Our Team

“Every person on our team and board plays a vital role in the work we do. Transformation does not happen because of one individual. It happens when people with different gifts, experiences, and passions come together around a shared mission of walking alongside neighbors and building healthier communities. The right people create trust, strengthen culture, and help turn vision into lasting impact. I am deeply grateful for the servant-hearted leaders, staff, volunteers, and board members who make SENT Inc.’s work possible every single day.”

— Johnathan Sublet, Founder & Executive Director

Meet Our Team

Founder & Executive Director

Email: johnathan@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext: 400

Ask Me About: Partnerships, Housing Development, Community Development, Speaking Engagements

Johnathan Sublet is a visionary leader with a wealth of experience in driving community-focused initiatives and organizational growth. Over the course of his career, he has demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, program development, and fundraising, leading efforts to positively impact under-resourced communities. As the Founder & Executive Director of SENT Inc. in Topeka, he has been instrumental in guiding the organization through critical transitions, including the sale of SENT Prep Academy and refocusing the organization on core strengths. Under his leadership, SENT saw $2.5 million in revenue for 2025 (an increase from $500K in 2022) and has served thousands of individuals through mental health services, housing initiatives, education, and health and wellness programs.

Johnathan is passionate about holistic community development and has played a pivotal role in launching and scaling key projects, such as SENT Prep Academy in 2021, Mental Health Services in 2022, the Southside Filling Station in 2024, the Southside Wellness Clinic in 2025, the Fremont Hill Development beginning in 2025, and a workforce development program aimed at at-risk populations planned for 2026. He spearheaded the successful completion of 29 affordable housing units, led the development of the first new homes in the Hi-Crest area in over 60 years, secured Low-Income Housing Tax Credits for a $46 million, 176-unit multi-family housing complex, and secured a $2 million line of credit through the Kansas Health Foundation and Kaw Valley Bank to fund major affordable housing developments, creating a sustainable financing model with a 2.5% return to investors. He was also interviewed for a national Authority Magazine feature on SENT’s housing strategy. His leadership has earned SENT Inc. the 2024 Topeka Center for Justice and Peace Organization of the Year Award, and the organization has been recognized as one of 30 grassroots leaders in health equity by the Kansas Health Foundation.

Beyond his work at SENT, Johnathan is also deeply involved in his community. As the Lead Servant Pastor of Fellowship Hi-Crest Church, he has overseen the growth of the church’s multicultural campus, leading it through significant milestones, including a launch, merger, and expansion that increased attendance to over 250. His leadership extends to mentoring church staff and overseeing impactful community outreach programs. Johnathan is also an active member of various local organizations, including the Kansas Future Fellows, Agenda Topeka, K-State Shawnee County Extension Board, Chair of the K-State Shawnee County Extension Community Development Program Development Committee, United Way of Greater Topeka, the Topeka South Rotary, Washburn University Education Department Diversity Council, the initial Food Is Medicine Steering Committee, and the City of Topeka Affordable Housing & Homeless Taskforce. He was named to the 2025 class of Leadership Kansas and became a member of the K-State Statewide Affordable Housing Transdisciplinary Team. In the last few years, he has been asked to speak at the Kansas Non-Profit Forum, the Kansas Health Foundation’s HealthRise Event, the Sunflower Foundation Non-Profit Collaborative, and at the RE:Conference.

Johnathan’s career trajectory reflects his unwavering commitment to making a lasting impact on the communities he serves. With a blend of leadership, strategic foresight, and a deep passion for social equity, he continues to influence positive change in Topeka and beyond. His leadership and community work have earned him numerous honors, including recognition in Topeka’s Top 20 Under 40 and the prestigious Living the Dream MLK Jr. Wayne L. Franklin Religion Award. In 2026, he was awarded the Greater Topeka Partnership Award of Excellence and the Leadership Greater Topeka Activator Award. Johnathan’s impact continues to be felt in every project he leads, as he works tirelessly to build sustainable and inclusive communities.

Operations Director

Email: jrice@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext: 101

Ask Me About: Career Opportunities, Human Resources, Apprenticeships, Operations

Jill’s leadership is grounded in both strategy and heart. With extensive experience in organizational leadership, systems development, financial management, team building, human resources leadership, and leading organizations through strategic planning processes, she has strengthened SENT’s internal operations while helping us move more quickly and intentionally toward our mission. From improving systems and workflows to supporting staff, volunteers, and partners, Jill ensures that our work is not only impactful but sustainable.

In addition to her role at SENT, Jill also serves as Executive Pastor at Fellowship Hi-Crest, where she has led ministry teams, managed complex budgets, launched high-impact community initiatives, and cultivated partnerships across Topeka. Her ability to cast vision, translate ideas into action, and lead through complexity is a rare gift — and one that has already shaped SENT in meaningful ways.

