Our Team – Uinta Academy

Founders

R. Jeffrey Simpson MS, LCSW

Founder

Jeff received his B.S. in Political Science and Public Administration from the University of Nebraska. Jeff has a Masters degree in Child and Youth Care Administration from Nova University in Florida. He also holds a Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Utah. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified Equine Assisted Psychotherapist. Jeff has directed programs at a number of residential treatment centers including Father Flanagan’s Boys Home in Nebraska, St. Labre Home for Indian Children in Montana, and the Youth Village in Utah.

Wherever he has worked, Jeff has been known as an innovator who can make things happen. Some of the programs he has developed and directed include treatment foster care, residential treatment, family preservation, casework management, and outpatient clinical therapy programs. Jeff has used his expertise to provide consultation and evaluation for a number of residential treatment centers in the U.S. and Canada as a site evaluator for the Teaching-Family Association (TFA). Jeff served for many years on the Certification and Ethics Committee for TFA and has previously served on the board of directors for the National Association of Therapeutic School and Programs. He currently chairs the NATSAP government relations committee. Jeff and Becky started Uinta because it had always been their dream to run a program that was clinically intense and sophisticated, but also very warm and nurturing. Jeff directs all aspects of the daily operations at Uinta. As a therapist he also carries a small caseload of girls. Since he lost both of his parents as a teenager and understands the emotional implications of loss, Jeff facilitates the Bereavement group. Jeff and Becky are the parents of four children, three of whom have worked at Uinta. Jeff loves horses, old Western movies and TV shows, motorcycles, and hanging out with his children and grandchildren. If you attend one of Uinta’s family weekends, you’re bound to see a clip from the Andy Griffith show, one of Jeff’s favorites.

Becky Simpson

Founder

Becky studied music education at the University of Arizona with the goal to teach high school music. She has spent her entire professional career working with adolescents, but in a different capacity than she originally envisioned. Becky started working with children in Arizona as a youth care worker at Desert Willow Ranch. She was a Certified Family Teacher at Father Flanagan’s Boys Town in Nebraska and was the Director of Training and Evaluation at the St. Labre Home for Indian Children in Montana.

She was responsible for staff training and evaluation at the Youth Village in Utah. There she developed and ran a parenting program that consisted of community parenting classes and support groups. She also trained teachers in the Granite School District on classroom management and trained foster parents for the Utah Department of Child and Family Services. Her experience includes being a foster parent, consulting to treatment foster homes, providing in-home training to parents, and supervising a sexual offender program. Becky is a certified Teaching-Family Model Trainer, Evaluator, and Consultant. She is a Crisis Intervention Specialist certified by the Crisis Prevention Institute and a Level I Parelli student. Becky also served as a site evaluator for the Teaching-Family Association and a lecturer for the Governor’s Initiative on Families. At Uinta, Becky supervises the therapeutic milieu, conducts staff training, instructs Parelli natural horsemanship, manages human resources, and does a little interior decorating. Becky’s experience with applied behavioral analysis makes her a valuable member of the treatment team. She also runs the Culinary Club and Singing Club. On a personal note, Becky still loves music; she plays the piano, writes music, sings and accompanies her church choir. She enjoys gardening, sewing, reading, and most of all, her grandchildren.

Management Team

Russ Pryor MBA, LCSW

Executive Director

Russ Pryor has worked in the mental health field since 1993. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Brigham Young University in 1994, a Master of Social Work from Tulane University in 1995, and a Master of Business Administration from Westminster College in 2000.

Russ has worked as a clinician and a manager at all the different levels of care and treatment. Some of Russ' previous work experience included working as a therapist at Benchmark Regional Hospital, as an outpatient therapist, a therapist and director of admissions at an assessment center, as the clinical supervisor/crisis counselor for Intermountain Health Care, and as the clinical director for Highland Ridge Hospital. His therapeutic focus is an integrative approach to treatment using family systems theory and cognitive behavioral therapy. Russ' specialties are treating mood disorders, social learning issues, personality disorders, grief and trauma, chemical dependency, and adoption/attachment issues. Moreover, Russ has advanced training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Russ' interests include running, traveling, movies, and the arts; however, his favorite hobby is running. Russ has run more than nine marathons and a plethora of half marathons. Russ married his best friend and has been married for more than 22 years. He has three beautiful and loving daughters. When Russ is not working, he loves to spend his time with his family.

