THE MENTORING TEAM
Walking With You On Your Journey…
A WORD FROM OUR FOUNDERS
As founders of NeuroDev, we understand the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent young adults and their families. Traditional education and support systems often fall short, leaving students feeling misunderstood, isolated, and unprepared for adulthood.
We’ve seen neurodivergent individuals placed in mental health treatments that focus solely on mental health symptoms like anxiety and depression without addressing the root of their challenges or their underlying developmental needs. While therapy can be beneficial, it’s not always enough. Neurodivergent young adults need real-world opportunities with support to practice and develop essential life skills and achieve lasting success.
That’s why we created NeuroDev – a place where neurodivergent young adults can discover their strengths, build essential life skills, and create more fulfilling, independent lives. Our unique approach combines personalized mentoring, a supportive community, and a focus on practical skills to enable students to thrive. We’ve witnessed incredible transformations in our students, from high school dropouts becoming college graduates to struggling individuals finding fulfilling careers. We believe that every neurodivergent young adult deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, and we’re committed to walking alongside them on their journey.
Administrators
JASON GRYGLA
Founder, Partner, Executive Director, St. George Campus
JASON GRYGLA
Founder, Partner, Executive Director, St. George Campus
Jason Grygla, MA, LCMHC, is the Executive Director and Founding Partner of NeuroDev. With over 20 years of experience as a therapist and Clinical Director, Jason’s expertise is complemented by his personal journey raising neurodivergent young adults.
Driven by a passion for fostering sustainable growth, Jason and his wife Debbie pioneered Neuro-Developmental Mentoring™️ (NDM), NeuroDev’s core approach. NDM teaches attunement to stress levels, meeting our young people where they are at developmentally, and connecting in collaborative ways with practical strategies to support well-being and overall development.
Jason works directly with parents and students, ensuring their success at NeuroDev. He is deeply committed to the development of the NeuroDev program, its staff, and the students he serves.
Together with his wife, Debbie, Jason co-hosts the popular podcast “Autism & Neurodiversity.” Through over 100 episodes, they share expert interviews, personal experiences, and practical advice to support neurodivergent individuals and their families.
Jason’s diverse background includes roles as a juvenile probation officer, Scout Master, and professional clown. He enjoys connecting with others through teaching, outdoor activities, and sharing his passion for rocks and minerals.
CAM SHERMAN
Executive Director, Co-Founding Partner, Raleigh Campus
CAM SHERMAN
Executive Director, Co-Founding Partner, Raleigh Campus
Cam Sherman, MA, ACMHC, is the Executive Director and Founding Partner of NeuroDev Raleigh. He works directly with parents, mentors, and students to help students live intentional, satisfactory lives.
Cam is passionate about progress. His fascination with human potential transformed his interest in psychology into a dedication to human development. He graduated with a degree in psychology and has a master’s in counseling.
As a clinician and mentor, Cam champions a comprehensive approach that blends the benefits of a sound clinical understanding with the experiential growth of a developmental perspective. He fosters strong connections with students, empowering them to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable independence, strong social connections, and valuable skills.
Cam thrives on connecting with his team. He credits his own development to mentors and finds deep satisfaction in witnessing the growth of those he works with.
Outside of work, Cam cherishes time with his wife and five children (ages 3-11), and enjoys cycling as a way to unwind. He’s new to North Carolina and is still getting used to all the beautiful trees.
ERIC PEDERSEN
Tech Advisor & Co-Founding Partner
ERIC PEDERSEN
Tech Advisor & Co-Founding Partner
Dr. Eric Pedersen is the Tech Adviser, Co-founder, and Partner who mentors NeuroDev students who are ready for an internship or job placement in a tech related field.
Eric believes companies benefit from hiring diverse thinkers. He understands that neurodivergent young adults with the right support and mentoring can be successful.
Eric has served as a faculty member in the Computer and Information Technology Department at Utah Tech University since 1989. At the present time, he is the Dean of the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology. He also teaches web development and tech entrepreneurship at Utah Tech.
In addition to his academic career, Eric is a successful entrepreneur. He co-founded several companies. He is also on the board of directors for many tech startups locally.
Eric directed the research team that developed and brought online the first website in Utah in 1993. He founded Infowest in 1994 and founded or assisted in the creation of other computer and technology companies, including Voddov.com, AreaTravelinc.com, SouthernUtah.com, ChampionFitnessUSA.com, and others.
Eric holds a Ph.D. in Management Information Systems from Utah State University.
He enjoys basketball, soccer, swimming, canyoneering, tennis, computers, technology, hiking, traveling, and reading in his free time.