Jill’s background in grant writing, fundraising, public health advocacy, community engagement, volunteer management, and data-informed decision-making allows her to see both the big picture and the small details that make organizations thrive. She brings clarity to complexity and calm to moments that require steady leadership.

Most importantly, Jill leads with deep respect for people — believing that strong systems exist to support human dignity, not replace it.

We are grateful for the expertise, integrity, and collaborative spirit Jill brings to SENT, and we’re excited for what lies ahead as we continue building strong, holistic pathways for neighbors and families together.

Aimee Copp Hasty Sr. Director of Development at SENT Inc.

Senior Director of Development

Email: acopp-hasty@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 338-1459

Ask Me About: Partnerships, Fundraising, Grants, Social Media, Website, and Presentations

Aimee Copp-Hasty joined SENT Inc. in February 2026 as Senior Director of Development after first connecting with the organization through volunteer service and community leadership alongside SENT’s Founder & Executive Director. She brings extensive experience in both corporate and nonprofit sectors and is known as a heart-driven, mission-focused leader who values collaboration, relationships, and community impact.

Aimee holds a degree in Business Administration and is a graduate of The Fundraising School through the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. She has more than a decade of development and fundraising experience, most recently serving as Corporate Development Director at Valeo Behavioral Health Care. She also has extensive experience in conference planning, continuing medical education programming, and coordinating high-end events and gala-style fundraisers across the United States and in Topeka.

At SENT Inc., Aimee focuses on raising awareness of the organization’s mission, strengthening community partnerships, cultivating donor relationships, and securing strategic funding to support long-term impact and sustainability. She was drawn to SENT’s grassroots, place-based model and its commitment to transforming neighborhoods through trusting relationships, wraparound services, and expanded access to care.

Aimee has served in numerous regional leadership roles throughout her career. She has been a member of the Board of Directors for the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Topeka Chapter for the past five years and currently serves as the 2026 AFP National Philanthropy Day Chair. She was recently selected to present “Puzzle Pieces of Fundraising” at an AFP fundraising workshop.

She also serves as a Board Member for Rotary Club of Community Action Against Human Trafficking, Breakthrough House, and TopCity Hope Dealers. For several years, Aimee has participated as a fundraising panelist for Washburn University students studying nonprofit management.

Her community involvement also includes nine years with the United Way of Kaw Valley, where she has served on the Grant Review Committee, participated in Ambassador Training panels, and supported the Nancy Perry Day of Caring. In addition, she served for five years on the Executive Board for the Mobile Access Partnership.

Aimee’s work has received both regional and national recognition. She is a YWCA Women of Excellence Honoree, a graduate of Leadership Salina through the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, and the recipient of a National Bronze Telly Award for “Laura’s Story,” a fundraising video focused on mental health services. She also received a FREDDIE Award for the video “Atrial Fibrillation.”

Her hope for SENT Inc. is that the organization continues valuing every individual who walks through its doors with love, care, and dignity while expanding access to affordable housing, living wage jobs, mental health services, and substance use disorder recovery support. She also hopes the SENT model continues spreading to neighborhoods and communities across Kansas.

A fun fact about Aimee: she lived in New York City for 13 years while working in the pharmaceutical industry before returning to Kansas to continue her passion for nonprofit leadership and community impact.

Community Health & Wellness Director

Email: tricia@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext: 300

Ask Me About: Mental Health Therapy, Making Sense of Your Worth & Parenting for Positive Self-Worth Groups, Mental Health Partnerships, Mental Health Professional Development Trainings

Tricia Sublet is a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) and currently serves as the Mental Health & Community Wellness Director at SENT, Inc., where she leads a multidisciplinary team dedicated to transforming community health through accessible, trauma-informed care.
Over the past decade, Tricia has combined her clinical expertise with program leadership to build innovative mental health initiatives that meet people where they are—emotionally, physically, and financially. She has helped grow SENT’s behavioral health department from the ground up, expanding services to include substance use disorder treatment, caregiver coaching, Making Sense of Your Worth groups, and school-based trauma education.

In her current role, Tricia oversees a talented team of therapists, contractors, and interns, guiding them in evidence-based modalities and holistic service delivery. She has established new community partnerships with organizations such as Valeo Behavioral Health, Kansas Children’s Service League, and Project to Restore, integrating telehealth, post-adoption support, and survivor care into SENT’s wraparound model. Her leadership extends beyond clinical oversight—she helps shape SENT’s strategic planning, program design, and quality improvement initiatives, ensuring the organization continues to grow sustainably and effectively.

Tricia’s background as a trauma therapist grounds everything she does. She is trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, TBRI®, DBT, CBT, Play Therapy, and Neurofeedback, and she maintains a caseload of clients ranging from young children to adults. Whether she is developing new programming, training educators on trauma-informed practices, or speaking publicly about mental health, she is driven by the belief that healing happens best in community.