Adaleen Krambule MA, CMHC, NCC

Associate Executive Director

Adaleen (Adie) has been with Uinta Academy since December of 2006. Adie obtained dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Psychology and Family Human Development from Utah State University in Logan, Utah. She received her Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University in Santa Barbara, California. Adie’s education was highly experiential and focused in Marriage, Family, and Multi-cultural therapeutic practices.

Adie has worked in a variety of Mental Health settings. She began as a direct care counselor in a residential treatment center working with young women. While in Santa Barbara she worked as a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist for severely mentally ill adults and adolescents. Adie also worked as a dual diagnosis specialist for a prominent LGBTQ organization in Santa Barbara, California. She was a therapist for the Girls Inc. Counseling Center, where she worked with young girls and their families. She also helped develop new methods of testing Bi-Polar clients in her work with a psychologist in private practice. Adie was also a research associate in the Cache County Study on Memory and Aging, a cooperative study with Utah State University, Duke University, and John Hopkins University. Adie has experience in treating Mood Disorders, Non-verbal Learning Disorders, Personality Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorders, PTSD, Complex Trauma, Psychosis, Bi-Polar Disorder, Sexual Abuse, Attachment Disorders, and Substance Use/Abuse. She uses a wide range of treatment modalities including: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Gestalt techniques, Motivational Interviewing, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), SMART recovery, and Structural Family Therapy. Adie is also trained in (EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. Adie enjoys cooking, crafting, skiing, and most of all spending time with her family.

Lanae Kimber, CMHC

Admissions and Marketing Director

Lanae received a bachelor’s degrees from the University of Utah in Psychology and Interpersonal Communication and later went on to obtain her Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix. Lanae has worked in Residential Treatment Center’s for over 10 years in a variety of roles including primary therapist, program director, program development and implementation, admissions, transition coach and aftercare specialist. She has supported families throughout the treatment process with a goal of maintaining family relationships while supporting the process of self discovery and growth.

Lanae grew up in Ogden, Utah and is still there today. She enjoys hiking and long walks through the mountains right outside her door! She also enjoys yoga, ski, paddle boarding, traveling, reading or just hanging out with her family (outdoors whenever possible).

Bridget Rhoten LCSW

Program Director

Bridget received a Bachelor of Science in Family, Consumer, and Human Development with a minor in Sociology at Utah State University. She also earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work at USU. Bridget's training focused on empowering clients through use of a Strengths Perspective with emphasis in cognitive, behavioral, and existential individual, group, and family therapies. While working on her Master degree, Bridget was a social worker at a local high school and also served as an AmeriCorps VISTA.

Prior to becoming the Program Director at Uinta, Bridget worked for ten years as a Family Teacher and Home Manager. She was instrumental in developing Uinta’s integrated Transition home. Bridget’s extensive training and experience with the Teaching Family Model and applied behavioral analysis along with her clinical experience give her a unique ability to take a multidimensional approach to treatment planning. Bridget is a certified Equine Assisted Psychotherapist and facilitates the Equine Therapy groups at Uinta. She is also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), EFT (Emotion-Focused Therapy) and Motivational interviewing. Her multifaceted approach helps meet the need of the individual client and family. Bridget has experience working with girls with anxiety, depression, spectrum related issues, personality disordered features, RAD, addiction, PTSD, disordered eating, and other presenting issues. Bridget loves studying human behavior and empowering clients and families to make change. She is constantly reading a book or doing something to actively learn and remain open minded. In addition, she loves working with the management team, milieu staff, and clinical staff to do what we do best! Being at Uinta Academy has been an opportunity of a lifetime! She loves spending time with her family, riding horses, gardening, exercising, homemaking, and learning.

