About Us - Who We Are

Chief Program Administrator for YES

Danielle Brown currently serves as Chief Program Administrator for YES. Danielle began her career working with at-risk/troubled teens and their families as a Youth Counselor at Clarinda Academy in 1999. During her time at Clarinda Academy she also served in the positions of Group Leader, Case Manager, and Family and Individual Counselor. Danielle also has experience working with families in their homes to reconnect and build family alliances and bonds and in juvenile corrections with the state ofKansas.

Danielle accepted the position of Program Director at Meadowlark Academy May 2006 and was promoted to her current position with YES March 2008. Danielle graduated from Northwest Missouri State University with a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Psychology/Sociology, December 2002, and Capella University with a Master of Science in Human Services with a specialization in Counseling Studies and a Graduate Certificate in Professional Counseling, April 2007.

Lance Leavitt - Program Administrator / CFO

Lance was born in St. George, Utah, and grew up in a family of 8. He was the only boy with five sisters. After graduating from Snow Canyon High School, he spent two years abroad in Germany. After returning home he continued his education and received his bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Dixie State College. During his time in school he met, fell in love with, and married his wife Kelli. He currently has three beautiful children, Braxton and Brinlee and Braysen.

Lance has been working with kids most of his adult life. Whether it is coaching youth sports or being a scout leader, he has enjoyed his time spent with youth. He has been working with families of defiant children for over six years now, and has enjoyed helping them and providing support during difficult times. Lance hopes to continue working with families for many years to come.

J.R. Richey - Chief Operations Officer

J.R. Richey was born in Murray, Utah, living there until he was 10. His family then lived in St. George, Utah where he went to High School at Pine View High. Upon graduation J.R. took two years of his life and went to Argentina to serve a mission for his church. Upon his return home in 2000 he met his future wife Binny and married in 2003. They have three beautiful girls, Lizzy, Nellie, and Jane who keep them very busy and provide endless amounts of joy.

J.R. attended school at Dixie State College and received his Associates Degree in Art. J.R. is currently studying at Kansas Wesleyan University pursuing a Bachelors degree in Business Administration. J.R. loves to study business looking for ways to better serve our parents. J.R. is fluent in Spanish and is an Eagle Scout. J.R. has served youth in various ways through his church and loves to be a positive influence for them. Prior to working in the Academy he worked placing teens in schools for 4 years. J.R. has been here since day 1 and loves to work in improving the Youth Education Systems experience.