Administration
Steven J Cook, Chairman
Steve has a bachelor’s degree from Utah State University in agricultural education with dual minors in economics and business administration. Upon graduating from college, Steve went into banking (both commercial and investment) instead of the field of education. Steve became a top producer in the investment firm he worked for and managed about $50 million at the peak of his career. His annual compensation, his best year, was approximately $350,000.
Steve is an experienced GED teacher and has worked with a variety of students including gang members, and students with anger issues, ADHD, and other learning disabilities. To help these students overcome their challenges in the classroom, Steve modified the GED curriculum making it easier for students with learning difficulties to understand. As a result, over 90% of his students passed the GED exams on the first attempt.
Steve has a commitment to make a positive difference in his community. Consequently, he established “The Second Act Literacy Foundation Inc” to use his skill set to help immigrants and refugees earn a GED.
Todd W Phillips, Chief Financial Officer
Todd is a graduate of Preston High School and has both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in accounting from Utah State University. He has been a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) since 1983 and has worked in both public and private accounting. He is retired from being the Chief Financial Officer for Wasatch Mental Health.
Harold Heck, Compliance Officer
Harold has a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) from Boise State University, a Juris Doctor of Law degree (JD) from Mercer University and has been an attorney since 2014. Harold has worked in private practice and as a law professor. He is currently a law school Professor of Practice.
Jennifer Jenkins, Education Director
With over 33 yeas of experience in education, Jennifer brings a deep passion for teaching and lifelong learning to her role as Education Director of the Second Act Literacy Foundation. She holds both a bachelor’s and masters degree in education, along with endorsements in administration, ESL, math and reading. A proud lifelong resident of Cache Valley, she lives in Wellsville and is the mother of three daughters and grandmother to six wonderful grandchildren. Her commitment to helping others succeed continues as she leads efforts to support adult learners in earning their GEDs and reaching their education goals.