LEADERSHIP, STAFF & BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Staff and board members each embody the core values of The Village and work together as a team to achieve our mission.
LEADERSHIP
ADMINISTRATION
Jessica Morales became Executive Director of The Village Centers in January 2024 after joining the organization as Director of Development in 2022. Jessica has a Masters of Public Administration and is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE). She brings a 16-year career in nonprofit fundraising and leadership to The Village, including experience with organizations such as the Capital Area Food Bank in Washington, D.C., BoardSource, The American Jewish Committee, and Today's Harbor for Children (now affiliated with Depelchin Children's Center). Jessica earned her bachelors degree in Communications and Rhetoric Studies and Sociology from Oglethorpe University in Atlanta, GA, and her masters of public administration degree with a specialization in nonprofit leadership from The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Jessica's husband of nearly 10 years is a Chief in the U.S. Coast Guard and they have three beautiful children together.
I am Jaye Jefferson, an HR professional with over 10 years of experience in human resources management. I hold a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and a Master’s in Human Resources Management, along with certifications like SHRM-CP and Certified in Management (CIM). With a proven track record of driving organizational success through strategic HR initiatives, talent acquisition, and employee development, I am passionate about fostering a positive workplace culture and contributing to a company’s growth and success.
6th Degree Black Belt - Taekwondo 1999 - Won Title of World Champion - ATA 1999 - 1st Place in the Pro TKD circuit for ESPN 2 2000 - 3rd Place in the World Taekwondo League Championships 2002 - Co-Creator of High Octane Martial Arts 2003 - Authored 1st Book “A-Maze-Ing Values” for children 2007 - Established Pre-Karate Kubs Program (for ages 4-6) Co-Owner Battenberg’s Martial Arts & Boxing - In Kingwood, TX since 1987 2020 - Co-Founder / Executive Director Arm Yourself With Confidence, Inc. 2017 - 1st Rock Steady Boxing Affiliate in Texas (Fighting Back Against Parkinson’s Disease) A recognized 501(c)3 non-profit teaching Children, Teenage Girls and Women how to NOT become victims of bullying and/or sexual assault 2023 - Co-Founder / Executive Director Fit Body Fit Brain Foundation Inc. A recognized 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to increasing the Health, Wellness and the Quality of Life through Martial Arts, Boxing, Fitness, Tai Chi and Self Defense for “at risk” groups of neurological deterioration while at the same time, re-training the brain to create neurogenesis (the creation of new neuro-pathways in the brain to help the body move) 2023 - Martial Fitness Instructor for The Villagers at The Village Centers
PROGRAMS
Eva Aguirre brings over thirty years of experience in serving persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and believes all persons should be afforded respect and dignity and have opportunities to learn, grow, and live as independently as possible. She held leadership roles at The Center for Pursuit, a prominent nonprofit serving persons with IDD in Houston, for 17 years. She advanced from Program Officer to Chief Executive Officer during her time at The Center. She went on to become President and Chief Executive Officer of New Danville, another organization providing services to the IDD community in Willis, TX and served in that role for nearly six years. Eva is bilingual in Spanish and English and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Central Florida. She is certified as an Assisted Living Administrator by The Center for Health Services Education and Research and earned a Certificate of Achievement in Senior Human Resources Development by the Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies at Rice University and is an Honored Member of the Biltmore's Who's Who Registry of Executives and Professionals.
With over 14 years of experience and devoted service in supporting individuals with IDD. I’ve had the privilege and passion to lead, cultivate, empower, and support staff as manager for the past four years. Grateful for families’ trust and inspired by the resilience of those we serve. I believe in serving with heart and leading with compassion.
Jessica Hagan
Vocational Manager
I am Jessica Hagan, the Vocational Manager at The Village Centers. I graduated at Kashmere High School where I received my diploma and am proud to be a Texas Scholar. I’ve completed courses at UNT Wise and am certified in Employment First, along with having completed safety courses and CPR certification. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, I am passionate about supporting individuals in their vocational journey and helping them achieve their goals in employment assistance and supported employment opportunities .
DEVELOPMENT
A native of Southern California, Diane has been a resident and active member of the Kingwood community since 1991. She is the proud mother of two children, Blake (35) and Alyse (31), and enjoys all things fitness, outdoors, and the arts. Diane's extensive experience in marketing, communication, and business relations stems from over 35 years in corporate management, more recently as Assistant Director of Retail Systems at Landry's Restaurant, Inc. and Sr. Account Executive at the Houston Chronicle.
