Leadership

Jessica Hart

LADC

Jessica Hart is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor-Supervisor with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Argosy University. In long-term recovery since 2012, she combines her professional expertise with personal experience to effectively support individuals dealing with chemical health issues and co-occurring disorders.

Jessica began her career in 2014 at Pride Institute and subsequently held positions at Haven Chemical Health and NorthStar Regional, where she ultimately became the Program Director of the Women’s Residential Treatment Facility. At Heritage Treatment Link, she is dedicated to fostering a safe and supportive environment, empowering clients to develop healthy coping strategies with compassion and without judgment.

In her personal life, Jessica cherishes time spent with family, enjoys riding her Harley, stays active through workouts, and gives back to the community by volunteering with 12-step fellowship programs, including leading meetings at Shakopee Women’s.

Lisa Wynn

Office Manager and CPRS

With over three years in recovery following a 30-year struggle with addiction, this personal journey through trauma, overdoses, and incarceration has fueled a commitment to helping others break free from the cycle of addiction. True healing is discovered through connection, support, and facing challenges without substances.

Currently, Lisa actively engages in the recovery community, offering guidance and support to those on their journeys. In pursuit of an LADC degree, the goal is to open a sober housing facility to further assist individuals in achieving lasting recovery.

Arthur Irby

Certified Peer Recovery Specialist

I am a Peer Recovery Specialist at Heritage Treatment Link, dedicated to helping individuals find hope and healing in recovery. My own experience with addiction drives my passion for guiding others through their challenges. In addition, I serve as an NA coach, supporting clients in their recovery journey each week.

Outside of work, I stay active through fitness, volunteer in the community, and strive to inspire positive change by connecting with others who share a passion for recovery and growth.

Liz Myers

LADC

Liz graduated from the University of MN with a B.S. in Psychology and returned to school following careers in academic advising and pharmaceutical sales to become a licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor.

In her role with our team, Liz blends clinical insight with practical experience to help clients build lasting strategies for recovery. She values listening, trust, and collaborative goal setting tailored to each individual’s unique needs and strengths.

Liz supervises Finnegan, the office dog, and outside of the office, enjoys taking Finnegan to dog parks and hikes to explore new scenery around the Twin Cities.

Finnegan

Service Dog Finnegan serves as a dedicated support specialist for both staff and clients, bringing comfort and joy to all he encounters. He plays a vital role in a Co-Ed group, where he supports and fosters positive interactions among both men and women. Through his gentle demeanor and unwavering companionship, Finnegan enriches the lives of those around him, promoting emotional well-being and inclusivity.

Lula Osman

Office Manager/Intake Coordinator

Lula brings over 15 years of experience in healthcare, case management, and community service to Heritage Treatment Link. She is passionate about helping others with compassion and respect, treating every client like family, and supporting them through every step of their recovery journey. Her global experience includes volunteering with the Kenya Network of Women and Children with AIDS and participating in HIV education programs in Botswana and South Africa, providing testing, education, preventive care, and medications to underserved communities. Currently pursuing a BSN at Metropolitan State University with the goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner, Hawalul is dedicated to creating a welcoming, supportive environment where clients feel valued and empowered.

“I believe in helping people as if they were my own family—everyone deserves care, respect, and support.”

Cynthia Packer

MSW, LICSW

Cynthia Packer is an experienced Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a robust background in mental health services, specializing in therapeutic interventions for individuals, families, and adolescents. Currently a Mental Health Professional at Great Lakes Psychology Group, she conducts diagnostic assessments and provides individual, couples, and family therapy. Previously, she served as a Mental Health Supervisor at Partners Behavioral Healthcare, overseeing clinical staff and delivering therapy in an Intensive Outpatient Substance Use Program. Cynthia has significant experience in program development and clinical supervision across various settings, including outpatient clinics and residential treatment programs, ensuring high-quality care for clients with complex mental health needs. She holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Minnesota and has been recognized with multiple awards for her contributions to children’s mental health.

Africa Nasir

Executive Director

Africa is the founder and Executive Director of Heritage Treatment Link, a program deeply influenced by his traumatic experiences in East Africa. Born near the Ethiopia-Somalia border, he faced significant adversity, including the murder of his father and the devastation of civil war, becoming homeless by age seven. At eleven, Africa lived in a refugee camp in Kenya, turning to drugs as an escape.

After moving to the U.S. in 1994, he resided in Boston, Maine, New York City, and Washington, D.C., grappling with addiction and dropping out of school. His transformation began in 2000 when he became a father, motivating him to seek treatment and pursue education, ultimately earning degrees, including a BA in Government and an MBA. In 2021, Africa moved to Minnesota to start treatment and further his mission of giving back.

He initially supported communities in East Africa but soon recognized the pressing need for addiction support in the U.S., prompting him to establish Heritage Treatment Link. His journey is a powerful testament to resilience as he now dedicates his life to helping others reclaim theirs from addiction.