Executive Leadership
Heather Emmanuel Ormand
Chief Executive Officer
Heather’s empathy for women seeking long-term recovery for their families lead her to Nexus in June of 2020. At a time when so much was uncertain, the one thing Heather was certain about was the need for Nexus’ services and a safe place for women and their children to turn. Heather credits her own recovery for her personal and professional successes. As a bi-racial woman, albeit one with privileges afforded to her that others may not have had, she values the importance of creating an organization where diversity, equity, and inclusion are not merely a response to a problem but at the heart of the organization’s culture. Leading Nexus into the future is her way of giving back what was given to her and continues to shape her outlook.
Heather is a first generation college graduate from the University of Richmond and she brings a unique financial background to the role, being a CPA for nearly 20 years. But, it’s her connection to the clients Nexus serves that cannot be underestimated. Her dreams include a world where her two young children can grow into the greatest expressions of themselves, knowing that their mother loves and supports them, as well as one where women suffering from substance use disorders are accepted, loved, and understood.
Mackeshia Brown
Chief Financial Officer
Mackeshia Brown, MBA, is the Chief Financial Officer at Nexus Family Recovery Center, bringing over two decades of experience in nonprofit finance, operations, and administration. Known for her approachable leadership and financial acumen, she has managed budgets exceeding $90 million and led high-performing teams across various mission-driven organizations. Mackeshia holds an MBA in Accounting from Texas A&M University–Commerce and a BBA from the University of Phoenix. Her expertise spans grant management, financial planning and analysis, compliance with GAAP standards, and strategic fiscal oversight. She is passionate about supporting organizations that drive positive community impact.
Stacey Burns, LMSW, LCDC
Chief Clinical Officer
Stacey joined Nexus in 1993. She began her career in chemical dependency treatment in 1987. She has a background in both counseling and administration. Stacey has a Master of Social Work degree from The University of Texas at Arlington and is a Licensed Master Social Worker as well as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. Before coming to Nexus, she worked at Parkland Memorial Hospital for five years as a social worker in the neonatal ICU and in a perinatal intervention program working with pregnant drug users.
Katie Overman, PMP
Chief Strategy Officer
Returning to Nexus in 2024, Katie previously served as Nexus’ Chief Information Officer from 2020-2022. For more than 10 years, she has worked in the social service non-profit sphere in operational and philanthropic roles with a focus on process improvement, digital transformation, and strategy development. Her role encompasses IT and data management, business and philanthropy operations, and strategic development for the agency.
Emily Parham, MSW
Chief Programs Officer
Emily joined Nexus in June 2022 as the Director of Compliance, responsible for the development and administration of activities throughout the agency to ensure that the organization meets all state, federal, and Joint Commission standards for proper client care.
In 2025, Emily was promoted to Chief Programs Officer because of her extensive knowledge and experience in substance use disorder treatment and her expertise in leading facilities operationally.
Prior to joining Nexus, Emily served as a Facility Director/Director of Operations of a Medical Detox/Residential SUD treatment center for approximately five years. Emily holds a Master’s of Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington and a Bachelor’s of Science in Human Sciences from Texas Tech University. With both of her parents in long term recovery, Emily is passionate about helping those struggling with substance use disorder.
Nexus Leadership
Erica Allen
Assistant Director of Adult Women Program
Erica Allen is the Adult Women Assistant Director at Nexus Family Recovery Center. She holds an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Texas at Dallas, where she joined The United Chapters of Alpha Kappa Delta International Sociology Honor Society. Erica is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC).
Erica is committed to the wellbeing of her community, passionately working to save lives and support those struggling with substance use and mental health disorders. Her educational achievements and professional role are testaments to her dedication and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.
In her role, Erica leverages her knowledge and compassionate approach to provide essential support and guidance, ensuring that every individual receives the care and attention they need. Her work is not just a career but a lifelong mission to foster healing and hope within the community she proudly calls home.