Her leadership philosophy centers on compassion, collaboration, and empowerment—equipping both staff and clients with the tools to thrive.

Addiction Specialist & Neighbor Advocate

Email: triciamccourt@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext: 301

Ask Me About: Substance Use Recovery Services

Tricia joined SENT, Inc. as a staff member in June 2023, bringing extensive knowledge and experience in addiction counseling. She holds both a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) and a Master of Arts (MA) in Addiction Counseling from Washburn University. Tricia is a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) and is currently preparing to test for the Licensed Master Addiction Counselor (LMAC) certification.
Her connection to SENT began in 2020 through volunteer involvement, which later led to service on the organization’s Board of Directors before officially joining the staff team.

With more than 11 years of experience in substance abuse counseling, Tricia has developed a strong professional background focused on supporting individuals and families impacted by addiction. She has completed advanced professional training and certifications in Morita Therapy, Victim Survivor Services, Person-Centered Case Management (PCCM), and as a Kansas Certified Peer Mentor (KCPM).

Jay Rice _ Housing Construction Forman & Workforce Development Supervisor

Housing Construction Foreman & Workforce Development Supervisor

Email: Jay@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext: 102

Ask Me About: Housing, Workforce Development, Southside Filling Station Food Pantry, and Facilities

Jay Rice brings more than 15 years of experience in the construction industry and a lifelong passion for building, problem-solving, and serving others. He earned a business degree in management and marketing and grew up on a farm in Kansas, where he developed a strong work ethic, practical mindset, and deep appreciation for community.

At SENT Inc., Jay plays an important role in helping create safe, dignified housing and neighborhood improvements that strengthen families and build long-term stability. He enjoys building things, growing things, and finding practical solutions wherever they are needed. Whether he is working on housing projects, improving processes, tending a garden or orchard, or helping neighbors solve challenges, Jay is driven by a desire to leave a lasting positive impact on the community he serves.

One of the things Jay loves most about the Hi-Crest community is its “neighbors loving neighbors” attitude and the strong sense of connection between people. His hope is that the vision of Fremont Hill becomes a catalyst for even greater transformation throughout the community.

Jay sees his role in SENT’s mission as helping build homes and spaces that neighbors can take pride in while supporting broader community growth and opportunity.

Workforce Development Coordinator

Email: dholmes@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext: 104

Ask Me About: Workforce Development programs and partnerships

Dean Holmes joined SENT Inc. in April 2026 as the Workforce Development Coordinator after already spending time volunteering at community events. His first introduction to SENT came through the organization’s Pictures with Santa event, and through connections at Fellowship Hi-Crest and friends in the community. What stood out to him was seeing real change happening in people’s lives. “I can see how the work being done here is changing lives, and I wanted to be able to use my blessings to be a part of that,” Dean shared.

Before joining SENT Inc., Dean spent six years at the Topeka Workforce Center, helping individuals navigate employment opportunities and career pathways. He also completed an Apprenticeship in Career Development Technician through the Kansas Department of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Labor. Dean holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Saint Mary’s College of California.

At SENT Inc., Dean walks alongside neighbors as they explore careers, job opportunities, and long-term goals. He believes employment is about more than just earning a paycheck. It is about stability, dignity, and helping people discover meaningful work they enjoy.

“A job is something we all may complain about, but when we don't have one, the walls close in quickly,” Dean said. “I want to be able to walk with neighbors in those times and help them find the career that can bring them peace and happiness.”

Dean says his favorite thing about the Hi-Crest community is simple: “The people.” His hope for the neighborhood is that more individuals will continue stepping in to support others, creating the same kind of encouragement and guidance that helped them along the way.

He describes his greatest strength as having “a servant’s heart,” explaining that it allows him to support people in moments when they may feel overwhelmed or alone.

Outside of work, Dean is a fan of Tuptim Thai’s Bangkok Bacon Fried Rice, and one fun fact many people do not know about him is that he was once edited out of a Saturday Night Live skit as a kid.

Community Health Advocate at the Southside Wellness Clinic

Email: tosier-duvall@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext. 501

Ask Me About: Holistic Health & Root Cause Consultations, Holistic Hormone Health, Homeopathic & Natural Interventions, Maternal Health Support, Well Women's Care & Family Planning, Affordable Lab Services, Culturally Responsive Care, Medical Advocacy, Patient Education & Empowerment

Trisha Osier-Duvall first connected with SENT in August 2024 as a Community Partner providing healthcare services twice weekly, and now serves as Community Health Advocate for the Southside Wellness Clinic, helping lead efforts to expand access to coordinated, affordable, and culturally responsive healthcare in Hi-Crest and throughout Southeast Topeka.

