Team - Heartlight Ministries

Meet The Heartlight Team

Leadership Team

Mark & Jan Gregston

CEO & Founders

Full Bio

Mark and Jan began their journey of working with teens at age 19, when they were asked to lead a Young Life club in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Both attended Tulsa University and Mark later took a position with First Methodist Church (in Tulsa) where he was a youth pastor for 7 years. Following the birth of their two children, Adam, and Melissa; the Gregstons moved to Branson, Missouri where they lived at Kanakuk Kamp and Mark was the Area Director for Young Life. In 1988, they left Branson and settled in Longview, Texas to start the Heartlight program. Now 35 years later, Heartlight has flourished and has now had over 3,000 residents through the years. The spin-offs of the ministry have included the Parenting Today’s Teens Radio program and podcast, an extensive traveling and speaking schedule, the writing of 20+ parenting books, and the expansion of Heartlight to become one of the nation’s finest adolescent residential counseling centers. Mark and Jan are actively involved in all aspects of the ministry to families with their family, Melissa, who coordinates admission to Heartlight, Blake, their son-in-law who runs Heartlight, and Adam, who works with the Heartlight Foundation. Mark and Jan have 4 grandkids, and live next to the Heartlight property and have a host of animals that include horses, donkeys, and any other critter in need.

Blake Nelson

Executive Director

Full Bio

Blake is a native of East Texas and has been a part of the Heartlight team for almost 30 years. Blake is licensed in Texas as Childcare Administrator. Blake’s passion for helping struggling teens and their families has made him a great asset to the Heartlight community. Blake has been married for over 25 years to Melissa Nelson, the Admissions Director, and has two daughters and 3 dogs. Blake enjoys spending time in the outdoors bow hunting, golf, fishing, and various activities, when not spending time with family or at Heartlight.

Layne Smith

Director of Counseling

Full Bio

Layne graduated from The University of Texas at Tyler with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in clinical mental health counseling. She found Heartlight upon her graduation in 2018 and quickly moved into the role of Director of Counseling. Layne loves kids of all ages and offers a beautiful example of what our life-on-life ministry style looks like. She maintains tough love but is highly encouraging and optimistic in style. She lives in Longview with her husband and their two daughters. In her free time, she enjoys taking her girls to the park & playing fetch with her dogs. Layne brings a sense of peace and calm energy to all that she does and is steadfast as well as reliable in all her ways.

Melissa Nelson

Director of Admissions

Full Bio

Melissa grew up at Heartlight as the daughter of Mark and Jan Gregston. Her unique upbringing has been saturated with kids and staff since her earliest days. She attended Baylor University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Child and Family Studies degree. She chose this area of study as an extension of her love for helping parents and teens caught in difficult situations. Melissa’s gatekeeping position as the Director of Admissions along with her 25-year marriage to her husband, Blake, who runs the Heartlight program qualifies her to sift through admissions requests to put together a grouping of teens who will “fit together” and be successful with the Heartlight program. Melissa and Blake have two daughters, Maile, and Macie, either at college or pursuing their passion in their work. The Nelsons live next to the Heartlight property, they have 4 dogs and stay connected in the lives of their daughters. Melissa’s warm and welcoming voice when speaking to those inquiring about Heartlight, is a voice of hope for many, where those can “feel” her sense of compassion and understanding during their time of need.

Pam Mitchell

Director of Administration

Full Bio

Pam is a proud native of East Texas. She holds an Associate of Science degree from Kilgore College and brings valuable experience from her time in banking and as a New Accounts Manager. Pam has a deep passion for ministry, having previously taught Sunday school and worked with youth. Pam is dedicated to Heartlight’s mission, believing strongly in its work to support families in crisis. She has felt a calling to be part of this mission for many years and is committed to serving with love and dedication. Behind the scenes, Pam is the backbone of Heartlight, handling the administration with grace and ensuring everything runs smoothly. She deeply loves her family and church and lives out her faith by loving Jesus and others wholeheartedly.

Ben Weinert

Assistant Director

Full Bio

Ben is a dedicated member of Heartlight and has been for the past 20 years. Ben is a licensed Childcare Administrator with a degree in Christian ministries and theater from George Fox University. He brings an energetic and fun-filled spirit to our team, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere at Heartlight. Ben is a devoted family man, married with three children, and his passion for the ministry shines through in his work. He loves every moment of his journey at Heartlight, striving to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.

