Ryan Speier is President of KVC Hospitals where he leads an innovative and passionate team of multi-disciplinary professionals while overseeing the vision, strategy, and operations throughout a network of children’s psychiatric hospitals and residential treatment centers in Kansas and Missouri.

Ryan began his career with KVC in 2007, and previous roles include Therapist, Director of Administration and Vice President of Administration. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive experience overseeing hospital operations, strategic development and growth, fiscal accountability, quality assurance initiatives, and implementation of trauma-focused treatment modalities. He has also led hospital programs through accreditation and licensing surveys to maintain state and national standards.

Over the last several years, Ryan has developed collaborative relationships with government agencies, healthcare referral partners and community stakeholders. He possesses a strong and innovative background with technology which he has used to help KVC leverage technology across the medical and behavioral health environments to improve patient outcomes and population health.

Ryan earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from Fort Hays State University and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Kansas.

“This work became my passion early on after seeing how my parents helped people from all walks of life. It didn’t matter who you were, they saw people as people and helped everyone. Our treatment centers are the same way. We create a healing environment, a safe place for people who are going through the worst time in their lives. Children and teens come to us because they’re in crisis, and we help them through that experience to regain hope and achieve a better tomorrow.” – Ryan Speier

Robert (Bobby) Eklofe is Vice President of Behavioral Health Operations at KVC Hospitals where he leads program and administrative operations including oversight of risk management, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, program and staff development, business practices and facility operations.

Throughout his 30-year career in behavioral health, most of that with KVC, Bobby has gained experience working in residential services, psychiatric hospitals, social services and school settings. He has held positions in direct patient care, human resources, training, staff development, hospital administration and executive leadership.

Bobby participates in many local and state committees in Kansas to advocate for community behavioral health needs and is a longtime member of Kiwanis. He currently serves on the Kansas Governor’s Behavioral Health Services Planning Council Children’s Subcommittee and the Kansas School Mental Health Advisory Council.

Bobby earned a master’s degree in health services administration from the University of Kansas School of Medicine. He previously served as co-chair of the Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) Stakeholder Committee and as a member of the Kansas City, Kansas Citizen Academy; Wyandotte County Children’s Services Coordinating Council; Child Abuse and Neglect Conference Planning Committee; and the Kansas Children’s Alliance Training Committee.

 “There is no better job and fulfillment than to have the opportunity to work for families and children and support them through life’s ups and downs. You can’t replace that. Once you get a taste of it, you want to continue that feeling of knowing you’re helping others and investing in their futures. I am joined by a passionate, multi-disciplinary team of professionals that is here to serve families and children with compassion!” – Bobby Eklofe

Dr. Vishal Adma serves as Medical Director for KVC Hospitals and brings more than 20 years of leadership experience. Kansas has been Dr. Adma’s home for the past 22 years and he graduated with his residency training in Psychiatry from the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City. He is also a Physician Surveyor for the Joint Commission International.

Throughout his career, Dr. Adma has been active in the Kansas community and past roles include Assistant Professor at the University of Kansas Medical Center and the Kansas City University of Medicine and Bioscience as well as Physician Surveyor for The Joint Commission in the United States. He is a Diplomate for the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and holds certifications as a Physician Executive through the American College of Physician Executives and in Medical Quality from the American Board of Medical Quality.

Dr. Adma has won several awards including the “Student Voice Award” from the University of Kansas Medical Center, recognizing his dedication to teaching medical students; “Resident of the Year” in Psychiatry from the University of Kansas Medical Center; the “Dorland Health People Award” from The National Press Club, honoring excellence and dedication for healthcare professionals; “Professional Leader of the Year – 2012” by the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Kansas City; and his contributions to the field of medicine were also recognized at the American Telugu Convention in 2018 with the “Excellence in Medicine” award.

Dr. Adma also volunteers on various non-profit community boards including Goodwill of Kansas City, Keys for Networking, Hindu Temple and Cultural Center, and Telugu Association of Greater Kansas City. He earned a master’s degree in nutrition and food management from the University of Central Oklahoma.