Claire Brown is a dedicated nonprofit professional and proud member of the Fightin' Texas Aggie Class of 2021. She joined The Village Centers after earning her BS in Biomedical Sciences from Texas A&M University, with minors in Genetics and Spanish. Claire has since developed expertise in event planning, grant management, and fundraising strategies. In May 2023, she earned a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the George H. W. Bush School of Public Service & Government. Born and raised in Kingwood, she is proud to be working for such an impactful organization in the community where she grew up. When she's not at work, you can find Claire enjoying all things fitness and cheering for the Houston Astros and Texas A&M Aggies.
HCS
Tiffany Blakley
Senior Manager, HCS Program
tblakley@thevillagecenters.org
ext. 1013 or 832-621-9145
I have worked with individuals with IDD for 10 plus years. I began my journey at East Mississippi State hospital in 2012. Here I learned early on I had a passion for the population and committed myself to learning and serving the population. After relocating to San Antonio in 2016 I served at ALAMO Area Council of Governments. I worked in various positions specializing in the HCS and TxHmL waiver programs. I joined the Village family in December 2022 as a HCS Case Manager and accepted the role as Senior Program Manager of HCS in Feb 2024
I’m from Illinois. I served in the army for three and a half years. Before joining the military, I worked as a senior caregiver. After my service, I went straight to work at the village centers, where I instantly fell in love with the clients. Work is my happy place, and I bring energy and passion to everything I do. In my free time, I enjoy playing on my Xbox game system and spending time with my dog and two cats. I’m also a lifelong basketball enthusiast, having played throughout high school, and I still love the game.
STAFF
FINANCE
DEVELOPMENT
HCS
Lisa Grigsby
HCS Case Manager
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
David Bubier
Chairman of the Board - President at the MINT National Bank
David A. Bubier is the President of The MINT National Bank located in Kingwood. Bubier was formerly the regional branch president and director of Main Street Bank in Kingwood/Cleveland Texas. He brings 43 years of banking experience to our Board. Bubier is married to Hildy Bubier and the father of three. Bubier has an AB in Economics from Brown University and an MBA from the University of Houston. He has been an active member of the Kingwood/Humble community since 1976, serving on the Boards of the Lake Houston YMCA, Keep Kingwood Beautiful, and the Humble Kingwood Youth Soccer Association.
Stephen King
CEO at GrowthForce
From tech founder to nonprofit CFO and fundraiser, Stephen King brings a unique combination of vision, foresight, and experience to help nonprofits maximize their cash flow and operational efficiency. He’s been a dedicated board member of many nonprofit organizations - including seven years working for Amnesty International USA - first as Deputy Executive Director- Finance & Administration, and then as its Director of Development, overseeing 300% growth, then raising over $20M a year. His time at Amnesty reinforced Steve’s life-long commitment to giving back to the community through charitable causes. Regarded as a top accounting industry thought leader and founder of the first company to deliver accounting over the internet, he's currently serving as Founder & CEO of GrowthForce, a heart-centered company with specialized teams providing accounting for nonprofits. King holds a B.B.A. from Pace University, is a member of the Texas Society of CPAs, New York State Society of CPAs, and American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). He is on the board of the Texas Society of CPAs and the Houston Society of CPAs.
Joel North III
CEO at HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest
Joel North was named chief operating officer of HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood in August 2020. He previously served as assistant administrator for HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood since 2019. He was responsible for development of neuro-endovascular services, bariatrics and robotic surgery. North's leadership resulted in significant service line growth, including the establishment of Neuro Interventional Radiology services and expanded bariatrics capabilities for the convenience of the community. North joined HCA Houston Healthcare in 2018, serving as assistant administrator at HCA Houston Healthcare Cypress Fairbanks. He oversaw executive direction of multiple departments, including laboratory services, cardiopulmonary, pharmacy, plant operations and more. North was responsible for operationalizing a $19 million dollar capital construction renovation project, resulting in significant improvements for inpatient and outpatient scores. Prior to that role, North served as an administrative resident at Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital, where he oversaw the facility's trauma program and led emergency operations through Hurricane Harvey. A native Houstonian, North earned his bachelor of arts in medical humanities and a master's of business administration with a specialization in healthcare from Baylor University. During his time at Baylor, North served as president of the Future Healthcare Executives organization. He is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and a board member of the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce. North enjoys serving and giving back to his community and has previously coached youth sports.
