At LEAN, we are passionate about empowering individuals and communities. This commitment to supporting Louisianians is exemplified in our Executive Director, Matthew St. Amant, a respected leader in mental health advocacy for over three decades. During this time, Matthew has been a voice for underserved groups and focused on increasing access to behavioral and physical healthcare in rural Louisiana. |
Our Team
MEET THE TEAM
LEAN’s board members bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. They work together to guide LEAN’s strategic direction, oversee our operations, and advocate for our organization.
For nearly two decades, Cody has worked diligently to ensure that young people throughout Louisiana have access to the highest levels of mental health care. Professionally, Dr. Cloud has provided direct services to clients experiencing addiction and other complex mental health concerns in rural areas through various modes of care. The latter half of his professional life has been spent advocating for these same underserved individuals at the administrative and state legislative levels. |
Since 1994, Dr. Gregory Brown has been focused on improving the lives of young people and adults in rural Louisiana through patience, empathy, and the highest standards of professionalism. Dr. Brown has spent the last 30 years, providing psychiatric services and treatment focused on substance use and co-morbid diagnoses, while simultaneously working to create policies and procedures to enhance patient outcomes. |
Jesse McCormick has two decades of experience collaborating with federal, state, and local government entities on behalf of non-profit organizations. He has historically stood with underserved Louisianians to increase awareness and improve access to physical and behavioral healthcare. Jesse brings knowledge, expertise, and governmental experience to the LEAN leadership Team as we work to maneuver through our strategic partnerships. |
With a deep commitment to people and community, I have spent more than a decade advocating for children and supporting individuals facing difficult circumstances. My work centers on ensuring vulnerable youth have strong advocates, compassionate support systems, and the opportunity to thrive. My approach has always been rooted in empathy, service, and the belief that every child deserves someone in their corner fighting for them. |
With over 20 years of dedicated service to the community, Ashley Fillingim has committed her life to supporting the most vulnerable populations. Her work spans caring for the elderly, advocating for abuse victims, guiding troubled youth, assisting the homeless, and protecting animals. Rooted in a deep passion for giving, Ashley brings compassion, empathy, and unwavering dedication to every role they take on. Their mission is simple yet powerful: to share kindness, understanding, and hope with those who need it most. |
Meet our Board Members
LEAN’s board members bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. They work together to guide LEAN’s strategic direction, oversee our operations, and advocate for our organization.
John is a seasoned expert with over 45 years of experience in business and executive planning. As the managing partner of SSG Companies, he has developed strategies that have been successfully implemented by businesses and individuals throughout our state and our region. John is a highly respected professional in his field, known for his expertise and leadership. He has also served on the boards of numerous non-profit organizations, including LEAN, where he brings this knowledge and passion for helping others to support our mission. |
Dr. G. E. Ghali is a renowned practitioner, educator, and leader in the field of medicine. Over the last 30 years he has built a reputation for his expertise, leadership, and philanthropy throughout the country and abroad. As a respected leader in the medical community, Dr. Ghali has received innumerable accolades for his outstanding work in practice (including the “Patients Top Choice Award”) and leadership (including the “Lifetime Achievement Award” presented by AOMSI). |
Matthew St. Amant’s 30+ years of experience in developing and directing businesses and business strategies are invaluable as LEAN seeks to successfully assist Louisianians. His eclectic experiences across a wide range of businesses bring a clear direction and a unique lens to our organization. By serving as both the Executive Director and a member of our board, Matthew works to connect LEAN’s current needs with our future direction. |