Celebrating Growth and Welcoming New Leadership at GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo

Wow—another quarter of 2025 has come to a close, and once again, I am left speechless by the growth of GiGi’s Fargo.

Over the past three months, we have welcomed 10 new families through our doors—a number we haven’t seen in a single quarter since we opened 10 years ago! This quarter also marked a milestone as we surpassed last year’s program participation. Year-to-date, we’ve already surpassed 5,800 hours, and we’re on track to reach nearly 7,500 hours by the end of 2025! This is a 49% increase from last year!

Reflecting on this incredible growth, I feel humbled and grateful to have served as Interim Executive Director over the past four months. It has been an extraordinary opportunity to lead this organization, witness the impact on our families, and work alongside such a dedicated team. While I will be transitioning back to my role as Site Manager, I am thrilled to introduce Dr. Kira Knutson as our new Executive Director.

Meet Our New Executive Director: Dr. Kira Knutson

Dr. Kira Knutson is a people-centered leader with nearly a decade of experience in K-12 classrooms both locally and across the country. She brings a deep commitment to education, community engagement, and the transformative power of the arts. Her career has been rooted in fostering inclusive, supportive environments where everyone can thrive.

Dr. Knutson holds degrees in music from St. Olaf College, Boston University, and the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. Her academic background is complemented by a strong record of service in higher education, having held faculty and staff roles at Minnesota State Moorhead, Concordia College, Macalester College, and Harvard University.

In addition to her work in education, Kira has extensive experience in program development, community partnerships, grant writing, and grant management. A passionate advocate for the arts, she is also an accomplished professional soprano and choral conductor. Her leadership style reflects empathy, collaboration, and a commitment to equity.

Outside of GiGi’s Playhouse, Kira serves as Organist and Choir Director at Gethsemane Episcopal Cathedral. She and her husband, Steve, live in Fargo with their three children and their rescue dog, Ham. Kira is humbled and overjoyed to bring her vision, experience, and heart for service to GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo and looks forward to cultivating long-lasting relationships within the Fargo-Moorhead community and beyond.

Looking Ahead

As we continue to grow and reach new milestones, GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo remains dedicated to providing free, life-changing programs for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. With Kira’s leadership, our team, and the incredible support of our volunteers and donors, we are poised for an exciting next chapter.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. The best is yet to come!