Meet the Key People on the Wolf Creek Academy Team
At Wolf Creek Academy, we believe deeply in the power of family. We are a family ourselves, and we serve families by walking alongside them in times of challenge and change. Many of our staff are family members working together, and all of us share the same mission — to help students and their loved ones find hope, healing, and restoration. The staff members highlighted below represent our key team leaders, though they are just part of the dedicated group that makes Wolf Creek Academy such a special place. Bound together by a shared purpose, we come together to forge healthy relationships, turn around teen behavior, and give students hope for a brighter future filled with new opportunities.
Jeremey Jones: Chief Executive Officer/Program Director
The fearless leader of Wolf Creek Academy has a sense of adventure and tenacity that led him to get off the porch and into action. He loves camping as it allows him to unplug and rejuvenate. He is all about relationships and family. Jeremey and Angela have five sons, (affectionately known as the Tribe of Five), so one would think that he has “enough” family, but the truth is, their family has grown to include many students, families, and coworkers over the years. Building lifelong relationships is easy for Jeremey, “all you have to do is be present on a regular basis, and love people without judgment.” He was taught not to judge people from their exterior by his parents, and the lesson has been continually reinforced by the students he has worked with over the years. Jeremey knows that the students can all do amazing things when we believe in them. “They truly want to be amazing, they simply need someone to see their potential and believe in them!” Jeremey loves watching his boys play sports and is quick to get off the porch and into any game his boys, the students, or the rest of the “family” are playing at the time!
Angela Jones: Vice President
Angela Jones is more than the Vice President of Wolf Creek Academy, she is Jeremey’s right (and sometimes left) hand! She helps to transform his passion into a plan. Together they see it through. These “best friends” have worked in church-based youth ministry, as house parents for at-risk youth, built successful businesses, and raised 5 awesome young men. Angela knows that no student, family, or situation is the same as the next, so it is important to adjust the way we approach each individual and address each situation. When this is done well the lasting impact on the behavior, outlook, and attitude of both the student and their family is truly remarkable! Although success will look different for each student or family, all are capable of attaining success. Angela enjoys camping, sledding, and spending quality time with family and friends. Her genuine love for others and desire to see them become the best version of themselves fuels the work she does at Wolf Creek Academy.
Jesse Veres: Chief Financial Officer
Jesse is so much more than our Wolf Creek Academy CFO. He is our soccer-playing, sledding, house parenting, overnight staffing, handyman-ing, internet fixing, mail delivering, toilet plunging, Wolf Creek Academy Superman! In the midst of it all, he finds the time to be a dynamic dad and fabulous friend! Jesse, thanks for all you do to make Wolf Creek Academy the wonderful place it is.
John Shelley: Director of Therapy, LCMHC, NCC
John Shelley is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor who brings a wealth of expertise to his role at Wolf Creek Academy. With a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and ongoing training in Traumatic Stress Studies through the Trauma Research Foundation’s Certificate Program, he is committed to providing comprehensive care to adolescents in need. In addition to his professional qualifications, John finds solace in life’s simple pleasures, indulging in thoughtful chess games over a cup of dark coffee on cool mornings. His favorite indulgences include chocolate, pecan pie, and the serenity of a hammock, all accompanied by the soothing melodies of U2 and Mumford & Sons. John draws inspiration from creativity and art, recognizing their profound impact on healing and self-expression. At Wolf Creek Academy, John is deeply touched by the beauty of the setting and the compassionate care provided by the staff. He takes pride in knowing that every teen who walks through the doors is met with personalized therapy and unwavering support. John cherishes the workplace culture at Wolf Creek Academy, where serving those in need is valued above all else. With his dedication and compassion, he continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of adolescents seeking guidance and healing.
Emerson Cook: Therapist, LCMHCA / Director of Adventure Learning
Emerson brings an energetic dedication to her role as a Therapist at Wolf Creek Academy, where she serves students with both professionalism and genuine care. A Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, she treasures the vibrant camaraderie within the Wolf Creek Academy community, fondly recalling the playful summer day when a group of students tossed her supervisor into the pond — a moment that captured the joy and connection that make Wolf Creek Academy so special. These bonds inspire Emerson daily, fueling her passion to make a lasting impact in the lives of those she serves. Guided by a deep commitment to empathy and service, she provides compassionate support and practical guidance to students and families. Outside of her professional work, she finds peace and renewal in swimming, delighting in the hidden beauty of the underwater world. Since childhood, Emerson has drawn strength from the music and resilience of Taylor Swift, whose determination and authenticity inspire her to persevere with integrity. As she continues her journey at Wolf Creek Academy, Emerson’s compassion, dedication, and joy enrich the lives of both staff and students, making her an invaluable part of the Wolf Creek Academy family.
