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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.

Elissa Raich

Counseling Staff

Full Bio

Elissa is originally from Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. She went to college in San Diego, California where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Point Loma Nazarene University. After college, Elissa moved back to Dallas and received her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from The Kings University. Elissa brings a lightheartedness that is full of grace and compassion. She shows her love through her actions, and it’s easy to see that her heart is for Christ. In her free time, Elissa enjoys spending time outside, hiking, playing board games, and spending time with friends and family.

Residential Directors

Heidi Friedel

Residential Director

Full Bio

After growing up on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Heidi attended Liberty University in Virginia to study family and child development and psychology. Heidi has had years of experience working with youth and their families as she worked as a lifeguard and swim instructor, as a club president for Best Buddies International, and as a therapeutic mentor. With her positive and easy-going spirit, Heidi strives to be a light to girls who are struggling through adolescence and a light to our staff, supporting our campus with her engaging personality. She loves to spend her free time playing pickleball, going to the beach, thrifting, hiking, swimming, and going on adventures like traveling to Australia!

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.

Regan Wills

Residential House Director

Full Bio

Regan comes from Southaven, Mississippi, and has always had a heart and passion for working with young people. Before working at Heartlight, Regan was a vulnerable populations coordinator after graduating from Mississippi State University in criminology. She enjoys walking in nature, playing with animals, and spending quality time with friends. Regan’s ambitious, empathetic, fun personality has been an asset for us here! She comes with a determination in the world to make a difference, even if it’s only for one kid.

Residential House Directors

Alaki Smith

Residential House Director

Full Bio

Alaki grew up in Lexington, Kentucky before coming to East Texas. She has tons of personal experience working with children as a babysitter, working at a daycare, and being a teacher’s assistant for special needs classes in High school. Alaki’s relational personality makes her a great asset at Heartlight. She has found the balance between creating deep relationships with teens and setting structure and consistency within the house she oversees. She has a heart to help with mental health and is currently working on her psychology degree in the hopes of becoming a counselor.

Taylor Kusch

Residential House Director

Full Bio

The most competitive guy around, Taylor, came to us from Long Beach, California. Taylor majored in Criminal Justice at Azuza Pacific University. Taylor’s fun personality allows him to easily connect with the residents and have those deeper conversations. Before Heartlight, Taylor worked in facilities at his home church in California. He’s passionate about sports, any type of animal, and hanging out with his friends and family. Taylor has always had a heart for youth and wants to make an impact on those around him while serving the Lord at the same time.

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.

Alex Loper

Residential House Director

Full Bio

Originally from Alto, Texas, Alex attended Stephan F. Austin State University and received her degree in human services with a focus in human development and family studies. Alex spent time working in administration for an outdoor science school program for 5th graders in Huntsville, TX before joining us in East Texas. Alex has a fun, adventurous personality and she loves to travel, go hiking, and play ultimate frisbee. Alex’s goal while being at Heartlight is to provide grace to those around her and be a support for those who need it. Her sense of humor makes her unique on campus and is wonderful when we need a new perspective in any given situation.

Spencer Becker

Residential House Director

Full Bio

Spencer came to us from Temecula, California with a servant’s heart, looking to make a direct impact on the lives of kids. Before joining our team at Heartlight, Spencer was an expedition trip leader for Camp Thunderbird, traveling across the pacific northwest with struggling teens. With nearly a decade of experience working with youth, Spencer felt like the Lord was drawing him to use his past experiences and passion to help guide others to Christ. In his free time, he enjoys being outdoors, reading, going to the gym, and spending time with God through prayer. Spencer studied psychology at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona. His charismatic personality and strong integrity and values allows him to connect easily with the kids and push them to be their most authentic self.

Keelin Munoz

Residential Staff

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.”

Residential Staff

Kenley Harden

Residential Staff

Full Bio

Kenley came to us from Cypress, Texas with a servant’s heart and a genuine passion to make a positive impact on the lives of teens. A recent graduate of Texas A&M University with a degree in psychology, Kenley aspires to become a full-time counselor in the future. With years of experience ranging from nannying, working with autistic children as a Registered Behavior Tech, and spending her summers counseling at T Bar M camp. Kenley is dedicated to connecting with youth on a deeper level and helping them navigate their emotions and behaviors in a healthy way. Kenley’s personable approach allows her to meet students where they are and walk alongside them throughout their journey. In her spare time, she enjoys playing sports and exploring new and interesting subjects.