Sara Brown
Director of Pregnant and Parenting Women with Children Program
Sara joined Nexus in 2007 as an Addiction Counselor and Music Therapist. She has a Bachelor of Music/Music Therapy degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. She is a registered music therapist and is certified as a FSACC in Michigan and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas. She has worked as a counselor and program innovator/developer since 1983 in substance use disorder treatment programs that served men, the dual diagnosis population, and pregnant women and their children. Sara has a passion for using expressive arts activities to engage clients in the treatment process and encourages others to be creative in their approach and interactions with those they serve.
Christopher Buckley
Director of Operations
A high performer with over 10 years of leadership experience, Christopher Buckley is a thriving Director of Operations specializing in food service management and operational efficiency. Throughout his career, Christopher has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead teams, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and drive exceptional performance.
Christopher is passionate about continuous learning and thrives on overcoming challenges. His curiosity and drive to expand his knowledge have allowed him to adapt to new environments and find innovative solutions to complex problems.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Christopher served as an Interim Facilities Director, overseeing multiple kitchens as well as housekeeping, laundry, and maintenance operations. His ability to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances ensured the continued success and safety of all operations during this challenging time. In addition to his temporary role, he has held the position of Director of Food Service for over 10 years, where he has excelled in streamlining processes and enhancing service delivery.
Christopher’s expertise spans project management, multi-tasking, forecasting, and customer service, all of which contribute to his ability to elevate organizational performance. He is committed to utilizing his extensive knowledge and high-performance mindset to uplift community standards and improve operational efficiency with a strong focus on quality and excellence.
Kira Casimir, LCSW, LCDC
Director of Adult Women Program
Kira Casimir is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with more than a decade of experience supporting individuals and families through their healing journeys. She currently serves as the Director of Adult Women’s Services at Nexus Family Recovery Center while also maintaining a small private practice.
Kira’s clinical specialties include trauma, domestic violence, alternative lifestyles, substance use, and EMDR. She has dedicated her career to creating safe, empowering spaces where clients can process their experiences and develop tools for long-term recovery and resilience.
In addition to her direct client work, Kira is passionate about teaching and guiding new clinicians. She provides licensure supervision, offering mentorship and education to help emerging professionals grow in both skill and confidence. Her commitment to shaping the next generation of therapists reflects her belief that strong, well-supported clinicians create stronger outcomes for the clients and communities they serve.
Outside of her professional roles, Kira values authenticity, compassion, and connection, which she brings into every aspect of her work.
Claire Collins
Director of Grants and Foundations
Claire Collins is the Director of Foundations and Grants at Nexus Family Recovery Center. In her role, she oversees all foundation-based fundraising including public grant monies. Prior to joining the Nexus team in 2024, Claire worked as an independent grant writer for the past two years, supporting a variety of missions in Dallas, TX. From 2017- 2022, Claire served as Director of Foundations and Development Operations at Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC) and was responsible for raising critical funds to provide services at DCAC. She provides strategic direction and initiatives for all foundation partnerships and grant writing as well as annual giving and event support to contribute to an annual fundraising goal of $11 million.
Claire has worked in the nonprofit sector for 15 years. Over the course of her career Claire has raised upwards of $20million in critical funds to support the essential work of some of Dallas’ most impactful organizations. She began her career at Genesis Women’s Shelter, and since then has had the privilege of serving at Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity and KIPP Texas (previously KIPP DFW) before joining the team at DCAC in 2017. During her time as an independent grant writer, she worked with The Dallas 24 Hour Club, Dallas Hope Charities, Annie’s Place, Lullaby House, and the Dallas Children’s Theater.
Claire received her Bachelor of Journalism with a minor in History from the University of Missouri, Columbia. Post college, Claire spent five years in New York City working in the magazine industry before returning home to Dallas. Committed to a life of servant leadership, she has held leadership roles in the Junior League of Dallas and Lake Highlands Junior Women’s League and served on the board of the Dallas 24 Hour Club. At home, she is equally busy, surrounded by her husband, two young sons, an elderly dog and two cats.