Stephen Mercier: Therapist, LCSWA
Stephen brings a unique blend of education and experience to WCA, holding a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky, along with a degree in English literature and a teaching license in the state of Georgia. His background as a former English teacher gives him a thoughtful and encouraging approach when working with students. One of Stephen’s favorite things about WCA is the beautiful location and the wonderful food, both of which make the campus feel especially welcoming. He also enjoys the opportunity to learn from students each day, sharing that one student once taught him about lion ants and how to spot the traps they create in the ground. Outside of work, Stephen enjoys archery with both primitive and modern bows. If he could choose any superpower, he says he would want the ability to become incorporeal like a ghost so he could fly through objects and avoid harm. When it comes to books, Stephen’s top pick is the science fiction novel Blindsight by Peter Watts.
Alexis Rowjohn: Case Manager
Alexis is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and holds an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice with a focus on rehabilitation and mental health. Before joining Wolf Creek Academy, she spent three years working as a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, using her lived experience with mental illness to help individuals navigate their own healing journeys. She has also worked extensively in the addiction recovery field, supporting others in achieving sobriety and long-term wellness. Alexis is passionate about walking alongside adolescents as they work toward growth, healing, and self-discovery. Having faced her own mental health challenges as a teenager, she understands firsthand the importance of compassionate support and meaningful connection. She considers it a privilege to help students recognize their strengths, develop healthy coping skills, and build confidence in their ability to overcome obstacles. One of Alexis’s favorite memories at WCA was witnessing a student take ownership of their mental health journey by thoughtfully applying the skills they had learned and developing a plan to strengthen family relationships upon returning home. Moments like these continue to inspire her and reinforce the transformative impact of the work being done at WCA. Outside of work, Alexis enjoys hiking and exploring mountain peaks with her daughter. She is an avid football fan, loves reading books focused on mental health and personal growth, and dreams of having the ability to fly so she could experience the world from a bird’s-eye view.
Rob Gunter: Chief of Operations / Therapist, MA, LCMHCA
To say that Rob loves the outdoors is a huge understatement. Whether it is biking, hiking, or traversing glaciers while climbing the world’s tallest peaks, Rob is in for the adventure! He understands the value of a “mountain top experience” and desires to share that experience with each of our Wolf Creek Academy students. However, the highlight of his job comes when the student begins to recognize how much they have grown and experienced while at Wolf Creek Academy and it drives them to be the best version of themselves. Rob knows that as much as we work to serve the students in their growth, we also are impacted and grow as a result of the students’ time with us. Although Rob has earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, he constantly adds more tools to his toolbox through continuing education in Outdoor Activities and safety. Rob might just have the BEST job at Wolf Creek Academy, and he is the perfect person for it!
Jen Marie: Direct Care Lead
Working at Wolf Creek Academy has reminded Jen of raising and homeschooling her two children. From her first-hand interactions with the students to the completion ceremonies, where we celebrate students completing the C.L.I.M.B. Program, working here reminds her of family. Jen loves the completion ceremonies because she sees the students be proud of themselves and realize that they have accomplished something great that will give them a better future. Jen’s favorite thing about Wolf Creek Academy is the feeling of family and community we have here and knowing that we can provide that to our students. Jen said that if she could have any superpower, she would want to be an empath so she could feel the emotions that others are feeling and better relate to and support the people around her. When she is not on campus, Jen loves spending time with her family and friends, hiking, and reading. We are so blessed to have her on our team!
Grace Slack: House Parent
Grace brings a strong background in supporting adolescents to her role at WCA. She has spent the past three years working with teens in therapeutic boarding schools, gaining valuable experience and participating in specialized training focused on conflict resolution, behavior management, and creating safe, supportive environments. What Grace loves most about Wolf Creek Academy is seeing the joy in the girls when they recognize and celebrate their hard-earned personal growth. So far, one of her favorite memories has been watching the girls have fun singing into voice-altering microphones, a moment full of laughter and connection. If Grace could have any superpower, she’d choose invisibility, embracing the intrigue and mystery it offers. She enjoys paddle boarding, playing volleyball, and soaking in the great outdoors in her free time.
