Team

Lauren Hall

Lauren is the passionate Chief Executive Officer for Southeast Enterprises. In her role, she leads the company’s efforts to achieve its mission to provide full time meaningful employment with steady wages, professional and personal development, and access to engaging community opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Lauren’s private and public sector track record in developing strong business partnerships, strategic planning, and leveraging other community resources demonstrates her commitment to opportunity and outcomes for vulnerable populations. She works with an outstanding team and diverse board members to achieve our organizational goals and help all those we serve be happy, whole, and successful (as they define it). Lauren has held other charitable leadership positions in her community as a board member for Outreach International, PeaceWorks KC, Community of Christ International Headquarters, and HealthEd Connect

Jessica Funk

Jessica is a mission driven social-work professional who believes that strong systems start with how we support the people inside them. Her professional career has previously centered around child welfare, trauma-informed practice and workforce development. She has worked to support leaders in high-stress environments with a focus on strengthening supervision, improving staff retention, and creating healthier organizational cultures. Jessica is motivated by the core belief that when leaders feel supported, connected, and confident in their roles, entire systems change for the better. She is thrilled to work at Southeast Enterprises as the Director of Associate Services and aims to bring a comprehensive approach to supporting all individuals in their journey towards meaningful employment. Outside of work you can find Jessica spending time with her husband, their 4 children, and their 3 dogs. She enjoys the outdoors whether that's in her garden, out kayaking, or the local nature sanctuary.

Paul Igla

Nate Kaptena

Nate helps tell the stories of Southeast Enterprises as their Marketing and Community Engagement Specialist. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication: Advertising from Southeast Missouri State University and loves bringing stories to life while connecting people to work that matters. When he’s not at work, you’ll find him tending his ever-growing collection of plants, diving into his favorite trading card game, spending time with his dog, or tackling a creative project.

Rick Paez

Rick is a lifelong Kansas Citian and a graduate of UCM. His occupational background is in manufacturing and supply chain, with a strong interest in optimizing processes to increase efficiency. Rick joined Southeast Enterprises to contribute to work that makes a positive impact on people’s lives.