Support Services Leadership

Overseen by members of the Senior Leadership team, WestCare Foundation and FitzHouse Enterprises provide shared Support Services to our operational entities with centralized administrative, clinical, compliance, facility, financial, fundraising, governmental, legal, marketing, and technology expertise.

Leadership
WestCare Leadership

Foundation/FitzHouse VPs

Marc Cannon

VP of Data Analytics and Business Intelligence

Read More

Marc Cannon

Marc Cannon received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, with a minor in Marketing, from Pepperdine University. Driven by his faith and a strong hunger for learning, he has spent most of his career in non-profit organizations that focus on meeting the needs of individuals in crisis. He is a self-motivated autodidact with an affinity for problem solving and analysis, with a multi-disciplined background in accounting, financial analysis, and business intelligence.

Marc joined the WestCare family in September of 2013, starting as a Financial Analyst. Within his first year, he built out a fully functioning budget platform within Excel (using VBA and a wide array of formulas), which was used by the accounting department as their primary budgeting tool. Later, after an official budgeting software was employed, he became the lead system administrator. Over the next 10 years he then became a subject matter expert in Excel, Blackbaud, PowerPlan, Paycom, Microsoft Power Platform, and most recently, Questica Budget. He has produced countless process improvements, automations, and workflows, which have helped various departments within WestCare operate at a higher level of efficiency.

In his free time Marc enjoys playing videogames and guitar with his wife and daughter. He has spent many years in service to his local church community as a bible study teacher, and he also enjoys swimming, hiking, and has a passion for cooking.

Kristin Chaffee

Regional Controller

Read More

Kristin Chaffee

Kristen Chaffee is the Controller for the Eastern Region of WestCare. She has been an accountant for over 35 years, and 33 of those years as a Controller of non-profit businesses. Since joining WestCare in 2006, Kristen has played an instrumental role in grant writing and accounting, helping WestCare expand services in multiple states and territories. Her leadership has been instrumental in driving improvements and streamlining processes, ensuring optimal financial performance and consistency. She is a trusted advisor within the organization, enabling her to guide financial decision-making and contribute to the long-term success of WestCare.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kristen has been married to her husband, Tony, for more than 30 years. They are the proud parents of their beautiful soul of a daughter, Grace, and their late son, SGT Jack Chaffee, who lost his life in service to our country. WestCare is incredibly grateful for this Gold Star Family and their sacrifice.

Keith Edmonds

Dr. Keith Edmonds

Senior Scientist of Evaluation and Outcomes

Read More

Dr. Keith Edmonds

Keith Edmonds

Previously serving as Director of Research and Evaluation, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication while advancing WestCare’s evaluation projects and program development, he will now step into the role of Senior Scientist of Evaluation and Outcomes.

Keith began his professional career with WestCare in 2015 as an unpaid intern with WestCare California’s Targeted Capacity Expansion (TCE) program. He later transitioned into a Research Assistant role, where he spent two years supporting program evaluation and research initiatives. In 2017, Keith relocated to Toledo, Ohio, to pursue a PhD in Experimental Psychology at the University of Toledo. After completing his doctorate in 2022, he returned to WestCare as Director of Research and Evaluation. Keith has authored 21 peer-reviewed publications spanning social, health, and clinical psychology. His research focuses on understanding the psychosocial factors that influence physical and mental health, health-related behaviors, and adherence to evidence-based interventions.

As Senior Scientist of Evaluation and Outcomes, Keith will oversee all research and evaluation activities throughout WestCare. In this role, he will provide leadership and guidance to evaluation staff, assist with the planning and design of treatment programming, develop systems for data collection and analysis, and ensure the organization’s programs meet the highest standards of quality and accreditation.