Kaitlyn Jackson, RSPS
Recovery Support Services Supervisor
Kaitlyn is the Recovery Support Services Supervisor at Nexus, where she oversees the peer support team. A proud Nexus alumna and a person in long-term recovery, she brings lived experience and compassion to her leadership. Kaitlyn is passionate about helping the women we serve find hope, healing, and empowerment through recovery. She believes that every woman deserves the chance to build a life of purpose and freedom.
Cynthia Juarez
Director of Community Engagement and Volunteering
Cynthia Juarez has been a dedicated member of the Nexus team since 2020. With a strong background in community engagement and child advocacy, Cynthia previously served as a Parent Liaison at Oran Roberts Elementary School in East Dallas for five years, where she developed her passion for supporting families and children.
Cynthia holds a volunteer management certificate from Center for Nonprofit Management (CNM) and attended Eastfield College. At Nexus, she coordinates volunteer groups and individual volunteers, manages the Auxiliary and Young Supporters Council, and assists with various events and community engagement initiatives.
Recognized for her commitment to Nexus’s core values—respect, compassion, and integrity—Cynthia has received Employee of the Month honors twice. A devoted mother of three boys, she is driven by her passion for helping others and ensuring families stay together, motivating her to give her all every day.
Sharon Jock-Baty
Director of Admissions and Outpatient Services
Sharon has an A.A.S. in Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling and has worked as a licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor at Nexus since 2013. Sharon has a long history at Nexus, having completed her practicum in 2010 as well as all of her intern hours for her accreditation. She is experienced in case management, individual counseling, and group facilitation thanks to her time as an Outpatient Therapist and Case Manager the Mommies program at Nexus.
Kelleigh Nicolas, LPC
Director of Children’s Clinical Services
Kelleigh is thrilled to help pioneer the Children’s Clinical Program at Nexus. Over the course of her career, she has supported individuals and families in a wide range of settings, including private practice, inpatient hospitals, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, community nonprofits, and most recently, in the anti-trafficking space, where she led clinical care efforts for youth and families impacted by exploitation. These diverse experiences have shaped her not only as a clinician, but as a person, deepening her understanding of the behavioral health system and the profound resilience of those it serves.
Kelleigh’s work has consistently centered on supporting women, children, and families, especially those who have experienced trauma, instability, or systemic barriers to care. She is deeply committed to creating spaces that are safe, affirming, and rooted in compassion, where individuals feel seen, valued, and empowered in their healing.
Now in the residential setting, Kelleigh is honored to walk alongside children and families as they navigate their healing journeys. She believes in the strength of family systems, the power of meaningful connection, and the transformational growth that becomes possible when people are given the support they need to thrive.
LaQuitha Patton
Detox Nurse Manager
LaQuitha began her career at Nexus in June 2018, driven by her caring and empathetic nature. A Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), she graduated from Concorde Career College in 2017 and holds an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Business, an Associate in Arts degree from Mountain View College, and a Pharmacy Technician Diploma, which she utilized for a decade prior to her nursing career. Since October 2022, LaQuitha has served as the Detox Nurse Manager, where she oversees the nursing team and ensures the well-being of all clients. She takes great pleasure in working with clients and witnessing their progress as they overcome challenges.
Asia Rodgers
Capital Campaign Manager
Asia Rodgers is the Capital Campaign Manager at Nexus, supporting the Recovery Rising campaign alongside the Chief Philanthropy Officer. She leads campaign operations, manages donor strategy, and coordinates with volunteers and consultants. With experience at Communities Foundation of Texas, Texas Women’s Foundation, the Junior League of Dallas, and Attorneys Serving the Community, she brings deep expertise in fundraising and donor relations. Asia is committed to helping Nexus reach its $86 million goal. She knows that strong communities and meaningful relationships are the driving force behind reaching transformative goals and creating lasting change. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring Dallas and spending time with her lively two-year-old daughter.
