Directors & Staff
Board of Directors
TESSA's Board is responsible for making decisions in a manner consistent with that of a prudent person. This means Board members act in a reasonable way, like that of any "ordinary" person. TESSA's Board acts in good faith and in the best interests of the organization. They ensure the organization operates within legal parameters, and TESSA's own rules, regulations, mission and bylaws.
TESSA's Board of Directors (as of Jan 2010) - Officer Slate
Daniel Korleski, President
Janet Buss, Vice President
Deputy Chief Pete Carey, Treasurer
Aracely Guillen, Secretary
Stephen Brown
Rebecca Bumgarner
Lorraine Dominguez
Alex Dumas
Donna Harris
Teresa Heckel
Penny Johnson
Diana May
Joan Teslow
Kathy Wilson
Senior Staff
Connie Brachtenbach, Executive Director
Ms. Connie Brachtenbach took the helm at TESSA March 16, 2009. She is a Colorado native with nearly 20 years of experience and leadership in the for-profit sector, most recently working in a key director role at one of Colorado Springs largest corporations, Checks Unlimited. A dynamic team leader with extensive experience in strategic planning and operations, her community work includes service as a board member at TESSA, volunteering in youth sports, as well volunteering in civic and political campaigns. Born in Stratton, Colorado, Connie now makes her home in Manitou Springs with her partner of 18 years and their two daughters. Ms. Brachtenbach holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Fort Hays State University.
Phone: (719) 785-6806
TBD, Director of Development
Patrick Butler, Director of HR and Operations
Mr. Patrick Butler joined TESSA in March, 2008. He brought with him experience in the for-profit sector in both Human Resources and Operations. Mr. Butler received his B.A. and M.A. in History at U.C.C.S., where he was awarded the History Graduate Student of the year for 2007.
Dani Francis, Director of Finance
Ms. Dani Francis has worked as an accountant and financial manager for over 15 years. As a staff accountant, financial analyst, and financial manager, she has performed a variety of audit, financial and accounting functions. She holds a B.A. in Business, summa cum laude, from Colorado College.
Patrick Shargel, Clinical Director
Mr. Patrick Shargel has worked in the field of domestic violence and sexual assault for 8 years. He has a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs and a M.A. in Counseling and Human Services from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. Mr. Shargel is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a National Certified Counselor, and a State Approved Domestic Violence Offender Treatment Provider who works with victims and offenders of domestic violence.
Aimee Sutherlin, Director of Advocacy
Ms. Aimee Sutherlin joined the TESSA team in October 2009. A Licensed Social Worker, Ms. Sutherlin has more than 15 years of experience in the human service field. She specializes in victim advocacy, family social work, youth services, and program management. Ms. Sutherlin earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Family Resources from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and a Master of Social Work with a concentration in Child and Family from the same university in 2001.