“Working for KVC means helping children and families in need, making a difference in their lives, and being part of an innovative and talented team that goes above and beyond on a daily basis with a single thought in their mind – People Matter.” – Dr. Vishal Adma

Annmarie Arensberg serves as Director of Clinical Operations at KVC Hospitals where she oversees the admissions department for all inpatient and residential treatment programs, provides clinical oversight for utilization review, helps develop KVC’s therapeutic services, and assists in community outreach. She also serves as an employee engagement champion and works to instill initiatives that drive retention and an enhanced employee culture.

Beginning her career with KVC Hospitals in 2012, Annmarie has gained experience as a Therapist Intern, Admissions Coordinator, Residential Therapist, Clinical Manager and Associate Director of Clinical Services. Prior to KVC, she worked in the case management department at the University of Kansas Hospital as a social work intern.

Annmarie has been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Trauma Systems Therapy, and Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports. She earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare, is a licensed specialist clinical social worker in Kansas, and a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri. Prior to being employed at KVC, she was a longtime KVC volunteer.

“KVC is a part of my DNA at this point. I love the work we do here and am passionate about being part of a team and company that goes above and beyond for children and families who need support. If we see gaps in services, we take steps to fill them and build a better and brighter future for those that we serve.” – Annmarie Arensberg

Pete Barndollar serves as Director of Human Resources for KVC Hospitals where he oversees the development and implementation of human resource initiatives to ensure fulfillment of the overall talent management needs of KVC. This includes new employee experience, onboarding, training, development and employee engagement. He is also on KVC’s Safety Management Committee.

Prior to joining KVC in 2013, Pete worked as a Division Operations Manager for a leading staffing firm where he supervised strategic account management, compliance, and training for more than 60 locations in the United States.

Pete is a graduate of Pittsburg State University and enjoys giving back to the Kansas City community through volunteer work at a variety of nonprofits. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Hope Care Center.

Bailey Bennett is Director of Nursing for KVC Hospitals where she creates strategic plans focusing on improving patient experience and increasing employee engagement. Bailey has been with KVC for four years and empowers our nursing staff to learn, grow and do what nurses do best—care for patients.

Before joining KVC, Bailey worked as a Registered Nurse in pediatric home health, long-term care, home-health case management, skilled nursing and telephonic nursing.

Bailey received a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Grand Canyon University. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Nursing Association (APNA), Kansas Organization of Nursing Leaders (KONL), Kansas Nursing Association (KNA) and American Nursing Association (ANA). Bailey also participates in advisory board committees for Kansas City area nursing schools and serves on the governing board of the Kansas City Healthcare Leadership Exchange.

“As soon as I walked through the door, I fell in love with KVC’s people and mission! I enjoy what I do because I come to work every day and have the ability to positively impact the lives of the families and children we serve.” – Bailey Bennett

Sara Schlagel is Director of Program and Staff Development at KVC Hospitals where she oversees program innovation and staff training for KVC’s children’s psychiatric treatment centers in Kansas and Missouri.

Previously, Sara served as Program Director at KVC Hospitals Kansas City and held other leadership roles with KVC Kansas and a local community mental health center. She has international experience providing consulting services to schools, psychiatric hospitals, and residential centers as well as extensive experience working with families through the Strengthening Families program, survivors of human trafficking, and providing services and support to immigrant families.

As a nationally certified Trauma Systems Therapy trainer, Sara provides training on trauma-informed care, enhancing client experiences and service-provider safety. Along with 13 years of experience working in mental health, she is bilingual in English and Spanish.

Sara has a master’s degree in social work from Washburn University and is a licensed master social worker.

“I’m very passionate about enhancing trauma-informed services on a micro and macro level as well as increasing cultural competence and inclusion within the services provided at KVC Hospitals.” – Sara Schlagel

Eric Marley has been with KVC Hospitals for more than 6 years and serves as Associate Director of Business Operations. In this role, he manages contracts, uses data and analytics to enhance hospital systems, and oversees the Utilization Review department for all inpatient acute and residential treatment programs.

