OUR TEAM
Called to Serve
Meet The Team
Sue Loncar
CEO/Founder
Sue is the CEO/Founder of The Grace Loncar Foundation, an organization she started in honor of her 16-year-old daughter, Grace, who lost her life to suicide in 2016. Most recently, she executive produced the documentary, LOSING GRACE FINDING HOPE, a two-year project just completed in January, 2024. By sharing her journey from pain to purpose, she hopes to help stop the stigma associated with mental health issues & suicide, spread awareness & save lives.
She is the former Founder/Artistic Director of The Contemporary Theater of Dallas which closed in 2016 after 14 dynamic seasons. Frequently honored by the Dallas-Fort Worth Theater Critics Forum, Dallas Theatre League & D Magazine, she is recognized for having produced and performed in some of the most compelling theatrical productions in the Dallas Metroplex. Showcasing the work of local talent and supporting area artists was a huge part of her passion and remains a staying force of CTD’s legacy to this day. One of her favorite theatrical endeavors was producing and appearing in the play Laundry & Bourbon/Lone Star at the Clurman Theater in NYC in 2014.
She attended Texas Tech University, University of Texas, Houston Baptist, and the University of Houston, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in English and Speech.
Abby Loncar
Board Member
Following the tragic death of her sister Grace to suicide in 2016, Abby joined The Grace Loncar Foundation as its communications director and fundraising chair. Abby’s work as a behavioral health technician at a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center and YMCA after-school program coordinator further instilled in her a desire to help others. She currently can be seen in the documentary Losing Grace Finding Hope, a moving film about Grace Loncar’s struggles and passing and how her family is healing after the tragedy. Abby graduated from the University of Texas Austin with a degree in Political Science and is currently in esthetician school to help those struggling with acne feel more confident in their own skin.
Patrick Long
Board President
Patrick has been the Board Treasurer for The Grace Loncar Foundation since its founding in 2017. An older brother to Grace, Patrick is passionate about the Foundation’s mission to help adolescents overcome mental health challenges by strategically providing awareness, resources, and support to teens and their parents.
Patrick, a Turnaround and Restructuring Professional in Dallas, brings over a decade of Finance and Management Consulting expertise to The Grace Loncar Foundation. He often jokes that his whole life has been a series of turnarounds as it pertains to his personal life, his loved ones, and the companies he consults. For Patrick, turning problems into opportunities is a fundamental way of life.Â
Patrick graduated with honors from The University of Texas at Dallas with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and a Master of Business Administration.
Terry Bentley Hill
Advisory Board Chair
Terry Bentley Hill is a Dallas criminal defense attorney and nationally recognized mental health advocate who has become a vocal proponent for mental health rehabilitation in the criminal justice system. Additionally, Terry serves her profession as a leader in attorney wellness initiatives.
After earning a Broadcast Journalism degree from the University of Texas at Austin, Terry became a television news reporter covering the criminal courts. It was then that she decided to become a participant rather than an observer of the legal system and made law school a goal.
The road to law school was long (twenty-five years) and fraught with life-quakes and tragedies that included the suicidal deaths of her former husband (an attorney) and youngest daughter. It was those events that defined the kind of attorney and advocate Terry would become.
At the age of fifty, Terry received her J.D. from Texas A & M University School of Law. Immediately after passing the bar exam, Terry volunteered with the Texas Lawyers Assistance Program and became active in the Dallas Bar Association’s Peer Assistance Committee.
A prolific writer, speaker, and CLE presenter, Terry’s advocacy for attorney wellness was rewarded with the State Bar Presidential Citation, the Best Feature/General Interest Series of Articles Award for the Mental Health Awareness Series in the DBA Headnotes, the DBA’s Al Ellis Outstanding Community Service Award, and the Dean’s Advocacy Award from Texas A&M University School of Law.
Beyond her law related activities, Terry launched her own non-profit foundation with a focus on mental health awareness and education. It is through this organization that Terry carries her message of hope and healing to audiences throughout Texas and beyond. #stopmindingyourownbusiness.com.
