Our Staff

Jessica Irwin, BCABA - Executive Director Jessica has over 12 years of experience in the Social Services field, serving the developmentally disabled population both directly and in supervisory capacities. Prior to founding S.E.E.K. Arizona, Ms. Irwin has worked in the Valley in a variety of positions ranging from Habilitation Provider to Program Manager. She has logged over 300 hours in Early Childhood Education and Autism Spectrum Disorder trainings and is a Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst. Ms. Irwin has dual degrees in Sociology and Psychology focusing on Child Development and Special Education from Arizona State University; and is currently enrolled at Nova Southeastern University for her Master's in Counseling.
Brian Pfingstl - Director of Operations Brian hails from Bethlehem, PA and has been with S.E.E.K. Arizona for 18 months. Brian received his B.A. in English and Government with a minor in Writing from Lehigh University in January 1996. He was awarded his M.A. in Secondary Education with certifications in English and Social Studies from Lehigh in January 1998. Brian has been a classroom teacher for 13 years, and was granted tenure in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 2004. As the Director of Operations, he is the community relations liaison and provides operational support for S.E.E.K. Arizona. Brian also teaches the Life Skills Academy program and Chess Club.
Melanie Covert - Office Manager Melanie Covert joined S.E.E.K. Arizona in October 2007 as the Office Manager for S.E.E.K. Arizona. She has over ten years of office experience with a concentrated background in residential construction. Melanie expeditiously resolves client accounts, contracts, and accounting issues. She possesses a B.A. in Church Music and participates in many musical activities within the community.
Behavior Analyst and HCBS Trainer Now Hiring!
Joy Story-Perkins - Family Support Liaison Joy was born and raised in Minnesota. She received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Sociology from St. Olaf College. After spending a few years working in Yellowstone National Park, Joy moved to Arizona in 1995. She worked for 7 years as a social worker providing assistance to underprivileged children and their families. She joined S.E.E.K. Arizona in January 2008. Joy works to provide clients with providers and services, but helps with the planning of Camp Runamuk, writes the quarterly newsletters, and provides fundraising ideas and support.
Jenna McClain - Teacher and Administrator Jenna moved from Southern California to Arizona in 2005 to attend Arizona State University. She joined S.E.E.K. Arizona in 2006 as a direct care provider in addition to being a full time student. It was through her work at S.E.E.K. that led Jenna to change her college major from kinesiology to education. Jenna earned Bachelor's degrees in Special Education and Elementary Education with a minor in Family & Human Development in May 2010. She is certified and credentialed to teach in Arizona. S.E.E.K. Arizona is proud to have Jenna as lead teacher for the Specialized and Junior Life Skills Academies as well as supervisor for S.E.E.K. Social Saturdays. When Jenna is not in the classroom, she provides administrative leadership and support for S.E.E.K. Arizona. She is a true Sun Devil fanatic and would consider a marriage proposal from Sparky should the occasion arise.