Prior to his current role, Eric was a Business Analyst and Admissions Manager, where he gained proficiencies in electronic health record management, census monitoring, data analysis and contract management. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Baker University.

“I strive to support our team in providing mental health services to children and families in Kansas and beyond. I work hard to identify financial and systemic barriers that may prevent individuals from receiving services and work on solutions to overcome those barriers.” – Eric Marley

Dr. Anh Vinh has been with KVC Hospitals for four years and serves as Director of Integrated Services. With evidence of how childhood trauma is correlated to chronic illnesses and addiction, Dr. Vinh focuses on combining her physical health expertise as a family physician with KVC’s world-renowned behavioral and mental healthcare services. This collaboration allows KVC to move beyond assessments and meaningfully address long-term health issues in individuals and communities.

Additionally, Dr. Vinh enhances KVC’s health and wellness programs to improve clinical outcomes for both clients and employees. She performs both regional and national research related to integrated healthcare and models of service provision, suggests clinical pathways to monitor health and wellness outcomes, provides guidance on the growth of technology platforms that prevent medical risks, and develops protocols influenced by evidence-based and best practice guidelines.

Professional affiliations include the American Board of Family Medicine and the American Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Vinh received her medical degree from the University of Kansas Medical Center and completed her residency in its Department of Family Medicine. She is also a Kansas Reynolds Program in Aging Faculty Scholar.

“As a primary care physician, I was trusted with patients’ stories of their deepest traumas. Some of these same patients were hardest ones to care for due to illnesses and addictions. All physicians knew there was a backstory of trauma in our hardest patients before ACEs studies, but when those studies were published, we finally had help in defining exactly what trauma and resilience does to our physical health.

“I work with some of the most traumatized children in Kansas. Some of these clients have been neglected or experienced other trauma and as a result, they neglect their own physical health. KVC is unique in its emphasis to trauma-informed care and focus on the future health impact. Caring for this extremely vulnerable population, and the possibility of making a real impact on their future health, is why KVC will be the future of how we view chronic illness and prevention.” – Dr. Anh Vinh

Frederick (Fred) Watts serves as Senior Clinical Consultant with KVC Hospitals where he manages contracts and focuses on internal program development. He has been part of the KVC team for 10 years and has more than 40 years of experience as a social worker.

Prior to working at KVC, Fred held various positions managing emergency services at Truman Medical Center Emergency Room and Shawnee Mission ER and was Clinical Director at Crittenton Psychiatric Hospital. He has gained extensive experience providing individual and group therapy and crisis intervention services.

Fred earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of Missouri and is clinically licensed in Kansas and Missouri.

“The reason I do this is easy – helping an organization provide support to kids who have not had easy lives. As a grandfather to three young boys, I can observe all the work that goes into raising children and if I can help others in this endeavor, I have given something back to the lives of kids.” – Fred Watts

Dr. Jyotsna Adma has been with KVC Hospitals since 2007 as a Child Psychiatrist, helping children and adolescents experiencing mental and behavioral health challenges. She is dual board-certified in General Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and specializes in mood and anxiety disorders.

Throughout her career, Dr. Adma has gained extensive experience working with individuals with severe mental illness in inpatient, outpatient, and residential programs as well as utilizing telepsychiatry.

Dr. Adma graduated from B.L.D.E.A. Medical School in India and completed her residency and fellowship training in Psychiatry at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

“I want to provide the best possible psychiatric care to children and families so that we can build stronger, healthier communities.” – Dr. Jyotsna Adma

Dr. Srinivasa Panuganti currently serves as a Psychiatrist at KVC Hospitals Wichita, a 54-bed inpatient acute hospital for children ages 6 to 18. Prior to working with youth at our Wichita hospital, he served as a Psychiatrist at KVC Hospitals Hays for four years.

Dr. Panuganti earned his medical degree in India and completed a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at the University of Toledo Medical Center in Toledo, Ohio.

“I enjoy working with children and their families to treat depression, anxiety, aggression and other mental health issues. It’s a joy working at KVC with staff that show their dedication and passion to making a difference in kids’ lives. My goal is to make children happy, smile every day and successful in life.” – Dr. Panuganti

Dr. Raghu “Reddy” Davalapur has been a Psychiatrist at KVC Hospitals for 15 years, providing treatment to children and adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety, aggression, suicidal thoughts and other mental health challenges.