Tara Estrada

VP of Human Resources

Read More

Tara Estrada

Prior to her appointment as Vice President of Human Resources, Tara built an impressive 18-year career within the HR department at WestCare. She began her journey with WestCare California in April 2006 as a temporary employee supporting HR operations. In January 2007, she transitioned to a full-time role as an HR Assistant, quickly demonstrating her expertise and dedication. Tara advanced to HR Specialist and was later promoted to HR Manager for WestCare California. In 2017, she expanded her responsibilities by taking on the role of HR Manager for WestCare Nevada and WestCare Arizona. Her leadership and commitment led to her promotion to Director of HR for the Western Regions in 2019. By 2022, she assumed the role of Senior Director of HR, overseeing both the HR and Recruiting departments across all regions of WestCare.

Sean Harrigan

VP of IT Infrastructure

Read More

Sean Harrigan

Born in Okinawa, Japan, and raised in Rochester, NY, Sean Harrigan has spent his career at the intersection of technology and leadership. Since 1995, he has held various roles in the tech sector, rising from technical and engineering positions to leadership roles across diverse organizations. His father, a technology professional, inspired his early interest in the field, sparking a lifelong passion that has taken him to live and work in Fort Worth, TX, Southern Utah, and Las Vegas.

In 2011, Sean joined WestCare and soon became a driving force behind the organization’s IT transformation. He led the migration of WestCare’s systems to the cloud, a modernization effort that was crucial when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. By implementing remote work technology, Sean ensured WestCare’s continued operations and adaptability during a critical time.

Sean’s leadership style is rooted in the principles of Servant Leadership. He’s quick to credit his team for their collective success and views technology as a force multiplier, leveraging solutions that sit just behind the cutting edge to ensure both reliability and relevance.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Sean is dedicated to community service, working to provide food and supplies to homeless populations wherever he has lived. His commitment to service extends beyond the workplace, reflecting his belief in using technology and leadership for the greater good.

Lisa Jackson

VP of Grant Development

Read More

Lisa Jackson

Lisa Jackson is Vice President of Grant Development and directs WestCare’s National Grant Team, which is responsible for public and private funding applications for the agency. She joined the agency in November 2015 as Deputy Director and was promoted to Director and then Vice President. She works remotely from St. Petersburg, Florida, and has over forty years of experience working as a grant professional, trainer, and administrator in local and regional not-for-profit organizations. She has developed tools that the leadership and program staff use to analyze the funding outcomes. These instruments empower the agency to forecast funding trends, prepare for future agency needs, strategize for new opportunities while continuing to care for current programming and services.

Ms. Jackson possesses a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Southern Mississippi and holds the Grant Professional Certified (GPC) accreditation. She is the recipient of the President’s Awards from three different agencies, the Grant Professional Association, the Pinellas County Coalition for the Homeless, and the Grant Professional Certification Institute, and she received the Unsung Hero Award from the Grant Collaborative of Tampa Bay. She previously served 12 years on the board of the Grant Professional Certification Institute, which is responsible for measuring and promoting competency and ethical practices within the field of grantsmanship. As a past board member, she led the effort to professionalize the field and secure the only available accredited certification for grant professionals internationally. Additionally, she is a founding member and past officer of the Grants Collaborative of Tampa Bay.

Nayeli Knuth

Regional Controller

Read More

Nayeli Knuth

Nayeli Cervantes-Knuth is an accomplished accounting professional with over 20 years of experience, currently serving as Controller for WestCare. Since joining the company in 2005, Nayeli has played an instrumental role in overseeing the accounting practices and managing budgets for the western, corporate, and offshore regions. Her analytical skills and strategic mindset have positioned her as a trusted advisor within the organization, enabling her to guide financial decision-making and contribute to the long-term success of WestCare. In her role, Nayeli’s responsibilities encompass the preparation and analysis of financial statements, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and leading initiatives aimed at optimizing financial performance. She is known for her collaborative approach, working closely with cross-functional teams to align financial objectives with organizational goals. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Nayeli treasures her role as a mother and devoted family member. She and her husband, John, are the proud parents of twin toddlers, Jaylen and Julian, who make every moment of their lives more interesting! Nayeli embraces the balance between her professional aspirations and her family life, drawing inspiration from her loved ones to strive for success in all her endeavors. Nayeli Cervantes-Knuth's extensive experience, educational background, and dedication to her profession make her a valuable asset to WestCare and a respected leader in the field of accounting. As she continues to advance in her career, Nayeli is committed to fostering an environment of empowerment and accountability, further solidifying WestCare's reputation as a beacon of integrity and dedication to service.