Madison Rain Wyatt: House Parent
Madison brings a passion for mentorship and relationship-building to her role at WCA. Before joining the team, she spent two years working at a ranch in St. Charles, Iowa, where she worked with children and teenagers throughout the year. During that time, she helped teach horseback riding and led trail rides, experiences that allowed her to build meaningful relationships while encouraging and supporting young people through challenging seasons. One of Madison’s favorite memories at WCA so far has been coming in early on Sunday mornings to cook big meals for the girls’ lodge. These moments have given her the chance to connect with the girls, spend time with them one-on-one, and even teach a few cooking skills along the way. What Madison enjoys most about working at WCA is using her life experiences to connect with and support the teenage girls she works with. She values building bonds that offer encouragement, care, and support during their time at WCA. Outside of work, Madison enjoys spending time outdoors. She loves bike riding and going on long walks, often meeting a friend each week to walk several miles around town. She also danced for about ten years, with ballet being her favorite style and still one she enjoys watching today.
Jenna Newton: House Parent
Jenna studied at Houghton University, where she majored in Bible and History, with minors in Education and Equine-Assisted Therapy. During her time at Houghton, she also served as a Resident Assistant for two years, developing her passion for mentorship and building meaningful connections. At WCA, Jenna’s favorite part of her work is building relationships with the girls. She loves ending her day by hearing about theirs—their stories, challenges, and joys. Her time at Wolf Creek Academy has also taught her that empathy takes many forms, and sometimes the most impactful support comes through simply listening. Outside of work, Jenna enjoys going on long walks with her dog while tuning into a good podcast. A lifelong equestrian, she also loves spending time with horses and riding. If she could choose a superpower, it would be the ability to fly—partly for the adventure, but mostly as her own form of exposure therapy to conquer her fear of heights!
Kathryn Young: House Parent
Kathryn is a dedicated member of the Wolf Creek Academy family, embodying a profound commitment to nurturing relationships and fostering personal growth among the girls in her care. With a psychology and human services background. She cherishes the familial bond among the girls and staff, recognizing it as a cornerstone of support and belonging. Kathryn believes her work at Wolf Creek Academy is imbued with a God-given purpose—to facilitate the growth and development of the girls in any way she can. One of Kathryn’s most impactful lessons from a Wolf Creek Academy student is the importance of not judging others based on appearances. She has come to appreciate the uniqueness and individuality of each person, understanding that everyone has a unique purpose and value. In her leisure time, Kathryn finds solace and joy in her favorite outdoor activity—reading a good book while basking in the sunshine. She treasures the tranquility of nature and the immersive experience of delving into the pages of a captivating story amidst the beauty of the outdoors.
Kara Seymour: House Parent
Kara brings over 20 years of leadership and mentorship experience to WCA, along with the compassion and perspective she’s gained as a mom to her 22-year-old daughter. While she hasn’t previously worked with at-risk youth, she believes God led her to WCA and feels honored to pour love, guidance, and steady support into the girls’ lives. She is passionate about encouraging them to make healthy choices, recognize their worth, and walk confidently in the plans God has for them. One of Kara’s favorite memories so far has been taking the girls snow tubing and watching them simply enjoy being kids—their laughter and freedom in that moment meant so much to her. Outside of WCA, Kara has a long-standing love for homemade pasta. After completing a 21-day water fast in 2024, she took a pasta-making class that sparked a renewed passion. What started with 55 pounds of flour turned into months of refining her craft, and she now makes pasta weekly—often gathering around 20 friends at her table to share a meal.
Aurelia Anderson: House Parent
Aurelia brings a caring and encouraging presence to Wolf Creek Academy. One of her favorite parts of working at WCA is watching students grow over time, gain confidence, and make positive changes in their lives. A meaningful lesson she has learned from the students is that you never truly know what someone else has experienced, reinforcing the importance of compassion and understanding. One of her favorite WCA memories is watching the girls connect with other teens and enjoy games together at youth group. Outside of work, Aurelia enjoys rock climbing and has a passion for horses, especially horseback riding and horse racing.
Patrick Alvey: House Parent
Patrick studied health sciences and Asian studies in college, where he gained knowledge in nutrition, community health, and Chinese language. His education emphasized the importance of cultural competence and health literacy, which he now uses to better connect with others from all backgrounds. At WCA, Patrick’s favorite part of the job is the richness of student life and the opportunity to engage with students from across the country. He believes that diversity among students fosters stronger communication, understanding, and collaboration in the future. Since joining WCA, Patrick has been inspired by the individuality of each student, recognizing that everyone has a unique story worth honoring. He values how individuality sparks creativity and how creativity drives innovation. Outside of work, Patrick enjoys summer cookouts with family and friends, appreciating the sense of community that comes with sharing food and time outdoors. A big fan of music, Patrick relates most to Phoebe Bridgers, admiring her ability to write songs that he describes as pure poetry.