Brooke Lane

Assistant Director

Full Bio

Brooke has been a valuable part of our Heartlight family since 2016. Brooke is the go-to person when it comes to helping young people and families in need. She has a background in psychology from her time at Southeastern University. With her knowledge and passion, Brooke has been a significant part of our ministry for the past seven years. In her free time, she enjoys reading, playing sports, and hanging out with friends.

Admissions

Kim Weed

Admissions Assistant

Full Bio

Kim has been married to her college sweetheart, James, for over 25 years, and is mom to three young adults, including one who graduated from Heartlight. She knows the challenges of raising teens in today’s culture and is passionate about helping other families navigate from tough times to calmer waters. With a degree from Washington State University in Accounting, Kim finds joy in the sunshine and warm air, loves writing, and is always up for a conversation and laugh.

Counseling Staff

Courtney Lafleur

Counseling Staff

Full Bio

Courtney is an East Texas native from Mineola. She studied at Southern Arkansas University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in clinical counseling and mental health. Courtney worked in a variety of settings before coming to Heartlight, including state clinics, university counseling centers, and children’s behavioral health. Courtney has become an asset to Heartlight and her wisdom goes far beyond her age. She lives in Longview with her husband, David, and their dogs, Remi and Sunday. She spends her free time traveling to meet up with family, watching sports with friends, and going to the movies.

Melissa Fulling

Counseling Staff

Full Bio

Melissa completed her master’s program at the University of Puget Sound in 2013 and has worked with struggling kids and families in a variety of settings for over a decade. After her graduate program, she worked primarily with a community mental health center and focused on counseling with kids in the school and clinic settings including work with trauma victims at a children’s advocacy center. Before coming to Heartlight, Melissa worked with troubled teens in a long-term inpatient program. She has been passionate about helping others through counseling since she was nominated in high school as a “Natural Helper” (peer counselor) and recognized how fulfilling service to others can be. Melissa and her husband moved to East Texas in 2021 and have never felt so at home.

Residential Directors

Brandon Diaz Matthews

Residential Director

Full Bio

Brandon grew up in Orlando, Florida before moving to Dallas, Texas, and discovering Heartlight. He attended Seminole State College and then the University of Central Florida studying psychology and entrepreneurship. Brandon has been in the education field for the past nine years working mostly as a behavioral analyst and a program assistant. Some of his hobbies include off-roading, E-Sports, riding his jet ski, and has recently found an interest in creating content and hopes to use that to one day create a brand that motivates and inspires teens and young adults.

Residential Staff

Victoria Galvan

Full Bio

Meagan Manning

Full Bio

Shannen McCabe

Full Bio

Faith Hicks

Full Bio

Mario Cibrian

Full Bio

Eli Flurh

Full Bio

Estefania Lopez

Full Bio

Brea’ll Harp

Full Bio

Katerine Evermon

Residential House Director

Full Bio

Originally from Bogota, Colombia, Katerin attended the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, TX where she studied international business with a double minor in Spanish and Christian studies. Before Heartlight, Katerin worked with an organization that reunited unaccompanied minors with their families in the states. She has a deep heart for kids and has always wanted to make a difference and show the love of Christ to those around her. She loves watching movies, hanging out with her friends, playing soccer, and learning about other cultures. Katerin brings a playful spirit to the table while showing empathy to the kids in her house. She feels deeply for those she serves, which allows her to be very impactful in her approach to teenagers.

Keelin Munoz

Residential House Director

Full Bio

Keelin was born and raised right here in East Texas, growing up in White Oak. Keelin has had a heart for youth for a long time and was previously a youth leader at a small congregation in his hometown. He is currently working on his associate in counseling at Kilgore College in hopes of becoming a licensed counselor. Keelin’s “go with the flow” personality has allowed him to not only connect with the kids, but other staff. He provides a listening ear to anyone who needs it and wants to show the kids that they are loved, no matter the decisions they have made. Keelin says he’s just an “ordinary person serving an extraordinary God.”

Kimberly Scruggs

Residential House Director

Full Bio

Meet Kimmy from Kerrville, TX—a true adventurer with a heart for ministry! After high school, she dove into missions with YWAM and spent years serving at a nonprofit supporting single mothers and families. With years of experience in children’s and youth ministry, she created and ran a summer day camp program for four years, always pouring her heart into working with kids. Kimmy’s passion is simply loving and encouraging youth, being a constant presence in their lives, and walking alongside them as they grow. She believes in loving like Jesus, showing up when life gets tough, and offering support through every challenge. An adventurous spirit who loves the outdoors—running, hiking, camping, and exploring—Kimmy comes from a big family where she learned to care for others, and there’s truly nothing she’d rather be doing than helping others grow in faith and life.

