A friendly crew.

Dr. Jessica Gomez is a Bilingual Licensed Psychologist and Executive Director of Momentous Institute. She has worked with children and families for over 15 years and is dedicated to building healthy communities where children have access to quality education and mental health services.

Dr. Gomez is an active thought leader in mental health through publications, presentations, and collaboration with community leaders. She also served as a clinical and assessment supervisor on the APA Training Committee that oversees doctoral and post-doctoral psychology fellows. Dr. Gomez received her doctorate in clinical psychology and master’s degree in counseling psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, Illinois. She specializes in community mental health, staff development/training, family therapy and the treatment of complex trauma.

She has presented at TPA (Texas Psychological Association), NLPA (National Latino Psychological Association), Texas Pediatric Association, Aspen Challenge, Telemundo, NBC, KERA and Univision. Dr. Gomez has been published in APA’s The Family Psychologist Journal: “The Accidental Family Therapist”, Parent Magazine: “5 ways to help children be more inclusive of other kids”.

Laura Vogel joined Momentous Institute in 2007. Her previous experience includes over 25 years of working with children and their families. Laura is a licensed psychologist who received her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at The University of North Texas and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Austin College.

Andy joined the Momentous School in June 2023. He has over 27 years of experience in public education, including nine years as a high school principal, five years as a junior high principal, five years as an assistant principal, and eight years as a mathematics teacher. Mr. Hagman received a bachelor's degree in mathematics from the University of Texas at Austin and a master’s degree in Educational Policy and Leadership from the University of Texas at Arlington. Mr. Hagman has been married for over 28 years to Leah Hagman, and they have three children, Kendall, Brooks, and Carson.  

Fred is a licensed professional counselor/supervisor and director of our nature-based campus in East Texas. With over 35 years of experience, he is committed to supporting the emotional well-being of children and families through experiential, nature-based, and relationship-centered approaches to therapy. 

Fred has served in leadership and clinical roles across various settings, including Director of Adolescent Therapy at Momentous Institute and Senior Counselor at Salesmanship Club Youth Camp. He has also worked in public education and child protection, providing individual and family counseling and working as a child abuse investigator. Fred holds a master’s degree in counseling from Texas A&M University–Commerce and has extensive training in group work, family systems, parent education, and trauma-informed care. 

He regularly conducts professional development trainings and community presentations, and is known for his warm sense of humor, curiosity, and strength-based approach to engaging children and families. 

Michiko joined Momentous Institute in December 2019. She has over 15 years of experience in child and adolescent health behavior and outcomes research. She has previously worked for Children’s Health, University of Texas School of Public Health, and University of South Florida. Michiko completed a Bachelor’s degree from International Christian University, a PhD in Developmental Psychology from University of California Riverside, and a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Health Psychology at Johns Hopkins University.

Robin joined Momentous Institute in July 2019. She brings with her more than 30 years of fundraising experience for a variety of organizations across the Chicagoland area, including The Community Foundation for McHenry County and the Chicagoland Lutheran Educational Foundation. Robin received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa.

Brooke joined Momentous Institute in 2022. She oversees marketing and communications for Momentous Institute and THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson. She is a creative strategist with extensive experience leading first-of-their-kind initiatives. Brooke has partnered with top global talent, media platforms, and Fortune 500 companies on campaigns that drive meaningful change. Brooke holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from University of Georgia. 

Dr. Matthew Leahy is a Licensed Psychologist who has been working with kids and families for over 15 years. He holds a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Southern Methodist University and was a Fellow at both Yale University and Yale University School of Medicine. He has held previous adjunct/clinical positions at UT Southwestern/Children's Health Dallas and the SMU Department of Psychology. 

Kelly joined Momentous Institute in 2017. She is a recognized expert in mental health and education with two decades of experience. Since joining Momentous Institute, Kelly has worked with organizations worldwide to integrate mental health-informed practices into education and leadership. Through training, consultation, and programming, she empowers schools and communities to create supportive, resilient environments for learning and growth.  

Maureen joined Momentous Institute in 2011. She brings more than 15 years of experience in writing, curriculum development, marketing, and creative production. Maureen leads the content team and has played a key role in creating educational resources, including the Changemakers curriculum, and over 800 blog articles and 60 shop items. She also oversees the organization’s annual Changing the Odds conference. Maureen holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Gonzaga University.