Executive Leadership

After graduating with her bachelor’s degree in education from University of Great Falls (University of Providence) with concentrations in Science and Communication Arts, she has taught various middle school science courses. Sally is passionate about cross-curricular teaching/learning which has consequently led her to additional teaching endorsements in Library Media and Health and Physical Education through University of Montana-Western. She has been active as a district representative in the Northwestern Educational Cooperative for curriculum development in science, English language arts, library, technology, physical education, and health. Sally teaches Biology, Chemistry, Physical sciences, and Space and Rocketry. Sally came back to her roots as a Eureka native to work at Chrysalis and be closer to family. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and riding horses.    

MacKenzie’s journey in the mental health field began in her hometown of St. George, UT. During her college years, she gained experience as a direct care staff at another Embark program and gradually transitioned to various management roles. In 2018, MacKenzie relocated to Montana and assumed the position of Program Director at Chrysalis School, where she developed an affection for the breathtaking Montana landscape and the Chrysalis team.

In 2021, MacKenzie embarked on a new endeavor as the Executive Director at Lake House Academy in North Carolina. Drawing upon her extensive experience working with adolescents, she fostered a positive culture, enhanced student programming, and prioritized staff training. However, in 2024, MacKenzie seized an opportunity to return to Chrysalis School as its Executive Director. The campus feels like home to her, and she relishes the opportunity to work with the distinctive age group and student profile that Chrysalis serves.

At Chrysalis, MacKenzie thrives on daily involvement in the therapeutic process with students and their families. She finds immense joy in witnessing the small yet pivotal changes that occur on a daily basis. MacKenzie’s leadership style is characterized by empathy, allowing both her team and the students to feel safe, valued, and understood.

When she is not working closely with students, MacKenzie indulges her passion for international travel. Additionally, she cherishes the great outdoors and can often be found hiking or exploring the rivers of Montana.

Kendra Meiklejohn, LCSW, Clinical Director, was born and raised in the beautiful mountains of Montana, where she developed a deep appreciation for the natural world. She earned a Dual Masters degree in Social Work and Kinesiology from the University of New Hampshire, as well as a Bachelors of Science in Behavioral Health from Southwestern College, Kendra is highly trained in various therapeutic modalities such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. With her extensive experience and training in wilderness therapy, Kendra has spent over 1500 field days as a guide, mentoring young women, and utilizing the natural world to enhance self-awareness and agency.

Kendra is also passionate about challenging preconceived notions, loving her community and family, and exploring the world around her. In her practice, she strives to provide a trauma-informed approach to therapy while relying on the healing power of wildness, kinesthetic/adventure therapy, and a fostering a strong therapeutic alliance. Kendra believes that eternal optimism is key to facing the tough and arduous work necessary to a well-lived life.

Jeremy began working with young people in therapeutic programs over a decade ago. Like many of the students he works with, his first step on this journey was working in a wilderness program, where he spent four seasons in the Utah backcountry before returning to school as a nontraditional student. He earned his bachelor’s degree in adventure education from Plymouth State University in 2007. Jeremy jumped in with both feet at Chrysalis in January 2008 as a residential and adventure staff member. He continued on to become the designated Lake House parent with his wife, Nikki, from November 2009 to February 2014. In May 2013, Jeremy became the school’s first residential director. Adventure experiences continue to be a special component of the Chrysalis program to Jeremy, as he witnesses the impact they have on the growth and development of students. However, his focus is on strengthening the residential team and the relationships they have with the Chrysalis student community. In addition, Jeremy is a talented landscape photographer and holds an associate’s degree in photographic technology. He’s also renowned on campus for inventing key lime pancakes and continues to jump in with both feet – as the first one into the lake every spring.

Education: AAS, Office Technology, Flathead Valley Community College AA, Business Management, Flathead Valley Community College BSLS, Management and Organizational Communication, Montana State University

Amy has been working as a Business Administrator since before she graduated college (20+ years).  Amy started as an Administrative Assistant and after  5 years, became the Business Manager and a few years after that joined the Leadership Team.

What makes you happy about working at Embark at Flathead Valley?

I love working in an environment where I see and feel a purpose. I love watching the transformation of the students while they are here.

What are your interests outside of work?

My daughter’s and I barrel race and love riding horses. We enjoy just about anything outdoors; camping and kayaking being at the top of our list.

Originally from Maryland, Nina Millard made the move to tranquil Montana in 2018, and has been enjoying the beauty and peacefulness of her new home ever since. Nina has years of experience working with children and individuals in a variety of settings. Her previous roles include working with clients to find and hold jobs in the community, teaching soft skills, and collaborating with support systems to promote enrichment through community involvement.

When not working, Nina and her partner enjoy exploring their corner of the world and embracing the great outdoors with their three children. Nina has a rich history of teaching dance and art to both children and adults, and was a professional dance instructor/judge before moving to Montana. Dance and art are an integral part of their family life, and their walls are adorned with artwork from their many creative projects.