Behind every program, partnership, and success story is a dedicated team committed to strengthening the health and well-being of our communities. From our volunteer Board of Directors to our leadership team, every member of EPIC shares a common purpose—to walk alongside individuals, families, and communities with compassion, integrity, and excellence.
Every member of EPIC's Board of Directors and Leadership Team shares a commitment to compassionate service, responsible stewardship, and improving the lives of individuals and families throughout Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties. Together they provide strategic vision, organizational leadership, financial oversight, and a culture focused on innovation, accountability, and community impact.
Provides strategic direction, financial oversight, and long-term governance to ensure EPIC fulfills its mission.
Responsible for organizational leadership, strategic planning, partnerships, and overall operations.
Leads day-to-day programs, staff development, quality improvement, and service excellence throughout EPIC.
Our Board of Directors provides strategic oversight and governance for EPIC. Their diverse professional backgrounds and commitment to community service help ensure that our organization remains focused on sustainable growth, responsible stewardship, and meaningful impact.
Brian is an Associate Social Worker with a Master of Social Work and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from California State University, Monterey Bay. He has experience providing psychotherapy, substance use treatment, and enhanced care management for adults and adolescents in both clinical and community-based settings. Brian is passionate about empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and expanding access to care.
Samantha is a survivor of personal and generational harm. Rooted in lived wisdom and system impact, she creates sacred spaces where healing, remembrance, and resistance meet. Guided by the belief that healing is a radical act of liberation, she supports survivors and those who have caused harm. Including incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, at risk youth, and BIPOC communities in reconnecting with their bodies, stories, and sacred power through trauma informed care. Additionally, she has worked closely with children on the spectrum, offering compassionate and culturally grounded support. She walks this path with humility, prayer, and intention toward collective healing and cultural reclamation.
Email: secretary@epicofcaboard.org
Lori Lochtefeld is an accomplished entrepreneur and leader with extensive experience in event production, business management, and community engagement. For 12 years, she owned and operated two 1,000-seat theaters, hosting renowned authors, speakers, consultants, musicians, and comedians. Lori produced numerous high-profile events, including an appearance by President Barack Obama and the premiere launch party for Oprah Winfrey's television series, Belief. Her leadership and community impact earned her recognition as Business Woman of the Year by the Redwood City Chamber of Commerce in 2019 and Dreamer of the Year by the Dreamer Network. A San Francisco native, Lori holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with an emphasis in Commercial Real Estate Finance from the University of Southern California.
Email: treasurer@epicofcaboard.org
Laurie is a loving mother and enthusiastic coach who has a passion for bringing emotional regulation through physical activity to people with disabilities. Her education from CSU Monterey Bay in Human Development & Family Science, along with Kinesiology, supports her calling to provide this essential service to a unique and often underserved population. As a dedicated advocate for individuals with autism—including her own son—Laurie is deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. With over 20 years of coaching experience in the Salinas area, she continues to be a pillar of support and encouragement in her community. Laurie cares deeply for all people and is always looking for ways to give back, uplift others, and foster connection through movement and mentorship.
email: laurie@epicofcaboard.org
Mónica Espinoza, MSW, brings over 15 years of dedicated experience in community mental health, trauma-informed care, and interdisciplinary advocacy to the Board of Directors. A compassionate leader and clinician, Mónica currently serves as a clinical medical social worker. Her extensive background spans child welfare, legal dependency advocacy, and family preservation across Northern California, equipping her with a deep understanding of complex public systems and vulnerable populations. Mónica holds a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University and a B.A. in Child and Adolescent Development from San Francisco State University. A fluent Spanish speaker, she is passionate about advancing equity, fostering culturally responsive programs, and guiding strategic community partnerships to further the organization’s mission.
Bryan Gonzalez is a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor dedicated to supporting youth, individuals, and families impacted by substance use and related challenges. Through his work with a local nonprofit organization, he provides education, prevention, recovery support, and mentorship to help individuals build healthier and more productive lives.Bryan brings both professional expertise and personal lived experience to his role, allowing him to connect authentically with the communities he serves. His understanding of the recovery journey provides valuable insight into the challenges individuals face and the importance of accessible, compassionate support services.
Our leadership team oversees the daily operations of EPIC while supporting staff, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring high-quality services across every program. Together they foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Brian serves as both the chairperson of the board for Enhanced Pathways for Integrated Care and as the Chief Executive Officer for EPIC.
Lori serves as both the treasurer of the board for Enhanced Pathways for Integrated Care and as the Chief Financial Officer for EPIC.
Mimi is our Director of Compliance, and has been instrumental in building robust compliance frameworks that not only meet federal, state, and local requirements but also support the organization’s mission driven programs. With a strong background in nonprofit compliance, Mimi has led initiatives that improved intern
Mellisa serves as the Interim Director of Enhanced Care Management and Housing Navigation, where she oversees programs that support individuals and families experiencing housing instability and complex health needs. With a strong background in housing services and care coordination, Mellisa works closely with community partners, managed care plans, and internal teams to ensure services are delivered in a person centered and compliant way. She is committed to building systems that promote stability, dignity, and long-term housing outcomes, while supporting staff growth and program quality.
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