Jennifer Eckert
Executive Director
Jennifer Eckert officially joined the Grace Loncar Foundation team in January 2024. She became friends with Sue Loncar, GLF Founder and President, at a suicide survivors support group shortly after Jennifer’s husband, Joe, died by suicide. Years later, feeling called to enter the mental health advocacy arena, Jennifer asked Sue what she could do to help GLF further its mission. Sue invited Jennifer to join the board and shortly thereafter asked her to take the reins as Executive Director.Â
Jennifer’s professional experience is vast. She has been an attorney, a legislative consultant, a legal research and writing consultant, and a high school English teacher.
She has recently earned her Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Texas at Dallas and is currently working towards earning a Masters of Public Affairs.
The skills she honed in her previous positions, along with her passion for reducing the suicide rate and ending the stigma surrounding mental illness, have prepared her for the Executive Director role.Â
Because she has been deeply affected by suicide and experienced her own mental health struggles, not only is The Grace Loncar Foundation’s mission dear to Jennifer’s heart, it IS her heart.Â
Debbie Mitchell
Board Member
Debbie Mitchell is a seasoned Human Resources leader and passionate advocate for youth mental health, with over two decades of experience helping individuals discover their strengths and thrive in their personal and professional lives. A natural connector, Debbie has built her career around aligning people with purpose—believing deeply that when we lean into our unique gifts, we unlock not only our own potential but also the potential of those around us.
Her leadership spans senior and executive roles across a wide range of industries, including education technology, hospitality, nonprofits, and professional sports. She’s worked with well-known organizations such as the Dallas Cowboys, American Red Cross, the National Wildlife Federation, and Harrah’s Entertainment. Across every setting, Debbie brings the same unwavering passion: empowering people to do meaningful, energizing work that honors who they are. Debbie’s commitment to mental health is both professional and personal. She witnessed firsthand the toll of severe depression through her father’s experience, and later navigated the complex challenges of advocating for her daughter, whose mental health needs were used against her.
These experiences fuel Debbie’s deep belief that mental health support should be available, accessible, and equitable—regardless of a young person background, income, or zip code. As a board member, Debbie is proud to support the Foundation’s mission to normalize and expand access to mental health resources for youth and families. She brings strategic insight, people-centered leadership, and a heartfelt dedication to ensuring no young person feels alone or unseen in their mental health journey. Debbie holds a B.A. in Urban Studies with a focus on Organizational Behavior from Stanford University and a Master’s in Communication from Northwestern University. She has served on several nonprofit boards and continues to volunteer with organizations that champion youth development and leadership. Of all her roles, the one that brings her the greatest joy is being mom to her daughter.
Tara Long
Board Member
Tara Long grew up in Oklahoma and is a proud graduate of Oklahoma State University, where she earned a degree in Apparel Merchandising with a minor in Marketing. Following her graduation, Tara embarked on a successful career with Levi Strauss and Co., where she was part of the Women’s wholesale team, managing North American Key Accounts and collaborating with major retailers such as HSN, Dillard’s, JCPenney, and Academy Sports.
Driven by her passion for helping others, Tara later pursued a Master’s degree in Counseling from St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX. She has since dedicated her time and talents to various non-profit organizations, including Communities in Schools, The Girls Empowerment Network, and Capital Area Counseling, where she has made a significant impact in her community.
Currently, Tara serves as an LPC-Associate supervised by Stephanie Hooton in private practice at Noyau Wellness Center in Dallas. In this role, she works with individuals, couples, and adolescents, focusing on creating a safe and trusting environment. Tara is committed to empowering her clients and collaborating with them to enhance their quality of life through personalized support and guidance. Her unique background and compassionate approach make her a valuable resource for those seeking growth and healing.
In her free time, Tara enjoys chasing after her very active toddler, Sawyer, and cherishing special “girl time” with her bonus daughter, Vivi. She also loves sharing laughter and navigating life’s adventures with her best friend and husband, David. Together, they create joyful memories and embrace the beauty of family life, finding joy in both the little moments and the big milestones.
Stacy Smith
Board Member
Stacy Smith brings15 years of experience as a marketing executive, and is honored to serve on the Grace Loncar Foundation Board of Directors. Prior to joining the Board of GLF, she contributed to various organizations, including The Nashville Symphony Charity, the Junior League of Collin County, and served as a board member for the Collin County Rape Crisis Center, JDRF, and the Aging Mind Foundation.
Additionally, she held the position of JDRF Advocacy Chair and was a member of the Children’s Hospital Family Advisory Board.