Kelly Chambers MAcc

Business Manager

Kelly Chambers earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Southern Utah University. She graduated in 2004 from Utah State University with a Masters of Accounting with a Tax Emphasis. Prior to working at Uinta Academy, Kelly worked in government accounting as well as at a local CPA firm. Kelly has worked at Uinta since 2006.

In addition to managing the financial affairs of Uinta Academy, she has also assisted parents with filing insurance claims. Kelly is married and keeps busy raising her four beautiful children. She enjoys playing basketball, tennis and volleyball and being with her family. She also loves to watch USU Aggie athletics….Go Aggies!

Erin Unsworth

Administrative Assistant

Erin joined the Uinta team after working in the hospitality industry for 12 years. During her time working at a major hotel chain she gained a love of genuinely caring for people. She worked closely with guests from around the world. She was highly involved as acting GM and Front Office Manager.

She worked in group sales which involved groups such as the United States Air Force Thunderbirds. Erin loves working at Uinta Academy as the Administrative Assistant. She works closely with the Management team to plan and organize trips, graduations, and Family Weekends. Erin loves photography, going on adventures with her family, and being outdoors.

Diane Redford

Night Staff Supervisor

Diane has worked at Uinta since it opened in 2003. Diane worked in supervisory positions at several companies before joining the team at Uinta. She has worked in the Boy Scouts of America for over 20 years in leadership positions and has coordinated and conducted staff training and workshops.

Diane has been instrumental in developing training, supervision protocols, and policies and procedures for the Night Staff. Her suggestions and ideas have helped create a pleasant and productive work environment for the staff who make sure that the girls are safe and well cared for at night. Diane has accompanied the girls on most of the exploration trips; she does monitoring during the night at the hotel and goes hiking with the girls during the day. Diane has four children and nine grandchildren. She loves being with her family, camping, playing games, crocheting and watching the sun rise.

Therapists

Melissa Keller Adamson M.S.W., L.C.S.W.

Clinical Director, Therapist

Melissa completed a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Philosophy at Utah State University. She went on to receive her Master’s degree in Social Work and a Graduate Certificate in Women and Gender Studies, with an emphasis in social development of adolescent girls. Melissa has extensive experience working with at-risk youth in a variety of settings. She worked with children with autism in the public school system in Pennsylvania, creating treatment plans, working with parents, and using Applied Behavioral Analysis to better integrate the clients into the mainstream school environment. She also worked with inner-city at-risk youth in Washington D.C. and Richmond, VA on issues ranging from addiction to anger management. Melissa believes that living and having the opportunity to work with kids from all over the country has allowed her to develop cultural competence and an appreciation for diversity. Melissa has worked at Uinta Academy for several years, including some valuable experience in the milieu. She loves working with the girls and their families.

Melissa’s approach to therapy is individualized, client-centered, and strength based. She uses therapeutic skills from a variety of treatment modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR, Brainspotting, Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Attachment-focused Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems, and Solution-Focused Therapy and is working towards completing a certificate in the Neurosequcntial Model of Therapuetics. Melissa has experience working with adolescents that are dealing with depression and anxiety, attachment and adoption, personality disorders, PTSD, trauma and grief, self-esteem/identity issues, sexual assault and abuse, ADD/ADHD, anger management issues, substance abuse and dependency, and relationship problems. Melissa spends her free time cooking, playing the piano, and spending time with her family. She enjoys camping, hiking, canyoneering, and loves to travel.

Diana Handy M.S., C.M.H.C.

Therapist

Diana graduated with honors from Utah State University with a degree in Family and Human Development, emphasis in Community Services. Prior to becoming a therapist, Diana worked as an advocate for victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, and other crimes in community and court settings. Diana received a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix. She has worked extensively with clients suffering from substance use disorders and severe mental health issues, including schizophrenia, personality disorders, trauma and PTSD, suicidality and self-harm, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. Diana worked as an in-home therapist for families with children with severe behavioral issues, providing therapy to children and teens while coaching parents on strategies to help their children succeed. She has also worked in inpatient hospitalization and stabilization.

