At PEP, we know the magic that happens in classrooms and programs every day. But behind the scenes, Central Office staff are working just as hard to make that magic possible. Every department plays a role in ensuring our programs can carry out the mission of PEP.
We were curious about how each department sees itself as part of PEP’s mission, so we picked one representative from each department and asked them! Of course, these highlights are just a tiny glimpse at what happens at Central Office, but together, they paint a picture of the many ways Central Office supports the important work happening with kids every day. Here’s a chance to get to know some of the folks you may not see every day and learn how their work supports everyone at PEP.
Reception – Tina Taylor, Administrative Assistant
Tina is the warm welcome you get when you walk through PEP’s front doors. She keeps the building running smoothly by answering phones, scheduling meetings, making sure spaces are stocked, and even keeping gas in the vans. But she also adds something extra - a friendly smile, a professional presence, and maybe even a good joke to brighten your day. As Tina says, “Being the face of PEP helps build a positive perception of who we are.”
Educational Services - Lauren Nash, Senior Director, Educational Services
Lauren and her teammates in Educational Services make sure PEP’s academics are strong, relevant, and responsive to student needs. They coach teachers, develop curriculum, and ensure compliance with state and federal guidelines. Sometimes their work is in the details, like Julie Cummins, educational services coordinator, arranging for hearing machines to be tuned, and sometimes it’s big-picture, like staying on top of educational trends. As Lauren shared, “There is something here at PEP that is unmatched - a dedication to the whole child that you don’t see everywhere.”
Clinical Services – Nicole Molnar, Senior Director Clinical Services
Nicole and the Clinical Services team are there for the mental health and therapeutic needs of our students. They also support staff with tools and strategies for working through challenges. Their work makes sure care at PEP is compassionate and centered on the whole child, helping kids and staff alike navigate tough moments.
Quality Assurance – Lisa McComb, Quality Assurance Specialist
Lisa describes Quality Assurance as a “catch all” department, ready to do whatever is needed to keep PEP accountable and moving forward. QA manages compliance, accreditation, client rights, and policies to ensure everything PEP does reflects dignity and respect for students. “Our clients are people - children with emotions, fears, goals, and aspirations,” Lisa says. “It’s our responsibility to be their North Star.”
Human Resources – Kathy McConnell, Human Resources Director
Kathy and the HR team are here to take care of the people who take care of kids. They support staff with everything from benefits and workforce planning to simple everyday needs like updating an address. Kathy sums it up this way: “The goal of HR is to be there for all staff and assist them with whatever the need might be as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
Information Technology – Mike Lampkins, IT Director
Mike and the IT team keep over 1,500 devices working across PEP. From network security to database management to hardware support, they make sure staff and students can stay connected and focused. As PEP’s technology support coordinator Yvonne Rome explains, “A reliable IT infrastructure is essential for minimizing downtime so staff can stay focused on their work and students have the tools to continue learning.”
Fiscal – Margie Juresic – Payroll Manager
Margie and the fiscal team protect PEP’s financial health. They oversee budgets, compliance, and risk management so resources are used wisely and strategically. “Fiscal supports the mission at PEP by ensuring the financial integrity within the agency,” Margie says. “That integrity is what helps fund our mission and allows families and students to thrive.”
Staff Development – Ken Siemen, Staff Development Director
Ken leads Staff Development, which equips PEP staff with the skills and confidence to do their work well. From onboarding to advanced training, Ken helps staff grow while staying true to the Re-ED philosophy. He explains, “The positivity and forward focus of Re-ED appealed to me from the start, and it continues to inspire me today.”
External Relations – Deanna Moore, Director, Communications and Marketing
Deanna and the external relations team make sure PEP’s story is shared with lawmakers, parents, funders, and the broader community in ways that resonate. They also shine a spotlight on staff by highlighting the incredible work happening every day. Their work builds trust and keeps the support flowing that allows PEP to thrive.
The next time you see one of your Central Office teammates, stop and say hello — you might be surprised at all the ways their work connects to PEP's mission. Every role at PEP matters, and together, we are one team with one mission: helping kids overcome and thrive.