Prior to KVC, Dr. Reddy worked in other psychiatric inpatient and outpatient settings serving children, adults and geriatric patients. He also has experience working with individuals in substance abuse programs.

Dr. Reddy attended medical school in India and completed his residency in General Psychiatry at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

“I am passionate about helping children overcome mental health problems, and in turn making a difference for families and communities.” – Dr. Reddy

Melissa Barkemeyer, APRN, has been with KVC Hospitals for four years providing evaluation and management of acute and chronic health conditions for youth in our inpatient acute and residential treatment programs. She works closely with our psychiatry team to provide care for clients with medical and psychiatric concerns as well as community providers to help coordinate ongoing care for each child as they prepare to discharge from KVC.

Prior to KVC, Melissa gained experience in case management and as a registered nurse in labor and delivery, high-risk antenatal care and newborn care. She also worked in an urgent care setting.

Melissa is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, received her master’s degree in nursing from the University of Central Missouri, and received her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Baker University.

“I am very passionate about helping children achieve health and wellness. I provide care for them that allows me to be part of their story and journey to healing.” – Melissa Barkemeyer

Jamie Lambotte has more than 12 years of experience in mental health. She has worked with KVC Hospitals for five years, serving as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner to provide care to children and teens receiving inpatient acute and residential psychiatric treatment.

Jamie graduated from Wichita State University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Washburn University.

“I’m passionate about helping children and adolescents who are struggling with mental health challenges. At KVC, we take a collaborative team approach in our work to provide the highest quality services possible.” – Jamie Lambotte

James has worked for KVC Hospitals since 2004 and currently serves as the Executive Director of KVC Hospitals Kansas City. He is passionate about improving health outcomes for children and families through innovative, science-based treatments and uses his expertise in childhood trauma and positive behavior supports to strengthen KVC’s treatment experience and ensure it is positive, inclusive and trauma-informed.

Throughout his career, James has gained extensive expertise in program development for alternative school settings, psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment and secure care programs. He also specializes in oversight of inpatient and residential programming, performance improvement, treatment innovation, special initiatives, and the implementation of evidence-based practices.

James is a tier-three national certified trainer for Trauma Systems Therapy and has completed the Kansas Institute for Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports facilitator course. His innovative approach in developing practices and hands-on tools to support the implementation of best practice approaches in classrooms and residential milieus has led to engagement in projects with various school districts, residential centers, detention centers and health systems throughout the U.S. and internationally.

James earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of Kansas.

“I love working at KVC because we think critically and innovate to solve complex problems. I am proud that we are a critical part of the human service and mental health systems in Kansas and Missouri. I challenge our team every day to address gaps in the system and be part of the solution for children and families.” – James Roberson

Brynn Fowler serves as Associate Director of Program Operations at KVC Hospitals Kansas City. In this role, she oversees facility operations; ancillary services; contracted services; and manages projects with the compliance, quality assurance and scheduling teams. She also helps ensure compliance with licensing standards and facilitates processes that create a safe, therapeutic environment for the youth.

Starting her career with KVC as a Milieu Manager, Brynn oversaw direct care staff, the KVC Academy, and psychiatric residential treatment services in Kansas City. Prior to KVC, she worked in the behavioral health field as a Program Supervisor and Department of Child Safety liaison at Arizona Children’s Association.

Brynn is certified in National High Fidelity Wraparound Training. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Child, Adult and Family Service at Iowa State University and a master’s degree in social work from Capella University.

“I love my role at KVC because I am able to do all the behind the scenes work that helps our programs in Kansas City run smoothly. I love that my work not only benefits the children and families we serve, but also the employees that dedicate themselves to this work!” – Brynn Fowler

Brittany Kroeger is Associate Director of Clinical Programs at KVC Hospitals Kansas City where she oversees clinical services and programming for psychiatric residential treatment. She helps ensure a safe, therapeutic environment that accommodates the needs of each youth being served at KVC as well as compliance with meeting licensing standards.