Diana is extensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and has trained other therapists to use DBT effectively. She also has experience in providing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), EAGALA equine-assisted therapy, Brainspotting, shame resiliency, and humanistic approaches. Diana believes that therapy should be tailored to each individual, and encourages feedback from her clients on what they like and don’t like in treatment. Diana is an avid gardener and loves growing flowers and vegetables. She also loves theater, singing, playing the piano, and science fiction and fantasy books and movies.

McKell Stevens M.S.W., C.S.W.

Therapist

McKell received a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Brigham Young University Hawaii with a minor in Psychology. She then went on to receive a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Arizona State University. McKell has experience working with addiction, mental health disorders, and extreme behavioral issues.

McKell has experience working with LGBTQ+ persons and created Brigham Young University Hawaii’s first support group and seminar for students and allies. She also worked as a therapist in Sydney, Australia before returning to Utah to work in an addiction rehabilitation facility. McKell worked as a behavioral specialist for the local school district writing and implementing behavioral plans utilizing Applied Behavioral Analysis.

McKell has also worked with many residential treatment centers to assist clients and families to work together to reach homeostasis within the family unit. She has also provided both individual and family therapy for the Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS). McKell approaches therapy using an individualized approach and tailors it to fit both the client’s needs and strengths. She has experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Systems Theory, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Strengths-Based. In her free time, McKell enjoys camping, boating, and riding her horses with her family.

Cheyenne Vasquez M.S., A.M.F.T

Therapist

Cheyenne graduated from California State University Fullerton with her Bachelor of Science in Human Services. Cheyenne completed her Master in Counseling degree with an emphasis in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from the University of Phoenix. Cheyenne has experience working in multiple residential treatment centers in California with adolescents and has extensive training and experience in substance abuse and mental health treatment.

Cheyenne has previously been a Clinical Compliance Manager and Clinical Director for Recovery Centers in California. Cheyenne believes in using a family systems model while integrating Attachment Theory, Gestalt interventions, Adlerian, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative approach. Cheyenne began working in the mental health field at a group home, in southern California, where she worked as a child care worker for young female adolescents.

While completing her Master's in Counseling, she served as an intern therapist and eventually went onto working as a full-time therapist for severely emotionally disturbed adolescents. Cheyenne furthered her career development when working with a recovery center for young women and was asked to become the Clinical Compliance Manager. Cheyenne trained therapists on clinical documentation and trained on substance abuse groups and mental health related curriculums. Cheyenne eventually accepted a position as a Clinical Director in Huntington Beach, CA working in Outpatient Treatment. After getting married and moving to Utah, she has decided to return to working with adolescents. Cheyenne is trained in Seeking Safety and has extensive training in the 12-Step Recovery Model and SMART Recovery. Cheyenne has experience working with trauma related issues such as PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and Schizophrenia. Cheyenne builds treatment plans to fit the need of her client's and individualizes each plan. For fun, Cheyenne enjoys writing fiction, singing, camping, playing fetch with her dogs and spending time with family and friends.

Bryan Shores M.A., A.M.F.T

Therapist

Bryan Shores graduated from Radford University in Virginia with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, with a minor in Criminal Justice. Bryan then went on to receive a Masters of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University in Colorado. He has worked extensively with clients suffering from severe mental health issues, including schizophrenia, personality disorders, trauma and PTSD, suicidality and self-harm, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and co-morbid substance abuse.

Bryan worked as a traveling in-home therapist for families and individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Through this experience he was able to provide psychotherapy to teenagers and young adults, as well as their families. He has worked in a private practice setting, providing therapy and treatment for clients struggling with attachment issues, substance abuse, and mental health disorders.

Bryan is trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Play Therapy, and approaches therapy form a Person-Centered standpoint, allowing the client and therapist to meet eye to eye, on a level playing field. Bryan is an avid snowboarder during the colder months, and enjoys rock climbing, camping, and hiking during the warmer months. He also enjoys attending live music events often, with his friends and family.