Trisha is a Board-Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, Board-Certified Root Cause Specialist, and Clinical Health Educator whose work bridges conventional healthcare with evidence-informed Holistic and Integrative approaches to wellness. With nearly three decades of experience in healthcare, Trisha has provided direct patient care across a broad range of clinical settings including Clinical Laboratory, Emergency Medicine & Urgent Care, Pulmonary & Respiratory Care, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Pediatrics, and Neonatal Intensive Care. Her extensive clinical background is complemented by years of experience in healthcare education, where she served as a Residential Instructor of Human Anatomy & Physiology at the university level and contributed to curriculum development as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Human Anatomy, Clinical Pathophysiology, and Differential Diagnosis.

Trisha's area of expertise places emphasis on recognizing health patterns that are often overlooked within conventional medicine, particularly in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities and in the area of Women’s Health, where individuals are frequently misdiagnosed, dismissed, or left feeling unseen and unheard. Drawing from both her clinical experience and a multi-generational legacy of ancestral healing traditions passed down through her family she is dedicated to helping individuals better understand the Root Causes of chronic illness, and provides Holistic care that is deeply personal, intentional, empowering, and profoundly effective.

As a Community Health Advocate, Trisha is committed to creating spaces where patients feel respected and is deeply passionate about addressing healthcare disparities, and helping patients feel seen, heard, and supported. Through her work at the Southside Wellness Clinic, she focuses on improving healthcare outcomes, and helping individuals navigate complex healthcare systems with dignity and confidence. Trisha also advocates for a broader vision of community wellness that includes behavioral health support, affordable housing, education, economic opportunity, and stronger neighborhood resources for families in East Topeka and throughout Shawnee County.

We are honored to have Trisha on our team as we continue working toward a healthier and more connected Hi-Crest community.

Sherrita Dean _ Medical Billing Specialist, Receptionist, Onboarding

Medical Billing Specialist, Receptionist, Onboarding Specialist

Email: SDean@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext: 892

Ask Me About: Scheduling appointments, insurance, medical, and mental health services billing

Sherrita Dean serves as a Medical Billing Specialist, Receptionist, and Onboarding and Insurance for Behavioral Health at SENT, where she plays a key role in helping neighbors navigate their healthcare experience with clarity and care. She joined SENT in 2025 and brings decades of experience in healthcare administration, billing, and patient support.

Sherrita’s background includes over 20 years of experience in medical and dental offices, where she has managed billing, insurance claims, office operations, and patient services. Her work has included roles in dental offices, diagnostic labs, pharmacies, and now the Southside Wellness Clinic—giving her a well-rounded understanding of both clinical and administrative systems.

She holds certifications as a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant), Home Health Aide, Dental Assistant, and Licensed Cosmetologist. Her experience also includes training in medical billing and coding, accounts management, patient onboarding, and electronic records systems.

At SENT, Sherrita is often one of the first faces neighbors see. She is passionate about creating a welcoming environment and helping people feel comfortable as they begin their care journey. She believes that small moments—like a smile or a kind greeting—can make a meaningful difference.

Her goal is to guide neighbors through their health journey so they can feel healthier, more confident, and supported as they work toward their goals.

Medical Office Assistant at the Southside Wellness Clinic

Email: kbeemer@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext: 110

Ask Me About: Massage Therapy, Chiropractic Services, and Food Is Medicine

Kian officially joined SENT in July 2025, but her connection to our clinic began long before that. Earlier that year, she volunteered with us and immediately recognized something different — a model of care that doesn’t rush people through the door, but truly walks beside them. As she puts it:

“Our clinic isn’t limited to 15-minute appointments. We’re able to spend real time with people, listen to their needs, and dive deep into their health history. That creates a relationship you don’t find in most other places.”

Kian comes to SENT with experience as a Pharmacy Technician, Patient Care Technician in the Emergency Department at Stormont Vail, and COVID Clinic Associate. Kian holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Washburn University, and she is currently in school to earn a Master's in Clinical Psychology. She also serves as a Teaching Assistant at Washburn — and yes, somehow still finds time to read, cook, walk her dog, and even try to get into running.

Her passion for deeper, root-cause care is what drew her to this work.

“In traditional medical settings, I often wished I had more time with patients — time to address the real issue instead of putting a band-aid on the symptoms. Volunteering at the clinic showed me that SENT is doing exactly that. I knew this was a team I wanted to be part of.”

Since joining us, Kian has embraced the unpredictable, ever-changing nature of community health.

“No two days are the same. There’s always something to learn — a new challenge, a policy change that affects our neighbors, or a patient experiencing something new. Being surrounded by a team that is so passionate and consistently pursuing excellence is incredibly motivating.”