Since joining KVC Hospitals in 2013, Brittany has gained experience through a variety of roles including Intake Coordinator, Therapist, and Clinical Supervisor. She is trained in Positive Behavioral Intervention Supports and Trauma Systems Therapy.

Brittany earned a master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Kansas. She enjoys giving back to her alma mater as a field instructor for clinical practicum students and was awarded the Margo Schutz Gordon Award in 2017 for “Outstanding Achievement in Field Instruction”.

“I started at KVC as a therapist intern in 2013, and I believed in the organization’s mission and values. KVC is a vessel for helping children and families heal, and I feel so grateful to have the opportunity to positively impact people’s lives every day. Little did I know, they would positively impact my life too!” – Brittany Kroeger

Dedicated to providing innovative and effective behavioral and mental healthcare for children, James Smith is the Associate Director of Program Services at KVC Hospitals Kansas City. In his role, James provides support and training to staff to help them successfully implement Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports best practices.

James’ natural creativity and compassion led him to begin his career with KVC six years ago as a Campus Supervisor, managing facility operations and providing crisis support. He then served as an Activates Coordinator where he brightened clients’ days by coordinating fun and educational activities for youth to participate in as part of their treatment program. James has also held roles as Milieu Manager and Senior Milieu Manager, ensuring successful treatment outcomes for clients by training staff, managing facility operations, and contributing to various academic, social enrichment, and treatment activities.

“Every day I use all my skills and training to do my best in supporting KVC’s mission because I truly believe in it. I’m passionate about helping children achieve success with their treatment while having fun and still being kids.” – James Smith

Wichita, KS native, Juston White, is Executive Director of KVC Hospitals Wichita. Juston brings 10 years of experience in the development and treatment of children and teens who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse and other mental health challenges.

Prior to his role with KVC, Juston served as the Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Kansas where his leadership led to enhanced after school and summer-based programming, stronger corporate partnerships, and an increased capacity to serve the growing number of youth in need. His background in mental health services began in 2009 with the United Methodist Youthville in Wichita.

Juston serves as a board member for the Child Advocacy Center of Sedgwick County, participates with the Custody to Transition Citizen Review Panel for the Kansas Department for Children and Families, and is an Honorary Commander for the McConnell Air Force Base’s 22nd Logistics Readiness Squadron. Juston is also one of four co-chairs for Project Wichita. Juston is a former Wichita State University Men’s Basketball player and a graduate of Winston-Salem State University.

“A child’s relationships and experiences have a significant influence on their development. I’m fortunate to have an opportunity to influence such factors in a positive way with the hopes of them lasting a lifetime. I strongly believe in “If not you, then who?”. That’s what keeps me going each day.” – Juston White

Click here for an in-depth interview with Juston.

Katrina Lauer serves as KVC Hospitals Wichita’s Director of Nursing and brings more than 26 years of nursing experience. In her role, she manages nursing program services and directs and coordinates all aspects of nursing and direct patient care.

Throughout her career, Katrina has gained diversified nursing experience in Labor and Delivery, Obstetrics/Pediatrics, Medical Surgery Home Care, OB/GYN, Utilization Review and management roles.

Katrina earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Wichita State University and is a Certified Nurse Case Manager.

“My greatest passion is leading others to success. I strive to develop a team that provides exceptional care for every KVC client and family so that we can be part of building healthier communities.” – Katrina Lauer

Erin Connelly Marceau serves as KVC Hospitals Wichita’s Clinical Director and brings more than seven years of experience working with children in the mental health field.

In her previous role as a Therapist for KVC Hospitals Wichita, Erin provided group, individual, and family therapy for the children receiving treatment. Prior to joining KVC, Erin helped develop a program providing children with mental health services while at school, including educating staff about mental health and how to respond to mental health crises.

Erin is a clinically licensed social worker and earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Wichita State University.