Katie Kinsey, M.S.W., C.S.W.

Therapist

Katherine (Katie) completed a bachelor’s degree in Social Work at Utah State University. She then went on to earn a master’s degree in the Advanced Standing Social Work program at Utah State University. Katie has experience working with adolescents, families, trauma, mental health disorders, and behavioral issues.

Katie has worked extensively with adolescents with Depression, Anxiety, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, a variety of substance use disorders, and PTSD. As an intern in the Juvenile Probation mental health court, Katie used Cognitive Behavior Therapy and the Stages of Change Model to help adolescents overcome their behavioral issues. She worked closely with probation officers, families, and school officials to provide clients with as many resources as needed to succeed.

While employed at Utah State University’s Sexual Assault and Anti-Violence Information center, Katie was a therapist for victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, and toxic relationships. She was trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Processing Therapy (TF-CPT), Mind Body Bridging (MBB), and Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT). Katie takes an eclectic approach to therapy, incorporating aspects of TF-CPT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness and Grounding techniques, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She believes each adolescent is an individual with specific needs and therefore uses a collaboration of therapies under a family systems model to meet those needs. In her free time, Katie enjoys rock climbing, river rafting, reading, camping, and spending time with her husband and puppy.

Medical Team

Bret Marshall MD

Psychiatrist

Dr. Marshall is a seasoned psychiatrist who has practiced as an adolescent specialist since he graduated from the University of Utah, School of Medicine, 1988. Dr. Marshall has been the medical director at Uinta Academy from the very beginning and works with the families and girls via a relationship based approach.

Dr. Marshall has worked as a medical director at both the in-patient and out-patient levels of care for over 20 years. Dr. Marshall specializes in treating adolescents who suffer from impulse control, mood/anxiety, post-traumatic stress, fetal substance exposure, Autistic Spectrum, and sexual trauma related issues and disorders. Dr. Marshall enjoys the fine arts, fine dining, the theatre, and travel as a way to enjoy his free time.

Kayla Vee Stock RN

Registered Nurse

Kayla attended Weber State University where she obtained her degree as a Registered Nurse. Prior to receiving her license as a Registered Nurse, Kayla attended Bridgerland Applied Technology College where she completed her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensures.

While completing her nursing program, Kayla was elected to perform a preceptorship with the Cache Valley Youth Center. She also worked multiple rotations in the Behavioral Health Unit at Logan Regional Hospital. While attending college she worked at Uinta Academy as a Family Teacher for three years. This previous work experience provides Kayla with great insight into what is expected from the girls as well as the challenges they face. Kayla is certified as an Equine Specialist through the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) and has worked with the girls providing equine therapy as well as recreational riding. In her free time, Kayla enjoys spending time with family, making crafts, exercising, and playing sports. She enjoys anything outdoors, especially spending time with her horses.

Jenny Barerra

Nurse

Jenny attended Ogden Weber Applied Technology College for her Licensed Practical Nurse Degree in 2010. She attained her Associates Degree in Science in General Studies as well as her Associates Degree in Science when she graduated from the Weber State University Nursing program in 2012. Jenny has provided nursing in long term care facilities and rehabilitation centers. She was responsible for people who had just been released from the hospital and/or surgery, and needed help before they went home. Jenny also truly enjoyed working with the older generation as a hospice nurse. She particularly enjoyed their stories. Jenny also moved to China for two years and Studied at Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine. There she received her Certificate for Acupuncture, Cupping and Moxibustion.

Home Managers

Ariane Magana BS

Young Adult Home Manager

Ariane was born and raised in Cache Valley. She received a Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a focus on Addiction from the University of Phoenix. This made her the very first person in her family to graduate from college. She has always enjoyed helping youth and in high school she tutored ESL students and provided translation services to students’ parents.

Ariane was the Latinos Action Site Manager for a local high school before she started working at Uinta in November of 2014 as a Family Teacher and Shift Supervisor. Ariane has worked at every one of Uinta’s homes during her employment, giving her a unique perspective and experience. She really enjoys working with the girls and is dedicated to helping them progress and reach their goals. Ariane likes to travel, spend time with her family, swim, and cook.