Neighbor Advocacy Director

Email: jdanford@senttopeka.com
Phone: 785-783-2535 ext. 118

Ask me about: Southside Filling Station, Neighbor Advocacy, Southside Wellness Clinic, SNAP Screenings, and Connecting you with someone who can present SENT at your event

Jennifer Danford joined SENT Inc. in May 2026 as the Neighbor Advocacy Director, bringing nearly two decades of experience in mental health, foster care, family support, and case management. She was drawn to SENT Inc. because of its commitment to listening to neighbors, responding with dignity, and helping people create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

“I want my job to be at a company that has integrity and truly makes a difference by listening to the people it serves,” Jennifer shared.
Jennifer first became familiar with SENT Inc. through Fellowship Hi-Crest and community events like the Summer Sky Extravaganza before officially joining the team. Today, she helps lead and support SENT’s Neighbor Advocacy team, equipping Neighbor Advocates, Community Health Workers, and SERs as they walk alongside families navigating challenges related to housing, mental health, addictions, legal issues, and other barriers to stability.

Jennifer holds a Master of Science in Art Therapy from Emporia State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art with a minor in Psychology from Missouri Western State University.

Before joining SENT Inc., Jennifer served as a Mockingbird Family Supervisor and Foster Parent Training Specialist at KVC Kansas, where she supervised teams, developed foster parent trainings, and coached families through complex situations. She also has extensive experience working within the foster care and child welfare systems as a Foster Care Case Manager and Care Manager, supporting families through reunification efforts and coordinating with courts, schools, attorneys, and community providers.

Earlier in her career, Jennifer worked as a Case Manager at Family Service and Guidance Center, partnering with schools and multidisciplinary teams to support youth facing significant mental health challenges, trauma, grief, abuse, and family instability. She also served as an Adjunct Teacher at Emporia State University, teaching undergraduate and graduate students in art therapy and research methods.

Jennifer’s hope for the Hi-Crest community is that neighbors would “address their current life challenges in a way that leaves them with dignity” and feel a deep sense of pride in their community. She believes listening well and connecting people to meaningful support can help create that future.

Jennifer describes authenticity as one of her favorite personal qualities and values being genuine and consistent in every relationship. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her six nieces and nephews, whom she says she absolutely adores.

Community Liaison

Email: eculbertson@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext: 107

Ask Me About: Mailbox Program, SNAP Screenings, City ID Program, Transportation Services to/from an Appointment for One of Our Services, and Neighbor Advocacy

Eric Culbertson joined the SENT team in August 2025 as a Community Liaison after first getting involved as a volunteer at the 2024 Warming Center. He was introduced to SENT through family connections at Fellowship Hi-Crest and was drawn to the organization’s mission as a way to “pay it forward.”

Eric brings a heart for service and a deep commitment to walking alongside neighbors with compassion and understanding. As Community Liaison, he describes himself as a “Hope Broker.” His role centers on building trusting relationships, breaking down barriers, and helping individuals and families navigate systems so they can achieve their personal goals. His approach is rooted in radical empathy — the active effort to understand others’ experiences without judgment.

Before joining SENT, Eric gained nonprofit experience through Positive Connections Inc. He is certified in Person-Centered Case Management (PCCM), CPR, and has completed training related to working with correctional facilities.

Eric’s favorite thing about the Hi-Crest community is the resilience of its residents. His hope for the neighborhood includes eliminating stigma, building generational wealth and ownership, and fostering educational excellence. He sees his role at SENT as helping neighbors move from survival to stability by providing support, encouragement, and connection.

Community Liaison

Email: manderson@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext: 111

Ask Me About: Southside Filling Station, Southside Wellness Clinic, mental health or substance use recovery, resources for paying utilities, rent, or gas for their vehicle, etc.

Maria Torrez Anderson serves as a Community Liaison at SENT, where she is passionate about connecting neighbors to the support and resources they need to thrive. She first became involved with SENT in 2018 as a volunteer after discovering the organization online and feeling called to support its mission to serve the community.

Her first experience with SENT was volunteering at the NIA Resource Fair for Teachers, where she saw firsthand the impact of bringing resources and support to teachers. That experience sparked a deeper commitment, eventually leading her to join the team in her current role in October 2025.

Maria brings valuable experience from her work with the City of Topeka Neighborhood Relations and United Way of Topeka. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts from Washburn University and has completed professional trainings, including Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) and Public Information Officer (PIO) training.

Known for her caring nature, Maria believes that compassion is essential when serving others. In her role, she walks alongside neighbors, helping them navigate challenges and work toward their personal goals. She is deeply invested in the future of the Hi-Crest community and hopes to see children and families flourishing in a safe, supportive environment.

Maria’s favorite part of Hi-Crest is that the schools in this area are highly regarded and there is access to local restaurants.

At SENT, Maria plays an important role in building relationships, strengthening connections, and helping create a community where every neighbor has the opportunity to succeed.