“I have a passion for helping children get set up for a successful future. Acute hospitalization can be such a difficult time for kids. It’s so meaningful to be able to help the kids see hope in their future and help them get on the right path.” – Erin Connelly Marceau

Daphne Everett is a Nursing Supervisor at KVC Hospitals Wichita where she serves as a liaison for nursing staff and oversees nursing duties and medication administration services. She also ensures consistency across all programs to ensure compliance with requirements of the Joint Commission and the Kansas Board of Nursing.

Daphne brings more than eleven years of nursing experience in mental health, intensive care units and emergency medicine. She earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Tabor College Wichita.

“Working at KVC Hospitals allows me to fulfill my passion of giving empathetic and compassionate care to youth. I teach them that to heal the trauma they’ve experienced and that it does not have to define who they are, where they can go, and what they can accomplish in life.” – Daphne Everett

Amanda Shay is a Nursing Supervisor at KVC Hospitals Wichita. In this role she supervises charge nurses, nursing staff, and direct care staff while creating an environment that supports the development, retention, and recognition of staff. She also serves as a liaison for all nursing staff and helps coordinate Infection Control policies.

Amanda has more than 10 years of experience in nursing, including burn trauma, pediatrics, intensive care and emergency medicine. She is a member of the American Nurses Association and the Kansas State Nurses Association.

“KVC is my calling! I strive daily to create an environment of excellence for our clients, their families, and our KVC community. Our team of professionals provide children with guidance and tools of resiliency to take with them that will forever enhance their lives. We have been given the privilege to provide services for some of the most vulnerable children in our community.  With that comes great responsibilities with an even greater reward. To see a child regain a sparkle in their eye or a smile on their face—that is absolutely priceless.” – Amanda Shay

Audrey Lindenmeyer serves as KVC Hospitals Hays’ Program Director. Audrey has 17 years of experience in the mental health field, devoting the past nine years to KVC. As Program Director, she works with staff and outside contractors to ensure a safe environment and proper treatment for the children and teens we serve.

Prior to her current role, Audrey served as Hays’ Campus Supervisor and Associate Director, gaining beneficial expertise allowing her to succeed in her capacity as Program Director. Her past experiences provided Audrey the opportunity to master the numerous aspects of running a safe, trauma-informed treatment facility.

Audrey is trained and certified in Trauma System Therapy and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). She is highly involved in the Hays community, contributing her time and expertise to the United Way of Ellis County and Leadership Hays. She earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in organizational leadership from Fort Hays State University.

“There’s no better sight than seeing a child succeed and overcome barriers. At KVC, we get to be the ones who help a child see the world differently—seeing them smile and hearing their laughter, we truly have the most rewarding job!” – Audrey Lindenmeyer

Taylor Ziegler is Director of Nursing at KVC Hospitals Hays. In this role, she oversees nursing and program services, directs all aspects of nursing and direct patient care, and coordinates with all other disciplines to provide the highest possible quality of care. She also ensures maintenance of quality improvement activities to adhere to KVC’s policies and procedures along with the regulations and standards provided by KVC’s regulating bodies.

Taylor began her career with KVC 7 years ago as a Behavioral Health Technician and advanced to become a Registered Nurse then Lead Nurse. She is certified to teach Basic Life Support (BLS) classes and oversees CPR training.

Taylor is deeply involved in the Hays community, serving on the Nursing Advisory Board at Fort Hays State University and the Annual Mental Health Symposium Planning Committee. Taylor received a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Fort Hays State University.

“I work with passionate people assisting children and families through times of crisis and need. It’s hard to put into words how it feels to see children gain skills and confidence because of our team’s work.” – Taylor Ziegler

Sarah Berens serves as Associate Clinical Director at KVC Hospitals Hays. She works to enhance the quality of clinical services, manages clinicians and case managers, and collaborates with members of the multi-disciplinary treatment team to ensure client needs are met.

During her career with KVC, Sarah has gained experience as a Clinical Supervisor, Hospital Therapist and Residential Therapist. Outside of her role with KVC, she is a screener for Big Brothers Big Sisters where she helps approve mentors and children into the program. She is also a member of a local mental health committee working on vaping prevention and education.

