact.

Lauren’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“If I weren’t employed at KVC, I would continue supporting the mission through donations and volunteering. I care deeply about helping children and families thrive.”

About Jessica Schuler

Jessica Schuler is a Foster Care Supervisor at KVC Nebraska. She holds a Master of Arts in Management and brings more than two decades of experience in child welfare to her role. She leads with heart and strategy to ensure every child and family receives high-quality support.

Professional Role and Leadership

Jessica coaches team members to grow professionally and personally. She supports them in providing the best care to families and youth. Her leadership is grounded in strong relationships built on trust, respect and open communication. She believes effective leadership is rooted in collaboration and shared goals.

Jessica’s top Gallup strengths are Harmony, Developer, Adaptability, Positivity and Relator. These strengths reflect her ability to bring people together, encourage growth and stay flexible in the face of change.

She completed TIPS-MAPP training and led the successful expansion to the Western Service Area (WSA).

Learn more about leadership strengths at Gallup Strengths Center.

Key Credentials and Achievements

• Master of Arts in Management
• 21 years in child welfare, including 15 with KVC
• TIPS-MAPP trained
• Led successful expansion to the Western Service Area

Favorite KVC Value

Jessica’s favorite KVC value is Diverse Perspectives Are Key to Our Progress. She drives innovation and teamwork by including and respecting diverse voices.

Life Outside Work

Jessica enjoys reading, spending time outdoors and going for walks. She cherishes time with her family and friends.

Recommended Read:

The Power of Love: Siblings Thrive After Traumatic Early Childhood
This blog shares an inspiring story of perseverance, hope and the power of connection through foster care.

Jessica’s Message on Supporting Our Mission

“If I weren’t employed at KVC, I would volunteer as a CASA worker to continue advocating for children and families in need.”