Finance Coordinator

Email: jolaya@senttopeka.com
Phone: (785) 783-2535 Ext: 108

Ask Me About: Finances, accounting, invoices, billing, budgets, reports, grant reporting, grant budgets, audits, and all things fiscal.

Jhonny Olaya serves as the Finance Coordinator at SENT Inc., where he helps support the organization’s mission of holistic community development and neighborhood transformation. Originally from Peru, Jhonny brings both professional experience and personal perspective to his work, especially in helping bridge gaps for Spanish-speaking families and neighbors across the community.

Jhonny first became involved with SENT Inc. in December 2024 through the annual Pictures with Santa event after learning about the organization through Fellowship Hi-Crest. What started as a family volunteer opportunity quickly became something more meaningful. While his wife served at the hot chocolate station and his son helped children shop for gifts and translate for Spanish-speaking families, Jhonny helped coordinate photos with Santa for members of the Spanish-speaking community. That experience deepened his desire to invest in strengthening the community through service and connection.

He officially joined the SENT Inc. staff in March 2025 as Finance Coordinator. Jhonny believes strong communities are built when people actively participate in helping one another, and he was drawn to SENT’s mission because of its focus on addressing real barriers facing families across Shawnee County and beyond. His hope is to help create stronger awareness and accessibility of resources within the Latino community, particularly for immigrants and Spanish-speaking families who may not yet know what support systems are available.

Jhonny’s educational background reflects his passion for growth, leadership, and technology. He earned a Certification in Information Systems Technology from Washburn University Institute of Technology in 2024 and is completing an Associate of Science in Industrial Technology at Washburn University. He is also currently pursuing a Bachelor of Technology Administration with a minor in Business at Washburn University, with an expected graduation date of 2027. Earlier in his career, he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business from Instituto Peruano Administración Empresarios in Peru.

Known for his heart for service, cultural understanding, and commitment to practical solutions, Jhonny brings valuable perspective to SENT’s work of building healthier, more connected communities across multiple neighborhoods and zip codes throughout the Topeka area.

Meet Our Board

Board Chairperson

Dr. Beryl New serves as the Board Chairperson for SENT Inc., bringing decades of leadership, compassion, and community advocacy to the organization’s mission. A lifelong advocate for education and equity, Dr. New is a retired educator with more than thirty years of experience in teaching and school leadership. She currently serves as the Kansas State Board of Education representative for District Six and has long been recognized as a trusted leader dedicated to meaningful and lasting progress in communities across the region.

Dr. New first connected with SENT Inc. after receiving an invitation from two early board members to learn more about the organization’s vision. As she explored the work, she quickly recognized that SENT’s goals closely aligned with the hopes she had long carried for the Hi-Crest community and surrounding neighborhoods. Her decision to serve came from a deep belief that transformation is possible when communities are empowered with the right support, resources, and opportunities.

In her words, SENT Inc. is “a rich community resource and the local hub for empowerment opportunities.” She believes the organization demonstrates what can happen when people come together to invest in long-term solutions that strengthen individuals, families, and neighborhoods. Dr. New especially points to the pricing and sale of SENT’s first flagship housing property as a defining moment that showed what is truly possible in reinvigorating a community through intentional investment and vision.

Dr. New believes others should care about SENT’s work because the programs and strategies being developed are not limited to one neighborhood. She sees them as models that can be replicated throughout Topeka and beyond, helping remove barriers and challenging the mindset that meaningful change cannot happen. Her leadership continues to help shape a future where neighborhoods across multiple zip codes have access to the same opportunities for growth, stability, and hope.

Alongside her professional leadership, Dr. New has also been deeply involved in faith and community service throughout her life. A Topeka resident since the age of nine, she has been a longtime member of Faith Temple Church in Topeka, where she taught Sunday School for nearly forty years. Through every role she has held, Dr. New has remained committed to championing equity, empowering others, and building stronger communities for future generations.

Board Vice Chairperson

Christine Caplinger serves as the Board Vice Chairperson for SENT Inc., bringing a strong combination of legal expertise, business leadership, and community commitment to the organization’s mission. As the Owner and CEO of Verity Title and the Owner and Attorney of Caplinger Law, Christine offers valuable insight that helps guide SENT’s work with professionalism, strategy, and long-term sustainability.

Christine was first drawn to SENT Inc. because of the organization’s “big picture” approach to serving the community. She saw an organization that was not simply addressing one issue at a time, but intentionally creating systems of support that strengthen individuals, families, and neighborhoods as a whole. That vision inspired her to become involved and invest her time and leadership into the work.

She chose to serve on the board because she wanted to help make a difference in a part of Topeka that she felt had often been unappreciated and undervalued. Christine believes every neighborhood deserves investment, opportunity, and advocacy, and she sees SENT’s work as a powerful example of what community transformation can look like when people come together with purpose.