Prior to her role with KVC, Sarah worked in child welfare helping children and families in the foster care system reunify as well as providing family preservation services. She also worked for a local nonprofit providing mentorship services where she completed assessments of mentors and children entering the program as well as helped with fundraising and community outreach.

She has completed training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Systems Therapy, and Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports. Sarah earned her master’s degree in social work at the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare.

“I believe every child deserves a voice to advocate, a person to be a beacon for hope, and a champion to see their potential when they cannot.” – Sarah Berens

Rystal Waldman is a Nursing Supervisor at KVC Hospitals Hays where she serves as a liaison between the Director of Nursing and nursing staff. Rystal applies her clinical nursing knowledge and skill to ensure the comfort and safety of patients and families in accordance with legal policies and procedures. She also monitors infection control in the hospital.

Rystal began her KVC career as a Registered Nurse and has also served as Lead Nurse. She is certified to instruct Basic Life Support (BLS) classes. Rystal earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Fort Hays State University.

“We are here to encourage and uplift our clients. I love helping them move beyond sickness into wellness and helping them understand they are worthy and so important. Not to mention the group of people I work with are some of the most compassionate and patient individuals out there!” – Rystal Waldman

Karyn Finn serves as Program Director at KVC Niles. In this role, she oversees all programs and operations, including therapeutic services and Niles Prep School, an alternative education program. She has more than 25 years of leadership experience in healthcare, higher education, and civic and strategic planning.

Prior to KVC Niles, Karyn was Director of Pediatric Integrated Health at Lutheran Services in Iowa. Throughout her career she has gained valuable skills in process and policy development, specifically in the areas of departmental budgeting, benchmarking, recruiting, training, scheduling and staff evaluation.

Karyn earned a master’s degree in community health education from the University of Northern Iowa. She was also named an Iowa EXPORT Scholar in Hispanic Health Disparities. Karyn is highly involved in the Kansas City community, serving as a member of the Kansas City Child Abuse Prevention event planning committee and the Missouri Children’s Coalition Association.

“I didn’t choose this field, it chose me. I have enjoyed supporting, encouraging, positively impacting youth and advocating for healthy lifestyles my whole career. KVC Niles gave me an opportunity to serve some of the most vulnerable youth and provide them with a safe and healing atmosphere where they can develop the skills needed to become their best self. These kids are our future and the investment of time, talent, and funding that we provide to them now will cultivate hope, healing, and a quality future as they reintegrate into our community and grow into adulthood.” – Karyn Finn

Lindsey Russell serves as the KVC Niles Prep School Administrator where she manages the Niles Prep School and coordinates education by developing strong relationships with staff, students, caregivers and community partners. She has more than 15 years of experience working in education, with 12 years as a special education teacher and 3 years in school administration.

Lindsey received a bachelor’s degree at the University of Missouri-Columbia, a master’s degree in special education at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and an education specialist degree in leadership and administration at the University of Central Missouri.

“As the demands and challenges of teaching children increase, it becomes more apparent that Niles Prep and the community need to work together to ensure our children reach their full potential. We believe it is everyone’s responsibility to empower youth with the creative, intellectual, and decision-making skills necessary for them to become academically, socially, physically, and emotionally successful and responsible.” – Lindsey Russel

Phillip E. Caldwell Sr. is Associate Director of Program Services for KVC Niles. He has been with KVC for 15 years and brings more than 25 years of experience working in conflict resolution and crisis management.

Prior to his current role with KVC Niles, Phillip held roles as Senior Milieu Manager, Hospital Supervisor, and Campus Supervisor and has been an integral part of the Crisis Management team since 2005.

Additional experience includes serving as Youth Program Director for the YMCA of Greater Kansas City Missouri where he was responsible for the computer lab and educational services and created a Neighborhood Youth Advisory Board for Eastern Wyandotte County and an At-Risk Youth Program. He was also a board member for five years and received the Youth Worker of the Year award in 2000.

“Although I have held many roles in my professional career, I truly know in my heart why I was placed with KVC. It is to give to others what is needed to help them grow, develop, and be successful in whatever path they make take in life. I’m an advocate for positive change.” – Phillip Caldwell