Who we are

John’s Background

John earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Special Education from the University of Utah. He began his career teaching transition-aged special education students (ages 18–22), where he spent six years helping young adults prepare for greater independence and success in adult life.

Expanding the Mission

After his time in the classroom, John worked at the University of Utah and Utah State University with the Utah Supported Employment Training Program. In this role, he trained and certified new employment specialists across the state, strengthening programs that support individuals with disabilities in finding meaningful employment.

Inspired to expand his impact, John founded LiV-ability, a company dedicated to providing services for children and adults with disabilities. For the past 14 years, LiV-ability has empowered individuals and families by fostering growth, independence, and inclusion within the community.

Shasta’s Role

Shasta graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in design and a minor in communications. As a co-founder of LiV-ability, she has supported the organization from the beginning, and over time has taken on an increasingly active role in daily operations, scheduling, and financial oversight.

Shasta and John have been married for 25 years and have seven children.

Together, John and Shasta continue to lead LiV-ability with purpose, compassion, and a belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive