STAFF

Sandra Ackley joined the SEI team in 2020 after a long career on the East Coast. She has her bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University but is an avid Kansas State University fan. Her, her husband, and their beagle Delphi moved to Colorado in 2019 after their youngest graduated from Kansas State University. She volunteers with her local church in various areas. They love to visit their adult children and of course their grandbaby (all out of state) if they are not out hiking, biking, skiing, or just exploring Colorado.

Tim is a Certified Association Executive with 25 years of experience working with trade associations, professional societies, charities, and foundations. Tim was the founder of Mission Driven, an association management and consulting firm for nonprofits.  His interest in technology began at an early age exploring on his family’s TI-99.  He has worked in multiple nonprofit technology roles including IT support, training, database administration, systems management, and strategic planning.  A focus of his career has been championing integrated and holistic systems for success.  Tim loves a good spreadsheet almost as much as a tasty dessert.

Priti (Preethi) hails from a 20+ year career in the fashion industry. She took a much-needed Covid break to move her family to CO and assess her next chapter. Throughout her tenure in the work world, the words of her father constantly rang in her ear; whatever path you take in life, make sure you’re doing something good for others. That time finally came when SEI welcomed her into their family, and she is so grateful that she gets to support the various teams and constituents. She is a true “soccer mom” to 2 tweenagers and spends her time shuttling them around to practices and matches.

Marie comes from the environmental field with a passion for sustainability. Her research in environmental ascription and injustice motivated her to dedicate her life to non-profit work. When she is not posting the do's and don'ts of recycling around the office, you can find her either tending her community garden or 27 houseplants.

“My mission is to create and support a highly collaborative Programs department so my team can work together to create the capacity and flexibility needed to provide high standards of constituent service.”

Allison is full of empathy and enthusiasm and has always been drawn to connecting with people.  

Over the course of twelve years, many of which as a single mom, Allison did crisis work in non-profits and chipped away at a bachelor’s degree. In December of 2021, she graduated with honors from The University of Michigan – Dearborn; her nine-year-old son was by her side. She studied women & gender, social justice, urban design, and art/architectural history. 

Her professional aspirations are grounded in social work; a lens which considers how the systems in place work for some and against others. She finds a ton of joy in learning and wonders what master’s degree to pursue. Allison loves choir, her English Springer Spaniel named Pocket, and any chance she gets to be near water.  Allison lives near Detroit with her incredibly supportive partner and their three kids.  

Vanessa loves colorful Colorado! In 2007 she left her home state of Florida and traveled with dear friends for a fresh start to “The Mile High City”. Vanessa, inspired by her natural curiosity of human experience and its interconnectedness to the world we live in, attended Metropolitan State University to study Cultural Anthropology and non-profit management.

Vanessa has since invested in her personal growth outside of the classroom by immersing herself in a healing journey, connecting to a dynamic spiritual practice that anchors and guides her in life. Vanessa enjoys spending time outdoors connecting to nature, casually enjoying the beauty of Colorado while spending time with friends, family, and animal friends of all kinds! She has a love of learning through experience which draws her to explore the arts, food, and travel in all its forms (well almost all)! It is purposeful alignment and the desire to affect change through the upliftment of humanity that attracted Vanessa to Somatic Experiencing International. Now, as the Admissions Services Specialist she looks forward to introducing others to the SEI!

Sony grew up in a small town in Southern Maine. In 2004, she graduated from Saint Michael’s College in Vermont with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Art. After graduating she moved to Colorado to pursue her dream of living “out west”. Her plan was to live the life of a ski bum for a year and then move back to Maine to start her teaching career. Life had other plans and she was offered a year-round job at Eldora Mountain Resort in Nederland, CO running the group sales program. It was at Eldora that she met her husband Adam and through an Eldora connection that she ended up at Somatic Experiencing International. Sony was hired in June of 2013 as a Program Manager and that position has evolved in her years with the organization into the position she now holds, Managing Director of Professional and Community Development. Like many of us, she has seen the organization go through some ups and downs but is grateful for the strides the organization has made in the last couple of years and is grateful to be part of the SE community.

“As a compassionate and authentic leader, I lead by example and set clear context and expectations for my team members. I create a safe environment for relationships to grow among diverse communities and ensure people have a voice and quality experiences.”  

Deion was born to Carmen and Ivan Cossio in Providence, Rhode Island on Thanksgiving Day in 1993. He graduated from Southeastern University in 2015 with a degree in Business Management. He ran Track and Cross Country all throughout his time at SEU, and it taught him so much about teamwork. He went on to work for Chick-fil-A’s non profit, the WinShape Foundation and served on the marketing team. When Hurricane Michael struck the Gulf Coast, Deion moved to Panama City, FL and ended up staying and helping in the efforts until 2020. He loves cooking and getting his people together. He has always been fascinated with how technology can bring groups together.

Enneagram: 2/3

DISC: C/D

MB: ENFP

Krysti oversees the Operations Department at SEI. Operations develops and maintains processes and procedures that support the overall operations of the Institute.