Roman Kukharets: House Parent
Roman brings valuable experience to our team, having previously worked at an adult long-term inpatient program for substance abuse and behavior modification in Durham, NC. His background has given him a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their personal growth and recovery. Since joining WCA, Roman has learned that when working with teenagers, patience is key—there’s no such thing as having too much of it. He finds fulfillment in helping young adults navigate life’s challenges and discover who they are. Roman enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, archery, and tennis outside of work. He’s also passionate about Brazilian jiu-jitsu and boxing, which he loves to train in. When it comes to watching sports, football is his game of choice. His favorite book, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey, reflects his interest in stories of resilience and the human spirit.
Chase Blackwell-Jones: House Parent
Chase brings valuable leadership experience to Wolf Creek Academy through his service in the Army and his previous role as a lead house parent. He enjoys watching students discover new hobbies and interests, finding it especially rewarding to see them step outside their comfort zones and explore new passions. One of Chase’s favorite aspects of working at WCA is witnessing students come together as a team to accomplish shared goals and support one another along the way. Through his time at WCA, Chase has learned that there is never quite enough fruit for a house full of teenagers and that students often serve as great reminders that time moves faster than we realize. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors. If he could have any superpower, he would choose teleportation, making it easy to explore new places and adventures at a moment’s notice. Chase is grateful to be part of the WCA community and is passionate about supporting students as they grow, connect, and discover their strengths.
Matt Jacobs: House Parent
Matt finds the greatest joy in watching students grow into the people they are meant to become. One of his favorite memories at WCA took place during a Sunday church service several years ago, where both staff and students were deeply moved by the message before spending the afternoon together in a highly competitive basketball game. For Matt, moments like these highlight the meaningful relationships and experiences that make WCA special. His favorite part of working at WCA is witnessing students mature, overcome challenges, and eventually reach graduation. While saying goodbye can be bittersweet, he finds it incredibly rewarding to see students cross the finish line and move forward into the next chapter of their lives. Matt has learned an important lesson from the students he works with: happiness cannot be purchased. Through his experiences, he has seen firsthand that material possessions and financial success do not guarantee fulfillment, making genuine relationships and personal growth all the more valuable. Outside of work, Matt enjoys both snowboarding and playing soccer. If he could have any superpower, he would choose the ability to fly. He is also an avid reader whose favorite book is Inheritance by Christopher Paolini.
John “JD” Dyess: Classroom Supervisor
JD’s laid-back persona and easy-going smile make him someone students relate to quickly. However, it is his quick wit and one-liners that make him a favorite! JD earned his master’s degree in Wildlife Biology from Auburn University and is a huge Auburn Tigers sports fan. This fandom is another way that JD builds relationships with students because you are either an Auburn fan or well… you are not! JD Has a wife and three sons and has been a part of the Jones family and Wolf Creek Academy for over 30 years! He has always enjoyed seeing the look in a teenager’s eye when they learn to do something, they never imagined that they could do. Seeing the joy of overcoming their fears and the confidence it gives them to take on all of life’s challenges is one of his greatest rewards. JD loves the outdoors and enjoys camping and other activities involving nature.
Isayah Balacuis: Classroom Supervisor
Isayah holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy with a minor in psychology, where his coursework included behavior management, child psychopathology, and group dynamics. He has worked in special education across multiple school systems, supporting students of all ages in both one-on-one and group settings. This experience has given him a strong foundation for understanding student needs and helping them succeed in both academics and personal growth. At WCA, his favorite part of the job is getting to know the students and watching them make meaningful improvements in their behavior and relationships. He especially enjoys seeing how students begin to navigate challenges with greater confidence and success. One lesson he has learned from his work is how quickly a student’s perceptions and mindset can change when given the right context and achievable motivations for growth. Outside of the classroom, Isayah stays active through basketball, a sport he played competitively in high school and continues to enjoy as a hobby. He also loves kayaking and spending time on the lake, appreciating the balance and peace that nature provides.
