Our Team

Carrie Staats Case Manager

Since joining Aim High in 2018, Carrie has brought a wealth of experience and a steadfast commitment to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her journey in this field began at an ICF facility, where she worked alongside Wendy, Judy, and Julie—building both professional expertise and lasting relationships rooted in shared purpose. She later expanded her experience at the Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority (LIDDA), gaining valuable insight into service coordination and program development from a broader systems perspective.

With experience spanning ICF, HCS, and LIDDA services, Carrie brings a well-rounded understanding of the full continuum of care. Her compassion, knowledge, and dedication make her a trusted advocate and a vital part of the Aim High team.

Julie Pearce Case Manager

Since Aim High’s founding in 2009, Julie Pearce has been a driving force in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With more than 25 years of experience, she brings both depth of knowledge and genuine compassion to her role. Julie’s career began with Child Protective Services, where she built a strong foundation in advocacy and family-centered care. She later transitioned into case management within ICF group homes and continued this meaningful work with the launch of the HCS Medicaid Waiver Program

A proud graduate of Kansas State University and devoted K-State Wildcat, Julie leads with empathy, consistency, and dedication. Her warmth and professionalism make her a trusted advocate for the individuals and families she serves—and a deeply valued member of the Aim High team.

Judy Bell Case Manager

Judy Bell has been part of Aim High since its very beginning in 2009, bringing more than 30 years of experience and unwavering dedication to the team. Her journey in this field began in the early 1990s, working in ICF group homes where she discovered her passion for person-centered care. As services evolved, Judy transitioned into case management—first within the ICF system and later through the HCS Medicaid Waiver Program—continuing her lifelong commitment to empowering those she serves.

Known for her steady guidance and compassionate heart, Judy is deeply respected by colleagues and families alike. Her decades of experience and devotion to quality care make her a pillar of the Aim High team and a true advocate for the individuals she supports.

Mallory Tarvin Watson Case Manager

With over 12 years of dedicated service at Aim High, Mallory Tarvin Watson embodies compassion, expertise, and innovation. Her lifelong commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities is deeply personal—her brother Cody, who has Down Syndrome, has been her inspiration and guiding light. Caring for Cody from a young age shaped Mallory’s purpose and passion, leading her to make this work her life’s mission.

A proud graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington, Mallory holds a degree in Social Work and brings a wealth of knowledge to her role in client care. Her empathy and advocacy are matched by her technical savvy—she’s also Aim High’s go-to technology guru, seamlessly blending heart and skill to elevate the organization’s impact.

McKenzie Tarvin Case Manager

We welcomed McKenzie Tarvin to Aim High as a case manager in January 2025, and she’s been making waves ever since. Growing up alongside her older brother Cody helped shape her passion for helping others—a drive that led her straight into this meaningful career path.

From day one, McKenzie has made a powerful impression on the individuals and families she supports, as well as her fellow team members. Her empathy, dedication, and collaborative spirit have elevated our work and strengthened our community. We’re incredibly fortunate to have McKenzie on our team as we continue to grow and make a difference together.

Merrisa Ganaway, RN, BSN

Merrisa Ganaway serves as the Registered Nurse for Aim High, bringing over seven years of dedicated experience to our community. A proud graduate of Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Merrisa exemplifies compassionate care and clinical excellence in every interaction.

Her deep commitment to the health and well-being of those we serve makes her a steadfast advocate and trusted resource. Whether navigating complex medical needs or offering a reassuring presence, Merrisa’s expertise and heart make a lasting difference. We are truly fortunate to have Merrisa on our team—her knowledge, empathy, and unwavering dedication continue to elevate the standard of care at Aim High.

Teri Gunnels Data Entry Specialist

Since joining Aim High in 2012, Teri has brought heart, dedication, and expertise to every part of her work. Over the years, she has served in a variety of roles—including case manager, group home manager, and day habilitation director—before moving into her current position as Data Entry Specialist.

A proud graduate of the University of North Texas, Teri blends her precision and compassion to help keep our programs running smoothly behind the scenes. Her deep understanding of the field and commitment to excellence ensure that every detail supports the bigger mission—helping individuals live with dignity, purpose, and independence. We’re incredibly grateful for Teri’s steady presence and the care she brings to the Aim High team every day.

Wendy Yates Director/Administrator

For nearly three decades, Wendy Yates has devoted her career to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She began her journey in 1995, working in roles that spanned direct care, group home management, case management, and program leadership—each shaping her deep understanding of person-centered care.

In 2009, Wendy founded Aim High Home and Community Services (AHHCS, Inc.) with a clear vision: to create an organization rooted in compassion, integrity, and individualized support. Under her guidance, Aim High has grown into a trusted provider of HCS services throughout the DFW area.

A proud graduate of the University of North Texas, Wendy leads with heart and purpose, ensuring every individual Aim High supports has the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and inclusion.