Krysti believes in creating a community that can be excited about the possibilities found in disrupting the current way of doing things. Creating new pathways starts with developing trust and strengthening relationships. She believes in asking what each of us can do to support and challenge each other in a positive way to ask and answer questions that create growth and opportunity, both individually and organizationally.

Outside of work, Krysti is an animal lover with a self-diagnosed addiction to dogs. She also enjoys being outdoors, traveling, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, playing frisbee with her dogs, going to the theater, cooking, reading, and is a motorsports fan with a bit of an obsession for Moto GP and Formula One racing. As a youth, she volunteered for the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix every year. The race is the largest vintage car race in the US and raises funds for individuals in the Pittsburgh area with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Autism continues to be a cause that pulls at her heart strings.

“My mission is to provide leadership that is courageous, curious, and kind. I will hold myself and my team accountable in a compassionate and productive way. Inspire the Operations department to support all constituent groups through finding solutions that embrace change, are creative, flexible, and aligned with the mission, vision and values of the organization.”

Having received her Paralegal Certificate in December 2020 from the American Bar Association, Kathy's passion revolves around learning about law, politics, and government. When she is not working or studying, Kathy enjoys spending time with her three felines: Penny, Lincoln, and Copper. Kathy is an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan, and is very close to her family. She enjoys hiking, kayaking, meditating, and playing video games in her spare time. Kathy is also a music buff, and she has played trombone for many years.

Abigail grew up in Northern Michigan, where she developed her passion for nature, art and skiing. After spending 4 years traveling the world, teaching art, nannying and farming, she moved to Boulder, Colorado to study Art Therapy at Naropa University. As she begins the process of grad school, she is every excited to be apart the SE community and team. 

Prior to joining SEI, Katelyn spent many years working for Starbucks, both as a shift supervisor and a barista. In her free time, she is usually hanging out at home with her cats playing video games, going for mountain drive exploring all they have to offer, or playing Dungeons and Dragons.

Katie grew up in Colorado and loves the natural beauty of the Front Range. She also has a passion for travel that spurred her early interest in language study. She earned her BA in French at Colorado State University, followed by an MA in translation at Kent State University. She has studied abroad in Paris, France, and worked in Osaka, Japan. In her spare time, she enjoys learning languages, cooking, meditating, and spending time with family and friends.

In her spare time from being a single mom to her amazing 14 year old son Asher, Monica indulges in practicing Reiki, studying different trauma healing modalities, reading both fiction and non-fiction, being an avid music fan, cooking, writing for the local newspaper, and spending time with family and friends. Monica plans to register for the SE training in the near future and develop her own healing practice integrating SE and Reiki; she also wants to resume a practice of spending time in nature and getting regular recreational exercise, and to explore ways to publish her creative writing.

Hannah grew up in Seattle, WA., surrounded by nature, the sweet smell of pine trees, and the salty ocean breeze.  After graduating from the University of Colorado, Boulder, with a double major in Anthropology and Sociology, Hannah spent a year traveling the world before moving to LA to establish a career in the documentary film industry.  Hannah is endlessly curious about all things big and small, but has particular interest in people, culture, mental and nervous system health, yogic philosophy and spirituality, and the lifelong journey of self-discovery. In 2021, Hannah took off her Producer hat for good in order to pursue a more passion-driven life. She now lives in Mexico City where she is diligently trying to learn Spanish (and learning a lot about patience, humility and grace along the way), while also building a new career as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and yoga teacher.  As a current student and employee at SEI, Hannah has the unique opportunity to spread the gift of healing from the inside out. As she has begun to find increased purpose and strength through her own healing journey, she is committed to dedicating herself to helping others find relief and agency within their lives, too. As Dr. Peter Levine so eloquently wrote, “Trauma resolved is a gift of gods – a heroic journey that belongs to each of us.” 

Bio Coming Soon!

Kianna graduated from Yale University In 2020 with a degree in the history of Science, Medicine and Public Health. Her undergraduate research focused primarily on American healthcare systems and healthcare for marginalized communities. Since graduating, Kianna has worked in a clinical research facility focused on COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, as well as continuing her research on health disparities Kianna is excited to bring her research background and project management skills to the Public Health Initiatives Department at SE International. Outside of work Kianna enjoys exploring the unique food scene of whatever city she happens to be in.

Michelle Romaine received her bachelor’s degree in English from The University of Texas. She joins the SEI team following not one but three fascinating careers. Passionate about movies and always ready for an adventure, Michelle followed her dream to LA to make her mark in the film business. Pursuing another passion, she later studied at the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, CA.

Falling in love with Napa Valley and its rich food and wine culture, she ultimately transitioned into a long career in the luxury wine and hospitality industry. Along the way, she founded her own baking company specializing in savory cookies to pair with wine and other libations. Wanting to be closer to the family on the East Coast, Michelle began her latest adventure when she relocated to Savannah, GA where she currently resides with Gilman, her devoted kitty, aka Fur Baby. And, working with the members of the healing community.