One experience that has stayed with Christine was helping support efforts between SENT and a local childcare provider to keep essential childcare services available in the neighborhood. She reflects on how important that partnership was for families in the area and recognizes that without the persistence and dedication of SENT, the community could have lost a critical resource. For Christine, that moment reinforced how impactful collaborative, community-centered work can be.

Christine believes others should care about what is happening through SENT Inc. because the Hi-Crest neighborhood is an important part of Topeka, and the work happening there has the potential to inspire change far beyond one area of the city. She sees SENT’s model as something other neighborhoods across Topeka and Kansas can learn from and replicate to create healthier, stronger communities.

Through her legal and business background, Christine brings a practical and strategic perspective to the board. Her leadership helps ensure SENT continues building sustainable solutions that empower neighbors and create lasting impact across multiple zip codes throughout the region.

Board Treasurer

Kristin Miller serves as the Board Treasurer for SENT Inc., bringing both professional expertise and a deeply personal connection to the work. As a Strategic Sourcing Specialist at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, Kristin offers strong organizational and financial insight while also carrying a lifelong understanding of the community SENT serves. Born and raised in the Hi-Crest neighborhood, she believes the neighborhood is not just where she lives, but a part of who she is.

Kristin chose to serve on the board because she wanted to be part of the positive change happening in the community she calls home. Her passion for SENT’s mission comes from seeing firsthand how transformational support can create lasting impact for individuals and families across Topeka and the surrounding area.

When describing SENT Inc., Kristin often points to the idea of teaching someone to fish rather than simply giving them a fish. To her, SENT strengthens and equips people through programs and relationships that help them build long-term stability, independence, and hope for the future. She believes the organization’s work is about empowering neighbors to thrive for a lifetime, not just helping them through a single moment of crisis.

One experience that deeply impacted Kristin was volunteering at a SENT warming center during a harsh winter season. She recalls spending time talking with a young man experiencing homelessness who shared his story, his hopes for the future, and his desire to one day reconcile with his family. That conversation stayed with her because it served as a reminder that anyone can face unexpected hardship and that every person deserves compassion, dignity, and support.

Kristin believes people should care about the work happening through SENT because strong neighborhoods create stronger cities. She sees the organization’s impact extending far beyond Hi-Crest, helping improve lives and strengthen communities throughout multiple zip codes across the region. Through her leadership and lived experience, Kristin brings both authenticity and heart to SENT Inc.’s mission of strengthening and equipping neighborhoods together.

Board Member

Johnathan serves both as the Executive Director and as a board member.

Johnathan is passionate about holistic community development and has played a pivotal role in launching and scaling key projects, such as SENT Prep Academy in 2021, Mental Health Services in 2022, the Southside Filling Station in 2024, the Southside Wellness Clinic in 2025, the Fremont Hill Development beginning in 2025, and a workforce development program aimed at at-risk populations planned for 2026. He spearheaded the successful completion of 29 affordable housing units, led the development of the first new homes in the Hi-Crest area in over 60 years, secured Low-Income Housing Tax Credits for a $46 million, 176-unit multi-family housing complex, and secured a $2 million line of credit through the Kansas Health Foundation and Kaw Valley Bank to fund major affordable housing developments, creating a sustainable financing model with a 2.5% return to investors. He was also interviewed for a national Authority Magazine feature on SENT’s housing strategy. His leadership has earned SENT Inc. the 2024 Topeka Center for Justice and Peace Organization of the Year Award, and the organization has been recognized as one of 30 grassroots leaders in health equity by the Kansas Health Foundation.

Beyond his work at SENT, Johnathan is also deeply involved in his community. As the Lead Servant Pastor of Fellowship Hi-Crest Church, he has overseen the growth of the church’s multicultural campus, leading it through significant milestones, including a launch, merger, and expansion that increased attendance to over 250. His leadership extends to mentoring church staff and overseeing impactful community outreach programs. Johnathan is also an active member of various local organizations, including the Kansas Future Fellows, Agenda Topeka, K-State Shawnee County Extension Board, Chair of the K-State Shawnee County Extension Community Development Program Development Committee, United Way of Greater Topeka, the Topeka South Rotary, Washburn University Education Department Diversity Council, the initial Food Is Medicine Steering Committee, and the City of Topeka Affordable Housing & Homeless Taskforce. He was named to the 2025 class of Leadership Kansas and became a member of the K-State Statewide Affordable Housing Transdisciplinary Team. In the last few years, he has been asked to speak at the Kansas Non-Profit Forum, the Kansas Health Foundation’s HealthRise Event, the Sunflower Foundation Non-Profit Collaborative, and at the RE:Conference.