Joshua Winans

Residential Staff

Full Bio

Originally from Minden, Louisiana, Josh joins us fresh from East Texas Baptist University, where he earned his Master of Christian Ministries degree. With a profound commitment to sharing the love of Jesus with young people in need, Josh draws from his own individual experience to connect deeply with the boys in his house. While in college, he was an active member of ETBU’s Rec team which allowed him to serve at various camps across Texas during the summers. Josh is known for his ability to ease tension with a well-timed joke and for his easygoing nature that makes him liked by all. You will always see Josh with a smile, bringing warmth and humor to our team.

Summer Sears

Residential Staff

Full Bio

Coming from Kokomo, Indiana, Summer brings experience from her time with Youth With A Mission (YWAM), where she earned certifications in discipleship training and ministry development. Her background in ministry, combined with a passion for traveling and exploring new cultures, makes her a vibrant addition to our team at Heartlight. Summer’s bright and radiant personality shines through in her interactions with our students, allowing her to offer genuine love and compassion during challenging times. When she is not at work, she enjoys grabbing coffee with friends, cooking, and embarking on spontaneous adventures. Beneath her lighthearted exterior, Summer values looking for intentional quality time with those around her, creating meaningful connections wherever she goes.

Garrett Olson

Residential Staff

Full Bio

Garret joins our team from Tyler, Texas, with a degree in ministry from Lifestyle Christianity University (LCU). Known for his hardworking nature and engaging personality, Garret is passionate about serving kids and making a lasting impact on the next generation. With a heart dedicated to missions and youth ministry, Garret connects deeply with young people, offering both support and inspiration. His calm demeanor coupled with his competitive spirit makes him a balanced and dynamic presence at Heartlight. Outside of his professional life, Garret enjoys playing the piano, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and taking part in various sports. His blend of creativity, culinary skills, and athleticism enriches both his personal life and his approach to working with our students.

Eden Andre

Residential Staff

Full Bio

From Macon, Georgia, Eden will light up a room with her smile. Eden majored in criminal justice at Georgia College in Milledgeville and went to work as a behavioral specialist. She desired the opportunity to work with an organization that centered around God, thus she discovered Heartlight. Eden loves photography, roller-skating, and hanging out with friends. She has a talent to make the girls feel valued and heard when they live with her in-house. She is very outgoing and energetic and will always be down to go on an adventure.

Austin Downs

Residential Staff

Full Bio

Years ago, Austin had the unique experience of going through and graduating from our program as a resident himself. When Heartlight impacted his own life in such a massive way, he instantly knew he wanted to return as a staff member one day. He says, “Some of the most impactful and life-altering conversations I had were with my house staff, and if someone was willing to give up a year of their life to try and save mine, I owed it to the next kid to come back and try to do that for them.” An Eagle Scout, Austin joined us again from Los Angeles, California where he grew up fishing, skateboarding, building cars, camping, off-roading, scuba diving, video games, and much more.

Cecelia McCoy

Residential Staff

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.

Allisson Ratliff

Residential Staff

Full Bio

Allison, affectionately known as Ally, was working as a preschool teacher and behavioral therapist before starting with Heartlight. She studied early childhood education and applied behavior analysis at Arizona Western College. Ally has great experience with kids as she has worked with kids on the autism spectrum, tutored middle schoolers, and taught preschool for over 5 years. Ally brings a smile to anyone around her and is constantly trying to make an impact on teens by offering them unconditional love, support, and encouragement. She loves to read, exercise, listen to music, and explore the outdoors.

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.

Horse Wrangler

Ellyna Dockery

Horse Wrangler

Full Bio

Known for her exceptional skill in training mustangs, Ellyna recently joined our team as the Horse Wrangler, overseeing the care of 18 horses and 3 donkeys. She has brought a sense of peace and joy to the barn, enriching the lives of everyone around her. After spending her childhood in Oregon, Ellyna moved to Longview two years ago with her family to help establish a church plant. She earned an associate’s degree in general arts from Linn Benton Community College before moving to East Texas. Her extensive experience with horses includes training her two mares and mustang, as well as working at an equine therapy program for children in need. Ellyna’s heartfelt and warm personality shines through in her work, and she has a deep love for being outdoors, whether it is with the horses, hiking, or exploring new places. She brings a genuine sense of home and hospitality to our campus, aiming to offer hope and share her love with everyone who visits the barn.

Recruitment Director

Adina Rosenlieb

Residential Director

Full Bio

Known for her Ohio pride, Adina grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, and studied psychology with a counseling focus at Ohio Christian University. Before her time at Heartlight, Adina had years of experience working with teens at multiple Christian summer camps, working with inner-city kids, working as a residential assistant, and more. She has also had the chance to travel to Spain and Japan for mission trips. Adina brings so much energy to our campus and loves engaging the kids in sports and competitions! She spends her free time working out, playing guitar, traveling, and hanging out with friends.

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.