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Meet Our Staff

Jaclyn Brown- Executive Director

Jaclyn Brown is the ASPEN Network Inc. Executive Director, her role is unique and expands opportunities to connect with many exciting partners and projects. Jaclyn has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field of resource navigation and project management. She is responsible for leading program development and project planning initiatives. Jaclyn finds working collaboratively with partners to be one of her most exciting functions. Jaclyn was previously the Community Services Manager with the Jefferson County Health Department where she oversaw multiple programs including the Jefferson County Health Network, Health Education and Environmental. Jaclyn’s passion to connect families to resources began when she was an Associate Director with the Jefferson Franklin Community Action, Head Start Program. Working alongside Head Start families drove her to find more efficient ways to connect families to the right resource at the right time and the eventual development of ASPEN. One of the most important components of ASPEN includes mental health screening tools and resources for students, school staff, first responders and health care workers. Jaclyn’s most treasured roles are being a parent of two children and the spouse of a Fire Chief, her love of family drives her passion to help bring quality resources to her community.

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Kelley Vollmar-Program Manager

Kelley Vollmar is an experienced public health professional with over 20 years of leadership in program management, strategic planning, and community partnership development. Currently serving as Program Manager for ASPEN Network Inc., Kelley oversees a variety of administrative and direct service functions, including grants management, fundraising initiatives, and community engagement. She plays a key role in advising the Executive Director on funding opportunities, ensuring compliance with grant deliverables, and contributing to the organization’s strategic growth.

Prior to joining ASPEN, Kelley served as the Executive Director of the Jefferson County Health Department, where she led efforts that increased the agency’s budget from $4 million to $9 million over eight years. She is skilled in developing and executing strategic plans, building strong relationships with stakeholders, and securing funding through grants and fundraising campaigns. Kelley has extensive experience in creating educational materials, facilitating community collaborations, and managing public health initiatives aimed at improving access to essential services.

Kelley holds a Master’s in Dispute Resolution and a Bachelor’s in Environmental Science. She is dedicated to advancing community well-being and supporting the ASPEN Network’s mission through innovative program management and collaborative partnerships.

Esther Gehrett-Education Coordinator

With 28 years of experience in education in St. Louis Public School District, Esther brings a strong background in literacy instruction, curriculum development, and educator coaching to ASPEN Network Inc. As a Title I Math Teacher and later an Academic Coach, Esther built expertise in developing engaging instructional strategies, supporting teacher development, and fostering student success. Most recently, serving as an ELA Specialist, Esther focused on enhancing literacy instruction, designing professional learning opportunities, and providing direct support to schools and families.

Transitioning into the Educator Coordinator role at ASPEN Network Inc., Esther integrates this extensive educational background with a passion for mental health advocacy, resource navigation, and community engagement. This role allows Esther to bridge the gap between education and mental health, ensuring that students, teachers, and families have access to the necessary support systems for academic and emotional well-being.

With firsthand experience in the challenges educators face daily, Esther is dedicated to ensuring schools have access to meaningful, high-quality resources that support both academic growth and mental well-being. By fostering strong relationships with school leaders and community partners, Esther strives to create a sustainable support network for students, teachers, and families.

This transition to Educator Coordinator at ASPEN Network Inc. represents the perfect intersection of Esther’s passion for education, commitment to mental health advocacy, and expertise in program development. Through collaboration, innovation, and outreach, Esther is excited to drive positive change in schools and communities.

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