Meet Our Board Of Directors

Nicki Berridge is an instructional coach at Okemos Public Schools. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood Specialist Minor. She then went on to earn her  M. Ed in Elementary Education. She has worked in education for over 25 years serving in a variety of roles. She has mentored many teachers, developed after-school programming, and assisted in developing several district-wide initiatives. She has a true passion for children and works hard to ensure each child she works with has their need met so they can achieve success. She is a mom of three adult children and has experienced the special education system as a parent.  

Cheri Meyer earned a Bachelor of Science with a degree in Environmental Science and Management from Indiana University.   She has worked for the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy for 20 years, where she currently serves as an Environmental Manager, protecting Michigan’s environment and public health by managing our exceptional water resources.  During her career, she has partnered with non-profit organizations, both in writing grants and implementing projects to improve the quality of our surface waters.  In addition to her experience working with non-profits, Cheri was a substitute teacher for 7 years where she recognized the importance of providing a safe space for children to learn, build self-confidence and reach their goals.  Cheri is honored to aid in Elevate’s mission to empower children to grow and discover their talents, while honoring her sister who understood the beauty, companionship and healing horses have to offer. 

Jim Berridge is the business owner of Great Lakes Asphalt Solutions for over 30 years.  He has his degree in accounting and worked for the state of Michigan for 20 years.  His years of owning a business in a small community offer knowledge about the needs of the mid-Michigan area.  Additionally, his years as an auditor will help give insight into the business, financial, and performance best practices for Elevate.

Sopa Mocny is a graduate of Wayne State University majoring in Business Administration & Marketing. She began her career in automotive executive support roles then pivoted entirely to restaurant ownership and operations. Doing so allowed Sopa to pursue her dreams of entrepreneurship and passion for cooking. Sopa has been married to John for 29 years over which time they raised three children and moved 15 times following John's career. Sopa maintained her interest in food and cooking by learning and catering. She has been an active volunteer in all of her children's educational and extracurricular communities. Sopa enjoys spending time with family, exercising and growing tropical plants. She is very excited and committed to helping Elevate Equine Therapy support the needs of the Greater Lansing community.

Dee Dee has joined our board of directors and has helped with advocating and bringing awareness to Elevate Equine Assisted Therapy. We are extremely thankful to have her and her hardworking personality helping us reach our goals! Dee Dee is a retired Emergency Room patient care technician and worked many years as a paramedic. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her family and loving on her horse, Dusty.