Karalee Murray

East Home Manager

Karalee is a native to Cache Valley where she grew up exploring the outdoors and continues to do so to this day. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Sociology at Utah State University in 2016 (Go Aggies!) Karalee started as a direct care staff back in 2017 and became the Achievement home manager in 2018. Due to an opportunity to work for the Walt Disney Company in Florida, she moved away for a few years.

During that time, she recognized her heart resided back in Cache Valley. She moved back in 2021 and rejoined the Uinta Team. She loves using the Family Teaching Model to help our clients through their daily lives.

Samantha Powell

Achievement Home Manager

Samantha studied at Utah State University earning a Bachelor's of Arts in International Studies with an emphasis in world economy and development as well as a Bachelor's of Arts in German language and literature. In 2017, Samantha also received her Yoga teacher certification from Utah State.

Samantha has worked with international youth exchange programs, both domestically and abroad. While working on her undergraduate, Samantha interned as a liaison for a group of American youth for one month in Germany. She has always had an interest in learning about cultures and the differences between them. Samantha is a Cache Valley native with the unique experience of being home schooled, where she was able to learn and grow at her own pace. Being home schooled gave Samantha the opportunity to spend a lot of her youth volunteering in the community with her siblings. At eighteen, she received a scholarship to study in Germany for one year where she focused on language, art and cognitive development. Samantha has worked in all of Uinta's homes and worked with girls through all of their stages of change. She enjoys working at Uinta and teaching the girls new skills ranging from independent living skills, home maintenance, new crafts to self care skills. She has taught culinary club as well as worked with the girls in every home setting up and maintaining their home gardens. Samantha loves watching the girls develope as individuals and encouraging them to soar. Samantha loves learning new things and teaching others new skills, working in her garden, hiking, teaching yoga, traveling and getting crafty.

Elizabeth Matthews BS

West Home Manager

Elizabeth Matthews was born and raised in central Iowa. She moved out to Utah in order to complete her degree at Utah State University, which included an internship at a non-profit domestic violence, sexual abuse, and rape recovery center serving Cache County and the Bear Lake area. Elizabeth graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Family Life Studies. Elizabeth has always had a passion for working with the youth of the community; including coaching, tutoring, and providing respite care for families with children with special needs.

Elizabeth has worked at all of the homes at Uinta, most often the East and West adolescent homes. She loves working with the clients and helping them by being a supportive and empathetic leader. She is skilled in the Teaching Family Model and this has allowed her to be a successful family teacher, shift supervisor, and Assistant Home Manager prior to becoming Home Manager. Elizabeth's favorite part of her job is watching the clients learn how to believe in themselves and be able to use their skills to grow as individuals. Elizabeth is the proud mother of two children. She likes to spend time outdoors, loves all animals, and enjoys playing sports. Her two favorite hobbies are doing yoga and reading.

Heather Kilpatrick

Assistant Home Manager

Heather has been a family teacher at Uinta Academy since 2013. She attended University of Phoenix and graduated with an associate degree in Criminal Justice with a focus in Human Services in 2013. She is currently working towards her bachelor’s degree.

Heather started Uinta as a direct care staff and has worked hard to implement the model and work her way up to Assistant Home Manager. Heather has been a shift supervisor for many years. She understands the implementation of the Teaching Family Model and the Stages of Change Model. Heather is upbeat and understanding as she interacts with the young ladies at Uinta Academy. She has fully enjoyed being able to help shape the girls lives into something better than they were before.

Kamille Knoppel Knoppel BS

Assistant Home Manager

Kamille Knoppel was born and raised in Cache Valley. She graduated from Utah State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Sciences. Kamille plans to go back to school to earn her Master’s degree in Psychology. She has experience working with several different non-profit organizations including Little Lambs Foundation, The Family Place, and Hyrum Humanitarian Center.