Ryan DeCarlo: Classroom Supervisor
Ryan brings both knowledge and heart to his work at Wolf Creek Academy. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling, which provides him with a strong foundation for understanding the unique needs of the population we serve. He also earned a Master of Education in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis, which equipped him to identify barriers to learning and to create individualized instruction tailored to each student’s strengths and learning style. Ryan is passionate about meeting students where they are and helping them build the tools they need for success. During his time at WCA, Ryan has come to value the supportive relationships among staff and the way the organization’s values are demonstrated through daily actions rather than just words. He emphasizes a powerful lesson in both his work and personal life: we may not control every situation, but we always control how we choose to respond. He teaches students that this focus on response is often the greatest influence over success or failure. Outside of work, Ryan enjoys riding his motorcycle and spending time outdoors. He has played soccer since he was six years old and still plays whenever he gets the opportunity. A dedicated fan of the English Premier League, Ryan is a longtime supporter of Liverpool FC. He also credits wrestling with teaching him some of his most important life lessons about discipline, resilience, and hard work.
Kim Wood: Classroom Supervisor
Kim brings more than 20 years of experience working with youth and a strong educational background to her role at WCA. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Recreation Management from Appalachian State University, with minors in Psychology and Physical Education. Throughout her career, she has developed a passion for helping young people grow, learn, and reach their potential. One of the most valuable lessons she has learned at WCA is the importance of consistency and teamwork in creating a successful classroom environment. Kim’s favorite part of working at WCA is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students while watching them grow in both confidence and faith. She also appreciates the beauty of the campus and the Christ-centered environment that allows her to openly share her faith. Outside of work, Kim enjoys going for long runs and cheering on her favorite teams—the Dallas Cowboys and the North Carolina Tar Heels.
Teresa Ingram: Director of Academics
With a heart for making true connections with the students, showing them love, patience, and guidance, Teresa Ingram is the perfect fit for a Wolf Creek Academy classroom. She brings her Bachelor of Arts in Education and over 30 years of experience as a classroom teacher along with her. Add to the equation, over 30 years of marriage to Ricky and the successful raising of their son Rick, and you have a recipe for success in the classroom! However, it is Teresa’s heart that takes center stage. Her desire to build relationships with the students and staff of Wolf Creek Academy, creating a family for all who are brought here, leads her to invest time and love to build quality connections with our students and families. She is a North Carolina girl who loves to watch Tar Heel Basketball and soak up the sun, sand, and saltwater at the beach. A word of warning to all…watch out for her strange but witty sense of humor!
James Carver: Property Manager
With an operation the size and scope of Wolf Creek Academy there is always a part of our facilities and properties that can use a little extra TLC and we have just the guy for the job, James Carver! James is the kind of guy who likes to get his hands dirty on a project and loves to leave everything just a little bit better than he found it. With a background in agriculture, construction, and service James is well suited to tackle any project we can throw at him and there is no shortage of projects. James is happily married and has two children. Working at Wolf Creek Academy keeps him close to home and allows him the opportunity to add his family to the Wolf Creek Academy family. His favorite thing about Wolf Creek Academy is that we are one, big, happy, family! He was impressed by this from the very start as his first day was the 2021 Fall Festival. Wolf Creek Academy is blessed to have James and his family as part of our family!
Curtis Sharp: Chef
A funny, energetic man who knows better than to take life too seriously, bringing an extensive knowledge of the culinary arts with him to the team. Curtis studied at several culinary schools in Indiana and Pennsylvania. After his education, he went on to spend nine years as a Chef at the Biltmore Estate, seven years in fine dining, and almost nine years at UNCA. On campus, he likes to joke around with the students and staff and loves talking with the students about the menu and what they would like to see on it. Outside work, Curtis spends his free time outdoors, whether it be fishing, hunting, or golfing.
Tanner Blackwell-Jones: Director of Digital Media
Upon his graduation from Western Carolina University, Tanner Jones officially joined the team at Wolf Creek Academy! He brings with him a lifetime of memories and experiences from growing up around Wolf Creek Academy. Among his favorite memories are the tug-of-war competitions across the pond at the Girls’ Campus! Tanner relishes the opportunities for growth Wolf Creek Academy offers. Whether it is the students growing into the best version of themselves or the staff growing as we learn from, and assist one another no matter which department we work in. If he could have any superpower, Tanner would choose teleportation! Not only would teleportation solve the mystery that is Asheville traffic, but he could also travel around the world without the cost of a ticket. Wolf Creek Academy is blessed to welcome Tanner to the team!