DEBBIE GRYGLA
Admissions & Marketing Director
DEBBIE GRYGLA
Admissions & Marketing Director
Debbie Grygla is the Admissions and Marketing Director at NeuroDev. She works with educational consultants, parents, and students to determine if NeuroDev is the right fit for their needs.
As a parent of neurodivergent children, Debbie understands the importance of finding the right support. She has successfully guided her own foster/adopted children, including her son Lee (one of NeuroDev’s first students), to independent adulthood.
Debbie is a Certified Life and Parent Coach. Along with her husband, Jason Grygla, MA, LCMHC (NeuroDev’s Founder and Executive Director), she developed Neuro-Developmental Mentoring (NDM). This core approach teaches attunement to stress levels, meeting our young people where they are at developmentally, and connecting in collaborative ways with practical strategies to support well-being and overall development.
Debbie teaches a weekly life skills class at NeuroDev and runs NDM Circle, an online membership platform offering live workshops, parent coaching, educational resources, and a supportive community. She is also the producer and co-host of the popular podcast, “Autism & Neurodiversity with Jason & Debbie,” featuring over 100 episodes of expert interviews, personal experiences, and practical advice.
A mom of 5 children (ages 12-32), Debbie keeps busy as a high school mountain bike team coach, dance mom and avid personal development podcast listener. She has lived in California, Arizona, and currently resides in the St. George, Utah area.
KINLEY LEAVITT
Admissions Coordinator, St. George Campus
KINLEY LEAVITT
Admissions Coordinator, St. George Campus
Kinley Leavitt is the Admissions Coordinator and works directly with NeuroDev students and parents. Her main focus is helping students transition to life at NeuroDev while being a support to parents along the way.
She believes that mentoring is always the answer. Walking with students on their path bridges the gap between where students are now and who they hope to become in the future. Through a mentoring relationship, she hopes to give her students access to valuable insights, guidance, and genuine connections.
Kinley graduated from Utah Tech University (UT) with a bachelor’s in Exercise Science. While at UT she was extensively involved on campus as an Ambassador and also served in the program’s presidency. Her favorite part of college life was dancing on the UT Blaze dance team and cheering on the Trailblazers.
Kinley is from the small town of Monroe, Utah, and loves all things outdoors: hiking, riding horses, and camping. Her main passion is dance and she spends most of her free time coaching at a local high school.
MANDY JORGENSEN
Director of Outreach and Operations, Raleigh Campus
MANDY JORGENSEN
Director of Outreach and Operations, Raleigh Campus
Mandy Jorgensen, M.Ed., RYT is the Director of Outreach and Operations based in Raleigh, supporting both the Raleigh and St. George teams. Her role encompasses a broad range of responsibilities including administration, marketing, human resources, admissions, special projects, mentoring, life skills instruction, and more.
As the parent of two neurodivergent young adults, Mandy brings personal insight and empathy to her work with students and families. She understands the unique challenges and triumphs of neurodivergent parenting—including the experience of having a child attend a specialized program out of state—and finds deep purpose in using her lived experience to connect with and support others on a similar path.
Mandy’s passion for human development began with a pre-medical undergraduate degree and continued with a master’s in education. She has spent years teaching both neurotypical and neurodivergent students in a variety of educational settings. In addition, Mandy is a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) with more than two decades of personal practice, and she enjoys sharing yoga as a tool for self-regulation and well-being.
Coming from Minnesota, Mandy has called Raleigh home for over 20 years. She loves the warm weather, friendly people, and exploring the city’s greenways and trails with her husband, Ben, and their cockapoo, Louie. As a family, they love hiking and often plan vacations around beautiful landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Raleigh Campus
DEVON RICE
Director of Student Development
DEVON RICE
Director of Student Development
Devon Rice is the Director of Student Development in Raleigh. Originally from Bountiful, Utah, Devon began his journey with NeuroDev in 2019 as a night mentor at the St. George location while attending Utah Tech University.
A seasoned mentor, Devon brings years of experience supporting both NeuroDev and Utah Tech students. His background in leadership includes serving as the 2022–23 Student Body President at Utah Tech. After graduating, he continued his commitment to student development by working as an advisor for the university’s ambassador program and as the event planner for all admissions events.
While in Utah, Devon launched Neurodivergent Nuts —a sister brand to dinkers®—with the goal of creating job opportunities and practical work experiences for NeuroDev students as they prepare to enter the workforce. In Spring 2025, he moved to Raleigh to take on his current leadership role.
