Leadership Team

I was born into a family of seven to parents who were Idaho natives. At a young age, we moved to Maryland. I grew up in a bustling metropolis outside of Washington D.C., regularly experiencing politics, the arts, museums, and...

Veronica Taylor brings more than 15 years of experience in education, nonprofit development, and community engagement to her role as Philanthropy Director at Giraffe Laugh Early Learning Centers. A Boise transplant by way of Las Vegas, Veronica earned her degree in...

Hi! I’m Sofia Vera Valdez, and I am thrilled to be part of the Giraffe Laugh team as the Media Coordinator. Originally from the Philippines, I moved to the U.S. at 19 with my family. Here, I continued my education, earning a degree in Media Arts and Public Relations...

With a background spanning higher education, nonprofits, and healthcare operations, our new Events Coordinator brings not only a wealth of experience—but a heart rooted in community. She finds purpose in roles where she can make a real difference, which makes Giraffe...

I was raised in Jerome, Idaho and enjoyed a childhood filled with dairy cows and fields of corn.  Growing up, my mother always taught me to appreciate the magic of imagination and the value of play.  I attended Boise State University where I earned a degree...

Born and raised in the scenic town of Pocatello, ID, I embarked on a journey of growth and discovery when I relocated to the dynamic Treasure Valley in 2011—a decision that profoundly enriched my life. As the eldest among my siblings—a cherished trio of two sisters...

I’ve been working in childcare since 2008, and was blessed to find my forever home in Giraffe Laugh in 2014. I take great pride in working for an organization that supports all families no matter what their financial situation currently is. Every child deserves a...

My name is Laurentina Hernandez, but I go by Laura. I lived in Washington State but I am originally from California. We moved to Idaho back in 2002. I have been married to my best friend for almost 25 years now and we have three children. I have been working in...

Hello, my name is Jacqueline Galligan. I was born in California but was raised here in Idaho. In 2017, I graduated from the University of Idaho with a Child Development/Family Relation degree. Soon after college, I married my best friend Jason Galligan and he has been...

I was born and raised in Boise, Idaho where I attended Giraffe Laugh as a preschooler. I loved my experience there so much as a child that as soon as I was old enough, I began volunteering at Giraffe Laugh as a classroom helper. I loved being in the environment that...

I was born and raised in Minnesota and moved to California to attend college. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology, and began my professional career working one on one with children with special needs, focusing on behavior management. Shortly after...

Hello!  My name is Karen.   I am new to Giraffe Laugh, and I am so excited to be a part of this organization.  I look forward to helping children learn and grow and to empower families.  I love to observe how children learn and figure things...

I grew up in a small town in Oregon and found my way to Boise in my early 20’s. I strongly believe every child should have the opportunity to grow and thrive in a safe nurturing environment. My favorite moment is when a child grasps on to a concept that they have been...

Born in Traverse City, Michigan and raised in Boise, Idaho since I was two months old, I bring both deep roots in our community and a heartfelt commitment to supporting local families. Since beginning my career in child care in 2017, I have developed a strong...

My name is Amanda Rea (Penning), and I joined Giraffe Laugh in January 2023. I’ve been working in early childhood education since my teenage years. I have worked with children of all ages in various settings. I was born and raised in California’s Central Valley and...