Johnathan’s career trajectory reflects his unwavering commitment to making a lasting impact on the communities he serves. With a blend of leadership, strategic foresight, and a deep passion for social equity, he continues to influence positive change in Topeka and beyond. His leadership and community work have earned him numerous honors, including recognition in Topeka’s Top 20 Under 40 and the prestigious Living the Dream MLK Jr. Wayne L. Franklin Religion Award. In 2026, he was awarded the Greater Topeka Partnership Award of Excellence and the Leadership Greater Topeka Activator Award. Johnathan’s impact continues to be felt in every project he leads, as he works tirelessly to build sustainable and inclusive communities.

Board Member

Originally from South Carolina, one of the things Linessa loves about Hi-Crest is how the entire community stands fearlessly against challenges and recognizes an opportunity to embrace and effect change. That hope, she says, “can’t be manufactured.” This is fitting as she considers spring to be her favorite season; a season of rebirth and something the Hi-Crest community has been striving towards.

Board Member

Many of you may know Tre'Jor as the owner of the Flavor Wagon Food Truck - a regular at our monthly Hi-Crest Market. Tre'Jor decided to get involved with SENT because he loves the neighborhood he grew up in! He loves that his family and friends live here and he has great hope for our future. Tre'Jor's hopes and dreams for Hi-Crest revolve around "giving our youth more engagement, giving our Hi-crest youth nicer neighborhoods to live in and seeing positive building going on - encouraging young people to take part and even consider a career here at home." Tre'Jor sees his participation in our mission as God continuing to answer his prayer to use him as a part of realizing his hopes for Hi-Crest. Tre'Jor is from Topeka and graduated from both Shawnee Heights High School and Washburn Tech with a degree in Culinary Arts. His favorite local restaurant is Blind Tiger – their cheese fries are his go-to order. One thing you may not know about Tre'Jor is that he's a diehard football fan.

Board Member

Jamie Gifford brings a wealth of experience, passion, and a deep commitment to the Hi-Crest community to her role as a board member of SENT Inc. A longtime resident of Hi-Crest, Jamie has raised her children and now her granddaughters in the neighborhood, fostering a strong connection to the area and its people. Her active involvement in community events reflects her dedication to creating positive, lasting change.

Jamie was inspired to join SENT Inc. by its mission to provide hope, understanding, and resources to the community. As a youth counselor, she brings valuable experience in supporting individuals and families through challenges. Her vision for Hi-Crest includes fostering a neighborhood where everyone feels empowered to dream big and achieve their goals, contributing to a stronger and more connected community.

Jamie’s compassion, dedication, and firsthand understanding of the Hi-Crest community make her an invaluable addition to the SENT Inc. Board of Directors. Her efforts will undoubtedly enhance SENT’s impact and contribute to its mission of holistic transformation.

Board Member

Brittany Elliott serves as a board member for SENT Inc., bringing compassion, empathy, and a deeply relational approach to community impact. As an Independent Insurance Agent with All Insurance Access LLC, Brittany combines professional experience with a strong personal commitment to helping people feel seen, valued, and supported during difficult seasons of life.

Brittany’s first connection to SENT Inc. came through the organization’s Pictures with Santa event, but what kept her engaged was the heart behind the mission. She chose to serve on the board because she cares deeply about people and the strength of authentic community connections. She believes there is value in simply showing up, supporting others, and being part of positive change in the lives of neighbors across the community.

To Brittany, SENT Inc. is ultimately about people genuinely caring for people. She describes the organization as a place that creates deeper connections, helps remove barriers, connects individuals to resources, and reminds people that they still have dignity and worth regardless of their circumstances. She believes one of SENT’s greatest strengths is helping people feel seen, supported, and not alone.

One experience that has stayed with Brittany was volunteering at a warming shelter, where she built a relationship with a man experiencing homelessness and his dog. Watching him go from surviving homelessness to beginning to rebuild his life and eventually wanting to help others in similar situations deeply impacted her. She also reflects on the smaller moments that often carry just as much meaning — conversations on the streets, helping someone connect with a case manager, or even assisting someone in getting something as simple as a mailbox. To Brittany, those moments can become the beginning of restored dignity, stability, and hope when paired with compassion and someone willing to believe in another person.

Brittany believes people should care about the work happening through SENT because every person deserves dignity, value, and the opportunity for a better life. She understands that hardship can happen to anyone and believes organizations like SENT create a safe place for people to turn when life feels overwhelming. She often speaks about the importance of being “the hand that reaches out instead of looks away,” recognizing that support is not always a handout, but often a hand up, a second chance, or simply proof that someone cares.

Through both her personal experiences and her heart for others, Brittany brings a perspective rooted in empathy, kindness, and genuine human connection. She believes strongly that no one is too far gone to deserve hope, dignity, and belonging, and she strives to remind people that their lives still matter.

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