Kertrina Dauway
Board Member
Kertrina Dauway is a multi-faceted individual with a passion for purpose-driven work. She is the Executive Producer of the You Can Live Again Expo & Awards Gala, as well as an accomplished author, singer, producer, publisher, philanthropist, and award-winning Business Development Consultant.
After attending college, Kertrina made a bold decision to carve out her own path in corporate sales. Guided by early advice to choose a career she could truly appreciate, she built a highly successful career in sales—mentoring and training her peers both in professional settings and in life.
Kertrina has dedicated her life to supporting the visions and ministries of others. Her service on the Grace Loncar Foundation Board of Directors aligns perfectly with her lifelong commitment to uplifting people. She thrives on empowering individuals to believe in themselves and walk boldly in their purpose.
She holds a degree in Liberal Arts, is a Certified Master Coach, and has advanced certification in Executive Corporate Business Development.
Monica Cruz
Board Member
Monica Cruz is the founder of Cruz Arevalo P.C., a boutique family law firm in Dallas, Texas, dedicated exclusively to family law matters. With more than 20 years of experience, she is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has built a reputation for providing compassionate, strategic representation in complex family law cases. Monica’s practice focuses on divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, protective orders, modifications, enforcement actions, and related litigation. Monica, a fluent Spanish speaker, has been consistently recognized by her peers and leading publications for her excellence in family law throughout her career.Â
Monica’s experience in family law provides her with a keen understanding of the mental health challenges frequently faced by her clients and their families. She is thrilled to be a member of the GLF Board of Directors and contribute to making mental healthcare more accessible in North Texas.
Opportunities and Access for All…
At The Grace Loncar Foundation, we believe that mental health care is a necessity, not a luxury. We are committed to building a community where every person, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or lived experience, has equal access to mental health resources, support, and advocacy.
Our work is rooted in the understanding that inequity and stigma often prevent marginalized communities from receiving the care they deserve. Grace consciously sought to help the marginalized and vulnerable, and in her memory, we actively strive to dismantle barriers to mental wellness and ensure that all voices are heard, valued, and supported.
We continuously listen, learn, and evolve to better serve our diverse North Texas community, and we hold ourselves accountable to creating inclusive spaces that empower healing and hope for all.
If you would like to volunteer, please contact us
Sophie Rose
9th Grade - Booker T. Washington
Sophie Rose is a young performing artist, award winning composer/musician, vocalist, dancer, and professional actor. She is a freshman at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and aspires to continue to pursue her career in the performing arts.
She distinguished herself at her previous middle school, George B. Dealey Montessori & International Academy, serving as treasurer of the National Junior Honor Society and Salutatorian of the 8th grade class of 2025. She was honored as a recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA).
Mental health advocacy in teens is a topic that Sophie Rose is very passionate about. She is very thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the Teen Advisory Board for the Grace Loncar Foundation and hopes that she can make a difference and help the cause. Every single life matters.
Sofia
Senior Homeschool/Dual Credit Dallas College
Sofia is a senior in the homeschool dual credit program at Dallas College. She is a staff writer for the Richland campus student newspaper, the Richland Chronicle. She is also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society. She serves on the Youth Advisory Council for Young Leaders Strong City, an organization focused on youth leadership development and community change. Sofia plans to major in psychology and minor in communications in college. She believes prioritizing mental health, especially among teens, is important because of the many challenges they face. Sofia hopes to raise awareness and share resources so teens know that help is available. She is grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Grace Loncar Foundation’s Teen Board and is excited to see how this experience will help her grow and make an impact.
Hanna
Junior, Richardson High School
Hannah, a Junior at Richardson High School, is extremely honored to serve on the first Grace Loncar Teen Advisory Board as she has struggled with anxiety since early childhood. In early 2021, Hannah’s passion for mental health grew after the death of her brother. As a compassionate, resilient, and charismatic individual, Hannah aspires to be an advocate for mental health awareness and be a light in people’s lives.
