From the CEO: 9 Questions for 9 Years

June 30, 2025

As I celebrate my 9th anniversary with HopeWay, I was asked to answer nine questions about the journey - where we started, what we’ve overcome, and where we’re headed. It has been an honor to lead this organization and witness the impact that we have made together on individuals, families, and our community.

Here are 9 questions to mark 9 meaningful years.

1. What is your favorite memory from the past 9 years at HopeWay?

The day we received our initial licensure. We were so eager to start serving clients that we drove to Raleigh to pick up the license in person rather than wait for it in the mail. The excitement was palpable when our very first client walked over the bridge to begin their healing journey at HopeWay.

2. What is one of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned as CEO?

Cultural fit is everything. Building a strong, compassionate, high-quality team starts with hiring people who are genuinely passionate about serving our clients and who align with our mission and values.

3. What mission moment are you most proud of?

One of our very first clients is still under my care today. Supporting her and her family through both challenges and triumphs has been incredibly meaningful. Her journey is a powerful reminder of why we do this life-saving work.

4. What was one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome it?

Navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Making the difficult decision to temporarily close, restructuring our staffing model, and finding ways to maintain team cohesion during such a stressful time were major challenges. Throughout it all, the safety of our clients and staff remained our top priority, as we focused on how to best move forward and continue serving the community.

5. What advice would you give to other CEOs leading a startup?

Prioritize culture from day one. Be a strong advocate for your team, promote transparency, celebrate wins, and foster an environment where excellence and fun can coexist.

6. How has HopeWay evolved since you first joined the organization?

When I began, the building wasn’t finished, we didn’t have a license or accreditation, and our team consisted of just two staff members. Today, we have over 150 team members, we’ve served thousands of clients, and we’ve provided significant financial assistance to help ensure access to care. The impact has been truly humbling.

7. What has surprised you the most about leading a mental health nonprofit?

How difficult insurance reimbursement remains for many individuals with commercial insurance plans. On top of that, Medicaid doesn’t cover adult residential mental health services for those over the age of 21. These are a few of the major barriers for people to access care, and make it especially challenging for organizations to remain financially sustainable.

8. What do you want people to know about HopeWay’s mission?

Our mission is to make HOPE tangible by inspiring mental wellness for all. Through our health equity initiative with Novant Health, we’ve been able to provide access to top-notch psychiatric care for uninsured individuals through the Hope Community Clinic and the Novant Health Michael Jordan Family Medical Clinic. Since opening, we’ve also provided an average of $500,000 per year in financial assistance to help offset treatment costs.

9. Where do you envision HopeWay 9 years from now?

I envision expanded services on our adult campus, including new levels of care and tailored programs for specific clinical populations. I also hope to see a robust family program that fully supports the individual in treatment and their loved ones.