Kamille has worked in all of the Uinta homes and loves getting to know all the girls and helping them develop therapeutic skills. Kamille loves spending time with her husband, their dog, Rosie, and their two cats. She loves camping, going on bike rides, and doing anything with arts and crafts.

Eryn Tim

Assistant Home Manager

Eryn moved to Cache Valley six years ago to attend Utah State University. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She hopes to someday pursue a Master’s in Clinical Counseling. After spending some time working in public schools, she learned that her strengths lie in making personal connections. When she is not at Uinta, you can find her crocheting with her cats or looking for new recipes to try out.

Teachers

Susan Biddulph MS, SPED

Academic Assistant - Certified English Teacher - Special Education Director

Susan Biddulph graduated with a Bachelor of Science in English & History Education from Utah State University. Her English emphasis was in British and American Literature and her history emphasis was in American progressivism. She also completed significant coursework in the area of Anatomy and Physiology. Susan graduated in 2012 – also from Utah State – with a Master of Science in American Studies.

Her master’s thesis focused on utilizing multi-genre texts to teach English and history in an interdependent curriculum. She is a level 2 licensed teacher in the state of Utah and is highly qualified according to their established Praxis criteria. Susan has worked at Uinta since 2007. In addition to teaching, she has become involved in Uinta’s Parelli Natural Horsemanship program and assists the girls in developing relationships with their horses. Susan also occasionally lectures to youth groups and university classes on varied subjects including the history of cemeteries, the history of Ellis Island, housing in the Gilded Age, and how to successfully manage student teaching. Susan comes from a large family – she is the youngest of seven children and has fifteen nieces and nephews. She played on the USU women’s billiards team and continues to be involved in the Cache Valley pool league. She enjoys visiting museums and historical sites, going to Disneyland, and eating chocolate Häagen-Dazs ice cream.

Jentry Broschinsky BS

Certified Social Studies Teacher

Jentry received her Bachelor of Science in Social Studies and a Minor in Psychology with a Secondary Education Teaching Certificate at Southern Utah University. She was able to put her educational experience to practice while interning in various therapy settings for pregnant youth contemplating adoption as well as helping adults deal with childhood molestation issues.

Jentry has worked at Uinta since 2009 and has experience as a Family Teacher, Shift Supervisor, and Home Manager. Jentry currently works in the academic department as the Social Studies teacher. She has also assisted with teaching Social Studies in the classroom. When she isn’t teaching Social Studies. Jentry spends her time enjoying her children. She enjoys the outdoors, spending time with her family, visiting historical sites, swimming, hiking, and the Arts.

Lorelyn Garbini BA

Certified General Education Teacher - Cultural Arts Teacher

Lorelyn received her Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Arizona. She is a certified teacher with an S.E.I. endorsement. She has 31 years experience as a classroom teacher. She has served as a mentor teacher for the University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University and the University of Phoenix.

She holds certificates of specialized training in the areas of Restorative Discipline, Love and Logic, Marzano's Instructional Strategies, Multiple Intelligences, The Skillful Teacher, Bloom's Taxonomy of the Learning Domain, Creative Spirit, and Opening Minds Through the Arts. Lorelyn was honored in 2010 by Tucson Unified Schools for making the largest gains in closing the achievement gap in minority students. She was selected in 2009 by the U.S. Department of Education to participate in the Talent Transfer Initiative. Lorelyn has had a life-long interest in art and has been drawing and painting since childhood. She also plays the piano and has sung in a number of choirs. Although she majored in Education, Lorelyn also took a full load of art classes at the University of Arizona. She taught after-school art classes for ten years. Lorelyn is also a skilled interior decorator and seamstress. Not only does Lorelyn teach cultural arts at Uinta, she also plans and helps the girls with crafts and holiday décor and maintains the library. In her free time, Lorelyn works on art projects and loves to read. Her favorite thing to do is spend time with her family.

Tammie Clark BS

Yoga Instructor

Tammie Clark is a certified personal trainer, group exercise instructor and yoga instructor. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Utah State University with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work and minor in Family and Human Development. She has taken her passion for helping individuals become happier and healthier and combined it with fitness instruction. Her focus is primarily yoga-based. She has earned multiple nationally recognized fitness certifications which she draws upon to offer unique and personalized classes for her clientele.

