Laura has served the Seattle nonprofit sector for the past 13 years, including as a full-time employee, a consultant, and a board member. Laura has deep experience in leading organizations through transition and in recovering from financial difficulties. In addition, Laura is a gifted manager of people and actively encourages her staff’s growth and development. Laura is currently working primarily as an Interim Executive Director and enjoys meeting the challenges that leadership often brings.
Prior to her work with Valtas, Laura proudly served as the Executive Director of Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility for five years, leading the organization through a substantial reinvigoration. She helped rebuild programs, solidify and expand partnerships, and attract new financial support. As a result, the organization started its fifth decade on strong footing to meet its mission of abolishing nuclear weapons and stopping climate change. In her role as Executive Director, Laura was responsible for all aspects of the organization, including fundraising, staff management, and strategic planning.
Laura also served as a Program Director for two national education-focused nonprofit organizations. At Alexander Hamilton Scholars, Laura was responsible for the organization’s seven programs that assisted high-achieving, low-income youth in realizing their full potential. At Facing the Future, Laura authored over 20 sustainability curriculum publications and supported hundreds of teachers in implementing that curriculum. Laura’s career began as a science teacher, where she applied her passion for environmental sustainability.
Laura holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in ecology. She also holds a certificate from the Interim Executives Academy, a program of Third Sector Company.