Devon is driven by the deep fulfillment he finds in working alongside NeuroDev students. Known for his ability to make hard things fun, he is passionate about mentorship, community, and helping students not just grow—but thrive. His mission is to provide meaningful opportunities that lead to lasting transformation in the lives of the students he serves.
T'NEA MANN
Student Coordinator
T'NEA MANN
Student Coordinator
T’Nea is a passionate and dedicated Student Coordinator who works closely with students to support their academic growth and personal well-being. She manages a range of responsibilities, including school scheduling, medical appointments, travel planning, and medication coordination. T’Nea also partners directly with students on their assignments, offering guidance and encouragement to help them stay on track and succeed academically.
T’Nea believes there are no limits in life—only the effort and determination we bring to each opportunity. She is deeply committed to helping students gain the confidence to thrive, push past fear, and recognize their own potential. She lives by the philosophy, “Belong to Become,” and takes it personally, making sure each student feels seen, supported, and empowered.
With a heart for service and a natural ability to connect with others, T’Nea is currently earning her Associate of Arts degree in Human Services, with plans to continue on to her Master’s degree. Her goal is to expand her impact and continue advocating for those in need of guidance, support, and belief in themselves.
A proud mother of four, a full-time employee, and a student herself, T’Nea is a living example that it’s never too late to start over, invest in your future, and strive for more—no matter your age or where you began. She leads by example, showing young mothers and students alike that with determination, support, and self-belief, anything is possible.
ANNA RICE
Mentor
ANNA RICE
Mentor
Anna Rice is a Mentor who works with NeuroDev students to support both administrative needs and individualized career and college development. Anna believes that helping students explore work or study opportunities aligned with their passions makes the journey toward independence more accessible and meaningful.
Anna has helped NeuroDev students with college placement and secure internships, jobs, and volunteer positions in diverse fields such as esports, animal shelters, and automotive centers. She also co-founded dinkers® glazed nuts with her husband Devon Rice, a small business designed to create employment opportunities for NeuroDev students. Together with NeuroDev Mentoring, they expanded the mission by developing the sister brand, Neurodivergent Nuts, to offer even more accessible work opportunities.
Anna holds a degree in Recreation and Sports Management from Utah Tech University and is passionate about entrepreneurship and community-building.
She is a triathlete and traveler who loves spending time with her dogs, family, and friends.
ETHAN MINNICH
Tech Coach and Mentor
ETHAN MINNICH
Tech Coach and Mentor
Ethan Minnich is a Tech Coach and Mentor who works with students to teach game design principles, Unreal Engine, and coding. Ethan believes in the power of interactive education to make complex concepts accessible and engaging.
Ethan has worked as a Lead Instructor at iD Tech Camps, teaching coding and game design, and has also taught the children of Amazon employees at Amazon headquarters. He is an experienced game designer and instructor, passionate about creating educational games based on historical conflicts.
Ethan holds a double major in Simulation and Game Design (SGD) and History from William Peace University in Raleigh. In Fall 2025, he will begin pursuing a Master’s degree at Duke University in Durham. Outside of academics, Ethan enjoys developing games and staying active at the gym.
JILLIAN GEARY
Mentor
JILLIAN GEARY
Mentor
Jillian is a Mentor who works with NeuroDev students to connect, collaborate, and inspire positive development. She is passionate about spreading kindness, helping others, and creating an inclusive, fun environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Jillian is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at North Carolina State University. Her role as a mentor at NeuroDev has enriched her study of psychology by deepening her understanding of neurodiversity, highlighting the importance of individualized support and strengthening her ability to foster communication and growth. In the future, she aspires to become a counselor or therapist in the mental health field.
Growing up in Wake Forest, North Carolina, Jillian spent most of her childhood as a dancer at local studios and continues to practice her love of dance in college through a student-led club. In her free time, she enjoys baking, reading, working out, and spending time with her friends, family, and dog.
MIKA PEREZ
Mentor
MIKA PEREZ
Mentor
Mika is a dedicated Mentor who supports NeuroDev students in developing social and emotional maturity, helping them prepare for the challenges life may bring. She believes that when students are equipped to handle the unexpected, they become empowered to live independently. This belief drives Mika’s passion for mentorship and reflects her deep commitment to making a meaningful difference.
With experience working in a therapist’s office, a strong background in volunteering, and valuable life experience, Mika brings both empathy and insight to her work. She is currently studying UX and Game Design at William Peace University in Raleigh. Originally from North Carolina, Mika is also an artist and avid rock climber.