Jeannie Lewis

VP of Accreditation and Clinical Integrity

Read More

Jeannie Lewis

Jeannie is the VP for WestCare Foundation. In this role, Jeannie is responsible for providing oversight to the Training Department, Spiritual Care Chaplaincy Services, and Accreditation. The training department provides LMS, in-person, and webinar training for each WestCare subsidiary and develops an annual training plan along with their leadership. Chaplaincy Services are primarily provided in GCFL and Nevada at this time and the delivery of an educational program that focuses on spirituality. Accreditation focuses on preparing our subsidiaries for CARF Accreditation surveys, developing policies and procedures, and providing training on the accreditation process. In addition, Jeannie tracks issues that arise from surveys to help WestCare as an organization address larger issues that are not state-specific – this is the clinical integrity piece of her job description.

Prior to assuming the VP position, Jeannie was the Area Director for WestCare Georgia and Program Director for GulfCoast Florida. In these positions she was responsible for operational oversight of a variety of programs in each location. In 2017, she became the Director of Accreditation and subsequently, the VP. Jeannie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (FL) and a certified Addictions Counselor in GA and has been licensed and certified since 1997. Jeannie has worked at many levels of SUD/BH services including counselor, Clinical Director, and Program Director of a TC, detox, prevention/intervention, supervised 2 independent living programs in Georgia, is a Certified HIV Counselor, outpatient, and drug court counselor.

Jeannie received her BA in Psychology and Urban Planning from the University of Tampa, Florida in 1981 and obtained her MS in Mental Health Counseling in 1997 from Nova Southeastern University, Florida. She also became a Certified Addictions Professional in Florida during that same time and eventually transferred that credential to Georgia upon her move to this state.

Josh Lopez

VP of Insurance

Read More

Josh Lopez

Born and raised in Southern California, Joshua relocated to Las Vegas in 1994, where he has since carved out an impressive career in the financial services industry. With over 15 years of experience, Josh has developed a robust expertise in managing various functions of Credit and Collections, Consumer Lending, Customer Service, and Distressed Asset Recovery, positioning him as a knowledgeable leader in these fields. In 2019, Josh joined WestCare as the Corporate Collections Manager, a pivotal role that allowed him to leverage his extensive experience in financial services to enhance the organization’s practices. His dedication and strategic vision quickly propelled him to the position of Vice President of Insurance in 2022. In this capacity, Josh oversees the efficient operations, services, and activities of WestCare’s Casualty & Property Insurance, Payroll, Employee Benefits, and Retirement plans. His leadership has been instrumental in driving improvements that not only streamline processes but also bolster the organization's overall success and growth. Throughout his career, Josh has demonstrated a commitment to professional development and continuous improvement. He has actively sought out opportunities to expand his knowledge and skills, always striving to stay ahead of industry trends and best practices. This dedication to growth not only benefits Josh professionally but also serves to inspire those around him to pursue excellence in their own careers. Deeply passionate about people, processes, and technology, Josh embodies the belief that these elements are interconnected and crucial to a company’s success. He understands the significant impact that effective management of these components can have on an organization’s image and its bottom line. By fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, Josh encourages teams to leverage technology to enhance operational efficiency and improve customer and client experiences, all while maintaining a focus on service excellence.

Diane Ludens

VP of Software Development

Read More

Diane Ludens

Diane Ludens is the Vice President of Software Development at WestCare Foundation in Henderson, Nevada, where she leads the strategic direction of the organization’s technology initiatives. With a focus on innovation and operational efficiency, Diane oversees the development of all proprietary software, including WestCare’s electronic health record (EHR) system. Her leadership extends to managing the application support desk, programming team, project management, web development, and DevOps operations.

Diane’s journey with WestCare began in 2004 as a software developer, where she spearheaded the creation of the WestCare Intranet and the Clinical Data System—core technologies that continue to shape the organization’s success. She was appointed Director of Software Development in 2017 and ascended to Vice President in 2023, solidifying her pivotal role in driving technological transformation across the foundation.