Cecelia McCoy

Residential House Director

Full Bio

Bringing a motherly love wherever she goes, Cecelia (known as CeCe on campus) comes to us after three months in Istanbul, Turkey visiting some friends from when she studied abroad. CeCe attended H.I.M., Hotel Institute of Montreux in Montreux, Switzerland, where she received a degree in business. Her desire to help children and families originally lead her to work at Polinsky Children’s Center in San Diego, California for 3 years. CeCe grew up in Terrell, Texas. She loves music, painting, writing, and spending time with friends and family! Her love for the Lord, empathy for others, and passion to work with kids allows her to build deep relationships and never give up on anyone.

Caleb Howland

Residential Staff

Full Bio

Caleb Howland, originally from Mason City, Iowa, has a unique and deeply personal connection to Heartlight. As a former resident during his high school years, Caleb experienced firsthand the transformative power of support and guidance. His journey has led him back to Heartlight, this time as a member of the team, with a heart full of gratitude and a passion to extend the same grace, love, and mercy that helped him. Before his time at Heartlight, Caleb worked in construction, house building, and remodeling, which instilled in him a strong work ethic and problem-solving skills. He firmly believes that God called him back to Heartlight to share his testimony and make a difference in the lives of students in the same way he was helped. Caleb’s deep understanding and compassion set him apart, allowing him to connect with the kids in a way few others can. In his free time, Caleb enjoys playing basketball, watching football, and listening to music.

Jacey Loeza

Residential Staff

Full Bio

Jacey is originally from Diana, Texas—just down the road from Heartlight. After fully surrendering her future to the Lord, she found Heartlight and quickly felt connected to its Christ-centered mission. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Spanish Linguistics from Texas Tech University and studied abroad in Spain during her time there. Before coming to Heartlight, Jacey taught high school English and Spanish and coached several sports, including cross country, basketball, cheer, and track. She’s known for her chill personality and open mind—qualities that create a space where others feel safe, seen, and free to be themselves. Outside of work, Jacey enjoys playing pickleball, finding new coffee shops, going to church with friends, and spending quality time in good company.

Jada Padua

Residential Staff

Full Bio

Jada is originally from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and her heart for helping others led her to Heartlight. Before joining the team, she worked in a call center, served in food service at a children’s hospital, and volunteered with her local Boys & Girls Club—all experiences that deepened her desire to make a difference in the lives of young people. Jada is passionate about being a positive influence for teens who may be struggling, and she brings that purpose into her daily work with warmth and dedication. She’s known for her cheerful spirit, quick humor, and honest, hopeful nature—qualities that naturally create connection and trust. Outside of work, Jada enjoys doing puzzles and word searches, reading, and spending quality time with her friends and family.

Gabriella Venegas

Residential Staff

Full Bio

Gabriella is originally from Austin, Texas, and her journey to Heartlight began with a simple prayer—asking God to guide her steps toward the right place. When she came for her interview, she felt an undeniable peace and knew in her heart that Heartlight was where He was calling her to be. Before joining the team, Gabriella worked as a full-time nanny and has spent much of her life caring for others, from babysitting and nannying to helping raise her younger sister in a single-parent home. Her deep love for Jesus and passion for sharing the gospel shape everything she does, especially her desire to reach the hearts of young people in their most formative years. Gabriella is known for her vibrant personality, compassionate spirit, and genuine care for others. She naturally creates space for connection through laughter, meaningful conversation, and deep listening. In her free time, she enjoys playing sports, being outdoors, watching sunsets, playing board games, and spending quality time with her loved ones.

Hannah Kaczmarek

Residential Staff

Full Bio

Hannah was born and raised in Montgomery, Illinois, and first heard about Heartlight during a college class when someone came to speak about the ministry. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in family and child development from Liberty University. With a heart for helping others, Hannah is passionate about seeing restoration take root in families. What drew her to Heartlight most was the mission: helping families become whole again and creating space for hope and healing. She brings an outgoing spirit, contagious energy, and a fresh perspective to the team. Known for her bubbly personality, her love for new adventures, and her deep care for those around her, Hannah creates connection wherever she goes. Outside of work, you can find her spending time with friends and seeking out her next fun experience.

