Meet the Team

Originally from Williamstown, KY, Amanda resides with her wife, three daughters, and a cherished puppy. She embarked on her educational journey at Lindsey Wilson College, earning a BA in Human Services/Counseling and later obtaining her tCADC certification. Amanda commenced her professional career with Summit BHC in October 2020, eventually ascending to the role of Chief Executive Officer upon her relocation to Iowa in February 2023.

Meet Andy, our Director of Utilization Review for both St. Gregory’s and Ivory Plains. His tenure at St. Gregory’s began in 2016, although he briefly pursued other opportunities before returning, driven by his deep affinity for the position. Andy finds immense satisfaction in facilitating clients' access to optimal lengths of stay and witnessing their transformative journeys from admission to discharge. He pursued his education at the University of Northern Iowa, earning a BSW and obtaining his CADC. Andy's faith holds a central place in his life, alongside his dedication to his three remarkable children, who are actively engaged in various extracurricular activities ranging from sports to music and community service. Andy shares several intriguing anecdotes, including encounters with a US president, a family legacy of military service, his past role as a probation officer, and personal achievements such as a notable bench press and a heroic act of saving a child from drowning. Additionally, he cherishes significant life milestones such as being re-baptized a decade ago, which profoundly impacted his life.

Meet Tessa...She is our HR Director for the Iowa Market, reflecting on her enriching journey in healthcare. Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of encountering numerous talented individuals whose contributions have significantly shaped her professional trajectory. Tessa takes pride in being a member of a team dedicated to maximizing their efforts daily, aiming to positively impact the clients they serve. Her passion for fostering a conducive work environment where employees can thrive is evident in her continuous efforts to connect with new individuals and innovate ways to enhance workplace satisfaction. Originally hailing from Lakefield, MN, Tessa is an alumna of Minnesota State University in Mankato. She shares her life with a 7-year-old son and two beloved dogs, Bella and Bear. In her leisure time, Tessa indulges in her love for 90s Country music, gardening, and cherishing moments with her family and friends. Her guiding motto, "It's a good day to have a good day," encapsulates her positive outlook on life.

Wilma, the Recovery Life Coach/Alumni Coordinator at St. Gregory Recovery Center, extends a warm greeting. Her journey began in 2016, transitioning to the role of Recovery Life Coach in 2022. Armed with a master’s degree in psychology from the University of Phoenix, Wilma furthered her expertise by becoming a SMART Recovery facilitator. Motivated by a desire to make a positive impact in others' lives, Wilma finds fulfillment in building relationships with clients and offering ongoing support to alumni when necessary. She highlights the unique curriculum at St. Gregory’s, which equips individuals committed to their recovery with essential tools for reintegration into the community. Originally from the Orange Free State, South Africa, Wilma is a mother of four biological children and two non-biological children, with a total of thirteen grandchildren. While most of her children reside in the USA, she maintains a close bond with her sister, who lives near Cape Town. Wilma emphasizes her availability to offer assistance whenever needed, encouraging individuals not to hesitate to reach out for support.

Meet Alexis, she is our passionate Market Director of Business Development/Community Outreach at St. Gregory Recovery Center. Her journey with St. Gregory's commenced in 2021, evolving into the role of Market Director in 2023. Over the years, she has witnessed remarkable transformations and progress within the Iowa facilities, which fuels her passion for her work every day. Alexis finds fulfillment in the adage, "You will never work a day in your life when you do something you love," as it accurately reflects her experience. Despite holding directorial positions in various companies throughout her career, Alexis attests that nothing compares to her current role. She takes pleasure in engaging with the community, sourcing assistance and resources for individuals, and above all, raising awareness about addiction and mental health. Alexis pursued her education at Upper Iowa University, majoring in Psychology and Business Management, where she crossed paths with her husband. Together, they now nurture two lively boys, two horses, and a basset hound. During her leisure time, Alexis can be found enjoying the company of her family and animals at the barn or exploring trails. Alternatively, she actively represents the Iowa facilities in the community, proudly advocating for the support they provide to the recovery community.

Olivia Kreipke began her journey as the Admissions Director for Ivory Plains Recovery in August 2023. Hailing from the suburbs of Chicago, Olivia pursued her education at Central College in Pella, Iowa, where she earned a Bachelor of Psychology and CADC. Alongside her husband, she takes pride in being parents to two hound dogs. Their leisure time is often spent outdoors, relishing walks with their canine companions. If not engrossed in family time, Olivia can typically be found tending to her extensive collection of over 50 houseplants, a hobby that blossomed unexpectedly. Responding to market needs, Olivia transitioned into the role of Market Director of Admissions for both Ivory Plains and St. Gregory's Recovery Centers in April of 2024. She finds immense fulfillment in her role, particularly in offering hope to clients seeking assistance, ensuring they feel supported even before they arrive at the facility. Olivia encourages those struggling with addiction or their loved ones not to hesitate to reach out for help. She firmly believes that while growth and change may be challenging, remaining stagnant in an unsuitable environment is far more agonizing. She extends a welcoming invitation to call, assuring assistance in making the process as accessible and comfortable as possible.

Sammarra is the Business Office Manager for the Iowa market. She commenced her journey in July of 2023 at Ivory Plains before assuming the role of Business Office Manager for the Iowa Market in 2024. A lifelong resident of Iowa, she grew up in a large family on a farm in a secluded area. Married for 30 years, Sammarra and her spouse have raised three daughters and now revel in the joy of five grandchildren, four grand dogs, three grand cats, a grand horse, and a guinea pig. Her passion lies in witnessing the transformation of clients from arrival to discharge. Each week, she observes individuals evolve and find forgiveness within themselves. Additionally, she finds fulfillment in meeting people and aiding them on their journey to sobriety. Sammarra attributes her satisfaction to the dedicated and compassionate individuals she works alongside, who consistently extend support and grace to others. Her personal motto encapsulates her belief that "life is a journey."