Summer earned her Masters of Arts in Teaching through Cardinal Stritch University and a BA from the University of Colorado in Environmental Studies. Over the past 20 years, Summer has devoted herself to helping students in both traditional and therapeutic settings embrace their ability to thrive regardless of their circumstances. Her career has led her from teaching in a public middle school to developing curriculum for an accredited wilderness therapy program to building and leading teams in maximizing their performance. Her wealth of experience and expertise highlights her ability to positively impact the lives of those around her, including helping parents of struggling young adults to become powerful mentors. Summer has also established research methods for data collection and analysis to improve the delivery of services for a diverse population of students.  Summer’s motivation continues to be helping every student discover their individual passion and purpose. Summer leads an active life with her husband, two teenage daughters, and an energetic Australian Shepard named Zeal. Originally from the midwest, Summer and her family relocated to Oregon nearly a decade ago. They spend their free time camping, biking, and skiing the Cascades. They have found that Oregon truly allows for an integrated lifestyle of work, community involvement, and space to explore the wilderness.

Derek, born and raised in Southern Oregon, is known for his strong work ethic and passion to “always do the right thing”. Coming from a rich background of early entrepreneurship, starting two of his own companies before the age of twenty-five. He could not be happier to be a part of the team here at Dragonfly Transitions where he can use his resources to help others.

Deeply involving himself with the community of Medford, Derek created programs for victims of domestic violence and working hand in hand with all animal shelters in the rogue valley to rescue as many cats as possible.

Derek’s free time is mostly spent in the wilderness. He loves hiking, fishing, kayaking and rockhounding with his wife and Toy Australian Sheppard named Smokey. If he is not out in nature, he is likely at home managing his zoo of cats he fell in love with during his animal rescue days.

Tisha has an extensive background working in mental health and recovery. She brings her experience with young adults in crisis to her role as Admissions Coordinator at Dragonfly Transitions.

After spending 3 years in the Seattle area working in communications, Tisha moved back to Southern Oregon where she has strong community roots. Tisha strongly believes in “be the change you wish to see in the world”.

A mother of three young adults, Tisha is excited to help families start their journey with Dragonfly Transitions. As part of our Admissions Team, she will be working closely with students and families during the enrollment process. Tisha is excited to be a part of Dragonfly’s culture and local ties.

When not at work, Tisha enjoys spending time camping with her family as well as playing in the sand and mud on her quad.