Having the experience and fun of teaching fitness professionally for over 15 years, she has discovered the power of yoga to transform individuals both physically and emotionally in a safe, non-competitive atmosphere. Teaching students to tap into their internal strength and take it off the mat into the world is the most rewarding part of her job. With yoga training that is demographic specific and research based, she has found a niche in working with teens to help them find empowerment, healing, and strength through the medium of yoga. Tammie is the proud mother of three beautiful children and enjoys spending time with them and her husband of 23 years. In addition to fitness, she enjoys reading, baking, canning, photography, and travels as much as possible

Jason Bagley MS

Certified Mathematics Teacher

Jason received a Master of Science in Mathematics from Utah State University. As an undergraduate, his main emphasis was on education and his graduate thesis was focused on factors that contribute to student success in mathematics. He also has experience teaching several math classes at Utah State University and uses those skills to help students at Uinta.

Jason also took several classes in the sciences, and continues to learn more about science in his personal time. When not working, Jason enjoys hiking, playing card games and board games, and learning more in the field of physics. He hopes to make a difference and bring more optimism to the girls he works with.

Shannon Norman MED

Certified Mathematics Teacher

Shannon is a level IV endorsed math teacher having earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Utah State University. She received a Bachelor of Science in Math Education with a Music Education minor and an MEd in Instructional Technology along with an ELS endorsement.

Shannon has 26 years of math teaching experience in the public school setting, primarily teaching grades 6th through 9th grade. She is also proud to have been on the Uinta Academy teaching staff for over 15 years and has devoted her abilities to help students learn the foundations of math so they are successful as they progress up through the math levels. When not working, Shannon enjoys living a quiet country life admiring the local mountain and valley sceneries from her front porch. She thrives on spending time with family and is “way too competitive” at playing card and board games. She enjoys reading puzzles, gardening, raising animals and is afraid she is just one goat shy of becoming a crazy goat lady.

Gabbie Rigby BS

Certified Science Teacher

Gabbie Rigby earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture Education with a Minor in Animal Science from Utah State University. This is Gabbie’s second year teaching. Prior to teaching science at Uinta, she was an FFA Advisor at a high school in Utah. Gabbie grew-up in Idaho but has made Cache Valley her home after attending USU.

Gabbie’s passion is Agricultural Sciences especially Animal Science. In her spare time, Gabbie enjoys raising honey bees, training her border collies, and traveling to visit friends and family.

Zachary Chesbrough BS

Mathematics Teacher

Zach received his Bachelors of Science degree in Mathematic Education from Brigham Young University-Idaho. He has a passion for learning and teaching math. Zach moved to Utah to pursue his career in education. He uses his interpersonal skills, developed from tutoring one-on-one at BYU-Idaho, to help the girls at Uinta reach their educational goals.

In his spare time, Zach loves to read and play sports, especially basketball. He also loves to farm and being outside adventuring.

Mark Jenson

Teacher

Mark graduated from Utah State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English, and a minor in Social Studies. He began teaching at Uinta Academy in 2020. Mark has been teaching since 2015. He grew up in Utah County and moved to Cache Valley to go to school and start a family. Prior to teaching at Uinta Academy Mark was a teacher at a high school where he was coaching running backs and also an after school tutor. Mark states that he “really enjoys working with the students at Uinta Academy.”

Family Teachers

The Family Teachers are the staff who work with the girls throughout the day. Most of these women have Bachelor or Masters degrees in psychology, education or the social services. These staff are carefully selected for their professionalism, teaching ability, and relationship skills. They receive extensive training in the Teaching-Family model.

Uinta employs over 30 Family Teachers to ensure that each girl receives plenty of individual help and support throughout the day. Because the Family Teachers participate with the girls in their daily activities, they can provide the support and in-the-moment teaching that assists girls in using new skills, engaging in mindful problem solving and managing stress.

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