Anthony Rosa
Director of Food Services
Anthony Rosa brings over 15 years of experience in culinary and food service leadership to Nexus Recovery Center. Known for his innovation, compassion, and team-first mindset, Anthony ensures that every meal served supports the health and healing of the individuals we serve. His diverse career includes leadership roles in healthcare, luxury hospitality, and major event catering—most notably, cooking for the Texas Rangers during their 2023 World Series Championship season at Globe Life Stadium. His passion lies in using food as a tool for wellness and recovery, and he is committed to creating a kitchen culture rooted in respect, training, and purpose.
Emily Stewart
Senior Director of Philanthropy
Emily Stewart serves as the Director of Philanthropy, where she is responsible for overseeing the organization’s fundraising initiatives and cultivating relationships with donors who contribute vital financial support throughout the year. In the last fifteen years, Emily has established herself as a prominent figure in the nonprofit sector, excelling in effective fundraising and building strong community connections. Before joining the philanthropy team at Nexus Family Recovery Center, Emily played a key role in achieving fundraising objectives for various organizations focused on social services and youth development. A Texas native and a dedicated mother, Emily is deeply committed to contributing to her community and supporting individuals and families in leading fulfilling lives.
Natalie Sullivan
Director of the Nexus Child Development Center
Natalie joined Nexus in 2020 as a teacher in Nexus’ Child Development Center and was promoted to Director in October of 2021. She has always shared a passion for working with children and has over 6 years of experience in school and childcare settings. She has a degree in science from the University of Texas at Arlington. Natalie loves creating a safe space for children to thrive and also enjoys providing a support system for mothers to flourish.
Dr. Julie Ross Pittman, MD, PhD
Medical Director
Dr. Pittman completed a combined MD-PhD program at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston with a PhD focused on the behavioral processes involved in drug addiction. She completed her residency training at Harvard Medical School in the Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital Psychiatry Residency Training Program in Boston where she served as chief resident in addiction her final year. She returned to Texas to complete her addiction psychiatry fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. She has been in private practice since she finished her fellowship in 2011. During that time, she has also provided additional psychiatry services to adult and adolescent residential treatment programs in the area. She was on the Board of Directors for Nexus for one year until she resigned to become the Medical Director. She is currently on the clinical faculty at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and is active in medical training. She is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry.
Amy Vaughn
Case Manager Supervisor
Amy has a BA in Psychology from the University of Texas Arlington and is currently enrolled at Dallas College for her Associates of Arts Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling. Amy always wanted to be in the social services field but wasn’t sure which specific area until she entered recovery, which she has been in for eight years. She wants to help clients build a new life in recovery – help them like someone helped her rebuild her life – to be an example of what can be achieved in recovery.
Amy started at Nexus in 2019 in the Adolescent program. In 2020, she went to the AW program as an RA, and in 2022 became an RA2. In 2024, she became the AW Case Manager, and in August of 2025, she was promoted to Case Manager Supervisor. In this role, she oversee Case Managers for the AW and PPWC programs to provide services and support to Nexus clients and alumni, works closely with Recovery Support Services, and establishes and maintains referral relationships with community organizations and agencies for clients to utilize. Amy aims to improve coordination between community organizations, Recovery Coaches, and counselors to meet the needs of Nexus clients.
Outside of Nexus, Amy enjoys spending time with her son and family. She is an avid reader and practices yoga and Pilates.
Crystal Woods
Health and Medical Operations Manager- Med Room
Crystal Woods is a Medical Assistant and Health and Medical Operations Manager at Nexus Family Recovery Center, where she has been an employee since October 2014. In her current role, she supervises three departments—Medication Room, administrative functions of the Detox dorm, and the Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) Program—ensuring that clients receive comprehensive mental, physical, and medical care.
Crystal is a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant with extensive experience in managing Medication Room functions. Her proactive approach and strong leadership skills were recognized when she received Employee of the Month honors in August 2023.
Currently enrolled at Western Governors University, Crystal is pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN) to further her expertise in the healthcare field. She is the proud mother of two boys, ages 11 and 4, and draws motivation from her family as she balances her career and academic aspirations.