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.

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 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 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.

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, a master’s in counseling, and is pursuing a PhD in developmental psychology.

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 (2-10), and enjoys cycling as a way to unwind. He’s new to North Carolina and is still getting used to all the beautiful trees.

CAMERON VINCENT

Director of Student Development

Cameron Vincent, a Director of Student Development, enjoys working with students enrolled at TechieForLife. He works to mentor students in a variety of ways such as finishing high school, starting college, finding internships or a first job, getting a driver’s license, and anything else students need mentoring on. Cameron oversees the day-to-day life and operations of TechieForLife’s.

Cameron knows the importance of working side by side with a student to achieve healthy, long term, and sustainable growth.

He is a recent graduate from Utah Tech University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and he is working to complete a master’s degree in counseling as well. Cameron works to apply his education to daily life at TechieForLife as well as giving presentations at the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) Southwest conference.

In his spare time, Cameron enjoys spending time with his wife hiking, traveling, cooking and playing pickleball.

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.

BRENAN GODFREY

Assistant Director of Student Development

Brenan is an Assistant Director of Student Development who loves to connect with the students of TFL, to help them feel like they belong. 

He knows the importance of belonging and how it is such an important part of development here at TFL. He believes that the relationship between students and mentors will be essential for helping students to achieve their goals. 

Brenan considers his biggest wins as his relationship with those around him. He is happily married and expecting his first child, a baby girl, in March. He loves talking with people and becoming a true listener to be a benefit to those he associates with. 

He has had many experiences of working in this field as he has been a director of projects for an humanitarian aid of an orphanage in Ensenada, Mexico. He has years of experience as a CNA working with individuals who are stuck physically and mentally. He then applied his skills to work as an RBT helping individuals under 18 to further their development with skills of daily living. 

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Utah State University, and he is currently enrolled in a master’s program at Capella University. 

Brenan is an outdoors lover and a bookworm from Clarkston, Utah. 

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.

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.

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.

DANIELA VALERIO

Day Mentor

Daniela Valerio is a Day Mentor at TFL who assists students with their schooling, teaches
them how to become successful college students, and assists them with their daily
needs.

Daniela believes that everyone is capable of being successful and achieving their life
goals. She is passionate about helping others and enjoys contributing to and celebrating
the students’ successes. She believes in making a difference in the students’ lives and
building meaningful friendships along the way.

Daniela has received her Associate Degree of Science in General Studies with High
Honors. She is a Junior at Utah Tech University and is working toward her bachelor’s degree
in Psychology. After she receives her bachelor’s degree, she plans to earn her master’s
degree and start working towards her Doctorate in clinical psychology. She hopes to
open her own clinical practice sometime in the near future.

Daniela is from the small town of Tooele, Utah, and enjoys spending time with her
husband, traveling, playing tennis, organizing, and shopping until she drops!

DEVON RICE

Director of Professional Development

Devon is from Bountiful, Utah, who now calls St. George home. He began his NeuroDev journey as a night mentor in the Summer of 2019.

As the current Director of Professional Development, Devon is utilizing his years of experience with NeuroDev, his experience as a business owner, and his knowledge gained in obtaining his degree in Marketing and Digital Design to start businesses that can employ NeuroDev students.

Devon’s expertise in leadership is backed by years of student leadership at Utah Tech University, including his tenure as the 2022-23 Student Body President. Following his graduation, and prior to returning to NeuroDev, Devon accepted a role at the university as the advisor of the ambassador program and event planner for all admissions events.

He works at NeuroDev for the fulfillment it provides, both for him and for the students he works with. NeuroDev students can expect to have a fun time with Devon, while also accomplishing their next big step in life. With connections throughout the entire Southern Utah community, he is bound to have opportunities available for all NeuroDev students.

With his dedication to NeuroDev’s mission, Devon hopes to not only provide jobs and mentoring for his friends at NeuroDev, but to truly help change their lives.

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.

BRAXTON MISKIN

Mentor

Braxton Miskin is a mentor who works with students to have fun, grow, and feel heard.

He knows the work he and the other mentors at TFL are doing is making a difference and helping students.

Braxton is a freshman studying recreation and sports management at Utah Tech University.

He’s a potato boy from the small town of Shelley, Idaho. He was lucky enough to have the opportunity to move down to St. George, UT for school.

ELLA MORRELL

Mentor

Ella Morrell is a mentor who works with TFL students to help them feel involved with the community, friends, and school. Her goal is to always make the students feel like they have someone to talk to, someone to hang out with, and someone to have a good time with!

She knows that gaining friendships with all the students at TFL will influence not only their lives but hers as well. She believes that acceptance has a huge impact, and brings happiness and success into their lives.

Ella is a freshman at Utah Tech University majoring in exercise science, hoping to become an occupational therapist. She is also on the cheerleading team, and loves it!

She grew up in Murray, Utah, and has lived there her whole life, until moving for college. Ella enjoys meeting new people, hanging out with friends, going on fun adventures, hammocking, and shopping, but her favorite thing to do is boating! She loves wakeboarding, surfing, and tubing! So, St. George has been a really fun, and perfect new environment for her.

LEVI DAME

Mentor

Levi is a night mentor who works with the students to help them meet goals, get outside, and be active!

Levi knows that developing lasting relationships is an essential skill to the success of the students at NeuroDev. Getting the students outside and out of their comfort zones to try new things. Levi tries to give the students new opportunities to learn something new.

Levi graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Utah Tech University.

Levi grew up on a ranch in northern Utah raising and showing cattle. Along with raising cows, he is an avid basketball fan and player.

ROXY HANZA

Mentor

Roxy Hanza is a mentor who works with TFL students to grow in confidence, feel included in the community and recognize their full potential. Her goal is to be supportive of the students and their aspirations. She is committed to helping them have positive experiences and pushes them to step outside of their comfort zone. 

Roxy understands that creating strong relationships and connections with the students will ultimately help them be successful at TFL. She works to create long-lasting friendships with each of them in order to create a safe atmosphere at TechieForLife where students can learn, laugh and enjoy each other.  

Roxy is an incoming freshman at Utah Tech University and will be pursuing a career in Nursing. 

She has lived in Southern Utah her whole life and enjoys activities such as backpacking, hiking and paddle boarding. She loves traveling and going to concerts. 

ASHER ANDERSON

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.

SAM NEW

Mentor

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.