About

Dr. Andrea Mata, statistically, should not be as successful as she is. The daughter of a Mexican immigrant, she grew up in a gang-infested nine-block unincorporated neighborhood on the south side of Chicago. Andrea learned the value of having a strong and loving family at an early age and attributes much of her success to her close-knit and sarcastic family.

Andrea graduated summa cum laude with her Bachelor of Science degree from Valparaiso University. While there, she majored in Psychology and minored in Criminology and Urban Studies. Andrea completed her Doctorate in Clinical Child Psychology at Kent State University. She had the fortunate experience of interning at Boys Town in Omaha, Nebraska where the mission is to save children and heal families.   

Andrea was a college professor at the University of Findlay for 9 years until she realized she needed to live out her life’s mission of fortifying families. As a result, she resigned and founded BrightSpot Families.  

Andrea has been married to her husband, Jim, for 14 years. They are blessed with girl-boy twins and a younger daughter. When Andrea is not spending time with her family or fortifying other families, she can be found reading, rucking, o painting.   

Dr. Alex Long grew up in Pontiac, Michigan, an impoverished community where sports and fine arts were positive escapes. Naturally, he became an avid sports fan.

Alex played Division 1 football at Eastern Michigan University, but decided to transfer after his friend and teammate died. Alex transferred to the University of Findlay, where he met Dr. Mata, and played Division 2 football for the Oilers. Alex completed his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at John F. Kennedy University. Alex completed his predoctoral internship at UC Davis and his postdoctoral internship at The Ohio State University.

Alex has a strong passion for helping support Black youth development. His main way of executing that is through extracurricular activities, such as sports, to strengthen their identity, self-love, and personal growth.

Alex is married to Grace, and they welcomed their son in 2025. When Alex is not hanging out with his wife or caring for his son or supporting Black youth, Alex can be found watching any and all sports. GO VOLS!