CHIRODIP NAHA
Academic Tutor and Mentor
CHIRODIP NAHA
Academic Tutor and Mentor
Chirodip Naha is a professor of English and Creative Writing at Campbell University, where he combines his passion for literature with a commitment to student-centered teaching. He holds an MFA in Creative Writing from North Carolina State University and brings both academic depth and creative insight to his work.
In addition to his academic role, Chirodip serves as a Tutor and Mentor at Neurodev, where he supports neurodivergent students through empathetic, individualized learning. His work at Neurodev has been a transformative experience, enriching his understanding of neurodiversity and reinforcing his belief in the power of inclusive, compassionate education. For him, every student interaction is a chance to learn, grow, and co-create meaningful learning experiences.
MALAK HASSANEIN
Mentor
MALAK HASSANEIN
Mentor
Malak Hassanein is a Mentor at NeuroDev who supports students in building confidence, fostering social connections, and navigating their academic journeys with greater ease and purpose.
She is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology at NC State University, with a double minor in French and Business Marketing. An experienced student leader and mentor, Malak serves as President of the university’s American Marketing Association chapter and is actively involved in student life and community engagement.
Her previous roles as a Resident Advisor, teaching assistant, and programs assistant have given her valuable experience supporting students from diverse backgrounds in both academic and social settings. Malak is passionate about creating inclusive environments where all students—especially those who experience the world differently—feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
CARLOS LAGUNES
Mentor
CARLOS LAGUNES
Mentor
Carlos Lagunes is a Mentor who supports NeuroDev students by offering guidance and helping them stay on track with their goals. He believes that mental health is just as important as physical health and is committed to creating spaces where students feel understood and motivated.
Previously, Carlos served as a Student Ambassador at Wake Tech, where he encouraged others to pursue higher education, driven by his strong belief in educational equity and expanding access to learning opportunities.
He earned his associate degree from Wake Tech and transferred to North Carolina State University, where he now majors in Psychology. He also supports elementary students and adult learners with low literacy by using evidence-based interventions to build reading fluency. Carlos plans to pursue a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to continue supporting others on a deeper level.
Originally from Fayetteville, North Carolina, Carlos enjoys spending his free time reading comic books and attending concerts
ALLISON MARTINKO
Mentor
ALLISON MARTINKO
Mentor
Allison Martinko is a Mentor who works with NeuroDev students to help them be themselves, expand their horizons, and enjoy the little things in life! She believes that every student is unique in their own way and that self-expression is key to student development.
Allison is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology at NC State University, with minors in Biology and Anthropology. On campus, she serves as a wellness coach, leads campus tours as a university ambassador, and performs in both the NC State marching band and pep band.
Originally from Charlotte, NC, Allison enjoys watching reality TV, spending time with friends, and giving back through volunteer work in her free time.
St. George Campus
RACHEL POSTMA
Director of Student Development
RACHEL POSTMA
Director of Student Development
Rachel, OTD, OTR/L, is a Director of Student Development who works with NeuroDev students to promote holistic development and growth through engagement in a fulfilling, functional life.
Rachel believes in the importance of promoting independence through intentional participation in meaningful activities. She believes personal development stems from overcoming unique personal challenges that are achievable but outside of one’s comfort zone. She collaborates with students and staff to provide opportunities for developing independence through appropriately graded challenges.
Rachel is an occupational therapist who has experience in multiple areas of practice, including equine-assisted therapy, neurology, and pediatrics. Rachel has presented at the American Occupational Therapy Association national conference and has contributed to several publications relating to functional cognition and empowering youth through engagement.
Rachel holds a Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from Touro University Nevada.
Rachel enjoys all varieties of outdoor activities, particularly riding horses, hiking, and working on her small farm. Originally from southern Nevada, she currently resides in Hurricane, Utah.
CARSON DRAWE
Director of Student Development
CARSON DRAWE
Director of Student Development
Carson Drawe, Director of Development, focuses on tailoring NeuroDev to each individual student by assessing what they need with the student and embarking on their path forward with them. He also enjoys finding opportunities for the students whether it is through a volunteering experience, a job, an internship of some sort, or even a tour of a company that a student might find interest in.
Carson’s favorite part of his job is when he feels a student is ready to collaborate with him to build a sustainable life for him/herself. Carson has fostered relationships with multiple organizations in the community such as St. George Regional Hospital, STEM Outreach Center, and multiple other companies in St. George to get opportunities for individual students.
Carson will be getting his undergraduate in BA in Psychology and will be pursuing a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Carson loves spending time with friends and his wife. He also loves studying languages, writing music, and camping.
GRANT GUBLER
Recreation Director
GRANT GUBLER
Recreation Director
Grant Gubler is the Director of Recreation who works hard to get students new experiences. While teaming up with students Grant plans and organizes activities to get students out to enjoy life.
