Welcome to Our New Board of Directors at GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo

Carlos Miranda is a pediatric cardiologist at Sanford Health in Fargo, North Dakota. Throughout his career, Carlos has cared for many patients with Down syndrome, which has inspired him to advocate for their health and well-being. His involvement with GiGiFit Teens has deepened his appreciation for the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse. Carlos is proud to serve on the board, supporting our mission to empower individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Mike Polansky’s awareness of those with special needs began early in life, thanks to his mother, who taught special needs children. This understanding became personal when Mike’s daughter, Carli, received the diagnosis that her unborn daughter had Down syndrome. Sophie, who was later diagnosed with autism, brought joy and challenges to their family. After moving to Fargo, Mike and his wife Linda discovered GiGi’s Playhouse, where they found a community that felt like home. Mike, who works as the Director of Procurement Operations/Purchasing at Border States, is committed to staying connected to Sophie by supporting GiGi’s Playhouse. Mike and Linda enjoy traveling to visit their four children and five grandchildren.

Katie Glander joined GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo’s board in July 2024 as our Treasurer. With a background in public accounting specializing in tax preparation for Tax-Exempt Organizations, Katie brings a wealth of expertise to our team. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Concordia College Moorhead and currently works as an accountant for Titan Machinery. Katie is dedicated to GiGi’s mission and aims to leverage her financial acumen to ensure the organization’s financial resources are managed effectively and transparently.

Amy Vogt was motivated to join GiGi’s Playhouse after learning about the teddy bear clinic event. As a nurse for over 25 years, Amy is passionate about advocating for opportunities and experiences for all, ensuring life is approached with curiosity and joy. She works in healthcare leadership and nursing academics, striving to instill compassionate and supportive care in future generations. Amy lives in Moorhead with her husband, four children, and three dogs. She loves spending time outside and playing games with her family.

Kelsey joined GiGi’s Playhouse Board in July 2024. She has watched Gigi’s Playhouse from afar since relocating to Fargo in 2017. Her Auntie Bird, who has Down syndrome, has been her inspiration, both in striving to be a kind person and giving back to the community. A chance meeting provided her the opportunity to work with GiGi’s Playhouse and the timing was right. Kelsey works for Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota as the VP of Human Resources. She has a master’s degree in Human Resources from the University of Mary and her undergrad in Communications from the University of North Dakota. Kelsey lives in Oxbow with her husband, Steve, daughter Nora, and two dogs – Coco and Lola. In her free time, you can find her at Nora’s basketball or softball games, being active at the lake, reading a book, walking, or trying a new recipe.