Malcom E. Duncan
With over two decades of experience in Organizational Development & Change Management, Malcom possesses a distinct expertise in formulating and overseeing Human Resources initiatives. With a specific focus on the energy industry, he has a deep-rooted passion for effective change management and ensuring organizations are successful during times of improvement and adjustment. Noteworthy achievements encompass the initiation of Chevron's competency management system and the facilitation of the expedited implementation of Oracle HRMS across 100 nations within an 18-month timeframe.
Robert London
General Manager - Darst Funeral Home
Originally from Wales, United Kingdom, has dedicated his career to serving communities through compassionate end-of-life care. After moving to the United States, he pursued his passion for helping others by attending mortuary school, where he developed a deep understanding of the funeral service industry. Now, as the General Manager of Darst funeral home, Robert combines his expertise with a heartfelt commitment to support families during their most challenging times. His dedication to fostering a comforting and respectful environment is evident in every aspect of his work. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Robert cherishes spending quality time with family and friends, valuing the connections and experiences that enrich his life.
Robert Scarfo
Director of Credit Services at Insperity
Robert is Director of Credit Services for Insperity and is in his 24th year with the company. He was the recipient of the Chairman’s Excellence Award in 2005 and the Volunteer of the Year Award in 2011. Robert has been a district resident for over 28 years. Robert and spouse Jayme, an elementary school RN, are members of Christ the King Lutheran Church. Their family includes six adult children, all graduates of Humble ISD, and grandsons Beckham, Jake, Bruce and James. Beckham and Jake attend Hidden Hollow Elementary. Robert was a Humble ISD Trustee from 2008-2015, serving as board President in 2014/15. He also served on the 2018, 2008 and 2005 Bond Study Committees. Robert is on the board of the Lake Houston YMCA and serves on the Adaptive Programs Committee. He is a board member of the Village Learning Center. Robert is a member of the Lake Houston Area Chamber’s Long-Term Recovery Task Force. He is active with the Down Syndrome Association of Houston and founded a satellite chapter for Lake Houston Area parents. Robert served as VP of the Humble ISD Council of PTAs from 2017–2019. He serves as Chair of the Finance Committee and as a member of the Superintendent Evaluation Committee. Robert has an MBA Finance, from Columbia University and a BS Economics, from Seton Hall University.
Marie Halvatzis
Board Director-
Legal Consultant
Marie Halvatzis, a native of Florida, is a 29 year resident of Kingwood, Texas. She attended the University of Florida and graduated from the University of Tulsa with a degree in Political Science. Halvatzis also holds a Juris Doctorate from Mississippi College School of Law. While living in Jackson, Mississippi, she had a career as a Landman for Cities Service Oil Company and also was in the private practice of law. After moving to Texas, Halvatzis stayed home to rear two children and do a great deal of volunteer work in the community. She served on her children’s school’s PTA Board of Directors as well as on the school district wide PTA council, was a Girl Scout leader, and was active in Kingwood Panhellenic and Kingwood Women’s Club. Halvatzis has had leadership roles in National Charity League, Kingwood Project Graduation and the Philoptochos Society of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral. She also formerly served as a court appointed Guardian ad Litem for children in CPS custody through Child Advocates, Inc. Halvatzis is a former Child Care Director for the Lake Houston Family YMCA. In this position, she directed the YMCA after school child care program in twenty-five elementary schools in Humble ISD and Huffman ISD which provides services to 1,000+ children daily. Halvatzis currently volunteers a great amount of time lending legal and professional advice to The Village Centers.
Peter W. Mantell
Treasurer -Business Owner & Managing Partner, JESAM Enterprises & BestFit PEO
Peter founded Independent Consulting Associates (ICA) in 1997 to assist entrepreneurs and small to mid-size business owners develop a sound strategic focus and planning framework. The goal was to improve their organizational strengths and business processes resulting in growth and profitability for the longer term. Peter spent thirty-four years with Exxon Mobil Corporation in marketing, program and project development, and business communication. Peter has been a past member of the New York State Industrial Management Council, the American Petroleum Institute, and the Houston Ad Club. Professionally, he has been an advisor to the Board of Directors of the Exxon Independent Marketers Insurance Trust (Dallas, TX), AICE Corporation (Houston, TX), and the VCMG Marketing Group (Birmingham, AL). Peter holds a B.S. in Economics from the University of Rochester, Rochester, NY.