Academic Director

Keila Reyes

Academic Director

Full Bio

Keila was born and raised in Tamaulipas, Mexico before her family moved to Hallsville, Texas, where she spent the rest of her childhood. She attended East Texas Baptist University, receiving her Bachelor of Arts in music and worship studies. In addition to music, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching movies, reading, and shopping. Before Heartlight, Keila had experience working at youth camps and youth retreats and has spent the majority of her life playing music and singing at her home church. Keila has worked at Heartlight for the last few years and plays a crucial role in the development and growth of the kids. In the future, Keila plans to get married and start a family.

Teachers

Jane Fidler

Teacher

Full Bio

Originally from East Aurora, New York, Jane attended the State University of New York at Buffalo, where she earned a B.A. in secondary English and a master’s degree in reading. With a wealth of experience spanning twelve years in both New York and Texas public schools, Jane joined Heartlight in 2002, a role she adores. Jane is the kind of teacher students always remember. Her warmth, humor, and knack for encouraging others make her stand out. Jane is a teacher who leaves a lasting impression and creates a positive learning environment for all.

Faith Crawford

Teacher

Full Bio

Meet Faith, our math tutor, whose roots trace back to Deer Park, Texas. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and physical education from Stephen F. Austin State University, Faith brings a practical and dynamic approach to mathematics. She possesses a unique way of simplifying complex math concepts. With Faith, students discover that math isn’t just about numbers; it’s about unlocking new possibilities and building confidence to achieve and accomplish more understanding of math.

Scott Harclerode

Teacher

Full Bio

Scott is from Longview, Texas, and attended the University of Houston where he received a BS degree in electronics and control. He furthered his education by attending the University of Kansas and Rice University where he received his MEE degree in electrical engineering. He’s semi-retired and is an adjunct professor of physics at Le Tourneau University in Longview, Texas. He has been tutoring and involved in public education for over 20 years. He brings a little bit of “age” and a “whole lot of wisdom”.

Kathleen Herman

Teacher

Full Bio

Originally from Springfield, Missouri, Kathleen is a tutor known for her remarkable kindness and sweet disposition. Obtaining her bachelor’s degree from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. She is well-versed in history and eager to share her passion for the subject with her students. Kathleen’s warm and empathetic nature creates a supportive learning environment and makes history lessons not only educational but also enjoyable. Her commitment to helping students understand and appreciate the complexities of the past is matched only by her dedication to their success.

Morgan Paul

Teacher

Full Bio

Meet Morgan, originally from Lufkin, TX, who graduated from East Texas Baptist University with a degree in university studies. Before joining Heartlight, Morgan taught 6th grade social studies and led a Bible study for three years, while also helping out with VBS. She later served as a children’s minister before becoming one of Heartlight’s dedicated teachers. Morgan is passionate about the mission of Heartlight and is excited to share the love and hope of Christ with the teens she works with. She brings a compassionate heart and a good listening ear to the team, always ready to offer support and encouragement. When she’s not at work, Morgan enjoys spending time with her husband and family, appreciating the simple joys of life—like long walks, game nights, and a refreshing Dr. Pepper!

Horse Wrangler

Grace Stephens

Horse Wrangler

Full Bio

Grace is originally from Purdy, Missouri, and her lifelong love of horses and heart for helping others made Heartlight a natural fit. She’s currently pursuing her associate degree in Psychology at Crowder College, where she’s learning more about how to support and understand people—something that fuels her passion for walking alongside teens and families through the ups and downs of life. Before joining the team, Grace spent much of her time around horses, learning to care for them and build trust with them—skills that now extend into her work with students at Heartlight. She’s known for her fun-loving personality, quick wit, and ability to bring lightheartedness to any room. Grace is also a dedicated worker and deeply values her faith, which drives her commitment to love others with compassion and joy. Outside of work, Grace enjoys reading, painting, trail riding, and laughing hard with friends. She carries her faith with joy and lives it out through both hard work and heartfelt connection.

Recruitment Director

Financial Services

Rosemary Ludwig

Financial Services

Full Bio

From Vicksburg, MS, Rosemary brings a solid foundation of professionalism and care to her role as Financial Secretary. She studied at East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Texas, where she earned her credentials as a paralegal. With 30 years of experience in the legal field, Rosemary developed a keen eye for detail and a commitment to precision, skills she now applies to her work in the financial office. As a devoted mother and grandmother, Rosemary’s heart is firmly rooted in family. Her love for nurturing extends beyond her home to her flower gardens, where she finds joy in cultivating life, whether it is tending to her plants or growing tomatoes. This nurturing spirit is something she carries into all aspects of her life. Her warm smile and can-do attitude are a blessing to have in the workplace as she strives to reflect God’s love to everyone she meets here and beyond Heartlight.