Grant knows that by developing meaningful relationships he can have a positive influence on the students and help them find a happy and fulfilled lifestyle.
Grant has opened a pizza restaurant in Zion National Park. He also organized and led a pest control sales team in Southern Utah and was the head technician for the pest control company prior.
Grant is currently attending Utah Tech University for his bachelor’s degree in Psychology and plans to get his masters in marriage and family therapy.
Grant is an avid rock climber, mountain biker and enjoys weight training. He loves taking the students outside and exploring new hobbies with them. Grant is from La Verkin, Utah.
SAM NEW
Director of Student Development
SAM NEW
Director of Student Development
Sam New is a night mentor who works with NeuroDev students to be the best version of themselves. Through personal connections, lively experiences, and a good attitude, Sam constantly strives to improve the lives of his students through active living, trying new things, and adventure. Sam is also an avid nerd and loves anything comic book, music, or video game-related.
Sam knows the importance of pursuing your interests, and through those interests, students at TechieForLife learn the necessary skills to meet new people, find opportunities, and create lifelong connections. Through St. George’s strong community bonds, Sam helps students find a circle that piques their interest. He knows the importance of getting to know people, learning new things, and making new friends wherever you go.
Sam is a senior at Utah Tech University pursuing an IS degree in Arts Administration, working towards being a concert manager for non-profit organizations. Through his university, Sam has been able to serve on the Utah Tech Student Association for three years, helping students make the most of their college experience. Sam is also involved with the Utah Tech Roar of the Red Rocks Marching Band, and the many clubs that Utah Tech has to offer including, but not limited to: Utah Tech Esports, Laser Tag Club, Chess Club, Game Makers Club, Tabletop Club, Trailblazers Club, and Birds Aren’t Real Club.
Sam grew up in Leeds, Utah, and is lucky to call Southern Utah his home. Sam loves spending time with others through many means, from enjoying the great outdoors to watching the next new movie. Sam also enjoys armored combat, martial arts, paintball, craft sodas, Dungeons and Dragons, jazz flute, and anything that allows him to get on his creative side.
HAYDEN HAWLEY
Tech Coach
HAYDEN HAWLEY
Tech Coach
Hayden is the Tech Coach who develops NeuroDev’s school curriculum, works with students to channel their focus, and help them earn technical certifications.
He values patience and believes in doing things the right way, even if it’s not the easy way.
Hayden is an experienced mentor at NeuroDev, and understands that neurodivergent students learn differently. He has developed strong relationships with each student and knows how to tailor lessons to fit their needs.
He is a current student at, Utah Tech University (UT), studying computer science.
Hayden is a gamer, music nerd, and movie buff from Surprise, Arizona.
AMIT FLANK
Assistant Tech Coach
AMIT FLANK
Assistant Tech Coach
Amit Flank is the Assistant Tech Coach. He works with students to help build their understanding of various tech related concepts ranging from web development to algorithmic optimization.
Amit has a deep understanding and love for tech having worked at various companies doing everything from building out HR software to working with facial recognition technology. He brings his passion and expertise to NeuroDev’s students and helps them grow their tech foundations while at NeuroDev.
AVREE MCARTHUR
Mentor
AVREE MCARTHUR
Mentor
Avree McArthur is a night mentor who works to give students the opportunity to better their skills in communication, critical thinking, interpersonal skills, and overall executive functioning.
Avree knows that working and going to school can be stressful at times, but she believes it is important to keep up the social aspect and make time to have fun, and she wants to help our students with that!
She is currently working on a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and a Minor in Photography at Utah Tech University.
Avree is from St. George, Utah, and enjoys trying new things. She loves to rock climb, hike, go to concerts, take road trips, and do photography.
MITCH WHALEY
Mentor
MITCH WHALEY
Mentor
Mitch Whaley is a mentor who helps NeuroDev students to be themselves, have a good time, and grow as students. He works to create an environment for NeuroDev students to enjoy themselves, hangout, and have fun.
He knows as a college student how hard it can be to relax and not be stressed. He knows the value of getting students outside and involved in activities to decompress during college, which will ultimately open opportunities to make more friends and grow by trying new things.
Mitch is currently studying Information Systems and Analytics with an emphasis in Information Technology at Utah Tech University.
He really enjoys participating in high adventure outdoor activities such as rock climbing and canyoneering. He loves to take people on fun adventures throughout the St. George area. In addition, he enjoys playing volleyball and pickleball.
Mitch grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado, a big town south of Denver and has been living in St. George for the past three years.