Launch Selects Angela Griffin as Executive Director

The Board of Directors of Launch recently announced they had selected Angela Griffin as the next Executive Director.

Angela said, “I believe every child has a special purpose. It is our responsibility to intentionally and diligently cultivate and build their potential so they can fully thrive in life and in community. This starts with ensuring children, youth, and families have equitable access to high quality early learning and school age enrichment experiences. We are uniquely positioned to serve our community during a pandemic that has both exposed the fragility of the childcare industry and how essential childcare is to the rebuilding of our economy.”

Angela joins the Launch team as a visionary and inspirational leader with over 27 years of experience, primarily focused on the development and implementation of early learning, childcare and youth development programs. ​

Angela has a reputation for building strong relationships and partnerships, inspiring teams to action, and crafting effective strategies to ensure children, youth, and communities equitably access all the available opportunities leading to successful life outcomes.

Before accepting the new role at Launch, Angela spent the past seven years as the Chief Program Officer at Treehouse where she has led the agency in achieving its ambitious goal of increasing the graduation rate for youth experiencing foster care and scaling vital services statewide. Prior to Treehouse, Angela was a transformational leader of programs for children birth to age 12 for the YMCA and the Boys & Girls Club. She has also taught middle school and provided educational coaching to students in alternative high schools.

Not only does Angela have a wealth of knowledge and skills related to education and youth development, but she also brings significant experience as an advocate and community leader to Launch. A former school board director, she currently serves on several advisory boards for children and youth services. Her passion for racial equity has also led to active participation on committees centered around increasing positive opportunities for students of color.

Danya Clevenger, Co-Chair of the Launch Board of Directors said, “the Board is truly humbled and thrilled that Angela is joining the organization, bringing along her passion and demonstrated experience elevating opportunities for young people. We know her dedication to intelligent, people-centered leadership will enable Launch to continue navigating the impacts of the pandemic on our sector, while leaning deeper into fulfilling our mission."

The Board of Directors are very appreciative of the thoughtful comments they received and incorporated into their decision-making process. Flow Francisco and Theresa Alfonso-Mendez were the staff representatives on the search committee. They were strong voices on behalf of the rest of the staff, and the board expressed their gratitude for all of the time, intentionality and care they put into their role.

Angela’s first day at Launch will be on June 22nd.  We look forward to the community together to welcome and get to know Angela and will share more information about those opportunities to meet her in the coming weeks. But for now, please join us in congratulating Angela to Launch!

About Launch

Launch supports working families from all social, economic, and cultural backgrounds. Families who enroll in their program enter a network of assistance that strengthens the community, while offering positive opportunities for their children.
 
Their twelve locations have deep, committed relationships with school districts, including Seattle Public Schools. This collaboration with the school district allows their staff to communicate and partner with teachers, ensuring what children learn in their before and after-school programs complements and supports what they are learning in the classroom, readying them for kindergarten.
 
Launch administrative staff and teachers are passionate about preparing 21st Century learners for school and life in a fun, nurturing environment. Focusing on social, emotional, and academic learning and growth, Launch is leading the charge to brilliant outcomes for the children in the community.
 
Families, donors, volunteers, and members of our community are welcome to learn how you can get involved in helping prepare children for the future!
 
About Valtas Group

Valtas Group works as Interim Executive Directors, supporting organizations in times of transition and helps organizations navigate uncertainty during leadership change.  
 
Valtas Group also leads the search process in partnership with the board and staff leadership, as consultants for recruiting and search to support organizations identify the ideal Executive Director or leader.
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Valtas Group partners with board members and senior nonprofit leaders on a variety of strategic consulting assignments. Valtas Group has a variety of comprehensive resources to guide your transition needs.  Contact us to learn about executive interim and placement services.