Staci is originally from a small Texas town, moving to Colorado in 2003. She has a diverse background with an entrepreneurship spirit, where she has owned several businesses. She has also held administrative support roles, and several career paths in healthcare. She has maintained 19 years as a licensed CNA for Colorado, specializing in eating disorders and behavior health. Education in healthcare includes a diploma in Medical Billing, a certificate in Medical Coding, certificates in multiple courses involving professional addiction counseling, and completion of the first year of the Nursing Core. Interests outside of work include being a nature and animal lover – taking long walks when the weather permits. She also loves to grow flowers and create new recipes, especially in baking. The most important outside interest she has is spending time with her wonderful daughter.

Rene is an artist, illustrator and writer. Her ambition for the creative arts has led to local gallery showings, graphic designing and publications for her poetry. She also has a passion for studying philosophy, anthropology and mythology. In the past, Rene has volunteered for Pop Culture Classroom, Denver Comic Con and the Therapeutic Riding Center. Her eclectic background brings a holistic and creative approach to problem solving. She values compassion, mindfulness, synergy and innovation. Outside of work, Rene can be found relaxing by reading, cooking, playing games, watching anime, or spending time with her loved ones.

Rebecca Schwartz joined the SEI team in 2018 after a long career in the for-profit world of marketing and business development leadership positions that span multiple industries, from publishing to commercial real estate. Her passion for social entrepreneurship drove her professional success. Outside of work, Rebecca is actively involved in organizations that focus on bringing people from diverse backgrounds together, and organizations that focus on the mental health of LGBTQIA+ teens. Rebecca is an avid reader. When she is not reading, you can find her hiking with her dog, creating art and making jewelry.

Daniela was born in Bogotá, Colombia and grew up in Northern Colorado since her early childhood years. As a first-generation immigrant her core values are centered around intercultural competencies and community/civic engagement. She is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer in the Economic Development field who continues to invest time and resources in sustainable ventures benefiting indigenous female entrepreneurs in Caazapá, Paraguay. Daniela also serves as the Volunteer Coordinator for the Northern Colorado Intertribal Powwow Association reflecting her commitment to Native American populations through cultural celebration and philanthropic projects. In her free time she enjoys promoting nutritional wellness, camping, meditation, boxing, supporting the CSU Ram community, and finding the nearest dance floor.

Rebecca M. Stahl was previously the Executive Director of the Sayra and Neil Meyerhoff Center for Families, Children and the Courts at the University of Baltimore School of Law before starting as Interim Executive Director at SE International. Rebecca previously represented children in child welfare cases in Los Angeles, County California and in Tucson, Arizona. Rebecca was a Fulbright Scholar in New Zealand and earned a Master of Law degree from the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand and studied the role of lawyers for children in family court cases. Rebecca has presented at a variety of international conferences focused on children’s rights and family law on topics ranging from the role of lawyers for children to trauma. Rebecca coauthored, Representing Children in Dependency and Family Law: Beyond the Law, a book focused on the psychological issues lawyers for children need to understand to represent their child clients and has published articles on the role of children’s representation, including a recent one on trauma, published in October 2020 in Family Court Review. Rebecca is a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and came to Somatic Experiencing from a background in yoga and seeing trauma manifestations every day in court. Rebecca melds SE and law and teaches trainings around the world to help lawyers navigate trauma manifestations in themselves and in their clients. Rebecca is a non-cishet Jew who believes in the power of community as the focal point for growth and healing.

“My mission is to help grow a larger community that shares the language of Somatic Experiencing with each other and the world. My mission is to be present, to listen, and to hold a large container for the SEI community with wholeheartedness, openness, integrity, and inquisitiveness.”

For 20 years, Caroline has been bringing people together to share in engaging and educational experiences. From self-care to compliance, she enjoys creating experiences that help people grow both personally and professionally. Event coordination involves expertly managing stakeholders as well as participants. Caroline has spent years expertly fulfilling the unique needs of presenters and learners in both in-person and virtual learning environments. She's excited to channel these skills into bringing you events that are meaningful and transformative.

As a Colorado native, Calvin enjoys the outdoors, especially hiking and tubing. He loves the adrenaline rush from off-roading and white water rafting (his two deep loves). His pride and joy is his youth football organization which he created along with 3 friends, so that they could give back to the kids that are less fortunate, to those who really don't have the money for their child to play sports. Their organization makes it affordable so that no kid gets left behind. Calvin notes, “We know that there is a small chance that any of our kids will make the NFL, that’s why we take pride on “Student Athlete” use the sport as a tool to get where you want that is our motto. Which means you may not make it to the NFL, but you can be a student athlete to where you can get a free education with a full ride scholarship to pursue your career's choice.”

Rachel Volberding aspires to one day become a Certified Project Manager, Coach and SEP. Currently, Rachel's passion for leadership, growth, and structure inspires her work as Programs Project Manager. She loves to utilize connection to inspire innovation and direct change. Rachel also volunteers through her church as a soprano in the choir and is an Elder.