Our Team
Brianna Newman – Board President
Brianna Newman is a wife and mother of 4. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, anything and everything Disney, making people smile, and most of all hearing her kids laugh and play. She is excited to be involved at GiGi's Playhouse because she believes that everyone deserves to feel loved, included and empowered to accomplish their dreams.
Kimberly (Foote) Boydstun - Secretary
Kimberly is devoted wife, teacher, and volunteer. She has been volunteering and working with individuals with disabilities for over 10 years. Kimberly is passionate about educating and inspiring individuals with Down Syndrome and is excited to bring back programs and hope to families in Layton. Kimberly is eager to spread awareness in the community of how amazing WE all are!
Sharolyn Shimer – Board Member
Sharolyn is a wife, mom, bonus mom and grandma Gigi. She is blessed to be Morgyn’s mom. Morgyn has Down Syndrome and brings so much joy and happiness to our family. Being able to learn and grow with Morgyn is an amazing journey. Advocating for inclusion and acceptance for everyone is my why. It’s the sparkle in their eyes, the joy in their step and the designer gene that has my heart. I am very excited for the opportunity to be at the playhouse working with all individuals and families.
Heather Whicker – Site Manager
Heather is a mom of two beautiful kids, Cambria and Rylan. She enjoys, hiking, camping (anything outdoors really), cooking, and reading. She has a background in education and a love of helping and supporting families. Heather is looking forward to becoming a part of GiGi's and the community to support and advocate for people and families with Down syndrome. She is excited to bring more programs and community love to the Layton area and hopes to be a vital part in making GiGi's Layton a positive, educational, and amazing place for families all around!
Raquel Dee – Development and Fundraising Board Member
Raquel is an advocate for Down syndrome and has experience working with the underserved while President of a local Best Buddies chapter. She enjoys giving back to the community and serving others. Raquel is bringing her 15+ years experience of healthcare administration and prior nonprofit fundraising expertise to the board. She plans to provide sustainability for the future of GiGi's Playhouse Layton.
Tracy Markus, Board Vice President
Tracy is a wife, proud mom to Alexander and Harrison, and a passionate advocate for raising awareness and promoting inclusivity for individuals with Down syndrome. Her personal journey as a mother of a child born with Down syndrome has ignited a deep commitment to advocating for acceptance, inclusion, and empowering her son and the Down syndrome community to embrace their full potential without limitations.
Tracy actively engages in the Down syndrome community, fostering connections and providing support for other families facing similar journeys. She believes in the power of building a strong network of support and creating a sense of belonging for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
April Shumway, Board Member
April is a wife and a stay at home mom to Alexander and Harrison. Harrison was born with down syndrome. April is a creative person who enjoys singing , making art and jewelry, and repurposing everything! She has a background in writing, editing and marketing. A graduate of USU, April has been published online and in print for magazines focused on personal growth.April is adamant about welcoming new parents and supporting their journeys. She is also focused on fighting for inclusion and greater appreciation for all ability class rooms. April is extremely passionate about changing the 10+ year wait list for benefits as well as giving families better opportunities for education by making aid services available to those with only a down syndrome diagnosis.