Executive Staff

Rique is a dedicated leader with deep roots in Nevada and a strong commitment to public service. Since beginning her career with the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services in 2012, she has played a pivotal role in advancing initiatives that support individuals with disabilities, aging Nevadans, and their families. Her expertise in collaboration and program development was instrumental in the transfer of the IDEA Part C Office to the Aging and Disability Services Division to ensure federal compliance, building a strong infrastructure for Nevada’s Early Intervention Service system and the families we serve.
In 2017, Rique was appointed Deputy Administrator, where she provided strategic oversight of children's services, along with planning advocacy and community programs for our most youngest Nevadans, while ensuring the delivery of comprehensive programs that foster well-being and development. With over 35 years of experience working with children, aging Nevadans, and individuals with disabilities, she brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and advocacy to her role. In June 2025, Rique was appointed Administrator for ADSD, where she continues to lead the Division in carrying out its vision to ensure Nevadans of all ages and abilities lead meaningful lives with dignity and self-determination.

Appointed as Deputy Administrator in October 2022, Ellen oversees the division’s fiscal, human resources, information technology, and policy development activities. She joined the Department of Health and Human Services in 2008, and since then has served in a variety of fiscal and analytics roles including Deputy Director of Fiscal Services and Actuarial Economist for Nevada Medicaid. Her focus is building teams to provide effective and efficient administrative support for the division’s programs that serve Nevada’s elders and individuals with disabilities.

Jessica graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a degree in Health Science. She worked as a community provider supporting people with disabilities for over 12 years, before beginning her state career in 2010 at Rural Regional Center in the quality assurance department. In July of 2019, Jessica was appointed a Deputy Administrator of ADSD. She is responsible for individuals with physical disabilities, and individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, as well as the state-run Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (ICF/IID).

Sam holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Before entering state service, she dedicated her career to nonprofit work focused on children’s services, domestic violence, and Alzheimer’s/dementia care. She began her public service journey with the Autism Treatment Assistance Program, where she led strategic improvements for more than a decade. Appointed Deputy Administrator in 2025, Sam now oversees the Autism Treatment Assistance Program, Nevada Early Intervention Services, Long-Term Care programs, and the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission—advancing equity and impact across Nevada’s continuum of disability services.

Kim was born and raised in northern Nevada and graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno, with degrees in Criminal Justice and Sociology. She began her state service in 2013 with the Division of Welfare and Supportive Services. Over the past 11 years, Kim has worked with the Department of Health and Human Services in various roles. Most recently, Kim served as an Administrative Services Officer with the Division of Health Care Financing and Policy. Kim joined the Aging and Disability Services Division in December 2024 and will be responsible for Quality Assurance.

Carrie Embree was appointed in 2018 as the Governor’s Consumer Health Advocate and is responsible for the Office for Consumer Health Assistance. She is a 5th generation Nevadan raised in Reno and graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a degree in Social Work. Prior to her appointment, Carrie served in numerous positions within Community Based Care and most recently, as Chief of Adult Protective Services advocating for the expansion of Elder Protective Services to a full Adult Protective Services program serving vulnerable adults and persons over 60 years of age.

Jaeron Mickle serves as the Public Information Officer and Legislative Liaison for the Division of Aging and Disability Services (ADSD). In this role, he oversees statewide communications, including public relations, media relations, and public records management, while also coordinating the division's legislative efforts. He is dedicated to ensuring that ADSD's communications remain clear, consistent, and aligned with the division’s objectives, helping to maintain strong connections with both the public and government stakeholders.

Shauna Brennan is the Nevada Attorney for the Rights of Older Person, Persons with a Disability, and Intellectual Disability or a Related Condition by Governor Lombardo (term May 1, 2024 – April 30, 2028). Shauna is an experienced attorney passionate about protecting the legal rights of older persons and persons with a disability or related condition. A long time Nevadan, Shauna calls Henderson home. Shauna has lived experience with disabilities, as her two daughters’ dyslexia has presented opportunities for exceptional advancement and personalized learning. Shauna finds inspiration from Helen Keller, a true overcomer and role model for leading with different abilities.