About us

Original developer of BIFSTL mission in 2008, over 20 years dedicated to the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals with brain injury. Speech Language Pathologist with years of experience supporting individuals with brain injury in the acute and post-acute settings.

Earned his Doctor of Psychology in clinical psychology from Adler University, Chicago; Master of Science in experimental psychopathology from the University of Wisconsin, Madison; and Master of Arts in social psychology from Princeton University.

More Information on Services Provided

Andrew joined the BIFSTL staff of the Dura Mater Clubhouse after completing his Speech-Language Pathology Master’s program at Fontbonne University. Building on his experience working in communication therapy with stroke survivors, he is passionate about continuing to assist brain injury survivors in their recovery and achieving their goals. Andrew’s goal for clubhouse members is simple: to enhance their overall quality of life by creating goals that are important to them. He is grateful for the opportunity BIFSTL provides to interact with the brain injury community in a variety of contexts, allowing him to grow as a clinician, as well as a person.

Bonita is a Veteran of the United States Airforce and a retired school bus driver. Bonita has earned her Bachelor of fine arts degree at Fontbonne University and her Master of Arts in Art Therapy Counseling at Southern Illinois University. Bonita enjoys spending her time with her veteran friends doing art and kayaking. She has been married for 41 years, has two children and three grandchildren.

Joined BIFSTL in 2017 as the Business Manager. Has a background in corporate accounting. Improved accountability and transparency in the accounting and finance practices. Appointed as the Chief Business Officer in 2018.

Vanessa keeps the office running smoothly by assisting the staff, keeping supplies stocked, and greeting guests who visit the office. Vanessa also assists the Chief Business Officer with various duties and assignments. She has a Master’s in Education Counseling and worked in education for 12 years before joining us at BIFSTL. She is a St. Louis native who enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter.

Michelle has been with the organization for the past 6 years. She earned her degree from the University of Memphis in psychology with a focus on child development. After moving to the St. Louis area in 2011, she started her career path working and teaching those with various disabilities, employment readiness skills. She focused on brain injuries and learned that this particular population is so incredibly different, but in a sense very much alike. She grew a love for this community and a desire to help people who are affected by brain injuries.

A veteran public school teacher, pioneering innovative inclusion approaches for children of all abilities. Vocational Evaluator, job developer, and director of Brain Injury Vocational and Community Services. Has devoted many years to working exclusively with individuals who have a brain injury.

Brittany joined the Brain Injury Foundation of St. Louis in 2021. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in child and family development from Missouri State University. Her interest in the brain’s physiological functions led her to discover BIFSTL and its mission. Before joining the team, she worked with individuals with developmental disabilities, where she developed a strong passion for serving underserved communities. Outside of work, she enjoys walking her dogs, Taco and Margarita.

Kelly attended the University of Central Missouri, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Studies with an emphasis in Community Health. Since joining the BiFSTL team in 2018, Kelly has supported individuals who have brain injuries in preparing for competitive employment, refining skills for independent living, and accessing sites in their communities.