With over two decades of experience, Diane has developed enterprise-level software solutions across diverse industries, including accounting, real estate, and social services. Her background also includes years as a contractor, where she designed and delivered custom websites for a broad array of businesses.

Diane holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Computer Information Systems and a minor in Mathematics from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

John Nunley

VP of Corrections and Criminal Justice Business Development

Read More

John Nunley

John Nunley is the National Vice President of Corrections and Criminal Justice Business Development for WestCare Foundation and oversees the corrections programs for WestCare Illinois. After graduating from Eastern Illinois University with a BA in Psychology, Nunley began a career with the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) that lasted for over 26 years.
During the last 14 years, John held multiple senior roles where he was responsible for monitoring contracts for over 3,500 substance abuse treatment beds; managing and supervising over 350 staff; overseeing Continuous Quality Improvement for all statewide substance abuse treatment programs; securing general revenue and grant funding for treatment programs; and training statewide staff to become CADC Certified. A member of the IDOC leadership team to design and implementation of the BOJ Second Chance -Re-entry Grant. John is CADC Certified and was a core member of the Sheridan Correctional Center National Model Substance Abuse Treatment development team. and was responsible for the areas of safety and security of staff and offenders, food services, engineering, and the Bureau of Identification.
A Desert Storm Military Army Veteran, Nunley was awarded the Southwest Asia Service Media, Kuwait Liberation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal and served in the Illinois Army National Guard. Additionally, the Illinois SUPR Women’s Committee on Alcoholism and Other Drug Advisory Council, and Illinois Opioid Response Advisory Council. John currently serves as a member of the PTACC (Police, Treatment and Community Collaborative) Leadership Council and is a board member of the Illinois Certification Board, Inc.

Melanie Stevens

VP of Development Administration and Strategic Initiatives

Read More

Melanie Stevens

Melanie Stevens is the Vice President of Development Administration and Strategic Initiatives. With more than a decade of experience with WestCare, Melanie supports the organization’s capital expansion necessary for continued growth. The role includes developing capital funding requests and grant administration.
Melanie’s experience includes project development, funding package development, grant application preparation, community planning, and grant management for government and nonprofit entities. She has worked with various funders and projects for construction, renovation, healthcare and human services, community development, and economic development.
Melanie has a BA in communication from Pikeville College (now the University of Pikeville), is a Certified Administrator for the Kentucky Community Development Block Grant Program through the Kentucky Department of Local Government, is a Certified Housing Development Finance Professional through the National Development Council (now Grow America) and has completed the Kentucky Institute for Economic Development program.

Gabriela Swartwood

VP of Marketing and Communications

Read More

Gabriela Swartwood

Gabriela Swartwood is the Vice President of Marketing and Communications at WestCare, where she brings creativity, strategic insight, and a deep passion for community service to her role. She's the driving force behind the organization's marketing and communication efforts, working to ensure that WestCare’s mission shines through in every message, whether it's on social media, in a press release, or at a community event. Gabriela’s expertise allows her to keep the brand's identity strong and consistent across all channels, while also adapting to the ever-changing landscape of nonprofit marketing.
Gabriela is renowned for her ability to engage with anyone, fostering environments and opportunities that connect people to WestCare's mission. She works closely with media, partners, and the community, sharing WestCare’s impact through engaging content and effective communication. Her leadership is felt not only in the public eye but also within her team, where she takes pride in mentoring and supporting her colleagues as they grow in their roles.
In the digital realm, Gabriela ensures WestCare stays current and connected, leading efforts across social media, email marketing, and online advertising. She helps the organization maintain an engaging online presence that invites conversation and connection, while also supporting events that boost the brand's visibility.
With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit marketing and communications, Gabriela’s journey has been driven by her belief in the power of strong relationships and meaningful stories. She attended Fresno State University, where she majored in Communications. She’s spent her career championing causes she believes in, leading with a mix of professionalism and genuine care for the communities she serves.