Sadie
Junior, Hockaday
Sadie found the Grace Loncar Foundation while working on a semester project about mental health accessibility. Through this project, she learned that there are many ways we can grow in making mental health easier to talk about and treat. Throughout her own struggles with mental health, she never realized how much of a luxury it was that she gets to go to therapy and learn more about herself. This should not be a luxury, because taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Sadie also believes that community plays a big part in bettering someone’s mental health, so if we can start to grow that community; especially in the younger generation, we can break the stigma that mental health brings.Â
Sadie goes to the Hockaday school and is excited to promote GLF’s mission to break down barriers that come in the way of mental health treatment and be a voice for mental health in North Texas.Â
Taylor Alyne
Senior, Booker T. Washington
Taylor Alyne is a 17 year old singer songwriter who attends Booker T Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts studying vocal performance and songwriting. She holds the honor of representing Texas as Miss Texas USA Ambassador Teen and uses her platform, Healing Through Harmony, to help teens heal mental health concerns through music. Taylor has a history of struggling with anxiety and depression which have been alleviated through her Faith and music. She performs for organizations that promote mental health including The Fashion Stars for a Cause North Texas suicide prevention gala, Big Brother Big Sister, Center for Awareness of Sexual Assault (CASA), Melody of Hope, Music Meets Medicine, One Tribe Foundation (a nonprofit focused of suicide prevention among US military and first responders) and Snowball Express.
Sadie
Junior, Highland Park HS
Sadie Baker is a Junior at Highland Park High School where she is a member of the Highland Belles and Student Council. In her free time, Sadie loves to teach dance and read. She’s looking forward to being a part of this wonderful foundation!
Lily
Junior, Ursuline
Lily Rounds is currently a junior at Ursuline Academy of Dallas. She has a twin sister named Hannah and two puppies, Ella and Eddy. She loves spending time outdoors and hanging out with her friends and family. She is actively involved in the Global Advisory Council, National Charity League, and both club and school soccer. She has always enjoyed spending time with kids of all ages—they never fail to amaze her!
 Mental health awareness, especially among teens and young adults, is a cause Lily is truly passionate about. Through this foundation, she is excited to turn that passion into action and make a positive difference in society. Lily can’t wait to get started!
Charlie
Senior, Richardson High School
Charlie Eckert is a senior in the Computer Science Magnet at Richardson High School. He is in the Spanish Club, Computer Science Club, and Japanese Club. In his free time, he enjoys reading, traveling, playing video games, and learning the Japanese language. He has been impacted by the mental health struggles of friends and family members and looks forward to advocating for mental wellness and reducing the stigma associated with mental illness.
Bella
Sophomore, JJ Pearce
Isabella (Bella) Meredith is an incoming 10th grader at J. J. Pearce High School. Bella is honored to serve on the very first Grace Loncar Foundation Teen Board. While volunteering at the foundation’s Mahj for a Cause event in 2025, Bella fell in love with the organization’s mission and purpose of helping more people manage their mental health. After a sincere and loving conversation that she had with the Founder Sue Loncar at the event, Bella was inspired not only to always keep her own mental health a top priority, but to also spread awareness, and support efforts to normalize the topic of mental health. Bella has always loved helping people and solving problems. With a growing interest in a career in obstetrics and gynecology, Bella strives to become a successful, strong woman who will help make a positive difference in other’s life.
Cambre
Junior, Bishop Lynch
Cambre Melton is a junior at Bishop Lynch High School who cares deeply about mental health awareness. She joined The Grace Loncar Foundation to help support other teens, spread kindness, and encourage open conversations. Cambre is excited to be part of a community that inspires hope and reminds people they’re not alone.
Marshall Clarke
Senior at Greenhill
Marshall is a senior at Greenhill School interested in the links between mental and physical health. He joined the Grace Loncar Foundation in order to learn more about the importance of mental health, and spread awareness among young-people in his area about the pertinence of mental health to one’s physical, and overall well-being. Marshall looks forward to making an impact in his community through spreading positivity and information surrounding mental health.
Virginia McKee
Junior, Ursuline Academy
Virginia McKee is a junior at Ursuline Academy; she is a member of the Jesuit Rangerette drill team and National Honor Society, and is the Vice President of the Ursuline cooking club. She is the Finance Chair and Secretary of the GLF Teen Board. Virginia is extremely excited to be a member of the GLF Teen Advisory Board because of her relationship with her own mental health. She believes that mental health should be more important in the lives of teens and a bigger priority in society. Her hope is that through the GLF Teen Board, she will be able to express her passion for the subject and make a difference through raising awareness.
